A sample loading device and method for continuous scanning of microfossils

Abstract

The application discloses a sample loading device and method for continuous scanning of microfossils, and belongs to the technical field of microfossil detection and three-dimensional reconstruction. The device and method solve the problem that the prior art cannot realize continuous scanning of single samples in sequence for multiple microfossil samples. The sample loading device comprises a movable sample module, and the movable sample module has a sample bearing module. The bearing module is provided with a linear cavity, and multiple microfossil samples are dispersedly filled in the linear cavity along an axial direction and fixed through a fixing material. The fixing material is an adhesive fixing material or a filling fixing material. The entity part surrounding the linear cavity, the filling fixing material and the adhesive fixing material are all X-ray weak absorption materials. The application also provides a microfossil continuous scanning method using the above sample loading device. The application not only realizes continuous scanning of single microfossils in sequence, but also recycles fossil samples.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of microfossil detection and three-dimensional reconstruction technology, specifically relating to a sample loading device and method for continuous scanning of microfossils. Background Technology

[0002] Microfossils are tiny fossil remains, including foraminifera, radiolarians, chitinozoans, and embryonic fossils. The vast majority require microscopic observation as they are difficult to identify with the naked eye. They carry crucial geological information about paleoenvironments, paleoclimates, and biological evolution, making them a core research subject in geological sciences, paleontology, and geochemistry. High-resolution computed tomography (CT) has become a core tool for observing and reconstructing the three-dimensional structure of microfossils, enabling the clear visualization of minute internal structures without damaging the sample, providing researchers with precise data.

[0003] Currently, high-resolution computed tomography (CT) scans of microfossils primarily rely on commercially available high-resolution CT scanners (such as the Xradia 620 Versa). Existing scanning methods mainly employ the traditional single-sample scanning mode, where only one microfossil sample can be placed on the stage at a time. After each scan, the sample must be manually replaced, and the scanning parameters and sample position readjusted before the next scan. This method is extremely inefficient and cannot meet the demands of large-scale screening. Microfossil research is characterized by its large volume and high screening requirements; a complete research project often requires scanning hundreds or even thousands of microfossil samples. Traditional single-sample scanning cannot meet the needs of large-scale sample screening. Current technologies for achieving continuous high-resolution scanning of multiple samples rely on specialized robotic equipment provided by manufacturers. However, such robotic equipment is limited in terms of sample loading methods, structure, and size, making it difficult to directly use for automated sample changing of microfossils, especially those ranging from 50μm to 2mm in size. Alternatively, a custom-designed high-precision robotic arm can be used, allowing several samples to be pre-prepared on standard sample needles. The robotic arm can then handle the loading and unloading within the chamber for continuous scanning, but this is prohibitively expensive.

[0004] In addition, a micro-CT stage for batch scanning of small fossil samples has been disclosed in the prior art. The cylindrical sample stage has 12 independent hollow spaces, which are distributed within a plane. Figure 1This illustrates the core principle of this type of high-resolution CT, where 'a' represents the distance between the X-ray source and the sample, and 'b' represents the distance between the sample and the scintillator. The system achieves optimal spatial resolution by maximizing (a+b) / a; therefore, the spin axis of the sample stage must be as close as possible to the X-ray source, correspondingly requiring a very small radial dimension of the sample stage plane, as close as possible to the sample's own diameter. However, the lateral diameter of the sample stage for the aforementioned batch scanning of small fossils is large, failing to meet the design requirement of being close to the light source at the axis, making it difficult to achieve optimal resolution imaging and fully utilize the resolving power of the micro-CT equipment. In essence, this scheme belongs to traditional batch scanning of small fossils, equivalent to placing multiple fossil specimens together in the field of view, similar to scanning a single large macroscopic specimen simultaneously. Although it achieves the goal of scanning multiple specimens simultaneously (not scanning individual samples sequentially), the distance between each specimen and the light source is much greater than its own diameter, directly resulting in low three-dimensional resolution of the specimens, making it difficult to support the needs of high-resolution microfossil research and obtain effective structural information. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Based on the above analysis, the present invention aims to provide a sample loading device and method for continuous scanning of microfossils, in order to solve the problem that the prior art cannot achieve sequential continuous scanning of a single sample for multiple microfossil samples.

[0006] The objective of this invention is achieved as follows: On the one hand, a sample loading device for continuous scanning of microfossils is provided, including a movable sample module, the movable sample module having a sample carrying module, the sample carrying module having a sample loading space, the sample loading space being a linear cavity; The linear cavity is configured to be filled with multiple microfossil samples to be tested. The multiple microfossil samples are dispersed along the axial direction in the linear cavity and fixed by a fixing material. The fixing material is either an adhesive fixing material or a filler fixing material; The solid portion forming the linear cavity, as well as the filling and bonding materials, are all weakly absorbing X-ray materials. The microfossil sample is embedded and fixed in the linear cavity by the filling and fixing material, and the filling and fixing material is water-soluble; The microfossil sample is bonded and fixed to the cavity wall of the linear cavity by the bonding and fixing material, and the bonding and fixing material can be re-swelled, dispersed or softened by warm water and detached from the microfossil sample.

[0007] Furthermore, the sample carrying module has a sample carrying tube and a support column, and the internal space of the sample carrying tube forms the linear cavity; the bottom end of the sample carrying tube is coaxially and fixedly connected to the top end of the support column; wherein, the sample carrying tube, the adhesive fixing material, and the filling fixing material are all made of X-ray weak absorbing material composed of low atomic number elements C, H, and O, and the effective atomic number of the X-ray weak absorbing material is less than 8.

[0008] Furthermore, the sample carrier tube is made of polyethylene or polypropylene; the bonding and fixing material is wood glue, polyvinyl alcohol glue or gum arabic diluted with water, with a glue-to-water volume ratio of 5% to 10%; the filling and fixing material is white sugar, glucose or mannitol.

[0009] Furthermore, the support column is made of metal, and the bottom end of the sample carrier tube is sealed and fixedly connected to the top end of the support column with strong adhesive.

[0010] Furthermore, it also includes a clamping module configured to clamp and fix the bottom of the support column; the clamping module has a sample stage base, a sample stage support column, a micro clamp and a micro clamp nut; the sample stage support column is disposed on the sample stage base, the micro clamp is disposed on the top of the sample stage support column, and the micro clamp nut is sleeved on the micro clamp and cooperates with the micro clamp to clamp and fix the support column.

[0011] Furthermore, the sample carrying module also has a U-shaped inner liner, which can be inserted into the sample carrying tube. The filling and fixing material and microfossil samples are filled in the space defined by the U-shaped inner liner. One end of the U-shaped inner liner is the outer end, and the outer end of the U-shaped inner liner protrudes from the opening of the sample carrying tube.

[0012] Furthermore, it also includes a sample preservation module, which includes a hollow tube. The movable sample module is upright inserted into the pearl cotton through a support column, and the pearl cotton can be detachably fixed in the hollow tube. The top and bottom ends of the hollow tube are respectively provided with a top sealing plug and a bottom sealing plug.

[0013] On the other hand, a method for continuous scanning of microfossils is provided, including: Sample loading steps: Multiple microfossil samples are sequentially loaded into a sample loading device for continuous scanning of microfossils; On-machine testing steps: Place the sample loading device loaded with multiple microfossil samples on a high-resolution CT scanner, set the continuous scanning program parameters, and perform continuous scanning of multiple microfossil samples in the linear cavity one by one to acquire scanning data. Sample recovery steps: After completing continuous scanning, recover and preserve multiple microfossil samples from the sample loading device.

[0014] Furthermore, the sample loading step specifically includes: Step A: Connect and fix the support column to the sample carrier tube to obtain the sample carrier module; Step B: Using a fixing material, fix multiple microfossil samples one by one in the sample support tube of the sample support module to obtain a movable sample module; Step C: Insert the support column of the movable sample module into the micro clamp of the clamp module, tighten the micro clamp nut to complete the fixed connection, and obtain a sample loading device for loading multiple microfossil samples. In step B, either of the following two sample fixation methods shall be used: Sample fixation method one: The fixation material is wood glue, polyvinyl alcohol glue, or gum arabic. The specific steps include: Dilute the glue with water at a volume ratio of 5% to 10% to obtain a diluted glue; apply a layer of diluted glue evenly to the inner wall of the sample carrier tube to form a glue layer; then use a moistened brush to pick up the microfossil sample and place it one by one on the glue layer under an optical microscope to complete the sample fixation. Sample fixation method two: The fixation material uses granulated sugar, glucose, or mannitol. The specific steps include: White sugar, glucose, or mannitol are pulverized to obtain a small-particle-size filling and fixing powder; the small-particle-size filling and fixing powder and the microfossil sample are alternately placed into the sample carrier tube of the sample carrier module to complete the sample fixing.

[0015] Furthermore, regarding sample fixation scheme one, the sample recovery step is as follows: immerse the movable sample module in warm water at 50~60℃ to soften and remove the adhesive layer, and then recover and label the fossil samples one by one; For sample fixation scheme two, before the small-particle-size filling fixation powder and microfossil samples are alternately placed into the sample carrier tube, the method further includes: inserting a U-shaped inner liner into the bottom closed end of the sample carrier tube, with the outer end of the U-shaped inner liner protruding from the top opening of the sample carrier tube; the sample recovery step is as follows: under an optical microscope, pull out the pre-installed U-shaped inner liner so that the first fossil sample and the top layer powder are exposed from the opening of the sample carrier tube, soak them in water, and obtain the first fossil sample; repeat the above steps to remove all fossil samples one by one.

[0016] Furthermore, the sample recovery step includes: preserving the movable sample module as a whole; the specific steps are: inserting the support column of the movable sample module into pearl cotton, then placing the whole module into a hollow tube, sealing both ends of the hollow tube with top and bottom sealing plugs respectively, and then marking and preserving the sample.

[0017] Compared with the prior art, the sample loading device and method for continuous scanning of microfossils provided by the present invention can achieve at least one of the following beneficial effects: 1. Multiple microfossils are mounted in the sample carrier tube of a movable sample module by fixing materials. Both the sample carrier tube and the fixing materials are low effective atomic number materials, which have extremely weak absorption of X-rays and can minimize the obstruction of X-rays. This enables commercial high-resolution CT equipment to perform continuous scanning of multiple microfossil samples one by one, and obtain the ultimate resolution data of each sample in sequence, which significantly improves scanning efficiency and reduces scientific research costs.

[0018] 2. The fixing materials used are adhesive fixing materials or filler fixing materials. The adhesive fixing material is wood glue, and the filler fixing material is white sugar or glucose. Both types of fixing materials are low cost and can be used to recover the sample after the test is completed, thus realizing the reusability of the sample.

[0019] 3. By equipping a sample preservation module, a movable sample module containing multiple microfossil samples can be stored in a sealed sample preservation module, which facilitates the long-term preservation of the sample as a whole. Secondary detection can directly call the original coordinates for quick positioning, greatly simplifying the process of repeated experiments.

[0020] 4. This invention can ensure high-resolution scanning results and maintain the integrity of microfossil samples when changing target samples. It is not only suitable for microfossils, but also for automatic continuous high-resolution computed tomography (CT) scanning of small samples such as extraterrestrial micro samples and lunar soil particles. It is especially suitable for scientific research scenarios with strict requirements on scanning throughput, sample integrity and detection cost.

[0021] In this invention, the above-described technical solutions can be combined with each other to achieve more preferred combinations. Other features and advantages of this invention will be set forth in the following description, and some advantages may become apparent from the description or be learned by practicing the invention. The objects and other advantages of this invention can be realized and obtained from what is particularly pointed out in the description and drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0022] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this specification or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments recorded in the embodiments of this specification. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings. Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the principle of high-resolution CT in existing technologies. Figure 2This is a schematic diagram of the sample loading device for continuous scanning of microfossils provided by the present invention; Figure 3 A partial structural schematic diagram of the sample loading device for continuous scanning of microfossils provided by the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the sample carrier module provided by the present invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the movable sample module provided by the present invention; Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of the movable sample module and the sample preservation module provided by the present invention; Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the structure of the sample carrier tube with a notch provided by the present invention; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the U-shaped inner liner provided by the present invention; Figure 9 This invention uses wood glue to bond microfossil samples to obtain a micro-CT image of an embryonic cell microfossil sample; Figure 10 The present invention uses white sugar to embed microfossil samples to obtain a micro-CT image of an embryonic cell microfossil sample.

[0023] Figure label: 100. Embryonic cell microfossil sample; 200. Phoebe tincture; 300. White sugar; 400. Air; 1. Movable sample module; 10. Sample carrying module; 11. Support column; 12. Strong adhesive; 13. Sample carrying tube; 131. Notch; 14. Microfossil sample; 15. Filling and fixing material; 16. U-shaped inner liner; 161. Vertical side wall; 162. Outer end; 163. Side end opening; 2. Fixture module; 21. Sample stage base; 22. Sample stage support; 23. Miniature clamp; 24. Miniature clamp nut; 3. Sample preservation module; 31. Hollow tube; 32. Top sealing plug; 33. Bottom sealing plug; 34. Pearl cotton. Detailed Implementation

[0024] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0025] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, further explanation and description will be provided below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. These embodiments do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments of this application. In the drawings, the dimensions and relative dimensions of components may be exaggerated for clarity and / or descriptive purposes. When exemplary embodiments can be implemented differently, a specific process sequence may be performed in a different order than that described. For example, two consecutively described processes may be performed substantially simultaneously or in the reverse order of their description. Furthermore, the same reference numerals denote the same components.

[0026] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well. Furthermore, when the terms “comprising” and / or “including” and variations thereof are used in this specification, it indicates the presence of the stated features, integrals, steps, operations, parts, components, and / or groups thereof, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, parts, components, and / or groups thereof. It should also be noted that, as used herein, the terms “substantially,” “about,” and other similar terms are used as approximate terms rather than as terms of degree, thus explaining the inherent biases in measurements, calculated values, and / or provided values ​​that would be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0027] Example 1

[0028] A specific embodiment of the present invention, such as Figures 2 to 8 As shown, a sample loading device for continuous scanning of microfossils is disclosed, hereinafter referred to as the "sample loading device". The sample loading device includes a movable sample module 1, which has a sample carrier module 10. The sample carrier module 10 has a sample loading space, which is a linear cavity. Multiple microfossil samples 14 to be tested are configured to be loaded into the linear cavity. The multiple microfossil samples 14 are dispersed along the axial direction in the linear cavity and fixed by fixing materials. The fixing materials are adhesive fixing materials or filling fixing materials 15. The adhesive fixing materials fix the microfossil samples 14 in the linear cavity by bonding. The filling fixing materials 15 fix the microfossil samples 14 in the linear cavity by embedding. The solid part surrounding the linear cavity, as well as the filling fixing materials 15 and adhesive fixing materials, are all X-ray weakly absorbing materials.

[0029] Depending on the type of fixation material used, two sample fixation schemes were employed to fix multiple microfossil samples 14 one by one in the sample carrier tube 13: Sample fixation scheme 1: The microfossil sample 14 is bonded and fixed to the cavity wall of the linear cavity by an adhesive fixing material, and the adhesive fixing material can be re-swelled, dispersed or softened by warm water and detached from the microfossil sample 14.

[0030] Sample fixation scheme two: The microfossil sample 14 is embedded and fixed in the linear cavity by a filling fixation material 15, and the filling fixation material 15 is water-soluble; the cavity above the microfossil sample 14 at the top has a certain height of filling fixation material 15, forming a covering layer; the cavity below the microfossil sample 14 at the bottom has a certain height of filling fixation material 15, forming a cushion layer; there is filling fixation material 15 between two adjacent microfossil samples 14 and between the microfossil sample 14 and the cavity wall of the linear cavity.

[0031] In one alternative embodiment, the sample carrying module 10 has a sample carrying tube 13 and a support column 11. The internal space of the sample carrying tube 13 forms a linear cavity. Preferably, the diameter of the linear cavity is 1~3mm. The bottom end of the sample carrying tube 13 is coaxially and fixedly connected to the top end of the support column 11.

[0032] In this embodiment, the sample carrier tube 13, the adhesive fixing material, and the filler fixing material 15 are all made of materials composed of low atomic number elements C, H, and O. Low atomic number elements typically refer to those with an atomic number Z ≤ 10. The effective atomic number Z of the materials used in the sample carrier tube 13, the adhesive fixing material, and the filler fixing material 15 is... eff For low effective atomic number, Z eff <8. In this implementation case, the overall X-ray attenuation is weak at the X-ray energy of commercial high-resolution CT.

[0033] For example, sample carrier tube 13 has a low effective atomic number Z. eff The material exhibits extremely weak X-ray absorption, minimizing X-ray obstruction and ensuring sufficient signal intensity in the sample scan image and significant grayscale differences within the sample in the CT image. The sample carrier tube 13 should possess good rigidity to ensure stability during automatic movement and rotation of the sample loading device during scanning, preventing sample position displacement due to deformation of the sample carrier tube 13, and thus avoiding motion blur and artifacts during scan reconstruction. Therefore, in this embodiment, the sample carrier tube 13 is preferably a transparent tube with a straight cavity made of polyethylene or polypropylene, which exhibits extremely weak X-ray attenuation, approaching that of air. For example, a polypropylene plastic tube with a diameter of 1-3 mm and a length of 1-3 cm can be selected.

[0034] In sample fixation scheme one, the preferred bonding and fixing material is water-diluted wood glue, polyvinyl alcohol glue, or gum arabic, diluted with water at a volume ratio of 5% to 10%. For example, using water-diluted wood glue 200, with a volume percentage of 5% to 10% (wood glue 200 volume percentage 5% to 10%, water volume percentage 90% to 95%), the diluted wood glue 200 has moderate viscosity. Using the above-mentioned wood glue 200 dilution ratio has three advantages: first, it ensures stable sample fixation; second, it allows time for adjusting the sample position and orientation; and third, reducing the viscosity of wood glue 200 makes the microfossil samples easier to remove after testing. The advantages of using wood glue 200 as a bonding and fixing material are: wood glue 200's main component is polyvinyl acetate, which consists of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen elements, belonging to materials with low effective atomic numbers. In practical applications, its X-ray absorption is extremely weak, and when used with acrylic plastic tubing, it can minimize X-ray obstruction.

[0035] Because the fossil sample removed using the first sample fixation method may have a small amount of pectin 200 residue on its surface, although this does not affect secondary studies of the overall morphology and internal high-resolution structure of the sample, it prevents nanoscale resolution scanning electron microscopy analysis of the sample surface. Therefore, in the second sample fixation method, the filler material 15 is preferably white sugar, glucose, or mannitol. Using white sugar, glucose, or mannitol as the filler material 15 not only meets the requirements of weak X-ray absorption and easy dilution and dissolution, but also allows for the recovery of the microfossil sample 14 via water immersion, and the recovered microfossil sample 14 is free of microscale surface contamination and residue.

[0036] In sample fixation scheme two, to facilitate the removal of the filling fixation material 15 and the microfossil sample 14 from the sample carrier tube 13, the sample carrier module 10 also has a U-shaped inner liner 16, such as... Figure 8 As shown, the U-shaped inner liner 16 can be inserted into the sample carrier tube 13. The filling material 15 and the microfossil sample 14 are filled into the space defined by the U-shaped inner liner 16. One open end of the U-shaped inner liner 16 is the outer end 162, which protrudes 1-2 cm from the opening of the sample carrier tube 13. The protruding part of the U-shaped inner liner 16 can be pinched with fingers, and then the U-shaped inner liner 16, along with the sample, can be pulled out of the sample carrier tube 13. In this way, the U-shaped inner liner 16 can be inserted first, and then the filling material 15 and the microfossil sample 14 can be filled. By simply pulling the U-shaped inner liner 16 outward, the filled microfossil sample 14 can be pulled out of the sample carrier tube 13, and then the microfossil sample 14 can be recovered through water dissolution.

[0037] The U-shaped inner liner 16 can be formed by folding a strip of filter paper in half, and the strip of filter paper can be cut by hand. The U-shaped inner liner 16 can also be made of the same material as the sample carrier tube 13 and prefabricated in the factory. The thickness of the U-shaped inner liner 16 is less than the thickness of the sample carrier tube 13, making the overall texture of the U-shaped inner liner 16 softer. This makes it easier to bend and fold the two arc-shaped plates at the tail of the U-shaped inner liner 16 outward, so that the filling and fixing powder and microfossil sample can be removed.

[0038] For example, the U-shaped liner 16, prefabricated in a factory, includes two vertical sidewalls 161 connected at one end, with the other ends forming the outer end of the U-shaped liner 16. The two vertical sidewalls 161 are arc-shaped plates, with two symmetrically arranged elongated side openings 163 between them. The side openings 163 are parallel to the axis of the U-shaped liner 16, and the length L1 of the side openings 163 is less than the axial length L2 of the U-shaped liner 16. Optionally, L1 = (5 / 6~7 / 8)L2. After the U-shaped liner 16 is inserted into the sample carrier tube 13, the outer wall surfaces of the two arc-shaped plates can fit against the inner wall surface of the sample carrier tube to ensure sufficient bearing space and facilitate the insertion of the microfossil sample 14 and the filling and fixing powder.

[0039] It should be noted that undiluted strong adhesives such as 502 glue cannot be used as bonding and fixing materials or filler materials 15, because such adhesives are extremely sticky, cannot be diluted, and are difficult to remove after the sample is fixed.

[0040] In this embodiment, the support column 11 serves as a stable connection and needs to have high rigidity to ensure a secure connection between the movable sample module 1 and the sample clamp. Simultaneously, while meeting the rigidity requirement, its diameter should be small so that the light source of the high-resolution CT scanner can be as close to the sample as possible, thereby improving the scanning's maximum resolution. Therefore, in one optional embodiment, the support column 11 is made of metal, and the bottom end of the sample carrier tube 13 is sealed and fixedly connected to the top end of the support column 11 with strong adhesive 12. That is, the support column 11 is a metal needle, which has a needle body and a needle tip, with the needle tip connected to the bottom end of the sample carrier tube 13 with strong adhesive. For example, the support column 11 uses a large-headed steel needle with an overall length of 2-4 cm, a needle body diameter of 1-2 mm equal to the inner diameter of the tube, and a needle tip diameter of 2-3 mm, adapted to the inner diameter of the sample carrier tube 13.

[0041] In this embodiment, the sample loading device further includes a clamp module 2, which is configured to clamp and fix the bottom of the support column 11. Specifically, the clamp module 2 has a sample stage base 21, a sample stage support column 22, a micro clamp 23, and a micro clamp nut 24; the sample stage support column 22 is disposed on the sample stage base 21, the micro clamp 23 is disposed at the top of the sample stage support column 22, and the micro clamp nut 24 is sleeved on the micro clamp 23 and cooperates with the micro clamp 23 to clamp and fix the support column 11.

[0042] In this embodiment, the sample loading device further includes a sample preservation module 3, which includes a hollow tube 31. A movable sample module 1 containing multiple microfossil samples 14 is vertically inserted into pearl cotton 34 via a support column 11, and the pearl cotton 34 can be fixed in the hollow tube 31. The top and bottom ends of the hollow tube 31 are respectively provided with a top sealing plug 32 and a bottom sealing plug 33. Optionally, the top surface of the bottom sealing plug 33 supports the pearl cotton 34.

[0043] This embodiment also provides a method for continuous scanning of microfossils, using the aforementioned sample loading device; the method includes the following steps A to F: Step A: Connect and fix the support column 11 to the sample carrier tube 13, so that the two are connected in a straight line to obtain the sample carrier module 10.

[0044] Step B: Using a fixing material, fix multiple microfossil samples 14 one by one in the sample support tube 13 of the sample support module 10 to obtain the movable sample module 1.

[0045] Step C: Install the clamp module 2, then insert the support column 11 of the movable sample module 1 into the micro clamp 23 of the clamp module 2, and tighten the micro clamp nut 24 to fix the connection, thus obtaining a sample loading device for loading multiple microfossil samples 14.

[0046] Step D: Place the sample loading device containing multiple microfossil samples 14 into a high-resolution CT scanner, and perform sequential single-sample continuous scanning of multiple microfossil samples in the linear cavity, setting the parameters to achieve computed tomography and acquire scan data.

[0047] Step E: After scanning is complete, remove the sample loading device containing multiple microfossil samples 14, loosen the micro clamp nut 24 to remove the movable sample module 1, and remove and store the multiple microfossil samples 14. Alternatively, retain all microfossil samples 14 on the movable sample module 1 and store them as a whole.

[0048] Step F: Sample screening using scan data. Microfossil samples 14 that meet the requirements are re-screened from the samples that have undergone the first computed tomography scan for in-depth study, such as a second, higher-resolution computed tomography scan or nanometer-resolution scanning electron microscopy analysis.

[0049] Further, step A includes: fixing the support column 11 and the sample carrier tube 13 into a straight line. For example, inserting the large end of the large-headed steel needle into the polypropylene plastic tube and fixing the two together with strong adhesive 12, such as fully transparent epoxy resin AB glue (9005 Lantian). The length of the sample carrier tube 13 can be adjusted according to the number of samples to achieve simultaneous support of multiple samples.

[0050] Furthermore, in step B, when fixing multiple microfossil samples 14 one by one in the sample support tube 13, the sample fixing scheme is divided into two types according to whether the fixing material used is an adhesive fixing material or a filling fixing material 15, as follows: Sample fixation scheme one involves using an adhesive to fix the microfossil sample 14. Preferably, the adhesive is wood glue 200, polyvinyl alcohol glue, or gum arabic. Taking wood glue 200 as an example, the specific steps of sample fixation scheme one are as follows: Step B11: Prepare a sample carrier tube 13 with a notch 131, and insert the notch-covered sample carrier tube 13 into the sample carrier tube 13. For example... Figure 7 As shown, the sample carrier tube 13 with the notch 131 can be prefabricated in a factory or made by hand. For example, by hand, a notch 131 parallel to the center line of the polypropylene plastic tube is cut into the wall of the polypropylene plastic tube, leaving the other end of the polypropylene plastic tube intact. Step A is then completed to obtain the sample carrier module 10. This step leaves room for subsequent sample loading at the notch position.

[0051] Step B12: Dilute wood glue 200 with water at a volume ratio of 5% to 10% to obtain wood glue 200 with suitable viscosity after dilution for later use.

[0052] Step B13: Apply a layer of diluted wood glue 200 evenly to the inside of the polypropylene plastic tube. Then, use a slightly damp brush to pick up the microfossil samples 14 and place them one by one on the wood glue 200 layer under an optical microscope to complete the sample fixation. Maintain a distance of ≥1mm between each sample, preferably 1~3mm, to avoid contact between the individual microfossil samples 14, thereby ensuring the independence of the data for each sample.

[0053] Step B14: To prevent the sample from falling out or being lost, or from contaminating the inside of the instrument, use Parafilm's thermoplastic self-sealing stretch film to wrap and seal the polypropylene plastic tube loaded with the sample, thus obtaining the movable sample module 1. The advantages of this sealing film are: its adhesion is greatly enhanced after stretching, making it easy to wrap, tightly self-adhesive, virtually non-shrinking, and providing a more secure seal.

[0054] Step B15: Place the above-mentioned movable sample module 1 in a ventilated place to air dry naturally for 0.5 to 1 hour. After the wood glue 200 dries, a thin film will form, which will firmly fix the series of samples onto the polypropylene plastic tube.

[0055] Regarding sample fixation scheme one in step B, the sample removal step in step E includes: immersing the movable sample module 1 in warm water, causing the wood glue 200 to gradually soften and detach. Then, each sample is collected and labeled, thus facilitating sample removal. For example, a water temperature of 50-60℃ can accelerate the softening of the wood glue 200. However, higher temperatures will cause the wood glue 200 to aggregate, forming large clumps of adhesive that are more difficult to remove.

[0056] Using sample fixation method one has the following advantages: convenient operation, safe and non-toxic, firm fixation, low cost, easy sample removal, and a large contrast difference between the microfossils and wood glue 200. Figure 9 As shown, this facilitates automatic image segmentation in the later stages. Figure 9 In the middle, the dark gray is wood glue 200, and the bright white spherical body is embryonic cell microfossil sample 100.

[0057] If it is required that there be no extremely microscopic adhesive residue on the sample surface after sampling, for example, if further nanoscale resolution scanning electron microscopy examination of the surface fine structure is required after sampling, then sample fixation scheme two is needed to fix the microfossil sample 14 to meet the requirements of contamination-free subsequent detection. The specific steps of sample fixation scheme two are as follows: Step B21: Select granulated sugar 300, glucose, or mannitol as the filler and fixative material 15, and pulverize it to obtain a small-particle-size filler and fixative powder. The filler and fixative material 15, made of granulated sugar 300, glucose, or mannitol, is mainly composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen elements. It belongs to materials with low effective atomic numbers, has weak X-ray absorption, and exhibits a large contrast difference with the microfossil sample 14, such as embryonic fossil cells, facilitating image segmentation during subsequent data processing. Figure 10As shown, the contrast difference between embryonic cell microfossil sample 100, granulated sugar 300, and air 400 is significant, sufficient to allow the subsequent 3D processing software to automatically and accurately segment the image based on grayscale values. Simultaneously, granulated sugar 300, glucose, or mannitol powder is non-sticky and easily soluble in water. After sample scanning, the powder can be quickly dissolved by water immersion, achieving molecular-level dispersion and facilitating convenient sample removal without damaging the sample surface. For the pulverization process, commercially available ultrafine grinders can be used to grind granulated sugar 300 into a filled, fixed powder with a particle size of less than 200 μm. For example, a high-speed blender can be used to grind 30-50 g of granulated sugar 300 for 15-20 seconds.

[0058] Salts or flour cannot be selected as the filling and fixing material 15 in sample fixation scheme two. This is because salts (such as sodium chloride) are materials with high effective atomic numbers, which strongly absorb X-rays and block X-ray penetration, significantly affecting scanning quality. Flour, when mixed with water, forms a turbid liquid; it is actually a physical dispersion, not a dissolution, and therefore leaves difficult-to-remove residues at the microscopic scale. In contrast, the white sugar, glucose, or mannitol used in this embodiment can be quickly dissolved by water immersion, forming a solution rather than a suspension. The removed sample has no microscopic gum residue on its surface, allowing for subsequent high-resolution scanning electron microscopy or reuse.

[0059] Step B22: Alternately place the small-particle-size filling fixative powder and the microfossil sample 14 into the sample support tube 13 of the sample support module 10 from step A. Specifically, gently insert the open end of the sample support tube 13 into the small-particle-size filling fixative powder, allowing a certain amount of the powder to be loaded into the sample support tube 13. Then, stand the sample support tube 13 upright with the closed end facing down. Gently tap the sample support module 10, which contains a certain amount of small-particle-size filling fixative powder, on a table to allow the powder to deposit at the bottom of the sample support tube 13, forming a cushion layer. After forming a pad at the bottom of the sample carrier tube 13, a brush is moistened with water, and the tip of the brush is used to absorb the microfossil sample 14. Under an optical microscope, the sample carrier tube 13 is placed on one side of the pad. Then, the top open end of the sample carrier tube 13 is inserted into the small-particle-size filling and fixing powder again, and the tube is tapped upright on the table again. This causes the small-particle-size filling and fixing powder to embed the previously inserted microfossil sample 14 and form a powder layer on top of it. The above steps are repeated to obtain a movable sample module 1 in which small-particle-size filling and fixing powder and multiple microfossil samples 14 are alternately loaded. The powder layer above the top microfossil sample 14 is the covering layer.

[0060] Furthermore, to avoid sample confusion during removal from the sample carrier tube 13 and during soaking, before step B22, a U-shaped inner liner 16 is installed in the sample carrier tube 13. The outer end of the U-shaped inner liner 16 protrudes 1-2 cm from the opening of the sample carrier tube 13. The protruding part of the U-shaped inner liner 16 can be pinched with fingers, and then the U-shaped inner liner 16, along with the sample, is pulled out of the sample carrier tube 13. When it is necessary to recover the fossil sample, the protruding part of the U-shaped inner liner 16 is pinched with fingers, and the U-shaped inner liner 16 is pulled outward. The small-diameter filling and fixing powder and the microfossil sample are gradually pulled out of the sample carrier tube 13. There is a gap between the two arc-shaped plates at the tail of the U-shaped inner liner 16. Alternatively, the protruding part of the arc-shaped plate can be manually turned outward to allow the filling and fixing powder and the microfossil sample to be removed. The U-shaped inner liner 16 can be prefabricated in a factory or made manually. For example, a U-shaped inner liner 16 can be artificially made using filter paper. The following steps are performed: Cut the filter paper into strips, the width of which is less than or equal to the diameter of the sample carrier tube 13 (e.g., 1-3 mm), and the length of the filter paper is twice the length of the sample carrier tube 13 plus 2-4 cm. Place the cut and folded filter paper into the sample carrier tube 13 until it reaches the bottom, with the folded end inserted into the closed bottom end of the sample carrier tube 13. Both ends of the filter paper should protrude 1-2 cm from the top opening of the sample carrier tube 13. Following this, alternately place small-particle-size filling and fixing powder and microfossil samples 14 according to step B22. This structural design allows for easy manipulation of the portion of the filter paper extending beyond the top opening of the sample carrier tube 13, enabling direct extraction of all samples.

[0061] Regarding Scheme 2 in step B, the sample removal step in step E includes: under an optical microscope, slowly pull out the pre-folded filter paper to obtain the first fossil sample and the top layer of white sugar powder, soak it in water to obtain the first fossil sample. Repeat the above steps to remove all fossil samples one by one, thereby achieving accurate differentiation and convenient removal.

[0062] Furthermore, step C includes: Step C1: Install clamp module 2. Specifically, this includes: inserting the sample stage support 22 into the round hole of the sample stage base 21, inserting and tightening the screws from the back of the sample stage base 21, thereby fixing the sample stage support 22 and the sample stage base 21 together. Install the miniature clamp nut 24 onto the miniature clamp 23.

[0063] Step C2: Insert the support column 11 of the movable sample module 1 into the micro clamp 23 of the clamp module 2, and tighten the micro clamp nut 24 to fix the connection between the support column 11 and the micro clamp 23, thus obtaining a sample loading device for loading multiple microfossil samples 14. It should be noted that, in order to enable rapid positioning during the second higher-resolution computed tomography scan in step F, the support column 11 should be inserted to the bottom of the clamp before tightening the micro clamp nut 24. This ensures that the relative position of the sample and the sample stage base 21 remains unchanged when the movable sample module 1 is reinstalled.

[0064] Further, step D includes: Step D1: Place the sample loading device, which contains multiple microfossil samples, with the three holes at the bottom aligned with the three semi-circular pillars in a high-resolution CT scanner (such as Xradia 620 Versa).

[0065] Step D2: Set the program parameters. Select a suitable lens based on the sample size; for example, for a 1mm microfossil sample 14, use a 4x or 10x objective lens. The operating voltage is 50kV, and the single exposure time is 6 seconds. Use an LE2 filter to remove low-energy X-ray wavelengths to reduce artifacts. To enhance the signal-to-noise ratio, the light source should be as close to the sample as possible, for example, 7mm~9mm from the center of the sample. Set the number of scans; for preliminary sample screening, select 401 scans. For higher resolution scans, such as approximately 0.6~1μm, set to 1601 scans; for 0.3~0.5μm, set to 3001 scans.

[0066] Step D3: Perform coordinate positioning for each sample. Turn on the real-time lens and X-ray source, observe the first sample from bottom to top, and adjust its center to the center of the field of view. Rotate the sample horizontally by 90 degrees, and adjust its center to the center of the field of view again. Record the coordinates of the first sample, and combine them with the previously mentioned scanning parameters to form the first scanning setup. Move the sample along the vertical direction of the field of view, and adjust the center of the second sample to the center of the field of view again to obtain the coordinates of the second sample, and combine them with the previously mentioned scanning parameters to form the second scanning setup. Repeat this process to complete the setup for all samples and generate the workflow document.

[0067] Step D4: According to the process document, the device performs automatic continuous scanning and obtains scan data.

[0068] Further, step E, which involves preserving the movable sample module 1, includes the following steps: selecting a hollow tube 31 of suitable size, and detachably installing sealing plugs at both ends; that is, removing and installing a top sealing plug 32 at the top of the hollow tube 31, and removing and installing a bottom sealing plug 33 at the bottom of the hollow tube 31. After installation, as follows... Figure 6As shown. Take a piece of pearl cotton 34 (expanded polyethylene) and cut it to the diameter of the hollow tube 31 so that the pearl cotton 34 can be easily inserted into the hollow tube 31. Insert the support column 11 of the movable sample module 1 into the pearl cotton 34, and then put it into the hollow tube 31. Seal both ends with the top sealing plug 32 and the bottom sealing plug 33 respectively, then mark the sample and store it.

[0069] Step F: Use the data from Step D to screen samples and obtain in-depth study samples (i.e., samples that require further in-depth research). Among the samples that have completed the first computed tomography scan, microfossil samples 14 that meet the requirements are selected as in-depth study samples. According to the analysis requirements, the following two options can be selected.

[0070] Option 1: A second, higher-resolution computed tomography (CT) scan. Specific steps include: removing the movable sample module 1 (saved from step E), inserting the support column 11 into the bottom of the clamp, and then tightening the miniature clamp nut 24. By retrieving the original test file, the coordinate parameters of the in-depth study sample can be quickly obtained, and the scan settings can be adjusted according to resolution requirements to obtain higher-resolution CT scan data.

[0071] Option 2: Nanoscale resolution scanning electron microscopy analysis. Following the fixation method in step B, such as the granulated sugar 300 fixation method, remove all samples from the movable sample module 1 according to the removal steps in step E. Select the samples for depth study, place them on the corresponding stage of the scanning electron microscope, and perform the corresponding sample pretreatment preparation before performing subsequent nanoscale resolution scanning electron microscopy analysis of the sample surface. If the wood glue 200 fixation method is used, due to the presence of microscale glue residue on the surface of the removed samples, only overall or partial scanning can be performed; nanoscale resolution surface structure analysis is not possible.

[0072] Compared with the prior art, the sample loading device and method for continuous scanning of microfossils provided in this embodiment can achieve the following beneficial effects: 1. To address the limitation of current commercial equipment in being unable to handle microfossils ranging from 50μm to 2mm in size, this invention employs a low-X-ray absorption sample carrier tube and two sample fixation schemes to accommodate microfossil samples ranging from 50μm to 2mm in size. This not only ensures high signal-to-noise ratio, artifact-free, and high resolution in sequential scanning images of individual micro-samples without damage, but also allows for adaptation to various research needs through different fixation schemes, such as simple sample preparation, rapid and accurate sample recovery, nanoscale scanning electron microscopy analysis without microscopic residues, and secondary high-resolution rescanning.

[0073] 2. This invention breaks through the limitations of the traditional single-sample manual sample replacement mode. It enables the simultaneous loading of multiple microfossil samples through a dedicated multi-sample carrying module. With standardized process settings, it allows commercial high-resolution CT equipment to automatically and continuously scan individual microfossil samples sequentially. It can make full use of non-working hours such as nights and weekends to complete automatic scanning and detection. This not only solves the pain point of low screening efficiency for hundreds or even thousands of samples in microfossil research and significantly improves the scanning and detection efficiency of large-scale samples, but also improves the utilization rate of detection equipment.

[0074] 3. This invention does not require the purchase of expensive dedicated robot equipment or modification of existing commercial high-resolution CT scanners. The core consumables are all low-cost and readily available materials, which greatly reduces research and development investment. At the same time, by sealing the movable sample module in the sample preservation module, it supports long-term preservation of the sample as a whole. Secondary detection can directly call the original coordinates for rapid positioning, which greatly simplifies the process of repeated experiments and improves the flexibility of experimental operation.

[0075] The specific embodiments described above further illustrate the purpose, technical solution, and beneficial effects of this application. It should be understood that the above description is only a specific embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A sample loading device for continuous scanning of microfossils, characterized in that, It includes a movable sample module, which has a sample carrying module and a sample loading space, which is a linear cavity. The linear cavity is configured to be filled with multiple microfossil samples to be tested. The multiple microfossil samples are dispersed along the axial direction in the linear cavity and fixed by a fixing material. The fixing material is either an adhesive fixing material or a filler fixing material; The solid portion forming the linear cavity, as well as the filling and bonding materials, are all weakly absorbing X-ray materials. The microfossil sample is embedded and fixed in the linear cavity by the filling and fixing material, and the filling and fixing material is water-soluble; The microfossil sample is bonded and fixed to the cavity wall of the linear cavity by the bonding and fixing material, and the bonding and fixing material can be re-swelled, dispersed or softened by warm water and detached from the microfossil sample.

2. The sample loading device for continuous scanning of microfossils according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sample carrying module has a sample carrying tube and a support column, and the internal space of the sample carrying tube forms the linear cavity; the bottom end of the sample carrying tube is coaxially and fixedly connected to the top end of the support column. The sample carrier tube, adhesive fixing material, and filling fixing material are all made of X-ray weak absorbing material composed of low atomic number elements C, H, and O, and the effective atomic number of the X-ray weak absorbing material is less than 8.

3. The sample loading device for continuous scanning of microfossils according to claim 2, characterized in that, The sample carrier tube is made of polyethylene or polypropylene. The bonding and fixing material is wood glue, polyvinyl alcohol glue, or gum arabic diluted with water, with a glue-to-water volume ratio of 5% to 10%. The filling and fixing material is white sugar, glucose or mannitol.

4. The sample loading device for continuous scanning of microfossils according to claim 3, characterized in that, The support column is made of metal, and the bottom end of the sample carrier tube is sealed and fixedly connected to the top end of the support column with strong adhesive.

5. The sample loading device for continuous scanning of microfossils according to claim 2, characterized in that, It also includes a clamping module configured to clamp and fix the bottom of the support column; the clamping module has a sample stage base, a sample stage support column, a micro clamp and a micro clamp nut; the sample stage support column is disposed on the sample stage base, the micro clamp is disposed on the top of the sample stage support column, and the micro clamp nut is sleeved on the micro clamp and cooperates with the micro clamp to clamp and fix the support column.

6. The sample loading device for continuous scanning of microfossils according to claim 5, characterized in that, The sample carrying module also has a U-shaped inner liner, which can be inserted into the sample carrying tube. The filling and fixing material and microfossil samples are filled in the space defined by the U-shaped inner liner. One end of the U-shaped inner liner is the outer end, and the outer end of the U-shaped inner liner protrudes from the opening of the sample carrying tube.

7. The sample loading device for continuous scanning of microfossils according to claim 2, characterized in that, It also includes a sample preservation module, which includes a hollow tube. The movable sample module is upright inserted into the pearl cotton through a support column, and the pearl cotton can be detachably fixed in the hollow tube. The top and bottom ends of the hollow tube are respectively provided with a top sealing plug and a bottom sealing plug.

8. A method for continuous scanning of microfossils, characterized in that, include: Sample loading step: Multiple microfossil samples are sequentially loaded into the sample loading device for continuous scanning of microfossils as described in any one of claims 1 to 7; On-machine testing steps: Place the sample loading device loaded with multiple microfossil samples on a high-resolution CT scanner, set the continuous scanning program parameters, and perform continuous scanning of multiple microfossil samples in the linear cavity one by one to acquire scanning data. Sample recovery steps: After completing continuous scanning, recover and preserve multiple microfossil samples from the sample loading device.

9. The method for continuous scanning of microfossils according to claim 8, characterized in that, The sample loading step specifically includes: Step A: Connect and fix the support column to the sample carrier tube to obtain the sample carrier module; Step B: Using a fixing material, fix multiple microfossil samples one by one in the sample support tube of the sample support module to obtain a movable sample module; Step C: Insert the support column of the movable sample module into the micro clamp of the clamp module, tighten the micro clamp nut to complete the fixed connection, and obtain a sample loading device for loading multiple microfossil samples. In step B, either of the following two sample fixation methods shall be used: Sample fixation method one: The fixation material is wood glue, polyvinyl alcohol glue, or gum arabic. The specific steps include: Dilute the glue with water at a volume ratio of 5% to 10% to obtain a diluted glue; apply a layer of diluted glue evenly to the inner wall of the sample carrier tube to form a glue layer; then use a moistened brush to pick up the microfossil sample and place it one by one on the glue layer under an optical microscope to complete the sample fixation. Sample fixation method two: The fixation material is white sugar, glucose or mannitol, and the specific steps include: White sugar, glucose, or mannitol are pulverized to obtain a small-particle-size filling and fixing powder; the small-particle-size filling and fixing powder and the microfossil sample are alternately placed into the sample carrier tube of the sample carrier module to complete the sample fixing.

10. The method for continuous scanning of microfossils according to claim 9, characterized in that, For sample fixation scheme one, the sample recovery steps are as follows: immerse the movable sample module in warm water at 50~60℃ to soften and remove the adhesive layer, and then recover and label the fossil samples one by one; For sample fixation scheme two, before alternately placing the small-particle-size filling fixation powder and the microfossil sample into the sample carrier tube, the following steps are also included: Insert the U-shaped inner liner into the bottom closed end of the sample carrier tube, with the outer end of the U-shaped inner liner protruding from the top opening of the sample carrier tube. The sample recovery steps are as follows: Under an optical microscope, the pre-installed U-shaped inner liner is pulled outward so that the first fossil sample and the top powder are exposed from the opening of the sample carrier tube. The sample is then soaked in water to obtain the first fossil sample. The above steps are repeated to remove all fossil samples one by one.

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