Tephrochronology & Materials Commercial Services

We are one of the few laboratories with both microtephra extraction and geochemistry facilities. We have a dedicated microtephra extraction lab, facilities for preparing samples for analysis (grinding and polishing), and analytical equipment. Major element analyses are carried out on our JEOL-8600 electron microprobe with SAMx software. It is equipped with 4 wavelength-dispersive spectrometers and a silicon drift detector (energy-dispersive spectrometer), which is capable of analyzing, mapping and imaging a range of geological and archaeological materials. Our lab performed well in the recent intercomparison, lab number 25, see: Kuehn, S.C., Froese, D.G., Shane, P.A.R. and INTAV Intercomparison Participants. 2011. The INTAV intercomparison of electron-beam microanalysis of glass by tephrochronology laboratories: Results and recommendations. Quaternary International, 246, 19-47. doi:10.1016/j.quaint.2011.08.022

Our team also has extensive knowledge of archaeological and Quaternary dating issues, and our strengths include: statistical data analysis, igneous petrology, glass chemistry, and environmental site investigation. For an informal and free consultation regarding our facilities and prices please contact:

Dr V C Smith
 (Laboratory Manager)

email: victoria.smith@rlaha.ac.uk

phone: 01865-285202