Research Assistance Centres

Geocronology Unit

The Geochronology Facility (CAI of Earth Sciences and Archaeometry of the Complutense University of Madrid) has been providing isotopic compositions in radiogenic systems for more than 25 years. The laboratory specialises in the analysis, by Thermal Ionisation Mass Spectrometry (TIMS), of isotope ratios in various radioactive systematics (Rb-Sr, Sm-Nd and common Pb). These analyses are carried out on different types of materials (geological, palaeontological, archaeological and environmental) and the results can be applied both to obtain absolute ages (geochronology) in the case of geological materials, and to study the traceability of materials and processes (isotopic geochemistry). Isotopic composition is also a tracer of the origin of magmas, as well as of the fluids involved in crustal processes (formation of mineral deposits, sedimentary processes, geochemistry of surface waters, etc.).

The samples analyzed by the Geochronology Facility laboratory vary between:

1. Geological (silicates, carbonates, phosphates) for use of their results in Isotopic Geochemistry and/or Geochronology.

2. Paleontological (fossils of all types and ages).

3. Environmental (water, soils, vegetation).

4. Archaeological (teeth, bones, glass, ceramics, wood).

The Geochronology Unit laboratory supports pure and applied research programmes of teams from the Complutense University, as well as other universities and scientific institutions, and companies of various kinds (mining, oil, etc.).

The Geochronology Unit laboratory is certified by SGS (ISO 9001:2015) for the development of the activity "Thermal Ionization Mass Spectrometry", with certificate code ES11/11013.06.

The Geochronology Unit (Earth Sciences and Archaeometry CAI) is part of the Network of Laboratories and Infrastructures of the Community of Madrid (REDLAB Register Number: RLAB-068). These laboratories carry out their functions in the territorial scope of the Community of Madrid and have the capacity to provide scientific-technical services to external users, business or industrial entities that request them, facilitating the transfer of cutting-edge knowledge

Contact

CAI Earth Sciences and Archeometry
Geocronology Unit
Facultad de Ciencias Geológicas
Calle José Antonio Novais 12 (Planta Sótano)
28040 Madrid (Madrid)
913944793 - Facility
geochronology.unit@ucm.es
Opening hours
Monday 9:00 - 15:00
Tuesday 9:00 - 15:00
Wednesday 9:00 - 15:00
Thursday 9:00 - 15:00
Friday 9:00 - 15:00
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

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