The 3D visualization of the inner microstructural features of objects and materials is of relevant interest for a wide range of scientific and industrial applications. X-ray computed microtomography ( -CT) is a powerful non-destructive technique capable to satisfy these needs. This work was carried out at the hard X-ray imaging beamline of the Elettra Synchrotron Radiation Facility (Trieste, Italy). Here, the acquired experience has leaded scientists to design a complementary state-of- the-art -CT facility based on a micro-focus X-ray source, working both in absorption and phase contrast...