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Stable Light Isotope Facility

Archaeological, Geographical and Environmental Sciences

Stable Light Isotope Facility

The mass spectrometry laboratory is immediately above the entrance to the SW Phoenix building

The stable light isotopes laboratories are housed in the Phoenix Building, and managed by the Division of Archaeological, Geographical and Environmental Sciences as a satellite of the University's Analytical Centre.

We specialise in the application of isotopic tools to address questions in archaeological, anthropological, environmental, palaeodietary, climate and forensic research. We have a well-equipped laboratory, capable of analysing the stable isotopes of hydrogen, carbon, nitrogen, oxygen and sulphur from most organic and inorganic materials. We are experienced in the preparation and analysis of bone, dentine, hair and other organic residues; tooth enamel and other bio-carbonate minerals, and inorganic carbonates; plants and sediments. Additionally we are equipped to sample and perform high-resolution analyses of incremental tissues including hair, nail, teeth, and shell and cave carbonates.

Typical sample materials