Developing State of the Art Analytical Methods

Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) is a powerful analytical technique widely used in geochemistry for in situ analysis of solid materials. It combines a laser ablation system to sample the solid material with an ICP-MS for precise elemental and isotopic measurements.

We develop and implement a broad spectrum of LA-ICP-MS methods to analyze trace elements and isotopic systems, including U-Pb geochronology, Sr, Nd, Hf, B, and S isotopes, tailored to address diverse geological and environmental questions. Our expertise encompasses high-precision U-Pb dating to understand the timing of geological events, as well as Sr and Nd isotopes for tracing fluids and crustal evolution. For example, we utilize Hf isotopes in zircon for insights into mantle-crust interactions and magma differentiation, while B isotopes are applied to paleoenvironmental reconstructions and fluid interactions. Sulfur isotopes further enhance our understanding of redox processes in ore deposits and environmental systems. These methodologies are all via in situ, high-spacial resolution analysis, and are ideal for examining the chemical composition and isotopic signatures of minerals, fossils, and geological materials, providing critical insights into Earth’s history and processes.  Click Here for more details

We also specialize in developing reference materials tailored for LA-ICP-MS applications, which are essential for achieving precise and accurate isotope ratio measurements. These reference materials must be rigorously characterized at the micro-scale as they are vital for calibrating instruments and validating results across a range of geological samples. The choice of reference material depends heavily on the isotopic system and matrix under investigation, requiring close attention to matrix matching to minimize matrix effects that could impact isotopic fractionation during analysis. By developing or carefully selecting matrix-matched reference materials, we enhance the precision and reliability of LA-ICP-MS measurements, enabling robust isotopic and trace element analyses. Click Here For More Details

The Saturn project represents a groundbreaking initiative aimed at revolutionizing LA-ICP-MS data reduction for both industrial and academic users. By combining powerful data processing capabilities with intuitive, user-friendly interfaces, Saturn is designed to simplify and enhance workflows, making it an indispensable tool for geochemists and isotope analysts alike.

The project began with the development of two core applications—LA ICP-MS U-Pb Saturn and TE Saturn—currently undergoing rigorous testing for U-Pb and trace element data reduction. These applications are tailored to handle the complexities of LA-ICP-MS data, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and adaptability in data analysis.

The Saturn package offers a suite of open-source, freely available tools, specifically developed to streamline LA-ICP-MS data reduction. It facilitates seamless interaction with large datasets, enabling the fast and reliable processing of hundreds of data points. With its dynamic graphical interfaces, users can quickly view, evaluate, and plot isotope and trace element data. Saturn operates both online and offline, providing unmatched flexibility to adjust parameters and reprocess data at any stage of acquisition.