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As part of the continuous efforts to enhance the laboratory’s value-added services, Beta Analytic now provides C:N, %C and %N measurements on collagen extracted from non-cremated bones in addition to d15N and d13C at no additional cost for samples sent for radiocarbon dating. Depending on the bone quality, the lab may also be able to provide % collagen yield data upon request. These analyses are also available without radiocarbon dating for a fee. Collagen quality is assessed using %C, %N, C:N, d13C and d15N values measured on the sample. These values are often utilized to determine the diet, paleodiets, trophic levels, and paleoenvironments associated with the bone samples. Beta’s Radiocarbon Dating Services for Bones Beta Analytic offers two services for bones - standard and priority. Both services use Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS) technology, which gives the most advanced precision and accuracy. For standard AMS dating service, results are reported in 14 business days or less. For priority, results are available between 4-7 business days. For non-cremated bone samples, Beta Analytic provides conventional collagen extraction techniques and subsequent ultrafiltration methods if requested. Ultrafiltration consists of filtering the collagen through ultra-fine filters at high revolutions per minute as an additional measure to remove humic acids. Additional fees apply if ultrafiltration is requested. The laboratory highly recommends sending bone samples rather than extracted collagen for radiocarbon dating or stable isotope analyses. Extracted collagen will be listed as “organics” in the final report instead of “bone collagen” as required by the lab’s ISO/IEC 17025:2005 accreditation. If the lab did not perform the chemical pretreatments and/or extractions, it cannot specifically testify as to the material that was analyzed because certain steps affecting the sample quality have been outside of its control and scope of the accreditation. Located in Miami, Florida, the ISO 17025-accredited laboratory is the only natural-level radiocarbon dating facility in the world offering a turnaround time between 3-14 business days. Beta Analytic does not accept biomedical samples or any material containing artificial Carbon-14 to eliminate the risk of cross-contamination. Moreover, the lab does not engage in “satellite dating," the practice of preparing individual sample graphite in a remote chemistry lab and then subcontracting an AMS facility for the results. Free Stable Isotope Analyses Beta Analytic's radiocarbon dating fees are inclusive of d13C measurements by Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry (IRMS) and calendar calibration, when applicable, d18O for carbonates, and dD (deuterium) and d18O for water. The lab also provides stable isotope analyses on a standalone basis. Extended counting for micro samples is also included in the standard price. The lab has removed a number of cancellation fees for samples that are too small for AMS dating. The lab provides clients with quality assurance reports, unlimited technical consultation, and 24/7 web access to past results and pending analyses including photos of samples analyzed. Client support is available in 10 languages. For details, email lab@radiocarbon.com or visit www.radiocarbon.com.
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