Parts of a MicroCT
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In order for a microCT system to properly function and produce a 3D image of a sample, there are three main parts that need to work in tandem:
- X-ray source: produces X-rays and focuses them into a "beam" that is directed towards the sample. In most laboratory systems, the beam is focused into a cone beam.
- Rotation stage: holds the sample and rotates it in very precise increments. A full 3D scan usually consists of a full 360 degree rotation. Many rotation stages can rotate continuously so that multiple 3D images can be collected in quick succession, thereby adding time as another dimension to the scan. This continuous scanning is known as 4D, dynamic or fast scanning.
- Detector: detects X-rays to form an image. The part of the detector facing the X-ray source is usually composed of a scintillating material that produces bursts of visible light when hit by X-rays. The rest of the detector works very similarly to a normal camera sensor. The light bursts are counted and converted to electrical signals that are then formed into a digital image of the X-ray projection of the sample.
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