Dedicated to complex isotope services, Isobar Science is a subsidiary of Beta Analytic offering uranium-thorium (U-Th) dating, strontium (87Sr/86Sr) isotopic analysis, Sr-Nd-Hf-Pb isotope geochemical fingerprinting, and boron (11B) and strontium environmental source tracking. Isobar performs measurements using the multicollector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (MC-ICP-MS) method.
The applications of uranium-thorium, lead (Pb), and strontium isotopic analysis, can provide relevant data for archaeological studies focused on paleoclimatology, environmental reconstruction, and geochronology.
Unlike radiocarbon dating, U-Th dating has the capability to date older samples and timescales with a limit of up to 500,000 years. Archaeologists can use data from U-Th dating to reveal chronologies and have a deeper understanding of paleoclimate and environmental reconstruction. Sample types for U-Th dating include bones, teeth, coral, and shells.
Pb isotope ratios provide insights on the nature and timing of certain geological processes. Applicable to igneous and metamorphic rocks, mineral dust, marine and lacustrine sediments, bones, tooth enamel, and soil samples, among others, Pb isotope analysis is widely used for geochemical fingerprinting, which allow archaeologists to identify the geological origin of metals used to make some metal artifacts. Additionally, Pb isotope ratio data can be used to date glacial age, recent sediments, and peat deposits.
When it comes to migration and forensic studies, the application of Sr analysis can be very useful. Since all living things have a characteristic Sr isotopic signature that originates from their habitat, the migration of humans and animals exposes them to different Sr signatures. Therefore, the measurement of 87Sr/86Sr in bones, wool, and tooth enamel samples will reveal a deeper understanding of human and animal migration, trade, and lifestyle characteristics.
Isobar’s commitment to providing research-quality data in a reliable and timely manner is at the core of our values. From this perspective, we offer a whole experience of isotopic services for you:
- Guaranteed turnaround time options based on your project needs.
- All analyses are performed in-house by qualified scientists and technical experts.
- Expert technical support in more than 9 languages providing guidance on sample recommendations to optimize your budget.
- Access to your reports from anywhere through our secure online portal.
- International facilities to send your samples from different regions of the globe.
Discover how Isobar can help you with your project needs!
