The Applied Isotope Research Group (AIR Group) is dedicated to advancing the field of isotope geochemistry, with a strong focus on both radiogenic and stable isotopes. Our work is central to understanding geological processes through precise isotopic analyses, using state-of-the-art laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) techniques.

Core Research Activities:

1. Method Development for LA-ICP-MS:
   • The group specializes in developing new methodologies for U-Pb geochronology, trace element analysis, and isotope systematics. This includes high-precision dating of minerals like zircon, monazite, apatite, and titanite, which are crucial for understanding the age and evolution of geological formations.
   • The work also extends to the analysis of Sr, Nd, and Hf isotopes, providing insights into crustal and mantle processes. This allows them to reconstruct the history of cratonic evolution, crust-mantle differentiation, and other geological events.
2. The Saturn Project:
   • A notable initiative by AIR Group is the Saturn Project, which aims to enhance data reduction processes for U-Pb and trace element data acquired through LA-ICP-MS. The Saturn software streamlines the complex task of processing isotopic data, ensuring accuracy and reproducibility in age determinations and trace element analyses.
3. Geological Applications:
   • The group’s research is applied to a variety of geological questions, such as the study of craton formation and evolution, metamorphic processes, and the analysis of carbonate systems. This helps to better understand the geological history of regions like the Kalahari Craton and contributes to the broader understanding of tectonic processes and continental growth.
4. Reference Material Development:
   • AIR Group also works on developing reference materials that are essential for calibrating isotopic analyses in LA-ICP-MS. This ensures that researchers worldwide have access to standardized benchmarks, improving the reliability of isotopic measurements across laboratories.
5. Teaching and Outreach:
   • The AIR Group is involved in educational initiatives, providing training on the use of analytical instruments like LA-ICP-MS, mass spectrometry, and X-ray fluorescence. The aim is to share knowledge on handling and interpreting complex geochemical data with students and professionals in geosciences.

Our activities contribute significantly to understanding geochronological and geochemical processes, supporting studies in fields like environmental science, geology, and planetary science.