◆Different minerals show their unique morphological characteristics under the scanning electron microscope. For example, kaolinite is often in the form of pseudohexagonal flakes and pseudohexagonal plates; Halloysite is often tubular, long tubular, and spherical; Montmorillonite in the form of curly flakes, etc. These morphological features are important for the identification of minerals. The scanning electron microscope can clearly show the microscopic details of the mineral surface, such as pores, cracks, crystal growth traces, etc., providing clues for understanding the formation process and environmental conditions of minerals.

◆The scanning electron microscope can be used to observe and analyze the morphology and composition of minerals to determine the phase composition of minerals, providing technical support for the exploration and development of mineral resources.

◆By studying the morphology and distribution of clay minerals, the diagenetic process, diagenetic stage and secondary changes can be determined to understand the evolution history of rocks.

◆The scanning electron microscope can be used to observe the lamina structure in sedimentary rocks, through which paleoenvironmental and paleoclimatic changes can be inverted, such as climate and precipitation conditions.

◆In oil and gas exploration and development, the scanning electron microscope is used to study the morphology and distribution of clay minerals to determine the diagenetic environment and geochemical background, such as temperature, pressure, pH value, etc., providing important information for oil and gas generation, migration and accumulation.