To learn more about the chemical processes involved in aging oil paints in microscopic and nanoscale detail, researchers conducted a range of studies that included 3D x-ray imaging of a paint sample. The study could have broader implications for conservation based on the observed chemistry of oil paints. Read more »
ALS Work Using Tomography
Tomography allows 3D imaging of structures inside samples without the need to physically slice them open. A series of images is collected as a sample is rotated, and the raw data is computationally converted into digital sections that can be stacked to reconstruct 3D visualizations of the sample. The very high flux of x-rays and infrared light at the ALS allows collection of high-quality, high-speed 3D images at nanometer or micrometer resolution. Synchrotron tomography also enables photon-energy tuning for element- and chemistry-specific contrast, as well as phase-contrast imaging.
The Stomatopod Telson: Convergent Evolution in the Development of a Biological Shield
In this article, researchers identify multiscale structure‐mechanical property relationships within the shield-like exoskeletal telson structure of the mantis shrimp, used for defense and protection. Comparison of telsons from two evolutionarily divergent species reveal differences in macromorphology, cuticle thickness, and mineralization, imparting compressive stiffness as well as compliance for energy absorption. Read more »
Absorber Captures Excess Chemotherapy Drugs
Researchers have designed a biomedical device for absorbing excess chemotherapy drugs during cancer treatment, characterizing the active surface layer using x-ray microtomography. The work opens up a new route to fighting cancer that minimizes drug toxicity and enables personalized, targeted, high-dose chemotherapy. Read more »
Comparative morphology of cheliceral muscles using high‐resolution X‐ray microcomputed‐tomography in palpimanoid spiders
Spiders are important predators in terrestrial ecosystems, yet we know very little about their principal feeding structures—the chelicerae—an extremely important aspect of spider biology. Here, using micro‐Computed‐Tomography scanning techniques, researchers perform a comparative study to examine cheliceral muscle morphology in six different spider specimens. Read more »
3D Localization of Nanoscale Battery Reactions
A new tool lets researchers pinpoint the locations of chemical reactions happening inside batteries in three dimensions at the nanoscale level. Combining ptychography, tomography, and spectroscopy, Nanosurveyor 1 is a multidimensional tool providing novel insight into the design of next-generation batteries and devices. Read more »
COSMIC Impact: Next-Gen X-Ray Microscopy Platform Now Operational
After a first-year ramp-up for testing and tuning components, COSMIC is now operating at the ALS. The beamline brings together unique capabilities to measure the properties of materials at the nanoscale, and scientific results from its earliest experiments are expected to be published later this year. Read more »
TE Connectivity Uses ALS to Improve Conductive Plastics
TE Connectivity used ALS microtomography capabilities to optimize the material and manufacturing parameters of their conductive plastics to impart good electrical conductivity. Conductive plastics with good electrical properties offer processing and cost benefits over metal alternatives, with applications ranging from automotive to data communications. Read more »
The Microstructure of a Parrotfish Tooth Contributes to Its Toughness
Parrotfish chew on coral, producing hundreds of pounds of sand each year. Mapping the microstructure of parrotfish teeth, scientists found bundles of crystals interwoven like chain mail. The results provide a blueprint for creating ultra-durable materials for mechanical components that undergo repetitive contact, movement, and abrasion. Read more »
X-Rays Reveal the Biting Truth About Parrotfish Teeth
A parrotfish’s hardy teeth allow it to chomp on coral all day long, ultimately grinding it up through digestion into fine sand. Researchers wanting to see how the fine crystal structure of parrotfish teeth contribute to their incredible strength were able to visualize the orientation of individual crystals, which showed their intricately woven structure. Read more »
Fuel Cell X-Ray Study Details Effects of Temperature and Moisture on Performance
A specialized type of hydrogen fuel cell requires precise temperature and moisture controls to be at its best. But seeing inside a working fuel cell at the tiny scales relevant to a fuel cell’s chemistry and physics is challenging, so scientists used x-ray-based imaging techniques to study their inner workings. Read more »