Three Dimensional Digital X-ray Microtomography with a Microfocal X-ray Generator and an MWPC Area Detector

Abstract

X-ray microscopy offers many potential applications in the life sciences and non-destructive testing for the study of small (micronsized) structures. Digital capture of the X-ray images offers further possibilities for image processing and for tomography. We have combined a microfocal X-ray generator with a multi-step avalanche/multiwire proportional counter to produce a digital X-ray microscope. Spatial resolution down to around 10 microns has been observed. The digital data sets obtained from the system have been used to develop and explore 3-D tomographic reconstruction techniques. 3-D tomographic images of an insect are presented, produced by a cone beam algorithm.