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In situ microtomography

Real-time CT

Real-time microtomography combines non-destructive 3D imaging (CT) with the controlled application of a stress (mechanical, thermal, chemical, electrochemical, hydraulic, etc.), enabling real-time observation of the internal behaviour of a material or component.

This moves us from simple 3D imaging to a 3D time-lapse sequence under controlled conditions, hence the terms ‘4D’ or ‘in situ’.

The intensity and coherence of synchrotron radiation enhance the capabilities of in situ tomography, enabling the monitoring of material changes or deformations with unrivalled speed and precision.

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A Novitom engineer performs in situ tomography measurements to study the deformation and properties of a metal part.

Advantages of in situ tomography

  • Time-resolved monitoring and non-destructive 3D imaging in a controlled environment >> learn more
  • Wide range of compatible equipment: tensile/compression machines, furnaces, climate chambers, cooling systems
  • Fast acquisition mode for studying rapid events in real time: cracking, dendrite formation, wet granulation, delamination
  • Adaptable image resolution: pixel size from approximately 0.5 µm to 50 µm
  • Unique technology for digitizing processes
  • Multi-field experiments possible, combining heating, mechanical loading, controlled atmosphere, electrical/electrochemical input (in operando), to closely replicate real-world conditions
  • Suitable for all types of materials
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Measurements and analyses using real-time microtomography

  • Mechanical testing: tensile/compression tests on specimens
  • Monitoring of sintering and densification processes
  • In situ thermal testing: temperature cycles, thermal shocks
  • In operando electrochemical experiments on batteries and fuel cells
  • In situ corrosion / chemical reactions: deposit growth, chemical degradation
  • Monitoring of tablet dissolution 
  • Digitization of food processes: cooking, freeze-drying, hydration, emulsions
  • Custom design of experiments or stimulation equipment

Novitom's Expertise in real-time tomography

  • Custom design of stress equipment
  • Tailored preparation of tests and samples for efficient use of X-ray beam time
  • Optimized imaging protocols, selected based on your specific needs: quasi-static or dynamic monitoring, high resolution, strong contrast
  • Advanced 3D data processing: segmentation, pre-trained AI networks, DVC (Digital Volume Correlation), quantitative measurements, interpretation
  • Directly usable results: provided as reports or digital data compatible with your software
  • Comprehensive support: from defining your needs to final delivery, backed by over 20 years of experience
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Synchrotron tomography vs. laboratory µCT for in situ studies
When to choose which?

In situ tomography (laboratory-based source)

  • Ease of access for slow dynamics (over several days or weeks)
  • Scan rate limited by the power of the source
  • Pixel size approximately ≥ 5 µm to limit scan times
  • Absorption contrast
  • Space constraints due to the cabin dimensions
 
 Ideal for slow phenomena, quasi-static monitoring, intermediate resolutions, and for preparing synchrotron measurements.

In situ synchrotron tomography

  • Very high scan rates (< 1 second per 3D scan)
  • High resolution available (< 1 µm)
  • Phase contrast, low noise
  • Few space constraints for installing in situ devices
  • Limited suitability for slow dynamics
  •  

Ideal for fast phenomena, real-time monitoring, low contrasts, and high resolution.

Types of sample

  • Metals and Alloys: Specimens, coupons, lattice structures, powders, coatings
  • Polymers and Composites: Carbon/carbon, SMC (Sheet Molding Compound), 3D woven, CMC (Ceramic Matrix Composites), polymer-metal, foams
  • Ceramics and Glasses: Dense or porous samples, powders
  • Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Products: Tablets, gels, emulsions
  • Batteries, Electrodes, Membranes: In operando monitoring
  • Biological Tissues: Bones, teeth, soft tissues, plant and food samples

Examples of analyses and tests using in situ tomography

Tracking the evolution of materials microstructure : in situ mechanical testing

Tracking the evolution of materials microstructure : in situ mechanical testing

Why perform microCT during tensile/compression tests? The use of…

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The dissolution of coated tablets highlighted by X-ray microtomography

The dissolution of coated tablets highlighted by X-ray microtomography

Which phenomena are decisive in oral drug release from…

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To stress materials and products while imaging them via X-ray or synchrotron microtomography, we design miniaturised devices that meet the requirements of both testing and 3D imaging.

  • Tensile/compression machines: from 500 N to 20 kN
  • Heating stages / laser heating: from room temperature to >1000–2000 °C for high-temperature testing
  • Climatic chambers: with controlled humidity (10% RH – 90% RH); temperature range from -40 °C to +60 °C
  • Cryogenics
  • Sample changers: for in operando electrochemical cell testing
  • Fluid injection chambers: for liquids and corrosive atmospheres

Our services in material characterisation and analyses

3D analysis of porosity

3D analysis of fibres

3D chacracterisation of cracks

Advanced non-destructive imaging

Real-time and in situ tomography

Geometry comparison with CAD

Synchrotron analyses

Analysis of metals and alloys

Characterisation of composites and polymers

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