Characteristics of the micro-focus x-ray tomography facility (MIXRAD) at Necsa in South Africa

Abstract

The South African National Centre for Radiography and Tomography (SANCRAT), located at Necsa, strives to be leaders in utilizing ionizing radiation as imaging probes in research and development as part of the South African National System of Innovation. The centre already encompasses a Neutron Radiography and Tomography facility (SANRAD) as well as a High Energy X-ray facility (HEXRAD). Recently the centre introduced a state-of-the art micro-focus X-ray machine to the already diverse arsenal of imaging equipment in the Micro-focus X-ray Radiography and Tomography facility (MIXRAD). It is anticipated that the equipment will be extensively used by post graduate students and researchers since this dedicated equipment is the first of this kind and type being made available, nationally, to conduct research for free if the research leads to the publication of peer reviewed papers and /or an upgrade to a higher educational degree. The characteristics and performance capabilities of the MIXRAD facility are presented through several case studies that were being conducted with the instrument.