SLICS – Short Lived Isotope Counting Services

Sample preparation / Sending samples

There may be conditions where lead-210, ceasium-137 or berylium-7  are uniquely applicable or applicable in tandem (SLIC).  Prior consultation regarding applicability, research objective, sample condition and sample choice is recommended.  However, it is not necessary to contact us prior to sending samples.  Simply send dry samples to the address below with either credit card information or a university or government purchase order.

Optimal Quantity of sediment : 50 grams (dry weight)

This will typically allow for optimal precision and best accuracy with one days counting time.  Since counting time will ultimately effect turn-around time, it is always best to send 50 grams where available. 

Minimum quantity : 10 grams (dry weight)

Wet weight vs. Dry weight.

The greatest amount of available information (especially from lead-210) will be obtainable having both the initial wet bulk weight of each sample and the dry weight.

Samples should be dried prior to sending.

Suitable Sample Material.

Clays and silts will generally have the highest lead-210, cesium-137, and berylium-7 content.  As the organic content of the sediment increases, the SLI will generally decrease.  Peats and highly organic soils are suitable for SLIC but will generally have low SLI content and result in low precision results even with extended counting.  Undisturbed sediments provide the best results.  Mixing obviously will reduce precision within a core.  Transition zones within cores should be avoided where possible.  Since excess lead-210 originates from the atmosphere, SLIC works best with sedimentary environments which have regular interaction and exposure to meteoric waters and run-off (e.g. low energy lakes are better than cave deposits).

Send samples to :

Environchron Inc
9344 Yashuntafun Rd.
Tallahassee, Florida 32311