Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) Dating
Contact: Kathryn.Fitzsimmons@anu.edu.au Tel: +61 2 6125 4035
Blue LED array providing optical stimulation to
quartz sediment samples for luminescence measurement.
The luminescence dating laboratory at RSES undertakes multiple and single grain analysis of Quaternary sediments. The technique is routinely applied to geological and archaeological fields of study.
Measurement equipment
The OSL dating laboratory at RSES possesses two Risø readers for luminescence measurement, comprising a TL-DA-12 and TL-DA-15 system, the latter with single grain attachment. Optical excitation is provided by filtered blue diodes (emitting ~ 410-510nm) or green laser (emitting 520 nm – single grain system), and infrared stimulation using an array of IR diodes (for both systems) or IR laser (incorporated into the single grain attachment). Luminescence is detected in the UV region on both systems, using EMI 9635Q bialkali photomultiplier tubes, filtered with Hoya U340 glass filters. Sample irradiation is provided by a sealed 90Sr source at a rate of ~6 Gy/minute (TL-DA-15) and ~1 Gy/minute (TL-DA-12). The OSL dating laboratory possesses two sodium iodide detectors for in situ field gamma spectrometry. The smaller (1 inch) detector can be adapted to fit within custom-built housing and a longer cable, enabling it to be lowered down auger holes.
Sample preparation laboratories
RSES has dedicated laboratories for the preparation of luminescence dating
samples under low intensity filtered yellow-orange and red light. The
main sample preparation laboratory contains sieving facilities, mineral
separation equipment, and fume cupboards enabling the use of hydrofluoric
and fluorosilicic acids for quartz etching. The luminescence laboratories
are Quarantine-approved facilities, enabling the processing of sediment
samples from outside Australia. Collaboration is possible for external projects, and also for luminescence
dating on a commercial-collaborative basis. Please contact Kathryn Fitzsimmons
for further details.
