ABSTRACT
In biomineral studies, electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) is an electron-beam technique that can be used to simultaneously identify mineralogy, crystallographic orientation, and crystal size at high spatial resolution. EBSD thus provides a means of determining crystallographic orientation in context, which greatly enhances our understanding of the biological control exerted on biomineral formation. Backscatter electron imaging may reveal compositional differences that may help with identification of speci c regions of interest within a structure. The EBSD camera with forescatter detector can be withdrawn by 10 mm to receive the crystallographic signal or inserted closer to collect more compositional information from backscattered electrons. EBSD analysis of fossil coral revealing relatively large crystals of calcite resembling horizontal structures in pristine corals. Approaches include carrying out EBSD on one surface and then using a focused ion beam to slice through the sample perpendicular to that section and then carry out EBSD analyses on the perpendicular surface.
