Neutron tomography is a technique that allows scientists to capture 3-D images of fossils and artifacts without causing any damage. According to James R. Riordon’s article ”Seeing into the past” (SN: 11/4/23, p. 18), this method is particularly useful for uncovering hidden features within dense materials that cannot be detected by X-ray scanning.
During neutron tomography, scientists direct beams of neutrons towards the object they wish to study, as explained by Riordon. Detectors on the opposite side of the object record the percentage of neutrons that successfully pass through without being reflected or absorbed. Using this data, computer algorithms generate virtual slices of the object, which can then be combined to create 3-D visualizations of its interior.
A reader named Heidi Wilson inquired about the application of neutron tomography on ancient manuscripts that cannot be unfolded. Riordon states that X-ray computed tomography has been the preferred method for analyzing such manuscripts. This is because these artifacts are typically composed of low-density materials like papyrus or parchment, which can be effectively imaged using X-rays.
2024-01-07 07:15:00
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