High-resolution micro-CT with 3D image analysis for porosity characterization of historic bricks

Abstract The study of pores in historic bricks is important for characterizing and comparing brick materials, evaluating the degree deterioration, predicting behavior future weathering conditions, studying effectiveness protective measures, analyzing potential effects cleaning treatments. High-resolution micro-CT coupled with 3D image analysis a promising new approach porosity pore systems bricks. In this technique, hundreds or even thousands X-ray projection images are acquired at 360 degrees around sample. X-radiation passing through sample absorbed, radiation attenuated to varying depending on densities phases within object. volume reconstructed by computer algorithm, producing where each voxel has grayscale intensity value associated component it represents. Recent instrument designs allow fast scanning good spatial resolution. research, we present set protocols creating optimal scans conducting extract both qualitative quantitative data from those scans. Small samples give better resolution imaging pores, so given typical heterogeneity bricks, multiple ensures that results more likely be representative. Machine learning deep convolutional neural networks were found tools distinguishing surrounding matrix segmentation process, especially very limits Statistical analyses revealed which many parameters can measured potentially most significant These variables came multi-staged include total percent occupied percentage accessible surface versus isolated interior ones, variety statistical properties individual related their size shape, average number connections have other length, diameter, directness connections. Graphical