Water: Dating & Isotopic Analyses
Water’s continuous movement and flow of water across landscapes contribute
to and provide important clues into the intricacies of biogeochemical cycles
at various spatial and temporal scales.
Isotopic Analysis of Pottery & Food Residues
Archaeological pottery samples can be provenanced through the analysis of the origin of its component clay and temper.
Best Practices When Selecting Bone Samples
Bones and teeth can be used for a variety of different isotopic analyses, including Oxygen, Strontium, Lead, Neodymium, Carbon, Nitrogen and dating (radiocarbon and in some cases Uranium-Thorium). There are important requirements for bone samples to ensure they produce accurate results.
Discovering the source of Metal Artifacts using Lead Isotopes
Lead (Pb) has four stable isotopes (204Pb, 206Pb, 207Pb and 208Pb) which are commonly used in archaeological studies, particularly in the case of connecting metal artifacts to their relevant geological or mine sources.
Archaeological investigations of caves
Caves – or rock shelters – have been studied by archaeologists for the past two centuries, with specific focus on the investigation of prehistoric cave paintings, ceremonial use and other evidence of occupation.
Free Webinar on Marine Environments
Isobar Science and Beta Analytic invite researchers interested in isotopes and dating to view this FREE webinar: Isotopes & Dating in Marine Enviornments
Reconstructing Lead Pollution & Exposure through History
Lead is a naturally occurring element found within the earth’s crust as well as in bodies of water, soil and overlaying plants. The rise and fall of lead use through space and time makes the reconstruction of lead isotopes very interesting for research into past civilizations and present environmental studies.
Isoscapes in Food Science
In the food industry, certain products and ingredients are more highly valued when they originate from specific regions of the world. Given the importance of designating an origin to products, geochemical fingerprinting can be used to identify product origin.
Isotopes in Petroleum Exploration (Pb-Sr) and Verification (14C)
In petroleum exploration, it is vital to be able to interpret and date key occurrences within petroleum systems – including petroleum generation and alteration (post-generation). For example, identifying and dating the occurrence of certain authigenic minerals (e.g. carbonate cements) can provide information on when and where oil is likely to accumulate to aid in targeting exploration.
Tracing Petroleum and Other Pollutants Using Lead Isotopes
Lead isotopes (Pb) are known to be a very toxic non-essential element, with origins within the earth’s crust. Through anthropogenic activities, lead becomes altered and released into the atmosphere, where it acts as a trace aerosol pollutant.