Non-destructive material investigation: advanced techniques across disciplines

Abstract

The advancement of experimental physical techniques has significantly improved the study of materials across a range of scales, from micro to macro, and has allowed for probing various material characteristics with remarkable precision. Among these techniques, X-ray microtomography and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy stand out as powerful tools that provide critical insights into the structural and molecular properties of materials. This thesis investigates the complementary applications of these techniques across multiple scientific disciplines, including biology, engineering, and photonics. X-ray microtomography offers high-resolution, non-destructive imaging capabilities, enabling the detailed visualization of internal structures of materials. In contrast, FTIR spectroscopy provides molecular-level information through the identification of vibrational modes, offering a deeper understanding of chemical composition and bonding environments. By combining these techniques, it is possible to bridge the gap between structural and chemical analysis, thus achieving a more holistic characterization of complex systems. This thesis presents a detailed exploration of how the integration of X-ray microtomography, FTIR spectroscopy, and other experimental methods can lead to a more comprehensive understanding of diverse classes of materials. Through case studies in biological sample analysis, defect analysis in engineering materials, and the characterization of optical fibers, this work demonstrates the synergistic potential of these techniques. The overall findings underscore that a multidisciplinary and integrated approach, utilizing advanced physical techniques, not only enriches scientific understanding but also fosters technological innovation across various fields. Keywords: X-ray microtomography, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, biological systems, engineering, photonics research, multiple sclerosis, hearts, cells.