A Review of Particle Size Analysis with X-ray CT

Behnsen, Julia G ORCID: 0000-0003-1511-3051, Black, Kate ORCID: 0000-0003-3638-6518, Houghton, James E and Worden, Richard H ORCID: 0000-0002-4686-9428 (2023) A Review of Particle Size Analysis with X-ray CT MATERIALS, 16 (3). 1259-. ISSN 1996-1944, 1996-1944

	Text particleanalysis_mdpi_incbbl_review.pdf - Author Accepted Manuscript Download (2MB) | Preview
	Text Behnsen 2023 Materials - uCT grain size analysis.pdf - Published version Download (2MB) | Preview

Abstract

Particle size and morphology analysis is a problem common to a wide range of applications, including additive manufacturing, geological and agricultural materials’ characterisation, food manufacturing and pharmaceuticals. Here, we review the use of microfocus X-ray computed tomography (X-ray CT) for particle analysis. We give an overview of different sample preparation methods, image processing protocols, the morphology parameters that can be determined, and types of materials that are suitable for analysis of particle sizes using X-ray CT. The main conclusion is that size and shape parameters can be determined for particles larger than approximately 2 to 3 (Formula presented.) m, given adequate resolution of the X-ray CT setup. Particles composed of high atomic number materials (Z > 40) require careful sample preparation to ensure X-ray transmission. Problems occur when particles with a broad range of sizes are closely packed together, or when particles are fused (sintered or cemented). The use of X-ray CT for particle size analysis promises to become increasingly widespread, offering measurements of size, shape, and porosity of large numbers of particles within one X-ray CT scan.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	X-ray computed tomography, particle size distribution, particle shape measurements, powder sample preparation
Divisions:	Faculty of Science & Engineering > School of Environmental Sciences
Depositing User:	Symplectic Admin
Date Deposited:	27 Jan 2023 08:18
Last Modified:	16 Jun 2026 10:59
DOI:	10.3390/ma16031259
Related Websites:	Author Publisher
URI:	https://livrepository.liverpool.ac.uk/id/eprint/3167925
Disclaimer:	The University of Liverpool is not responsible for content contained on other websites from links within repository metadata. Please contact us if you notice anything that appears incorrect or inappropriate.