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The Use of Micro–computed Tomography for Forensic Applications

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Essentials of Autopsy Practice

Abstract

Micro X-ray computed tomography (µCT) is a non-destructive imaging technique that can be used to reveal the internal details of objects. This chapter covers the development and history of µCT and a review of a number of ways in which CT can be used. The basic principles of µCT using X-ray tubes to generate 2D radiographs is explained and the way in which these are computationally reconstructed to generate 3D images is discussed. The chapter also covers issues such as radiation damage, common imaging artefacts, resolution and metrology issues of accuracy and reproducibility. µCT is also compared to other computed tomography approaches to allow forensic practitioners to understand the full range of tomography tools available to aid forensic investigations. Finally, the way in which µCT can be applied in forensic science and engineering to provide detailed information on the objects being studied is then illustrated through a number of examples from pathology, entomology and engineering.

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Acknowledgements

Professor Mark Williams and Dr Waltrud Baier of Warwick Manufacturing Group, from the University of Warwick are thanked for the provision of Fig. 3.6. Jessica Lam of the University of Leicester is thanked for the provision of Fig. 3.4. Dayang Liyana Hj Awang Lamat and Graham Clark, also from the Department of Engineering at the University of Leicester, are acknowledged for the work that led to various other of the case studies and images referred to within this Chapter. Professor Michael Fitzpatrick of Coventry University is thanked for his constructive comments on the manuscript.

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  1. University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath, UK

    Sarah V. Hainsworth

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Correspondence to Sarah V. Hainsworth .

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  1. East Midlands Forensic Pathology Unit, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK

    Guy N. Rutty

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Hainsworth, S.V. (2022). The Use of Micro–computed Tomography for Forensic Applications. In: Rutty, G.N. (eds) Essentials of Autopsy Practice. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-11541-7_3

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