Evaluation of a microtomography system with an X-ray microfocus tube.

The microfocus radiography system has been realized by means of a microfocus X-ray tube (maximum 160 kV), an image intensifier data collector and a five degree of freedom manipulation table. An 8-bit image acquisition PC-card and software were included to compose the microtomography system. To assemble the system, an image quantitative analysis was carried out by evaluation of the focal spot size, modulation transfer function of the system, and the 'defect discernibility curves'. The 2D microtomographies were carried out using the mean of 10 image central lines in each projection. Image processing techniques were also used to obtain better results. The image reconstruction program is based on a filtered backprojection algorithm using a special window. Images of various types of samples were carried out in order to verify the performance of the system.

Bone quality analysis using X-ray microtomography and microfluorescence.

Bone quality is an evaluation index often applied in order to interpret clinical observations made upon bone health, such as bone mineral density, micro and macro architecture, and mineral content. Conventional inspection techniques do not provide full information on trabecular bone quality. This study shows the high resolution potential and the non-destructive character of X-ray microtomography and microfluorescence upon the application of such techniques for evaluating bone quality. The mineral content assessment was performed by two-dimensional concentration mappings of calcium, zinc, and strontium. The results showed significant changes in bone morphology.