Form of cooperation
We prefer cooperation by participation in research projects or some other way of scientific cooperation, that would conclude interpretation of research results and joint publications. Our scientific staff has knowledge and experience in cooperation with industry and representatives of Earth Sciences, such as palaeogeography, geology, palaeobotany, palaeozoology, as well as Human Sciences - archeology, history, anthropology and cultural heritage.
In case of our participation in scientific projects as contractor party and planned joint publication of results the price may be lowered by 30%. In addition, in case of signed agreement for scientific cooperation the financial system is different, too. We encourage to contact us while proposal is in preparation or at the early stage of realisation of the project.
Scientific applications
Absolute dating by radioisotope methods including the one using carbon isotope 14C are widely applicable in geology, geomorphology, palaeogeography, palaeobotany, and in archaeology. By creating absolute time scales for different events in the history of Earth scientists are able to reconstruct changes in the climate and environment in the past, and the history of colonization and of development of human culture.
Research for industry
We offer determination of biocarbon content in solid and liquid fuels, liquid flammable organic compounds, plastics (including packaging), vinegar and preserves, as well as other materials at the customer's request (e.g. alcohols, CO2).
Submission
Submission of samples
- The samples should be accompanied by filled sample description forms in either paper or electronic format (download below). In the case most of the information about the samples would be repeated (e.g. samples from one core, the same material, differing only in depth), one description form may be sufficient.
- We can adjust type (and price) of analysis to match your budget. Depending on available sample material the choice of measurement technique can be made after pretreatment of samples, in cooperation with the submitter.
- For dating objects of Art and Cultural Heritage our laboratory follows the UNESCO convention on trade in antiquities (see information at radiocarbon.org). If your sample is such an object, please fill accompanying Declaration for Cultural Objects.
Dating service covers:
- Pretreatment of sample, suitable to the dated material
- Combustion and graphitisation / benzene synthesis,
- Measurement of the 14C isotope concentration by AMS / LSC spectrometer
- Calculations of pMC, conventional radiocarbon age and D14C if required
- Calibration of radiocarbon age if applicable
The costs include also further scientific cooperation in interpretation, statistical treatment of results and publication preparations. Please contact the Laboratory staff if you wish to continue cooperation.
Order for dating
The samples should also come with a purchase order from the submitter in accordance with the internal regulations of the submitter's institution. Please provide following information:
- Full name and address of the institution,
- VAT number of the institution,
- Name of the contact person, email and phone number,
- Brief information about the project for which the analyses are conducted, aim of the dating (2-3 sentences),
- Number of samples and the total price for analysis,
- Planned timing of the analysis.
Report & Payment
The submitter will obtain a report containing results of measurements when they are completed, usually several months from submission depending on the number and type of samples.
Payment is due upon receipt of the invoice written out and sent by the financial office of the Silesian University of Technology.
