Electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) as a tool for detection of coral diagenesis

Cusack, M. , England, J., Dalbeck, P., Tudhope, A.W., Fallick, A.E. and Allison, N. (2008) Electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) as a tool for detection of coral diagenesis. Coral Reefs, 27(4), pp. 905-911. (doi: 10.1007/s00338-008-0414-3)

Abstract

Fine-scale structures of intact modern and fossil coralline skeletons were analysed to determine alteration to secondary cements and phases using electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD). EBSD analysis revealed secondary aragonite cements in endolithic borings in the modern skeleton and whole dissepiments of the fossil skeleton replaced by calcite, despite X-ray diffraction (XRD) bulk analysis of the general area suggesting only aragonite was present. Non-destructive, in situ screening of coral samples by EBSD analysis provides a valuable tool for assessing the extent of alteration and can determine which areas may produce more reliable climate proxy data.

• Item Type: Articles
• Keywords: Electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD); diagenesis; calcite; dissepiments
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Cusack, Professor Maggie and Fallick, Professor Anthony
• Authors: Cusack, M., England, J., Dalbeck, P., Tudhope, A.W., Fallick, A.E., and Allison, N.
• Subjects: Q Science > QE Geology
• College/School: College of Science and Engineering > Scottish Universities Environmental Research Centre
• Journal Name: Coral Reefs
• ISSN: 0722-4028