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X-ray CT

nano3DX

True submicron CT scanner with contrast-enhancing X-ray anode

3D X-ray microscope

Rigaku nano3DX is a true submicron resolution CT (computed tomography) scanner. The parallel beam geometry combined with an ultrabright 1200 W rotating anode X-ray source enhances the contrast of soft materials, which are normally difficult to image using high-energy X-ray sources. The X-ray anode can be selected from Cr (5.4 keV), Cu (8 keV), or Mo (17 keV) for low-energy and pseudo-monochromatic radiation to maximize the contrast for the given sample material and size. With the highest magnification lens, the nano3DX can achieve 325 nm voxel resolution and true submicron (700 nm) spatial resolution.

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nano3DX system nano3DX sample mounting

nano3DX Overview

How do I achieve high resolution?

Rigaku nano3DX uses parallel beam geometry. This geometry uses an optical lens to magnify the sample image. It does not use the X-ray beam divergence and eliminates blurring caused by the X-ray focus size and drift. With the 20X magnification lens, you can achieve 325 nm voxel resolution and true submicron (700 nm) spatial resolution.

At this resolution, you can see individual carbon fibers (~7.5 microns), the intricate structures of seeds, small insects, etc.

 

parallel beam geometry

 

How do I change X-ray anodes?

Rigaku nano3DX is equipped with a dual-wavelength rotating anode X-ray generator, MicroMax-007 HF. The rotating X-ray anode is made of Cu, providing Cu characteristic radiation of 8 keV. Another anode material, Cr 5.4 keV, Mo 17 keV, or W for Bremsstrahlung radiation, can be added to the Cu anode to provide the second radiation. You can switch between two radiations with a simple click on the instrument control software.

You can image an even 5% density difference in organic materials by using optimized radiation and differentiate amorphous and crystalline phases, high- and low-density polyethylene, etc.

 

nano3DX-anode-change

 

Do I need to prepare my sample in a special way?

No, X-ray CT measurements require minimum to no sample preparation. As far as the sample size is close to the FOV (field of view), you can mount the sample on the sample stage with a small pin as is, and you are ready to run a CT scan.

Because X-ray CT experiments are done in the air and do not require conductivity on the sample as is the case for SEM (scanning electron microscopy), organic samples such as plants can be measured without a drying or coating process.

 

nano3DX sample mounting

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nano3DX Features

325 nm voxel / 700 nm spatial resolution
Parallel beam geometry for true submicron resolution
Best X-ray energy for low-density materials
Selectable pseudo-monochromatic X-ray radiations
Shorter scan time
Ultrabright 1200 W X-ray source and sCMOS to increase the X-ray count and detection efficiency

nano3DX Videos

nano3DX Specifications

Voxel resolution 325 nm — 10 μm
Field of view (FOV) 0.66 — 20 mm
Field of view (FOV) 0.66 — 20 mmMaximum sample size 20 mm diameter x 40 mm height
Speed (shortest scan time) 30 sec
Geometry Parallel beam geometry
X-ray source 1200 W rotating anode microsource
X-ray energy Pseudo monochromatic sources: Cr (5.4 keV), Cu (8 keV), Mo (17 keV) |
Traditional source: W operated at 60 kV
Lenses 1.25X, 2.5X, 5X, 10X, 20X
Detector High-resolution sCMOS
Detector pixel size 6.5 microns
Detector size 2048 x 2048 pixels
Dimensions 1300 (W) x 1880 (H) x 655(D) mm (PC, chiller, vacuum pump not included)
Weight Approx. 600 kg

nano3DX Options

The following accessories are available for this product:

accessory photo
Dragonfly

X-ray CT image visualization, processing, segmentation, and quantitative analysis software

accessory photo
VGSTUDIO

X-ray CT image visualization, image processing, quantitative and dimensional analyses software

nano3DX Application Notes

The following application notes are relevant to this product

nano3DX Resources

Webinars

Blog articles

Rigaku Journal articles

adobe Basics of X-ray CT Reconstruction--Principles and Applications of Iterative Reconstruction
adobeApplication of the nano3DX X-ray microscope to biological specimens
adobeExamination of electronic components with the nano3DX X-ray CT microscope
adobeIn situ microscopic structural investigations with a three-dimensional X-ray microscope: nano3DX
adobeA primer on the use of the nano3DX high-resolution X-ray microscope
adobe Visualization and analysis of pharmaceutical solids by X-ray microscopy

Other resources

nano3DX Events

Learn more about our products at these events

  • Tomography for Scientific Advancement North America (ToScANA)
    May 12 2025 - May 13 2025
    New York, NY
    Website
  • Enhancing Pharma Processes - #4: Manufacturing and QC
    June 17 2025 - June 17 2025
    Webinar
    Website
  • Rigaku Battery Forum 2025
    June 23 2025 - June 24 2025
    Neu-Isenburg, Germany
    Website
  • Microscopy Conference MC2025
    August 30 2025 - September 3 2025
    Karlsruhe, Germany
    Website

Testimonials

  • Photo of Gerald Poirier
    The technical knowledge, professionalism, willingness to answer ours question in a timely manner, is appreciated. My users also enjoy the educational webinars offered on a wide range of imaging subjects.
    Read the full testimonial
    Gerald Poirier
    Director
    Advanced Materials Characterization Lab | University of Delaware
  • Photo of Leilei Yin, PhD
    Very pleasant experience with CT Lab GX 130 and nano3DX. Excellent build quality. Very knowledgeable staff and professional service.
    Read the full testimonial
    Leilei Yin, PhD
    Retired
    This testimonial was given by Dr. Yin when he was employed at The Beckman Institute University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

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