Speaker
Description
X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) in transmission mode is a powerful non-destructive technique for assessing the internal structure and residual stress in metallic components, with important applications in nuclear, aerospace, and petrochemical industries. Unlike conventional reflection mode, transmission XRD probes through the full material thickness, making it particularly valuable for evaluating stainless steel welds where subsurface stresses, phase changes, and microstructural transformations can affect long-term performance.
Traditionally, bulk analysis has required high-energy X-rays from synchrotron sources due to strong absorption in metals. However, with the development of spectral-sensitive detectors, transmission mode can now be performed using conventional X-ray sources—greatly increasing accessibility.
Recent advances in Timepix-family detectors, have significantly enhanced transmission XRD. These pixelated detectors offer ultra-high dynamic range, allowing accurate capture of both strong and weak diffraction signals in a single measurement. Their high sensitivity and spatial resolution open new possibilities for in-situ and real-time weld inspection—an area where transmission XRD has seen limited use until now.
This method is especially effective in the detection of critical phases like delta ferrite and sigma phase, and provides detailed information on residual stress, lattice strain, and texture—key indicators of weld quality. This approach supports robust quality control, failure prevention, and predictive maintenance strategies for critical stainless steel structures. In this presentation, we will highlight the advantages of Timepix3-based detectors for transmission XRD by comparing results across several materials.
Workshop topics | Applications |
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