Non-destructive characterization: By 3D image processing of Moroccan meteorites

Percentages of metal are an important physical property in meteorite research and in studies of meteorite impact craters. Physical properties of meteorites have been used to rapidly classify meteorites into main classes and groups. In this paper, we use a max Entropy method for 3D segmentation and visualization of 3D scanned images of meteorites collected in Morocco. This non-destructive analysis allows studying the mineral composition of these rocks. Results show that the percentage of metal is identical when estimated by 3D analysis compared to classical measurements (point counter). The main advantage of the 3D analysis is that the sample is not destroyed, more accurate, not expensive and faster.