Nuclear Science and Technology Facility Radiocarbon Dates I

Abstract

The Radiocarbon Laboratory began operation in mid-1972, using benzene synthesis. The equipment for the laboratory was obtained under a National Science Foundation Grant*. Basic equipment consists of a benzene synthesizer (Alford Instrument Co) and a liquid scintillation counter (Picker-Nuclear 220). The equipment is essentially identical with that of Noakes and Brandau (1971). Counting efficiency and background rates are also similar; ca 70% efficiency with a 4 to 5cpm background for 5ml benzene samples. Benzene synthesis is standard with sample combustion in pure oxygen under reduced pressure. The original synthesis system has been modified to permit simultaneous processing of more than one sample.