A Novel Image Segmentation Approach for Microstructure Modelling

Microstructure models are used to investigate bulk properties of a material given images of it’s microstructure. Through their use the effect of microstructural features can be investigated independently. Processes can then be optimised to give the desired selection of microstructural features. Currently automatic methods of segmenting SEM images either miss cracks leading to large overestimates of properties such as thermal conductivity or use unjustifiable methods to select a threshold point which class cracks as porosity leading to over estimates of porosity. In this work a novel automatic image segmentation method is presented which produces maps for each phase in the microstructure and an additional phase of cracks. The selection of threshold points is based on the assumption that the brightness values for each phase should be normally distributed. Additional image processing is used to ensure results remain physically relevant. The image segmentation method has been compared to other available methods and shown to be as or more repeatable with changes of brightness and contrast of the input image than relevant alternatives. The resulting modelling route is able to predict density and specific heat to within experimental error, while the expected under predictions for thermal conductivity are observed.