Neutron and X-ray tomography as research tools for applied research in South Africa

Abstract

The use of penetrating radiation for non-destructive investigations, through the use of radiography and tomography, provides for powerful research tools. Development of such experimental facilities, and the establishment of a local core capability to utilise it optimally, can enrich the research scope of many scientific and engineering disciplines significantly. This thesis describes the design and development of such national facilities for both neutrons and X-rays at the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation SOC Ltd. (Necsa) and the subsequent building of capacity for research support to users of a number of disciplines. Aspects of localisation of the technology are described and the value proposition of the facilities and research capacity is demonstrated by three application examples from important South African research areas, namely palaeontology, a vibrant research field in South Africa, hydrogen fuel cell research, a sub-discipline of the field of a hydrogen economy in general, and in nuclear materials.