Abstract:
Dual-modal neutron/X-ray computed tomography (CT) has emerged as a frontier technique to address the critical demand for high-precision, non-destructive characterization of the microstructural evolution and multiphase distribution within complex heterogeneous materials. By leveraging the intrinsic disparity in interaction mechanisms, specifically, the photon-electron cloud interaction is dependent on the atomic number versus the neutron-nucleus scattering, which is nonlinear and sensitive to light elements/isotopes. This technology constructs a complementary characterization framework. This strategy effectively overcomes the “imaging blind spots” inherent to single-mode techniques, allowing for comprehensive analysis of organic-inorganic composites and light-heavy element coexistence systems. This paper systematically reviews the current status and evolutionary trends in dual-modal CT, elucidating the physical complementarity based on differences in electron density and nuclear scattering cross sections. Subsequently, it categorizes mainstream system architectures evolving from “offline/separated” to “in-situ/integrated” configurations, critically analyzing the engineering trade-offs between orthogonal, inclined, and collinear geometries, while delving into key data processing algorithms such as high-precision cross-modal 3D registration, bivariate histogram-based phase segmentation, and multidimensional image fusion. In terms of engineering and cultural heritage applications, this paper highlights the breakthrough advances in delineating the electrochemical dynamics of Li-ion batteries, fluid transport mechanisms in geological porous media, and the corrosion assessment of metal artifacts. Finally, to address core bottlenecks such as spatiotemporal resolution mismatch, limited neutron flux, and quantitative fusion challenges, the author suggests that future trajectories prioritize the development of high-flux compact neutron sources, AI-driven computational imaging algorithms, and multiphysics coupled in situ monitoring technologies. This will propel the technology from scientific research to a significant advancement in universal industrial inspection.