A Simplified In Situ Cosmogenic 14C Extraction System

Abstract

We describe the design, construction, and testing of a new, simplified in situ radiocarbon extraction system at the University of Arizona. Blank levels for the new system are low ((234 ± 11) x 103 atoms (1 σ; n = 7)) and stable. The precision of a given measurement depends on the concentration of 14C, but is typically <5% for concentrations of 100 x 103 atoms g–1 or more. The new system is relatively small and easy to construct, costs significantly less than the original in situ14C extraction system at Arizona, and lends itself to future automation.