Dye penetrant enhanced x-ray

X-ray methods are based on the attenuation of X-rays. Die penetrants such as diiodobutane (DIB) can be used to aid damage visibility in certain composites. This is usually practical if some cracking is evident at the surface, allowing a path for the die to penetrate into the internal damage. Fine detail of damage can often be extracted using this technique, however, in some situations penetrants can potentially act as contaminating agents in the damaged area.