Thermal Ionisation Mass Spectrometry Laboratory

The Thermal Ionisation Mass Spectrometry (TIMS) laboratory comprises of a suite of four clean room workstations and a preparatory lab for the processing of geological and environmental samples prior to isotopic analysis.

Our primary instrument is a Thermo Scientific Triton thermal ionisation mass spectrometry, which was recently upgraded with three of its amplifiers now housing Thermo Scientific’s most recent 1013 ohm resistors, giving us an unprecedented capability in the analysis of extremely small samples, or samples that contain very little of the target element and its isotopes. 

We primarily offer Sr-Nd-Pb isotope analyses in a wide range of geological and environmental materials. Our capability extends beyond using these isotope systems as tracers; we have a range of geochronological applications available to us.

Our staff are highly experienced in sample preparation, method development and mass spectrometry and are currently added Re-Os isotope analyses to our repertoire, with a B isotope to follow shortly afterwards.  

Equipment

• Thermal Scientific Triton thermal ionisation mass spectrometer
• 4 Class 10 cleanroom workstations with dedicated weighing room 
• Large preparatory laboratory with separate weighing room and meeting space that can accommodate up to 6 additional analysts

Applications

The laboratory analyses a wide range of geological and environmental materials, including mantle sulphides, continental and oceanic volcanics, meteorites, fossiliferous material to loess.

Sulphides, silicates, carbonates are routinely analysed here. We are always happy to discuss potential collaborations, analyse new sample types or develop new methods – get in touch if you have something interesting that you want to analyse and we will be happy to advise.

Who can use the facility?

We are committed to sharing our facilities and associated expertise with external academic and industrial collaborators. To make an enquiry please contact Jason Harvey, feejh@leeds.ac.uk

Location

School of Earth and Environment 8.122

Members of staff

The laboratory is overseen by Dr Jason Harvey, a lecturer in geochemistry in the School of Earth and Environment. Dr Harvey has a track record in isotopic analysis and method development which spans several isotope systems and a wide range of geological and environmental samples.