Versatile compact X-ray radiography module for materials science under microgravity conditions

Abstract

A versatile compact microfocus X-ray radiography facility is presented. The facility serves as a technology demonstrator showing the applicability of X-ray radiography to experiments in space. It has been designed as an insert fully compatible with requirements of the Materials Science Laboratory aboard the International Space Station. The facility consists of a microfocus X-ray source delivering up to 20 W X-ray power at 100kV acceleration voltage and a 49.2×49.3mm RadEye2 sensor with a Scint-X scintillator at 48μm per pixel resolution with a 14bit dynamic range. The total device weight including sample chamber is 43 kg. The facility is classified as a fully protected radiography equipment according to German radiation safety laws. The capabilities of the facility for research in materials sciences are demonstrated in ground-based experiments.