.Scientists from the University of Regina used neutron imaging at the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory to examine fossilized bones from dinosaurs, including a broken rib from Scotty, the largest Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton discovered. Neutron imaging allowed researchers to nondestructively examine the rib and corroborate earlier X-ray findings of a rare network of mineralized blood vessels preserved as the injury was healing. Combined with X-ray techniques, the neutron data are helping scientists investigate ancient injuries, healing and soft tissue preservation in fossils.
ORNL Neutron Bone Imaging Brings T. Rex to Life
September 04, 2026
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.Scientists from the University of Regina used neutron imaging at the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory to examine fossilized bones from dinosaurs, including a broken rib from Scotty, the largest Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton discovered. Neutron imaging allowed researchers to nondestructively examine the rib and corroborate earlier X-ray findings of a rare network of mineralized blood vessels preserved as the injury was healing. Combined with X-ray techniques, the neutron data are helping scientists investigate ancient injuries, healing and soft tissue preservation in fossils.
