| Abstract Scope |
Pore network modelling (PNM) Analysis is a technique for approximating complex porosity networks in materials. This study focuses on using PNM to analyze a such structure in nano-porous gold (samples courtesy of K.R. Mangipudi, Institute for Materials Physics, University of Goettingen). 3D SEM images of gold samples (images courtesy of Dr. Karsten Thiel, Fraunhofer IFAM) were used to design a complete image analysis workflow which included first aligning the stack of 2D SEM slices, rendering a 3D image, segmenting the SEM image into gold and porosity, and analyzing the pore space. In addition, PNM was performed using Thermo ScientificTM</SUp> AvizoTM software on the results to quantify nodes, throats, coordination number, and other porous structure parameters. Considering the importance of the porous structure in the sensory and catalysis applications of the nano-porous gold, the results can be utilized to evaluate the performance of the material. |