Radiocarbon

Contact:
c14@phys.ethz.ch
Radiocarbon Team:
Dr. G. Bonani
Dr. I. Hajdas
Dr. L. Wacker

For small samples (carbon content of 5 - 100 µg) we have also the option to measure directly the CO₂ of burned samples without graphitisation. More information about the prospects and limitation of this technique is given here. Special conditions apply for these samples, please contact Dr. L. Wacker.

Our prices listed below cover sample preparation (chemical treatment and graphitization) and AMS analysis

Prices:

Non-Profit/Research customers: CHF 700 per sample

Private customers: CHF 900 per sample

Reduced prices:

10-20 samples/year: 10%

20+ samples/year: 20%

* There are no extra charges for shorter turnaround time or special treatment of samples

** For Switzerland: additional +7.6%MWSt.

Turnaround time:

Measurements are made continuously and samples are typically measured within one month.

Precision:

Our standard precision is ±40 years (5‰ on modern sample).

Higher precision down to ±12 years can be provided on request (please contact Dr. Lukas Wacker)

Submission form:

Please use a template to create a list and send it as an attached file to c14@phys.ethz.ch.
Sample preparation laboratory template  - ETH_template.xlsx
Eglinton group template - Eglinton_template.xlsx
Samples for the gas ion source require an additional list using the Gas_template.xlsx

Sample type and size

Table below shows amount of material needed for an optimal sample (1-2 mg of pure carbon).

If your samples are not well preserved (bones) or you have little material (less than 50% of optimal weight), or you have any other questions contact Dr. Irka Hajdas.

Sampling samples

Please take special care while sampling and packing your samples

• Avoid contamination with modern carbon by keeping your sample away from dust, paper tissue, other mechanical contaminants.
• Sample label (referring to the label on the sample list) should be firmly secured on the sample.
• List of samples—ALWAYS attach hard copy of a list of samples.
• Packing samples is very important. Use aluminium foil or clean (new) plastic bags, or clean (new) glass/plastic vials. Please take care to secure the lid and the vial from crushing in the mail by wrapping it in bubble plastic.
• Packing Forams: important is to use vials that are easy to close/open.
• If submitting CO₂ in tubes use 9 mm diameter (outside) and tube length max 10 cm. Make sure the ends are well melted.