MODELING CORRECTIONS OF BOMB-PULSE RADIOCARBON DATING IN FORENSIC CASES

Abstract

ABSTRACT In two forensic cases, radiocarbon (14C) bomb-pulse datings of human bones have been performed and analyzed using detailed models to correct for collagen-carbon turnover rates and reservoir effects. The modeled corrections are discussed and the resulting 14C ages compared to later information on actual time of birth and death of the individuals. Simple time lag corrections of bone dates are found to be inadequate, whereas modeling based on age dependent turnover rates and bomb-pulse levels through life combined with substantial reservoir age corrections can explain the observed 14C results.