Geometric classification of open-cell metal foams using X-ray micro-computed tomography

The geometry of foams has long been an area of interest, and a number of idealized geometric descriptions have been proposed. In order to acquire detailed, quantitative, geometric data for aluminum open-cell metal foams, X-ray mu CT is employed. The X-ray mu CT images are analyzed using specialized software, FoamView (R), from which geometric information including strut length and pore shapes are extracted. The X-ray mu CT analysis allows comparison of the ideal geometric models to the actual geometric characteristics of the metal foam samples. The results reveal a high variability in ligament length, as well as features supporting the ideal geometry known as the Weaire-Phelan unit cell. The geometric findings provide information useful for improving current models of open-cell metal foam. Applications can range from predicting heat transfer or load failure to predicting liquid retention. (c) 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.