Comparative Measurement
Isotope Ratio Analysis
Isotope ratio analysis measures the relative abundance of selected isotopes in a submitted material, creating a comparative result for a defined project question.
Share the material, the isotope system of interest, the comparison or decision the result needs to support, and any reference materials or prior data. The laboratory confirms the measurement scope, matrix fit, reporting basis, sample needs, timing, and price during technical review.
For quote and submission: reference Test Code 390.
Companion Measurements
Concentration and isotope ratio answer different questions
The appropriate path depends on whether the project needs an amount, a comparative isotopic signature, 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.
Project Pathways
Build the measurement around the comparison
These examples support initial routing only. The laboratory confirms whether the requested isotope system, matrix, references, and interpretation plan 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.
Technical Review
Define the isotope system, references, and decision framework
The project question and comparison design need to be clear before the measurement scope and reporting approach can be confirmed.
- Exact material, matrix, ingredients, and processing history
- Isotope system or ratio of interest, if already defined
- 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, and requested deadline
FAQ
Planning an isotope ratio submission
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.
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.
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