X-Ray Backscatter Evaluation of Porosity Distribution in Low Density Porous Magnesium

X-ray backscatter tomography (XBT) is a relatively new radiographic NDE technology unique among x-ray methods in that it is applicable with access to only one side of an object [1, 2]. This makes x-ray tomography possible in applications where computed tomography (CT) is precluded by the object’s inaccessibility, size, or aspect ratio. In the course of developing an XBT system for the underwater inspection of naval sonar domes [3], we have investigated other applications that exploit this capability. One such application is the evaluation of porosity distribution in porous metal plates.