Recent advances in the use of computed tomography in concrete technology and other engineering fields

Abstract Over the past two decades, immense research efforts at a global level have extended CT-Scan technology across several engineering fields. The state-of-the-art of the most relevant research related to the use of CT-Scanning is presented in this paper, which explores microstructural studies of materials used in various fields of engineering, with especial emphasis on concrete technology. Its main aim is to present the range of new applications, in addition to the conventional uses of CT-Scan technology. Based on X-ray absorption, CT generates a visual display of the internal microstructure of a material at micro-range resolutions. In addition to its well-known usage in medicine, the current fields of application of this technology are very extensive. For example, CT is now an essential tool in paleontology that can reveal the internal structure of ancient relics without damaging (in many cases) unique specimens. It is extremely useful in material engineering, when analyzing the internal microstructure of the new and/or improved materials, because the images it generates can then be used to modify the material and further improve its macroscopic behavior. Mechanical engineers use it both in the analysis of internal flaws (i.e. voids, cracks, joints, and planes of weakness) in metals and in the study of composite materials. Likewise, its use among civil engineers extends to microstructural studies of rock and minerals (crack patterns, joints, voids, etc.). The advantages of this powerful tool are similar in concrete technology, because the macroscopic response of concrete components, as with so many other materials, is strongly related to the internal microstructure of the matrix and its internal flaws.