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The 'LSVEC problem' for the Vienna Peedee belemnite carbon isotope-delta scale
Philip J H Dunn1, Federica Camin2
1National Measurement Laboratory, LGC Limited, Teddington, UK.
Rapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry : RCM
|June 26, 2024
Summary
The withdrawal of the lithium carbonate reference material (LSVEC) impacts carbon isotope-delta measurements. This paper reviews proposals to maintain measurement traceability to the Vienna Peedee belemnite (VPDB) scale.
Area of Science:
- Geochemistry
- Metrology
- Environmental Science
Background:
- The lithium carbonate reference material (LSVEC) was crucial for calibrating carbon isotope-delta measurements.
- Its withdrawal since 2016 has raised concerns about measurement traceability and consistency.
- Discussions involve international bodies like the Consultative Committee for the Amount of Substance (CCQM) and the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC).
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the background of the LSVEC material and its role in carbon isotope-delta measurements.
- To present proposals discussed for addressing the implications of LSVEC's withdrawal.
- To provide context for discussions at the 2024 IAEA Consultancy Meetings.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of information regarding the LSVEC material.
- Analysis of discussions and proposals from various international scientific committees and working groups.
- Contextualization of findings within the framework of the Vienna Peedee belemnite (VPDB) carbon isotope-delta scale.
Main Results:
- Intense discussions have occurred since 2016 regarding the consequences of LSVEC withdrawal.
- LSVEC held a key position for traceability to the VPDB scale.
- Various proposals to address the LSVEC issue have been considered by expert communities.
Conclusions:
- The withdrawal of LSVEC necessitates a re-evaluation of carbon isotope-delta measurement calibration strategies.
- Maintaining traceability to the VPDB scale is a primary concern for ongoing and future measurements.
- The presented information supports the development of new reference materials and methods for stable isotope ratio measurements.
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