When X-Rays and Dinosaurs Collide: X-Ray Imaging in Vertebrate Palaeontology

Explore the fascinating intersection of paleontology and modern imaging technology in this 59-minute Royal Tyrrell Museum Speaker Series talk. Delve into the history and applications of X-ray imaging in vertebrate paleontology, presented by Dr. Francois Therrien. Learn about various X-ray techniques, their challenges in fossil analysis, and how they overcome issues like fossilization changes and density variations. Discover the diverse uses of X-ray imaging, from assessing fossil presence to studying internal structures of ancient specimens. Examine intriguing case studies, including the analysis of dinosaur "hearts," fossilized gravid turtles, and elephant bird eggs. Gain insights into functional studies of dinosaur airways, brains, and inner ears, and understand how 3D rendering and finite element analysis contribute to paleontological research. Uncover the educational potential of X-ray imaging in bringing prehistoric life to light.

Intro
History of x-ray imaging in paleontology
X-ray techniques used in paleontology
X-ray imaging problems
Fossilization changes the bones
Density issues
Artifacts due to metallic minerals
Uses of x-ray imaging in paleontology
Planar x-rays
1. Assess presence of fossils
dinosaur "heart"
Amphibians & Reptiles
fossil gravid turtle
X-ray of modern turtle
Elephant bird egg
Aepyornis eggs
Two famous eggs
Bottom view
Adult-embryo comparison
3. Study internal structure of fossils
Functional study #1: airways in dinosaurs
Functional study #2: brain and inner ear
Poor noses
Render fossils in 3D
3D finite element analysis
Educational purposes
Conclusion
Acknowledgments