This paper presents the methods used for probing spatially correlated chemical, structural, and mechanical properties of the multilayered scale of Atractosteus spatula (A. spatula) using nanoindentation, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray computed tomography (X-ray CT). The experimental results have been used to investigate the design principles of protective biological materials.
Total time
~3–5 days (sample preparation, imaging, and analysis per scale specimen)
Steps
1
Prepare fish scale samples for nanoindentation testing
Extract and prepare A. spatula scales from specimens, mount samples, and calibrate nanoindentation equipment for mechanical property measurement across scale layers.
▶ 02:09
2
Acquire X-ray computed tomography images of scales
Scan prepared scale specimens using X-ray CT to visualize three-dimensional internal structure and layer organization.
▶ 03:44
3
Perform SEM imaging and elemental analysis via EDX
Image scale cross-sections under scanning electron microscopy and conduct energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy to map elemental composition and surface morphology.
▶ 04:38
4
Characterize chemical structure using FTIR spectroscopy
Collect Fourier transform infrared spectra from scale samples to identify functional groups and correlate chemical composition with structural and mechanical data.
▶ 07:38
5
Integrate multimodal data to identify design principles
Synthesize results from nanoindentation, X-ray CT, SEM/EDX, and FTIR to establish structure–property relationships and elucidate protective mechanisms in multilayered biological materials.
▶ 09:15