Geochronology Laboratory

The ⁴⁰Ar/³⁹Ar geochronology laboratory is currently designed around a Mass Analyser Products (MAP) 215-50 mass spectrometer. We have built a custom-designed argon extraction line online to the mass spectrometer with a differentially pumped dual laser setup. The two lasers used in this setup include an infrared (CO₂) laser for the incremental heating and fusion of single grains and whole-rock samples, and an ultraviolet (ArF excimer) laser for the in situ ablation of samples when mineral separation is impossible or in cases when we wish to analyze mineral inclusions, overgrowths, or preserve textural relationships.

Equipment:

Equipment Pictured:

CO₂ laser for sample heating, and an ArF excimer laser for (in-situ) ablation analysis.
Custom gas extraction line including pneumatically controlled VAT valves, differential pumping system, and cold head.
MAP 215-50 mass spectrometer.
System control, data acquisition and data reduction.

Facilities include workshop space with a disk mill, multiple rock saws, jaw crusher, and a sample storage room. We also have a chemical workspace for heavy liquid separation and Frantz magnetic separation.

The sample preparation facilities include a series of microscopes to allow the inspection of mineral separates, sample picking, and loading of the irradiation packets. A separate and secure microscope room is used for the unloading of irradiated samples and radioactive storage.

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Mineral Resources	Eastern / Central / Western / Alaska / Minerals Information
	Crustal Geophysics and Geochemistry / Spatial Data