Nu Instruments | Precise and Accurate Determination of Nd and Hf Isotope Ratios

This application note demonstrates the capability of the Nu Plasma MC-ICP-MS platform for routine neodymium (Nd) and hafnium (Hf) isotope ratio measurements. Repeated analyses of reference materials show excellent precision, reproducibility and long-term stability, highlighting the instrument’s suitability for high-accuracy isotope studies.

Fractionation corrected 180Hf/177Hf ratios for 10 repeat analyses of the 500 ng/g JMC-475 solution. The error bars are 2 SE.

Accurate measurement of Nd and Hf isotope ratios is a well-established application of multicollector mass spectrometry. This study evaluates the performance of the Nu Plasma system using internationally recognised reference standards under routine operating conditions.


Repeated analyses of the JNdi-1 Nd standard and JMC-475 Hf standard demonstrated excellent precision and repeatability. Measurements were collected over several hours without retuning the instrument, showcasing stable operation and consistent analytical performance.


Results showed strong agreement with accepted reference values while maintaining low measurement uncertainty. The data demonstrate that the Nu Plasma platform is well suited to demanding isotope ratio applications in geochemistry, environmental science and isotope geochemistry research.

Plasma 3 MC-ICP-MS Instrument

Key Takeaways:

  • High precision Nd isotope ratio measurements with repeatability better than 14 ppm.
  • Consistent Hf isotope ratio measurements achieved over extended analytical periods.
  • Demonstrates excellent instrument stability and measurement accuracy for routine isotope analysis.
Man adjusts part of mass spec instrument

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