In the world of geochemistry, isotope fingerprinting has emerged as a powerful tool for tracing the origins and movements of materials through time and space. By analyzing a substances’ particular isotopic signature for elements like lead (Pb) and/or strontium (Sr), researchers can unlock valuable insights into geological, environmental, and archaeological processes.
Lead isotopes are powerful tracers in environmental forensics due to their unique geochemical signatures. Lead has four common isotopes: 204Pb, 206Pb, 207Pb, and 208Pb, the latter 3 are the product of a radioactive decay series while 204Pb is primordial. Lead stable isotopes are reported as a ratio to 204Pb.
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.
Archaeological pottery samples can be provenanced through the analysis of the origin of its component clay and temper.
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.
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.
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.
Isobar Science and Beta Analytic invite researchers interested in isotopes and dating to view this FREE webinar: Isotopes & Dating in Marine Enviornments
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.
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.