Isotope Ratio Analysis
Measure the relative abundance of selected isotopes for enriched-material verification, feedstock characterization, source comparison, or another clearly defined question.
Tell us what the material is, which isotope system matters, what you plan to compare, and what reference materials or prior data are available. We will work from there.
For quote and submission: reference Test Code 390.
An isotope ratio only becomes useful in context: the expected range, reference material, comparison set, uncertainty, and intended decision all matter.
Amount and ratio answer different questions
The same project may need one measurement or both.
Elemental concentration
Elemental analysis asks how much of a named element is present. It supports concentration, limit, and specification questions.
Isotope ratio
Isotope ratio analysis compares the relative abundance of selected isotopes of an element. The result is interpreted against the project's reference and comparison framework.
Where isotope ratios can help
These are common starting points. We still need to confirm the isotope system, material, expected range, references, and interpretation plan.
Enriched-material verification
Measure a defined isotopic composition or amount fraction for an eligible enriched or stable isotope material when the material form, expected range, preparation, references, and reporting requirements are technically supportable.
Source comparison
Compare a submitted material with suitable known-source materials or an established reference dataset when the proposed comparison is technically supportable.
Authenticity investigations
Use an isotope ratio as one line of evidence in an authenticity or adulteration investigation, alongside appropriate reference materials and complementary analytical information.
Research and material comparison
Compare lots, processes, suppliers, or experimental materials under a defined study design without treating a single ratio as a universal identity or origin determination.
What to include with an inquiry
The better we understand the material, expected range, comparison, and intended use, the more directly we can assess the measurement.
- Exact material, physical form, matrix, processing history, and expected composition
- Isotope system, ratio, amount fraction, or expected enrichment range, if already defined
- Verification, feedstock, source, authenticity, comparison, or research question
- Reference materials, comparison samples, or prior data available
- Required reporting format, uncertainty, specification, or decision rule
- Sample count, available quantity, requested deadline, and known material hazards or controls
Questions about isotope ratio work
How is isotope ratio analysis different from elemental analysis?
Elemental analysis measures the concentration of a named element. Isotope ratio analysis compares the relative abundance of selected isotopes and requires a project-specific comparison and interpretation framework.
Can one isotope ratio prove origin or authenticity?
No. A ratio may contribute evidence to a source or authenticity investigation, but a valid conclusion depends on suitable references, representative sampling, expected variation, and the complete body of analytical evidence.
Which isotope ratios and matrices are available?
Availability is confirmed during technical review for the requested isotope system, material, sample preparation, reporting needs, and project question. Do not infer universal isotope or matrix coverage from this page.
Can isotope ratio analysis be used for an enriched material?
A defined enriched or stable isotope material may be considered when the material form, expected range, sample preparation, reference materials, measurement approach, reporting basis, safety, and shipping requirements are technically supportable. Availability is confirmed before acceptance.
What should I include in a quote request?
Provide the exact material and processing history, isotope system if known, project question, reference or comparison samples, prior data, required reporting or decision framework, sample count, available quantity, and deadline.