3D characterization is non-destructive imaging of a material's internal three-dimensional structure, mainly by X-ray computed tomography. A part is rotated in an X-ray beam, hundreds of projections are captured, and software reconstructs a full volume you can slice and measure in any plane.
At MatX Lab, we use computed tomography and related methods to map internal features, quantify porosity, and inspect assemblies non-destructively. This work lets you see inside a part while it is still whole. The defect that matters is often the one you cannot see from the outside: a void inside a casting, a delamination in a laminate, a crack in a solder joint. 3D Characterization looks inside a part without cutting it, reconstructing internal structure, porosity, and defects in three dimensions.
It reveals internal porosity, voids, cracks, inclusions, and assembly defects, and it measures internal dimensions that no external tool can reach.
3D Characterization is non-destructive imaging of a material's internal three-dimensional structure, mainly by X-ray computed tomography. A part is rotated in an X-ray beam, hundreds of projections are captured, and software reconstructs a full volume you can slice and measure in any plane.
3D work depends on part size and the resolution you need, and we scope the right approach. Each technique below links to its own page.
It is the workhorse of non-destructive 3D inspection. X-ray CT that reconstructs internal structure at micron resolution, mapping porosity, voids, and defects without cutting the part.
Higher-resolution X-ray CT that reaches sub-micron features for small parts, interconnects, and fine porosity where micro-CT is not enough.
Two-dimensional X-ray and CT for larger parts, castings, welds, and assemblies, balancing coverage against resolution.
Sequential material removal and imaging reconstructed into a 3D volume, delivering the highest-resolution 3D microstructure when a destructive method is acceptable.
Internal and external dimensional measurement of features that calipers and CMMs cannot reach, including internal channels and cavities.
Quantifies pore size, distribution, and volume fraction directly from CT data, turning an image into measured values.
3D Characterization is the right method whenever internal structure matters and cutting the part is undesirable.
3D Characterization applies wherever internal quality decides whether a part is sound.
Materials: Composites · Metals & Alloys · Ceramics & Glass · Wafers & Die · Powders & Bulk Solids
Industries: Aerospace · Automotive · Electronics · Semiconductors · Manufacturing · Energy
CT and radiographic testing are governed by ASTM and ISO methods, and your specification usually names them. Where an applicable standard exists, testing is aligned to it and cited in your report. We align to the method your specification requires and document it.
| Analysis / Standard | What It Covers |
|---|---|
| Interferometry | Dimensional & Thickness Metrology |
| Gd&T | Dimensional & Thickness Metrology |
| ASTM E1815 | Classification of Film Systems for Industrial Radiography |
| ASTM E1695 | Computed Tomography (CT) System Performance |
| ASTM E1135 | Comparing the Brightness of Fluorescent Penetrants |
| ASTM C1274 | Ceramic Surface Area Through Physical Adsorption |
| ASTM C1069 | Specific Surface Area of Alumina and Quartz |
| ASTM D6556 | Total and External Surface Area by Nitrogen Adsorption |
| ASTM B923 | Helium Pycnometry True Density Measurement |
| ASTM B311 | Density of Powder Materials Containing Less Than Two Percent |
| MIL-STD-883 | Laser Decapsulation - Making Light Work of Failure Analysis |
| ASTM E2903 | Effective Focal Spot Size of Mini and Micro Focus |
| ASTM E2861 | Beam Divergence and Alignment |
| ASTM E203 | Volumetric Karl Fischer Titration |
| ASTM E1935 | Calibrating and Measuring CT Density |
Yes. X-ray computed tomography images the interior of a part without cutting or altering it, which is why it is often the first step before any sectioning. If the part is one of a kind, this lets you inspect it while keeping it intact.
Often, larger parts trade resolution for coverage. It describes the exact part and the smallest feature of our interest, andthen we match the methods to part size and the system. Micro-CT resolves micron-scale features, and nano-CT reaches sub-micron detail on small samples.
Yes, we can quantify porosity from the reconstructed volume, pore size, distribution, and volume fraction, values against your acceptance criteria are measured. The same data supports defect location and internal dimensional measurement.
MatX Lab accomplishes your 3D characterization with the help of a network of accredited partner laboratories, so CT, radiography, and reconstruction work run under one program. You work with one contact and receive one report. Methods are aligned to ASTM, ISO, IEC, UL, and MIL-STD where a published method applies. MatX Lab is an analysis provider, not a standards body, and issues no certifications. Every engagement can sit under an NDA.
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