This is the first volume of a two-volume handbook series addressing the application of stable isotope analytical techniques to a range of scientific disciplines, including archaeology. Volume 1 consists of 47 chapters involving 86 contributors. It is divided into two parts-Part 1: "Review and Discussion on Developments in Stable Isotope Analytical Technologies" and Part 2: "Calibration and Correlation Procedures, Standards, Mass Spectrometers, Experimental Isotope Fractionation Determination, and General Information." Volume 2 provides an encyclopedic overview of stable isotope techniques with a majority of the chapters addressing applications involving particular elements. Additional chapters focus on particular analytical methods and materials and mass spectrometer procedures. The chapters in the second volume are intended to be complimentary to those in the first volume. These two volumes will provide an invaluable reference resource for research scientists from a variety of disciplines.
Part 1 of Volume 1 consists of 37 chapters that include reviews of analytical techniques for specific stable isotopes or materials, reviews of analyses employing selected mass spectrometers and other equipment, and descriptions of specialized and novel methods. Modern analytical techniques are summarized and advice is provided regarding which methods are best suited for specific materials or conditions. Initial chapters address analyses involving a range of stable isotopes, including those of boron, bromine, carbon, chlorine, hydrogen, iron, lithium, magnesium, nitrogen, oxygen, selenium, silicon, strontium, and sulfur. Materials involved in these analyses include water, water vapor, natural gases, sediments and soils, minerals, plant tissues, animal tissues, organic and inorganic compounds, and individual lipids and amino acids. The latter chapters in Part 1 address the use of various types of mass spectrometers, including combustion-isotope-ratio-monitoring mass spectrometry (C-irmMS), thermal ionization mass spectrometry (TIMS), secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS), inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), isotope ratio infrared spectrometry (IRMS), glow discharge mass spectrometry (GDMS), and isotope dilution mass spectrometry (IDMS). In addition, the use of new or novel methods is discussed, including the double isotope spike method, molecular sieves, and photoionization.
Part 2 includes 10 chapters (chapters 38-47) that address a range of topics related to stable isotope analysis including: (a) the development of mass spectrometers and ion source stability; (b) isotopic scales, standards, and reference materials; (c) calibration and correction procedures, (d) experimental isotopic fractionation, and (e) directives for setting up laboratories. The practical information provided in this section of the handbook will contribute to an improved general understanding of stable isotope analysis and mass spectrometry.
In chapter 38, "Mass Spectrometer Hardware for Analyzing Stable Isotope Ratios," Brand provides a detailed overview of the basic principles and limitations associated with mass spectrometry. It is argued that to consistently generate measurements of high precision and reliability, an extensive knowledge of instrumental effects and their underlying causes is required. In chapter 39, "Techniques of Ion Current Stabilization in Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry," Halas and Durakiewicz discuss the most typical sources of instability in the measured ion currents. Methods that can be employed to almost completely remove the principal sources of ion beam instability are summarized. These two chapters are particularly useful for archaeologists in that they provide a basic, yet comprehensive discussion regarding the successful use of mass spectrometry as an analytical tool. Although specialist technicians are normally employed to run and maintain mass spectrometers used by archaeologists, understanding the potential technical causes of variability in isotope values produced by mass spectrometers is essential for the archaeological consumer of these data.