Scanning electron microscopy provides very high magnification views with an excellent depth of field of the rock. The pore network and the nature of cements and clay minerals are characterized by scanning electron microscopy analysis. Analysis of the individual clay crystal morphology can distinguish whether the clays have been deposited (detrital clay) are if they have precipitated in the pore network after burial (authigenic clay). This analysis also provides information on the effect of cements, matrix, and authigenic clays on reservoir quality.

Semi-quantitative elemental analysis can also be performed during the SEM studies by using an energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS). These data are used for determination of paragenetic sequences for diagenetic studies, assessment of pore geometry, and sensitive mineral type/distribution within the pore system.