U-Th: Sample Selection Recommendations
The following recommendations are general guidelines which help us to provide better service to our customers. Individual sample size requirements primarily vary based on the sample type. We always recommend that you choose the best samples for your research objectives. Please feel free to contact us for advice if you are concerned that your samples are too small.
Coral – 30 to 50 mg: For the best results, make sure your samples are clean and free from clay particles and other detritus. It is highly recommended to check the mineralogy of your sample. Choose samples with the highest amount of aragonite. Homogenize your samples, preferably using an agate mortar and pestle, and transfer into plastic or glass vials. Homogenized samples are digested in 6 M nitric acid (lower concentrations may be used if the sample contains clay and detritus).
Stalagmite and Flowstone – 100 to 150 mg: Homogenize your samples, preferably using an agate mortar and pestle, and transfer into plastic or glass vials. Homogenized samples are digested in 6 M nitric acid.
Bone, Tooth, Shell – 100 to 150 mg; Forams – 50 to 100 mg: The laboratory is able to conduct U-Th on these sample types, however, since they are considered an open system with respect to uranium and thorium, they may yield aberrant ages.
Contact the lab for additional information on sample submission.
Note: Send sample in glass/plastic vials or in a ziplock bag with proper labeling. DO NOT wrap samples in aluminum or any metal foil. Use weighting paper if you need to wrap your samples.