Radiocarbon Dating from Sample to Result
Radiocarbon dating begins with the scientific question, not the instrument. Benzene Line reviews the material and context before deciding whether a sample and an appropriate carbon fraction may be suitable for analysis.
Not every sample is datable. Preservation, contamination, available carbon and the relationship between the material and the event of interest must be evaluated before acceptance.
Initial inquiry
Provide the material, sample count, available quantity if known, context and research question.
Submit sample detailsScientific review
The sample and the question it is intended to answer are reviewed together.
Suitability evaluation
Material, preservation, contamination history and available sample are considered before acceptance.
Pretreatment
An appropriate carbon fraction is selected and prepared for the material and analytical objective.
Review sample preparationCarbon conversion
Recovered sample carbon is converted and prepared for the applicable C-14 measurement workflow.
See the benzene synthesis workflowC-14 measurement
The prepared sample is measured using the applicable radiocarbon method.
Understand liquid scintillation countingCalculation and result
Measurement data are evaluated and used in radiocarbon age calculation and reporting as agreed for the accepted sample.
Samples We Can Evaluate for Radiocarbon Dating
Existing Benzene Line material documents work with wood, charcoal, bone or collagen, peat, suitable soil fractions, shell, carbonate material, carbon dioxide and methane. Pottery-associated carbon and low-carbon samples may also be evaluated where the documented workflow is scientifically applicable.
Suitability and required sample quantity depend on preservation, carbon content, contamination history and the scientific question. Inclusion here does not guarantee acceptance or mean that one pretreatment is suitable for every material.
- Wood and charcoal.
- Bone or collagen.
- Peat and suitable soil fractions.
- Shell and carbonate material.
- Carbon dioxide or methane where appropriate.
- Pottery or ceramic-associated carbon where scientifically suitable.
- Small or low-carbon samples where the documented workflow is applicable.
Can My Sample Be Radiocarbon Dated?
You do not need to decide suitability alone. Send the sample material, number of samples, approximate size or mass if known, expected age range if known, archaeological or environmental context, known conservation or chemical treatment, research question and country from which the sample would be sent.
Benzene Line will review these details before confirming whether to proceed. Contact and acceptance must come before any physical shipment.
Scientific Context and Published Methods
Benzene Line publications and documented technology provide scientific context for the preparation and measurement workflows described on this site. They should not be read as a claim that every publication validates every part of a current commercial analysis.
Need a Laboratory Instead?
Radiocarbon dating service and laboratory setup are separate, equally supported customer paths. Benzene Line also supplies preparation equipment, workflow implementation, on-site installation and staff training for organizations building or upgrading an LSC radiocarbon laboratory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Benzene Line provide radiocarbon dating services?
Yes. Benzene Line accepts inquiries for radiocarbon dating of suitable carbon-containing samples. Suitability is reviewed before a sample is accepted.
What samples can be radiocarbon dated?
Potential materials include wood, charcoal, bone or collagen, peat, suitable soil fractions, shell, carbonate and other documented carbon-containing materials. Preservation, contamination and scientific context determine whether a particular sample is suitable.
How much sample is needed for C-14 dating?
The required quantity depends on material type, carbon content, preservation, contamination and preparation needs. Provide the approximate amount available so it can be evaluated; no universal minimum is promised.
Can pottery be radiocarbon dated?
Pottery-associated carbon may be evaluated where its origin and relationship to the event of interest are scientifically suitable. The material and archaeological context must be reviewed first.
Can small samples be dated?
Some limited-carbon samples may be suitable for specialized preparation and vial arrangements, but feasibility depends on the material, available carbon and complete workflow.
How much does radiocarbon dating cost?
Cost depends on sample material, preparation requirements and number of samples. Contact us for a quote.
How do I submit a sample?
First submit the sample details and scientific question. Benzene Line will review suitability and provide submission instructions only after acceptance.
Should I send the sample before contacting the laboratory?
No. Contact Benzene Line and receive confirmation and instructions before sending any physical material.