The use of Compton scattered X-rays for nondestructive testing of new materials such as aluminum castings and plastic materials is described. Scatter imaging can provide several advantages over conventional shadow projections: high defect contrast, 3D information concerning the spatial localization of defects, and relatively free choice of the imaging geometry. These advantages are illustrated by a novel x-ray backscatter system. Results are presented for several application areas in the automobile industry as well as in the aircraft and plastic industries.