Nu Instruments | Small Sample Carbonate Analysis with the Perspective IRMS and Nu Carb
This application note explains how the Perspective IRMS and Nu Carb automated carbonate device measure δ¹³C and δ¹⁸O isotope ratios in small CaCO₃ samples. It highlights long-term reproducibility, low memory effects and automated preparation for routine carbonate analysis.
Precise δ¹³C and δ¹⁸O measurements in calcium carbonate are widely used in geochemistry, marine science and palaeoclimate research. This application note shows how the Nu Carb automated carbonate device, interfaced with the Perspective IRMS, supports analysis of small carbonate samples from 15–150 µg.
The Nu Carb automates vial handling, acid delivery, CO₂ collection, sample clean-up and transfer to the micro dual inlet. Features such as optical vial detection, slow pump-down and optional reference gas refill help improve reliability across batches containing a mix of sample sizes.
Testing showed stable raw δ⁴⁵ and δ⁴⁶ measurements over six weeks using the same reference gas. Additional tests with alternating carbonate standards showed negligible source, changeover valve and intersample memory effects.
Key Takeaways:
- Measures δ¹³C and δ¹⁸O in small CaCO₃ samples from 15–150 µg.
- Demonstrates strong reproducibility across 199 accepted measurements over six weeks.
- Automated preparation helps reduce memory effects and improve routine workflow reliability.
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