Grant: Research Tools and Instruments

The proposed High-throughput x-ray micro-tomography (micro-CT) station at the Canadian Light (CLS) Source will capitalize upon the unique capabilities of Canadas national synchrotron facility which is located on the University of Saskatchewan Campus in Saskatoon. A synchrotron is a form of particle accelerator that generates intense radiation (including x-rays) when accelerated ultrarelativistic electrons are confined to a circular trajectory by magnets. By utilizing the very high x-ray flux density of the CLS, the proposed micro-CT instrument will reduce typical scan times from hours to minutes and even seconds a level of throughput simply not possible with conventional micro-CT imaging and not yet realized at the CLS. This speed is all the more impressive as it will be achieved at sub-micron voxel sizes and with exceptional image quality. This proposal includes the full suite of equipment necessary for the acquisition and processing of tomographic image data as well as the precise offline (pre-scan) alignment of samples. Collectively, these components will ensure that the high throughput potential of the CLS is achieved. For the co-applicants, Drs. Cooper and Hallgrimsson, this powerful imaging capability will enable virtual histology of the internal turnover (remodeling) of bone and the study of morphogenesis and the developmental genetics of morphological variation, respectively. To achieve the goals of these NSERC-funded research programs, higher resolution and throughput than is current available within Canada is required. The proposed micro-CT station will fill this technological gap, complementing and expanding the capabilities of the CLS. It will represent an exceptional platform for the training of students and fellows, ensuring that they are at the cutting-edge of imaging science. Further training benefits will result from the shared expertise between the applicants groups and also from engagement within the larger network of national and international CLS users. Indeed, it is anticipated this instrument will have impacts far beyond the applicants research programs as it will be accessible to national and international users via the peer-review access mechanism of the CLS. This will ensure that the requested investment in infrastructure is optimally utilized to maximum effect.