Neutron imaging for geomechanics: A review

During the last few decades, a number of advanced experimental techniques have provided an unprecedented insight into the behaviour of geomaterials. A notable example are the so-called full-field techniques such as x-ray and neutron imaging, which allow the non destructive characterisation of the 4D (3D+time) response of geomaterials undergoing hydro-chemo-thermo-mechanical loading. While x-ray tomography has over the last decade become a pillar in the domain, neutron imaging remains a relatively less known tool. The unique properties of a neutron beam, such as high sensitivity to hydrogen (e.g., water, hydrocarbons), high penetration into metals (allowing the imposition of extreme boundary conditions), and isotope sensitivity (e.g., D2O/H2O), make neutron imaging an extremely interesting tool for experimental geomechanics. This paper reviews the contribution of neutron imaging to geomechanics. A particular focus is given to the potential of some very recent developments, such as the combination with simultaneous x-rays and substantial improvements in spatial and temporal resolution. (c) 2020 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Automated summary

In recent decades, advanced experimental techniques such as X-ray and neutron imaging have provided unprecedented insights into the behavior of geomaterials. Neutron imaging, with its unique properties including high sensitivity to hydrogen, high penetration into metals, and isotope sensitivity, has shown to be an extremely valuable tool in experimental geomechanics. Recent developments, such as combining neutron imaging with simultaneous X-rays and improving spatial and temporal resolution, are highlighted for their potential contributions to the field.