A normal size target (pretreated sample mounted in a cathode) requires 1 mg of pure carbon to be analysed in the accelerator. Hence due to the different carbon content in different materials the actual sample size to be submitted to the laboratory varies between different materials and also the state of preservation (especially applicable for bone samples). Smaller sample targets (down to 0.1 mg C) can be analysed but will result in larger analytical uncertanties and generally have a higher risk of failing.

If possible we prefer larger than recommended sample sizes as this allow for pretreatment experiments (extraction of different fractions) and additional checks (if needed).

MATERIAL		SIZE					MATERIAL	SIZE
Wood, charcoal and charred macrofossils		3-20 mg					Shells Forams	10-20 mg 10-20 mg
Plant macrofossils		4-20 mg					Bones	~100-800 mg depends on bone preservation
Peat		4-20 mg					Burnt bones	~1.5 - 3 g
Bulk (sediment)		Depends on carbon content					Wood (cellulose)	10-20 mg
Textile		10-20 mg

 

 

For mortar dating please contact the laboratory prior to sample collection