A supervised iterative approach to 3D microstructure reconstruction from acquired tomographic data of heterogeneous fibrous systems

The recent ubiquitous utilization of short fiber reinforced composites (SFRCs) in applications that require complex shape conforming, light-weight materials with good strength properties, calls for in-depth studies to understand the underpinning physics behind SFRCs response to load and consequently damage. Since the accuracy of such studies is contingent on successful sub-volume characterization, the intricate sub-volume architecture of SFRCs requires conscientious methodology that addresses complex morphologies like fiber cross-overs, which is by no means a trivial endeavor. This paper proposes a novel framework that hinges on the synergy between robust 2D segmentation and 3D volume reconstruction techniques to faithfully reconstruct the fiber architecture of 3D X-ray tomograms of SFRCs. The implications of this framework not only include a platform that fully characterizes the complex sub-volume, but also provides a convenient means of incorporating tracking algorithms necessary for the in-situ characterization of the reconstructed fibers, if desired.