Applications of synchrotron-based techniques to Paleontology

Fri., Nov. 17, 2017 3:30 p.m. - Fri., Nov. 17, 2017 4:30 p.m.

Location: CL 317

Abstract: Although very common in other research fields, synchrotron radiation techniques have only recently become more common in Paleontological studies. One of the most remarkable results was the identification of the coloration in feathers of the primitive bird Archaeopteryx. In this seminar, I will talk about some of the studies we have been developing using these techniques, for different fossils, including dinosaur bones and insect inclusions in amber. I will explore the chemical changes observed in the famous Saskatchewan Tyrannosaurus rex, Scotty, using avian bones (dinosaurs closest living relatives) for comparisons, as well as some chemical indications of what could have led to its preservation. I will also discuss how we can employ synchrotron X-ray fluorescence mapping combined with synchrotron micro-tomography imaging to insect inclusions in amber as a new tool to non-destructive studies, and show its application to ants trapped in Baltic amber.

Speaker: Anezka Kolaceke, Department of Physics, University of Regina