Grant: Research Tools and Instruments - Category 1 (<$150,000)

X-ray tomographic microscopy (µXCT) is a non-destructive technique for acquiring a high-resolution 3D image of the internal structure of materials. At UBC's Okanagan campus, engineering and science researchers are applying this technique to address current technical industrial problems and future scientific challenges. Research topics include failure mechanisms in lightweight alloys and composites, porosity in ceramics and magma, permeability in paper products and proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells, structure-property relationships in concrete and soils, and bioengineering. A new and emerging technique within the field of µXCT is 4D (3D + time) imaging, in which direct 3D observation of structural evolution under controlled test conditions (load, temperature, and confining fluid) is performed by combining in-situ testing with µXCT. The requested in-situ test stage with heating and in-liquid testing capabilities will enable integration of mechanical testing data with the 3D data gained by µXCT to provide a clear visual interpretation of structure-property relationships. The in-situ stage will support the research activities of at least 11 research programs at both of UBC's campuses (Okanagan and Vancouver) across 5 departments and 2 faculties. For example, crack initiation during fatigue testing of aluminum alloys, deformation of paper and other cellulose-based materials, and fluid transport in the gas diffusion layers of PEM fuel cells can all be directly observed in 3D using this new in-situ test stage. The knowledge gained from such experiments will lead to significant new insight into material properties, resulting in enhanced in-service performance.