Advanced characterization of pores and fractures in coals by nuclear magnetic resonance and X-ray computed tomography

This paper demonstrates capabilities of low-field nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and microfocus X-ray computed tomography (μCT) in advanced, nondestructive, and quantitative characterization of pore types, producible porosity, pore structure, and spatial disposition of pore-fractures in coals. Results show that the NMR transverse relaxation time (T2) at 0.5–2.5, 20–50, and 】100 ms correspond to pores of 【0.1 μm, 】0.1 μm, and fractures, respectively. A much higher T2 spectrum peak reflects a much better development of pores (or fractures) corresponding to the T2, and vice versa. Three basic components in coals, i.e., the pores (or fractures), coal matrix, and minerals have their distinctive range of CT numbers. Among these, the CT number of pores is commonly less than 600 HU. The producible porosity, which is a determination of permeability, can be calculated by T2 cutoff value (T2C) of coal NMR. The coal pore structure can be efficiently estimated by the newly proposed "T2C based model". Finally, μCT scan was proven capable of modeling and spatial visualization of pores and fractures.

Multiscale morphological analysis of bone microarchitecture around Mg-10Gd implants

The utilization of biodegradable magnesium(Mg)-based implants for restoration of bone function following trauma represents a transformative approach in orthopaedic application.One such alloy,magnesium-10 weight percent gadolinium(Mg-10Gd),has been specifically developed to address the rapid degradation of Mg while enhancing its mechanical properties to promote bone healing.Previous studies have demonstrated that Mg-10Gd exhibits favorable osseointegration;however,it exhibits distinct ultrastructural adaptation in comparison to conventional implants like titanium(Ti).A crucial aspect that remains unexplored is the impact of Mg-10Gd degradation on the bone microarchitecture.To address this,we employed hierarchical three-dimensional imaging using synchrotron radiation in conjunction with image-based finite element modelling.By using the methods outlined,the vascular porosity,lacunar porosity and the lacunar-canaliculi network(LCN)morphology of bone around Mg-10Gd in comparison to Ti in a rat model from 4 weeks to 20 weeks post-implantation was investigated.Our investigation revealed that within our observation period,the degradation of Mg-10Gd implants was associated with significantly lower(p<0.05)lacunar density in the surrounding bone,compared to Ti.Remarkably,the LCN morphology and the fluid flow analysis did not significantly differ for both implant types.In summary,a more pronounced lower lacunae distribution rather than their morphological changes was detected in the surrounding bone upon the degradation of Mg-10Gd implants.This implies potential disparities in bone remodelling rates when compared to Ti implants.Our findings shed light on the intricate relationship between Mg-10Gd degradation and bone microarchitecture,contributing to a deeper understanding of the implications for successful osseointegration.