Laboratory multi-scale nano-CT scanner for 3D visualization and 4D experimentation in Earth and Material Sciences
3D visualization and 4D experimentation are important building blocks for better understanding profound mechanisms and processes in Earth and Material Sciences. Visualizing the internal microstructure of objects with a spatial resolution in the range of hundreds of nanometers is opening new windows in Earth and Material Sciences behind the currently explored frontiers. The second major asset of high-resolution laboratory X-ray CT systems is that it enables non-destructive 3D reconstruction of objects, materials and geomaterials. Thirdly, modern multi-scaled nanotomographs form the base for advanced 4D (time-related) experiments monitoring processes through time and space at µ-scale. Within the scope of the SNF-funded R’Equip project ‘Laboratory multi-scale nano-CT scanner for 3D visualization and 4D experimentation in Earth and Material Sciences’, the multi-scaled X-ray nano-CT system from Bruker-Skyscan (system 2211) has been recently acquired and installed at the University of Fribourg. Matching funds has been secured through contributions from the Department of Geosciences and the Faculty of Sciences at the University of Fribourg, the Institute of Geological Sciences from the University of Bern, the department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at the University of Geneva and FRIMAT (Fribourg Center of Nanomaterials, University of Fribourg). This is witnessing the high interest of high-resolution 3D scanning facilities within Switzerland.
Funding: SNSF – R’Equip
Website: http://blog.unifr.ch/ctimage/