PRISE   TIMS

(Thermal Ionization Mass Spectrometry)

The Research School has a number of thermal ionisation mass spectrometers (or TIMS) available for high quality isotope ratio determinations. Such TIMS measurements are supported by a purpose built, clean laboratory with specifically designated areas for all levels of classical and non-standard dissolution and chemical extraction procedures. Prise staff have considerable expertise in microanalytical dissolution techniques.

The Finnigan MAT multicollector mass spectrometer is used for Sm, Nd, Sr, U, Th and Pb isotopic analyses. Osmium and Th isotopic analyses are carried out using a purpose built instrument. TIMS methodology is long established at RSES.