The Stable Isotope Laboratory in the Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences at Western Michigan University uses known stable isotope techniques for geochemical, hydrological and other environmental studies. Current research focuses on the hydrological cycle, paleoclimates, and marine and fresh water biogeochemistry.
Triple Liquid Water Isotope Analyzer
This laboratory, under the supervision of Dr. R.V. Krishnamurthy, is equipped with:
- Vacuum extraction lines (instructional purpose only)
- Constant temperature bath, Muffle furnace
- Triple Liquid Water Isotope Analyzer
Services
The Stable Isotope Laboratory provides:
Triple isotope analysis of water samples (δ18O, δ17O, δD) using a Los Gatos Triple Isotope Analyzer
Services provided for clients both internal and external to WMU include sample preparation and analysis. For current per-sample pricing, please contact Dr. R.V. Krishnamurthy.
Training workshops and short courses in stable isotope hydrology
These two-week programs consist of lectures and hands-on training in the operation and maintenance of the laser based isotope analyzer, determination of Dissolved Inorganic Carbon in water samples and experiments with vacuum extraction lines. The lectures cover the basic aspects of stable isotope hydrology:
Introduction to the course
Isotopes
Fractionation effects
δ Notation
Standards
Theory of mass spectrometry
Lab tour
Oxygen and hydrogen isotope ratio in the water cycle
Rayleigh distillation
Lake hydrology
Carbon and nitrogen isotopes in the environment with focus on hydrologic applications
Participants will also have the opportunity to be involved through research paper presentations and reading.
The fees are:
- One to five participants = $2,000 (U.S.) per week
- Six to 10 participants = $1,800 (U.S.) per week
- 11+ participants = $1,500 (U.S.) per week