A micro-focus X-ray CT has been used for imaging the inner volume change of bone cement implanted into the body of a small animal in living condition. 3-D precise images of the bone cement materials, implanted into the thigh bones of rats, were obtained intermittently for one year using the CT system. The time-dependent 3-D form and volume changes of the bone cement were measured for the same rat continuously. During one year from implantation, the form of the implanted bone cement changed and a significant volume decrease was observed. It was shown that micro-focus X-ray CT was very effective for imaging in bio-research.

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The inner corrosion defect of a gas pipe is a big risk factor in any plant. However, it is difficult to search for defects that need repairing because the length of pipe to be inspected is very long. This research presents a screening method of pipes based on the “triage” system used in the field of the medical treatment. The screening method is composed of three methods of the non-destructive testing. The first method finds the sludge in the pipe that causes corrosion. The second method finds the distribution of the thickness where the sludge exists. The third method measures the thickness of the thinnest part in the distribution of the thickness by using an ultrasonic wave. This paper discusses the first two methods utilizing infrared thermography.

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