The geometry of foams has long been an area of interest, and a number of idealized
geometric descriptions have been proposed. In order to acquire detailed, quantitative,
geometric data for aluminum open-cell metal foams, X-ray μCT is employed. The X-ray μCT
images are analyzed using specialized software, FoamView®, from which geometric
information including strut length and pore shapes are extracted. The X-ray μCT analysis
allows comparison of the ideal geometric models to the actual geometric characteristics
of the metal foam samples. The results reveal a high variability in ligament length, as well
as features supporting the ideal geometry known as the Weaire–Phelan unit cell. The
geometric findings provide information useful for improving current models of open-cell
metal foam. Applications can range from predicting heat transfer or load failure to predicting
liquid retention.