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A novel method for high-precision tungsten isotope measurements on small-size samples
Guiqin Wang1, Zhen Yang2, Yuming Xu2
1State Key Laboratory of Deep Earth Processes and Resources, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510640, China.
Talanta
|August 24, 2025
Summary
This study introduces a new method for precise tungsten isotope analysis in small samples, crucial for dating planetary events. The improved technique enhances accuracy for geological and meteorite research.
Area of Science:
- Geochemistry
- Cosmochemistry
- Isotope Geochemistry
Background:
- Accurate tungsten (W) isotope measurements are vital for the Hf-W chronometer, used in dating planetary events.
- Traditional high-precision W isotope analysis requires large sample sizes, limiting studies on small or low-W content samples.
- Previous methods faced challenges in accurately determining oxygen (O) isotope compositions, impacting W isotope ratio precision.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a W purification procedure for small-sized samples with minimal procedural blank and high recovery.
- To establish a high-precision W isotope measurement method for trace amounts of W using negative thermal ionization mass spectrometry (NTIMS).
- To improve the accuracy and precision of W isotope measurements by developing a high-precision O isotopic composition measurement method.
Main Methods:
- A two-column W purification protocol was optimized for small samples (<40 pg blank, >97% recovery).
- High-precision W isotope measurements were performed using NTIMS with static Faraday cups and specialized amplifiers for W amounts >30 ng.
- A novel method for measuring O isotopic composition as ReO4 was implemented to enhance W isotope accuracy.
Main Results:
- The developed W purification method is effective for small sample sizes.
- Long-term repeatability of the 182W/184W ratio for >30 ng W was determined to be 0.864868 ± 6 ppm (2 RSD).
- The protocol was successfully applied to terrestrial rocks and meteorites (20-400 mg samples), demonstrating its broad applicability.
Conclusions:
- The new protocol significantly reduces W separation background and enhances W isotope measurement precision for small samples.
- This study overcomes previous limitations in O isotope determination, resolving uncertainties in W isotope ratios.
- The method provides a robust tool for precise W isotope analysis, advancing the study of planetary formation and evolution.
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