A novel method for NDT applications using NXCT system at the Missouri University of Science & Technology

A novel method for non-destructive analysis has been developed using a neutron/X-ray combined computed tomography (NXCT) system at the Missouri University of Science and Technology Reactor (MSTR). This imaging system takes advantage of the fact that neutrons and X-rays have characteristically different interactions with same materials. NXCT fuses the imaging capabilities of both systems at one location and allows instant evaluation for nondestructive testing (NDT) applications. This technique promises viable advances in the field of NDT. In this paper, the complete design criteria and procedures are provided. The described design criteria and procedures can effectively be utilized to design and develop advanced combined computed tomography system. The successful operation of the high resolution X-ray and neutron computed tomography has been demonstrated in this paper. The utility and importance of the NXCT system has been shown by nondestructive evaluation of various phantoms constituting different materials, geometrical, structural and compositional information. The concept of NXCT can be useful for concealed material detection, material characterization, investigation of complex geometries involving different atomic number materials and real time imaging for in-situ studies.