Geographical and Earth Sciences

Low Temperature Thermochronology Laboratory

The low temperature thermochronology laboratory at the University of Glasgow has the capability and expertise in both fission track and (U-Th)/He analysis. This enables us to fully exploit the power of low temperature thermochronology to understand rates and timings of a range of shallow to mid-crustal processes.

Specific areas of current research in the GES Low Temperature Thermochronology laboratory include; constraining landscape evolution, determining erosion rates, identifying sediment yields over a range of temporal and spatial scales, and the role of tectonics and climate in long term landscape evolution.

We have two Zeiss Axioplan microscopes for fission track analysis, and a range of optical microscopes for the preparation of apatite, zircon and other minerals for (U-Th)/He analysis. Our (U-Th)/He analysis is performed at the Scottish Universities Environmental Research Centre .

We can undertake the full range of sample preparation, characterisation and analytical techniques,

• Jaw crusher

• Disc Miller

• Gemeni separation table

• Vertical & horizontal magnetic separation

• Heavy liquid density separation

• Fission track mount preparation

• Dedicated polishing equipment

• AFT and ZFT analysis

• Routine apatite and zircon (U-Th)/He analysis though S.U.E.R.C.

• (U-Th)/He analysis of other minerals

• Sample characterisation

We can also provide training for visitors on all aspects of acquisition, interpretation and modelling of fission track and (U-Th)/He data. Please contact Kate Dobson for further information.