X-ray Linescan Imager (XSCAN)

Overview

X-ray images of samples allow a user to observe structures or objects within, such as drop stones, laminations, shells, burrows, faults, and fractures which may aid in the interpretation of geologic processes, depositional settings, environmental conditions, alteration, and tectonics. Imaging prior to core splitting or whole-round sampling may also help minimize damage or disturbance to important structures. X-ray images can also be useful for identifying core disturbance, or for determining the quantity, distribution, and size of features such as ice-rafted debris.

Maximum diameter: 7.6 cm (o.d.)
Maximum length: 150.5 cm

Instrument Make & Model

Custom-built system.

Estimated Measurement Time

Measurement Time: 10-12 sections (1.5 m)/hour

Principles & Analytical Capabilities

The X-ray Linescan Imager (XSCAN) uses a constant potential X-Ray source and a TDI linescan detector. The XSCAN is capable of a 48-micron resolution (~39 microns on the split-core plane) X-ray images of section halves or whole-round sections. It is also capable of imaging a portion of a section rather than the entire core. The custom built LabView software acquires the raw x-ray image and provides a high contrast processing utility enabling the user to quickly review the image.

Data Generated

Image files:

JPEG (P): processed and cropped image; includes a virtual ruler and sample label
JPEG (C): processed and cropped image
TIFF (R): raw, high-resolution image, approximately 175MB filesize

Data Example

X-ray scans from Hole U1608A of IODP Expedition 400. — Raw TIFF image (top), processed and cropped image (middle), and processed and cropped image with virtual ruler and sample identifier information panel (bottom) X-ray scans from Hole U1608A of IODP Expedition 400 in the northwest Greenland glaciated margin.¹

Procedures & Manuals

References

¹Knutz, P.C., Jennings, A.E., Childress, L.B., Bryant, R., Cargill, S.K., Coxall, H.K., Frank, T.D., Grant, G.R., Gray, R.E., Ives, L., Kumar, V., Le Houedec, S., Martens, J., Naim, F., Nelissen, M., Özen, V., Passchier, S., Pérez, L.F., Ren, J., Romans, B.W., Seki, O., Staudigel, P., Tauxe, L., Tibbett, E.J., Yokoyama, Y., Zhang, Y., and Zimmermann, H., 2025. Site U1608. In Knutz, P.C., Jennings, A.E., Childress, L.B., and the Expedition 400 Scientists, NW Greenland Glaciated Margin. Proceedings of the International Ocean Discovery Program, 400: College Station, TX (International Ocean Discovery Program). https://doi.org/10.14379/iodp.proc.400.108.2025