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Information for Preparation

Once the embedding layers had been poured, excess rock was trimmed away using an angle grinder and an abrasive wheel. After the rock was brought down above the level of the bone, a Chicago Pneumatic and a Mighty Jack were used to get to the specimen working from the mid-body anterior towards the more delicate skulls. Naturally, as more matrix was removed, finer tools were used to extract more detail.

With careful preparation, this technique allows for highly detailed examination of features that would remain forever encased in rock, enabling further scientific and aesthetic examination of the fossil.

The block after significant trimming with saws to remove excess rock.

A view from the side, after using airscribes to drastically but carefully remove the matrix.

About halfway done, the Castolite is now being ground down as well, in some cases being prepared away from the surface of the bone.

Almost finished, the Castolite has been sanded smooth to remove all tool marks, and reduce distraction from the specimen itself.