Scientific research on two dinosaur eggs from China dating back to the Late Cretaceous period (about 70-85 million years ago) have recently been concluded. Andrea Barucci of the Institute of Applied Physics "Nello Carrara" of the National Research Council (Cnr-Ifac) in Sesto Fiorentino coordinated this study, which is a component of the activities dedicated to the application of advanced technologies to cultural heritage, with a specific focus on paleontology. The investigation implemented an extensive array of sophisticated methodologies, including optical spectroscopies, computed tomography (CT), and micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). The primary goal was to examine the internal microstructures and surface characteristics of the fossil eggs, which come from distinct regions in China and likely belong to two different dinosaur families: Therizinosaurus (or a Hadrosaur) and Oviraptor. They are well-preserved and present an interesting study opportunity. A multidisciplinary team of experts was involved in the activities. The eggs are part of the educational collections of Progetto Theia (www.progettotheia.it), curated by science communicators Paolo Conte and Antonella Senese, who use them in outreach activities for schools of all levels. The examination began with micro-tomography at the Cnr-Ifac. This technique enabled researchers to investigate the microstructures within the eggs, showing unexpected characteristics such as the collapsed shell, superficial fractures, remnants of ancient and current infiltrations, and likely crystallized remains of the original content. The tomography also enabled a comprehensive three-dimensional reconstruction of the entire egg, providing a detailed view that would have been unattainable using traditional methods. The eggs were then subjected to computerized tomography. Since the finds were partially embedded in the surrounding rock, the CT was required to visualize the hidden parts and reconstruct the original shape of the fossil, revealing details that had been hidden by the sediment for millions of years. Fragments of shell from other eggs were observed in the nest matrix that encircled both specimens.
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