Neutron Transmission Strain Tomography for Non-Constant Stress-Free Lattice Spacing

Abstract: Recently, several algorithms for strain tomography from energy-resolved neutron transmission measurements have been proposed. These methods assume that the stress-free lattice spacing $d_0$ is a known constant limiting their application to the study of stresses generated by manufacturing and loading methods that do not alter this parameter. In this paper, we consider the more general problem of jointly reconstructing the strain and $d_0$ fields. A method for solving this inherently non-linear problem is presented that ensures the estimated strain field satisfies equilibrium and can include knowledge of boundary conditions. This method is tested on a simulated data set with realistic noise levels, demonstrating that it is possible to jointly reconstruct $d_0$ and the strain field.