SBIR-STTR Award

Nesch, LLC will evaluate an in-laboratory Diffraction Enhanced Imaging (DEI) and Multiple Image Radiography, here referred to as DEI, machine as a potential new non-destructive evaluation/testing technique for use by the U.S. Army. Unlike conventional x-radiography, which derives contrast only from a specimen's absorption effects, DEI derives contrast from all interactions of X-rays with a specimen (absorption, refraction, and scattering). From a single experiment, DEI can produce a set of images with higher contrast and resolution than conventional radiography. Consequently, DEI provides useful imaging contrast from materials, defects and embedded objects that have very slight differences in x-ray absorptivity. In this feasibility study, the ability of DEI to detect and measure the sizes of flaws, cracks, and inclusions in carbon based materials and to visualize and quantitate corrosion in an aluminum alloy will be investigated. This work will be extended during the Option Period to inspect specimens with more relevance to the U.S. Army. In Phase II the DEI machine's capabilities will be improved and at least one prototype will be delivered that can safely inspect Army tactical weapons systems and identify performance limiting defects without false positives.

Keywords:
Diffraction Enhanced Imaging, Dei, Multiple Imaging Radiography, Mir, Non-Destructive Evaluation, Phase Contrast Imaging, Non-Destructive Testing

The long-term readiness and operability of the U.S. Army tactical missile systems is critically dependent on the development and utilization of new methods to assure full life-cycle components’ health. Diffraction Enhanced X-ray Imaging (DEXI) technology has the potential to revolutionize x-ray imaging as it produces images with higher contrast than conventional radiography, while reducing the dose multiple times. Developing and utilizing DEXI as a new state-of-the-art NDE/ND will enhance the long-term readiness and operability of the U.S. Army tactical missile systems. In Phase I of this project, the team successfully determined the feasibility of an in laboratory DEXI to meet or exceed the capabilities of existing NDE/NDT techniques. DEXI’s superiority over conventional x-radiography to: a) detect flaws, and b) determine dimensions and location, in both carbon and non-carbon based materials was demonstrated. During Phase II of the proposed project, the team will develop, test and optimize a commercial prototype of a DEXI imaging system to detect and accurately determine dimensions of flaws and objects within different carbon based materials.

Keywords:
Diffraction Enhanced X-Ray Imaging, Dexi, Dei, Multiple Imaging Radiography, Mir, Non-Destructive Evaluation And Testing, Phase Contrast Imaging, Nde/Ndt