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.
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.
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.
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 Features
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
nano3DX Application Notes
The following application notes are relevant to this product
-
B-XRI1017 - Analysis of volume fraction and thickness of bran layer using a high-resolution 3D X-ray microscope
-
BATT1023 - Assessment of Particle Diameter and Interparticle Voids for Cathode Material for Lithium-Ion Batteries
-
BATT0005 - Porosity Analysis of Cathode-Coated Sheet
-
BATT0003 - Battery Performance
-
RACCT9045 - Tablet Crystallinity Analysis by X-ray CT
-
RACCT9042 - Microparticle Coating Analysis by X-ray CT
-
RACCT9041 - Famotidine Tablet Comparison by X-ray CT
-
RACCT9040 - Degradation of Sustained-release Dosage Tablet Imaged by X-ray CT
nano3DX Resources
Webinars
- High-resolution CT Data Collection Techniques Part 1
- High-resolution CT Data Collection Techniques Part 2
Blog articles
- How Much Does a Micro CT Scanner Cost?
- 7 Common Problems with X-ray CT & How To Avoid Them
- CT vs. SEM: Which Is Better?
Rigaku Journal articles
Basics of X-ray CT Reconstruction--Principles and Applications of Iterative Reconstruction Application of the nano3DX X-ray microscope to biological specimens Examination of electronic components with the nano3DX X-ray CT microscopeIn situ microscopic structural investigations with a three-dimensional X-ray microscope: nano3DXA primer on the use of the nano3DX high-resolution X-ray microscope Visualization and analysis of pharmaceutical solids by X-ray microscopy
Other resources
nano3DX Events
Learn more about our products at these events
-
EventDatesLocationEvent website
-
Pharma - Manufacturing and QCJune 17 2025 - June 17 2025Webinar
-
Rigaku Battery Forum 2025June 23 2025 - June 24 2025Neu-Isenburg, Germany
-
Microscopy Conference MC2025August 30 2025 - September 3 2025Karlsruhe, Germany
Testimonials
-
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 testimonialGerald PoirierDirectorAdvanced Materials Characterization Lab | University of Delaware -
Very pleasant experience with CT Lab GX 130 and nano3DX. Excellent build quality. Very knowledgeable staff and professional service.
Read the full testimonialLeilei Yin, PhDRetiredThis testimonial was given by Dr. Yin when he was employed at The Beckman Institute University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Contact Us
Whether you're interested in getting a quote, want a demo, need technical support, or simply have a question, we're here to help.