Rigaku nano3DX - submicron resolution CT scanner

What is nano3DX?

Rigaku nano3DX is a true submicron resolution CT (computed tomography) scanner. The parallel beam geometry combined with an ultra-bright 1200 W rotating anode X-ray source enhances the contrast of soft materials, which are normally difficult to image using high-energy X-ray sources. The X-ray anode can be selected from Cr (5.4 keV), Cu (8 keV), or Mo (17 keV) for low-energy and pseudo-monochromatic radiation to maximize the contrast for the given sample material and size. With the highest magnification lens, the nano3DX can achieve 325 nm voxel resolution and true submicron (700 nm) spatial resolution.

How do I change X-ray anodes?

Rigaku nano3DX is equipped with a dual-wavelength rotating anode X-ray generator, MicroMax-007 HF. The rotating X-ray anode is made of Cu, providing Cu characteristic radiation of 8 keV. Another anode material, Cr 5.4 keV, Mo 17 keV, or W for Bremsstrahlung radiation, can be added to the Cu anode to provide the second radiation. You can switch between two radiations with a simple click on the instrument control software.

You can image an even 5% density difference in organic materials by using optimized radiation and differentiate amorphous and crystalline phases, high- and low-density polyethylene, etc.

Do I need to prepare my sample in a special way?

No, X-ray CT measurements require minimum to no sample preparation. As far as the sample size is close to the FOV (field of view), you can mount the sample on the sample stage with a small pin as is, and you are ready to run a CT scan.

Because X-ray CT experiments are done in the air and do not require conductivity on the sample as is the case for SEM (scanning electron microscopy), organic samples such as plants can be measured without a drying or coating process.

nano3DX Specifications

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Voxel resolution	325 nm — 10 um
Field of view (FOV)	0.66 — 20 mm
Maximum sample size	20 mm diameter x 40 mm height
Speed (shortest scan time)	30 sec
Geometry	Parallel beam geometry
X-ray source	1200 W rotating anode micro source
X-ray energy	Pseudo monochromatic sources: Cr (5.4 keV), Cu (8 keV), Mo (17 keV) \| Traditional source: W operated at 60 kV
Lenses	1.25X, 2.5X, 5X, 10X, 20X
Detector	High-resolution sCMOS
Detector pixel size	6.5 microns
Detector size	2048 x 2048 pixels
Dimensions	1300 (W) x 1880 (H) x 655(D) mm (PC, chiller, vacuum pump not included)
Weight	Approx. 600 kg