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Micro/Nano CT

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Micro/Nano CT (computed tomography) is an advanced non-destructive 3D imaging technique that enables high-resolution reconstruction of internal microstructures in materials. Compared to traditional microscopy or destructive sectioning methods, Micro/Nano CT provides clear, intuitive internal structure images without damaging the sample. It is widely used in material science, life sciences, and industrial engineering.

Introduction

Micro/Nano CT (micro/nano computed tomography) is an advanced non-destructive 3D imaging technique that enables high-resolution reconstruction of internal microstructures in materials. Compared to traditional microscopy or destructive sectioning methods, Micro/Nano CT provides clear, intuitive internal structure images without damaging the sample. It is widely used in material science, life sciences, and industrial engineering.

Principle

Micro/Nano CT is based on the principle of differential X-ray absorption imaging. 3D reconstruction is achieved by capturing X-ray projections from multiple angles:

X-rays pass through the sample. Different regions absorb X-rays to varying degrees depending on their density and composition, resulting in grayscale differences.
The sample rotates on a stage, and 2D projections are collected from many angles.
Reconstruction algorithms (e.g., filtered back-projection, iterative methods) convert 2D images into 3D voxel models.
Post-processing includes porosity, fiber distribution, crack tracking, and layer separation analysis. Similar to medical CT but with higher spatial resolution and broader material applicability, this technique is ideal for microscopic structural analysis.

Test Procedure

Our Micro/Nano CT analysis service typically includes the following steps:

Sample preparation: Confirm sample size and desired resolution. Apply proper mounting or embedding.

Micro-CT can achieve ~1 μm; Nano-CT can reach 50 nm depending on sample size and material.

Standard scans take 1–3 hours; complex or high-resolution scans may take longer.

Yes, but they need to be dehydrated or treated with contrast agents.

Yes, STL files and mp4 animation clips can be included with the report.

Heat treatment: Carburizing

Micro/Nano CT is applicable to a wide range of materials and product 3D structure analyses, including but not limited to:

Material types: metals, porous ceramics, polymers, composites, biological tissues, electronic components
Typical application scenarios:
- Structural defect detection (cracks, voids, delamination)
- Quantitative analysis of porous structures (pore size, distribution, connectivity)
- Fiber orientation in composites
- Structural stability of medical implants
- Electrode material distribution in batteries
Industries served: new energy, aerospace, electronic packaging, biomedical, automotive, research institutes

Heat treatment: Carburizing

This picture shows a tomographic slice from a nanoCT of an SD-card, performed with the NanoTube N1 60 kV (top image) and the NanoTube N2 60 kV (bottom image) – achieving a voxel sampling of 200nm.

Heat treatment: Carburizing

3D rendering of the phase-contrast Nano-CT of a basalt sample, revealing the different phases, elements and structures help geologists to further understand this sample. Voxel sampling 350 nm.

Micro CT vs. Nano CT

Feature	Micro CT	Nano CT
Spatial resolution	High (typically 1–10 μm)	Ultra-high (up to 50 nm)
Suitable sample size	Up to several centimeters	Usually ≤ 5 mm
Non-destructive	Sample remains intact	Sample remains intact (smaller sample required)
Material applicability	Metals, ceramics, polymers, composites	High-contrast, small-sized samples
Typical applications	Industrial parts, porosity, uniformity	Nano-structures, microelectronics, bio tissues
Scan time	Moderate (30 min – 2 hours)	Longer (2–4 hours)
Image processing	Standard reconstruction workflow	Advanced noise reduction and enhancement needed
Cost	Relatively lower	Relatively higher
Limitations	Resolution insufficient for nanoscale	Higher requirements for sample prep and density

Comparison with Other Techniques

Technique	3D Imaging	Non-destructive	Resolution	Sample Size Range	Quantitative Analysis

Heat treatment: Carburizing

To ensure image quality and scan efficiency, please follow these sample guidelines:

Size limits:
- Micro-CT: recommended sample size ≤ 30 mm
- Nano-CT: recommended sample size ≤ 5 mm (higher resolution)
Quantity: 1–3 samples per batch; negotiable based on project scope
Condition: Samples must be dry, clean, and solvent-free. Powder samples should be sealed
Special notes: For complex structures with both metal and soft tissue, please notify us to optimize scanning parameters

For more details, contact Universallab for a sample preparation guide.

Micro CT	Yes	Yes	1–10 μm	Medium to large (≤ a few cm)	Yes	Lower than nanoscale resolution
Nano CT	Yes	Yes	Up to 50 nm	Small (≤5 mm)	Yes	Requires small, specific samples
SEM	No (2D)	Sometimes	≤10 nm	Local regions	Limited	2D only, coating often required
Optical Microscopy	No (2D)	Yes	~0.5 μm	Wide	Limited	Limited depth, surface only
Destructive Sectioning	No	No	Varies	Limited by prep methods	Partial	Sample destroyed, hard to reproduce

Regulatory testing

Environmental testing

Data analysis

Regulatory testing

Environmental testing

Data analysis

Sample Requirements

Application Case

Example Result

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