This web site details the facilities available in the Dept. of Geological Sciences at the University of Nevada, Reno used to perform stable isotope analyses (C, H, O, N and S). We have recently completed testing and installation of our new facilities, which consists of two Micromass Isoprime stable isotope ratio mass spectrometers and associated preparation devices (elemental analyzer, carbonate/water device, interfaced gas chromatograph). In addition, we have two operational isotope extraction lines in the lab (a BrF₅ line for silicate-oxygen, and a general purpose line for carbonates, waters, etc.)  We have recently constructed a CO₂-laser extraction line for silicate-oxygen analyses, and we are currently testing the operation of this line.

The lab can perform a variety of isotope analyses on a wide range of sample types. Please see our list of services for the types of analyses that can be performed, as well as their cost. Customers are encouraged to contact Simon Poulson concerning their specific analytical requirements before submitting samples for analysis.

Stable isotope analyses are used in a wide variety of disciplines with a large number of applications. Here's a simple explanation of WHAT, HOW and WHY about stable isotope ratio mass spectrometry.  Some pictures taken in the stable isotope laboratory can be viewed in the Picture Gallery.

The Nevada Stable Isotope Laboratory has been supported by the University of Nevada-Reno, the National Science Foundation, the Keck Research Foundation, and the Ralph J. Roberts Center for Research in Economic Geology (CREG).

Personnel involved with the stable isotope lab are:

Greg B. Arehart, Director (Ph.D., Michigan)
Simon Poulson, Assistant Director (Ph.D., Penn State)
Chris Sladek, Research Scientist (M.S., UNR)

If you have any interest in performing stable isotope analyses at UNR, please contact:

Last update, 26 May 2006