COMPUTER AXIAL-TOMOGRAPHY INVESTIGATION OF POLYMETALLIC NODULES

Polymetallic nodules collected from the Clarion-Clipperton region of t he North Pacific Ocean have been investigated by using a SIEMENS SOMAT ROM HiQ computer tomograph. The reconstructed tomographies show much d etails in the internal structure of the nodules, such as nucleus shape and origin, primary and secondary growth surfaces, highly mineralized areas and the fracture network. In addition, reconstructed 3D images of nodules have been obtained. Computer axial tomography proves to be a remarkably useful method for this typed of investigation. (C) Elsevi er Science B.V. All rights reserved.