Please include a printed copy of the IRMS sample submission form with all samples. You must also submit a digital copy of the form to isotopes@uky.edu. Work cannot begin on samples until these materials are received.

PURE AND DISSOLVED GASES

Pure gases should be submitted in individually-labelled crimp-top vials/bottles fitted with butyl rubber septa. The bottles can be either glass or non-permeable plastic. For certain analyses (e.g. δ¹³C in breath) 12 mL Labco Exetainers with butyl septa are also acceptable – contact KSIGL staff to discuss details. Make sure to evacuate the bottles or flush with ultra high purity (99.999% pure) helium prior to sample collection.

Liquid samples for isotopic analysis of dissolved gases should be collected with no headspace, kept refrigerated, and shipped refrigerated to us within a week of collection. Please contact us prior to sampling so we know to expect the samples.

 If you cannot ship the samples within a week of collection consider adding a gelatin capsule containing a bactericide to the container prior to evacuation/flushing and sample collection.

Depending on their size and the expected gas concentration, we may require separate bottles for δ²H and δ¹³C analysis of dissolved methane.

PURE GASES IN GLASS BREAKSEALS

Glass break seals should be individually labelled and have outer diameters of ¼”/6 mm with smooth ends. Please include a printed copy of the IRMS sample submission form with the samples.