Three‐dimensional reconstruction of microstructures in gibbsite using charge contrast images

An iterative process of serial sectioning and charge contrast imaging has been applied to gibbsite particles embedded in epoxy resin. The features observed in the two-dimensional sections have been reconstructed into three-dimensional (3-D) objects, so that the volumetric relationships in the microstructure are visualised. The 3-D objects confirm that the image detail present in charge contrast images of gibbsite is related to the microstructure and the processes occurring during the crystallisation of gibbsite. Speculative explanations for what these microstructures may represent are presented.