The study of biominerals by high resolution transmission electron microscopy.

Abstract

This paper presents an overview of the study of the ultrastructure of biogenic inorganic solids (biominerals) using high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). A range of biominerals have been studied including iron oxides, calcium phosphates, calcium carbonates and silica. The studies have revealed information concerning the structural complexity of these materials and have identified crystallographic order and disorder at the nanometre level. In addition, the results have aided the elucidation of the mechanisms of nucleation and growth of biogenic minerals.