Electrically charged particles released by natural background radiation are trapped in the crystal defects of mineral grains. When the traps are emptied, the amount of light produced can be measured, indicating the duration of the background radiation's effect since the last heating or light exposure that caused the emptying. The luminescence method can date, for example, the production times of ceramics and bricks, as well as the formation of mineral layers back to the beginning of the last Ice Age.
The price list (VAT 0%) applies for samples delivered to the laboratory with order form filled out according to the provided instructions. Estimates of turnaround times are given in the price list. NOTE! Internal prices for the University of Helsinki are provided separately, as their pricing is calculated differently.
Contact us before placing an order so we can go through your needs. You can also visit our laboratory at the University of Helsinki's Kumpula campus to discuss your request (please book a time in advance). Please consider the provided instructions regarding sampling, storage, and shipping. To order determinations, submit a completed order form in Excel format. Send samples according to the address details provided below. You may also bring your samples to our laboratory yourself.
Contacts and filled out order forms to: luminescence@helsinki.fi
NOTE! Delivered samples will not be processed until a valid, fully filled-out order form has been received.
Send your samples to the address:
Luminesenssiajoitukset
Ajoituslaboratorio
PL 64, 00014 Helsingin yliopisto
or via courier services to:
Luminesenssiajoitukset
Ajoituslaboratorio
Gustaf Hällströmin katu 2, 00560 Helsinki
We use a Risø TL-OSL Reader system for luminescence analyses. Additionally, we measure the beta radiation dose rate directly from the sample material using the Risø GM-25-5 beta multi-counter and the gamma radiation dose rate at the sample site with a handheld dose rate meter, the ICX Identifinder NGH.
The accuracy of the analyses is influenced not only by three measurements but also by the assumed water content of the sample, as it has attenuated the radiation. Therefore, it is essential to understand the conditions of the sample's finding location and storage. The statistical precision for OSL analysis is typically 5-10%.