Applications of Industrial Computed Tomography Technology in the Geosciences

As an important branch of computed tomography (CT), industrial CT is used widely in many fields, such as aerospace, military industry, and geological analysis fields, because of its advantages of high resolution, repeatability, and wide detection range. On the basis of thorough investigation and study, this paper summarizes three typical industrial CT technologies (i.e., seismic wave CT, resistivity CT, and electromagnetic wave CT) as well as the comprehensive geophysical exploration methods used in the geosciences. The current applications of industrial CT in pore structure studies, gas hydrate studies, digital core construction, and geological utilization and storage of carbon dioxide are introduced. The development trend of industrial CT in the geosciences is also discussed.