A groundbreaking study published in Radiocarbon reveals that micro-CT scanning, long considered a non-destructive tool for studying fossils, may damage critical organic components, potentially skewing scientific analyses. Led by Mathieu Duval and Laura Martí at Griffith University, the research shows that X-rays used in micro-CT can reduce collagen content in fossils by up to 35%, impacting techniques like stable isotope analysis used to study ancient diets and environments.

Micro-CT, which creates high-resolution 3D images of fossils’ internal structures without cutting them, is widely used in paleontology to examine bone cancer in ancient humans or teeth in early hominins. However, the study found that while radiocarbon dating remains unaffected, the loss of collagen—a key biomarker—could render fossils unsuitable for certain tests. A prior study also showed micro-CT artificially ages fossils in electron spin resonance dating, used for specimens over 50,000 years old.

Despite its value, the researchers urge caution, recommending limited scan exposure and data sharing to avoid repeated scans. They argue micro-CT should no longer be labeled non-destructive, as it irreversibly alters fossils’ chemical makeup, threatening their legacy for future research.

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