This post is sponsored by Beta Analytic.
Isobar Science, a subsidiary of Beta Analytic, is a dedicated complex isotope analysis laboratory offering uranium-thorium (U-Th) dating, strontium (87Sr/86Sr) isotopic analysis, lead (Pb), oxygen (δ18O) isotopes of biogenic apatite (CaPO4), and boron (δ11B) and strontium environmental source tracking. Measurements are performed using the multicollector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (MC-ICP-MS) method.
Uranium-thorium dating, strontium chronology, lead, biogenic apatite, and strontium isotopic analysis provide data that has many applications for archaeological studies focused on paleoclimatology, environmental reconstruction, and geochronology. Unlike radiocarbon dating, which has a detection limit of up to approximately 50,000 years, U-Th dating has the capability to date older samples and timescales with a detection limit of up to 500,000 years. Data from U-Th dating can be used to reveal chronologies and details about paleoclimates for environmental reconstruction projects. U-Th dating is applicable to a variety of samples including bones, teeth, carbonates, and cave deposits. The strontium chronology method can provide dating even deeper in time (from up to 500 million years), exclusive to marine carbonates (e.g. shells, corals, limestone).
Pb isotope ratios are intrinsically connected to geological origin and processes, and thus can be used for geochemical fingerprinting; allowing archaeologists to identify the geological origin of metals used to make certain metal artifacts. It is also useful to identify the history of lead pollution and even in the origins and migratory patterns of human populations.
Migration and forensic studies can also be carried out using strontium and oxygen isotopes. All living things have a characteristic strontium isotopic signature originating from their habitats (rock, soil and overlying plants) and an oxygen signature from drinking water. Humans and animals are exposed to different signatures of both isotopes during their lifetime, with variations through time being a sign of migration. Therefore, the measurement of 87Sr/86Sr from bone, wool, and tooth enamel samples will reveal details related to migration habits, trade, and lifestyle characteristics. Sr analysis can also be used to identify the origin and trade connections of textiles such as silk, wool, cotton, and linen.
Isobar Science is committed to providing research-quality data. In addition to isotopic services, Isobar provides more benefits so you can focus on your research:
- Reliable turnaround time options based on your project needs.
- All analyses are performed in-house by qualified scientists and technical experts.
- Customer support in more than 9 languages provides guidance on sample recommendations to optimize your budget.
- Access to your reports from anytime through a secure online portal.
- International facilities to send your samples from different regions of the globe.
Discover how Isobar Science can help you with your project needs!