Department of Biological Sciences

Waikato Stable Isotope Unit

Isotope Analysis

Isotopic abundance analysis is carried out on a fully automated Europa Scientific 20/20 isotope analyser. Samples are combusted, and the resulting gases are separated by gas chromotography and then analysed by continuous-flow mass spectrometry. The emphasis of our work is on the isotopes ¹³C and ¹⁵N, and we offer the following analytical services.

Carbon: d¹³C at natural abundance levels is measured to a precision of ±0.5% for routine samples. All samples are referenced to precalibrated C₄ sucrose that is cross-referenced to Pee Dee belemnite.

Nitrogen: d¹⁵N at natural abundance levels is measured to a precision of ±1% for routine samples. All samples are referenced to a urea standard that is traceable to atmospheric nitrogen.

d¹³C in breath samples.