Oxidation state specific elemental and isotopic analyses of uranium in environmental samples
Name of applicant
Tais W. Dahl
Title
Associate Professor
Institution
University of Copenhagen
Amount
DKK 3,291,501
Year
2023
Type of grant
Research Infrastructure
What?
The grant will equip UCPH's Geobiology Laboratory with new advanced analytical instruments, including a QQQ-ICPMS (Triple Quadrupole Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer) and HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography) setup, for developing oxidation state-specific elemental and isotopic analyses of uranium (U) in environmental samples and facilitate new synergies at the Globe Institute.
Why?
Understanding the oxidation states of uranium in environmental samples is crucial for gaining insights into Earth's element cycles, environmental processes, and past climatic conditions. The research has significant implications for refining reconstructions of ancient seawater oxygen levels and contributes to a broader understanding of redox-sensitive metals' behavior in natural systems.
How?
The new instruments will automate an anaerobic extraction and quantification of U oxidation states, improving speed and sensitivity in measurements. It enables U analysis in minute, low-abundance samples. By studying U oxidation states in marine sediments. Dahl's team will explore pentavalent U kinetics, quantify hexavalent U, and conducts isotope analyses for paleoclimate reconstruction.