Electromagnetic Induction Imaging with Atomic Magnetometers: Progress and Perspectives

Electromagnetic induction imaging (EMI) allows mapping of the conductivity of target objects and, when combined with appropriate algorithms, the generation of full 3D tomographic images. Despite its tremendous potential, and the wealth of possible applications, the use of EMI has essentially been limited to eddy current testing for monitoring of corrosion and welding in metallic structures. The present work reviews the factors hindering the progress of electromagnetic induction imaging and highlights how the use of atomic magnetometers overcame some of them, opening the path to real world applications of EMI. Perspectives for further developments are discussed.