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Neutron Radiography and Computed Tomography of Biological Systems at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory's High Flux Isotope Reactor
Published on: May 7, 2021
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Neutron-based computed microtomography: Pliobates cataloniae and Barberapithecus huerzeleri as a test-case study.
Alessandro Urciuoli1, Clément Zanolli2, Josep Fortuny1,3
1Institut Català de Paleontologia Miquel Crusafont, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Edifici ICTA-ICP, c/Columnes s/n, Campus de la UAB, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain.
American Journal of Physical Anthropology
|March 27, 2018
Summary
Neutron computed microtomography (μCT) offers superior contrast for fossilized bone and dental tissues compared to X-ray μCT. This advanced imaging technique successfully resolves internal anatomy in specimens where X-rays fail, improving paleontological research.
Area of Science:
- Paleontology
- Materials Science
- Imaging Technology
Background:
- High-resolution imaging of fossils is crucial for paleontological research.
- X-ray computed microtomography (μCT) is a powerful tool, but struggles with specimens lacking distinct X-ray contrast.
- Fossilized bone, matrix, and dental tissues can exhibit similar densities, hindering X-ray μCT analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate the benefits of high-resolution neutron radiation for fossil imaging.
- To compare neutron and X-ray μCT on fossil specimens with problematic X-ray contrast.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of neutron μCT in discriminating between bone/matrix and dental tissues.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of X-ray and neutron computed microtomography (μCT) scans.
- Imaging of two Miocene catarrhine fossils: a cranium (IPS58443.1) and two lower molars (IPS1724n,o).
- Focus on discriminating bone from matrix and dental tissues (enamel/dentine).
Main Results:
- X-ray μCT failed to provide contrast between bone/matrix and enamel/dentine in the studied specimens.
- Neutron μCT delivered high-contrast images, enabling clear visualization of internal anatomy.
- Neutron radiation effectively differentiated materials with similar chemical compositions, crucial for accurate segmentation.
Conclusions:
- Neutron radiation is a successful alternative to X-ray μCT for high-resolution imaging of small fossils with poor X-ray contrast.
- Neutron μCT overcomes limitations caused by similar chemical compositions and high-density elements in fossils.
- This technique enhances the ability to define interfaces and segment fossil structures accurately.
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