Characterisation of fibre suspensions using X-ray computed tomography and image analysis

A technique to characterise pulp and nylon fibre suspensions using computed tomography and image analysis has been developed. Properly calibrated, X-r ay computed tomography can be used to give images of local fibre mass conce ntration. From these images, estimates of inter and intra flee concentratio ns may be obtained. This information is important since it is likely that n etwork rupture occurs between flocs. Image analysis of the tomographic imag es may be used to estimate flee sizes. Interpretation of the results, howev er, is not trivial. Further possible applications include characterisation of fibre beds in the washing operation and the degree of flocculation in yield stress measureme nts.