Members of the Laboratory develop measurement techniques of cosmogenic isotopes (¹⁴C, ³H), and application of isotopes in multidisciplinary scientific research in archaeology, geology, hydrogeology, geochemistry, paleoclimatology and ecology. Significant part of investigation is performed in karst environment using isotopic and geochemical analyses. Also, they conduct research in interactions between low-energetic radiation and gases. The laboratory is the only one of its kind in Croatia, as well as in the wider region. The continuous work on modernizing of measurement technique and equipment by introduction of graphite sample preparation method for measurement of ¹⁴C by accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) will keep the Laboratory the leading position in measurements and application of isotopes with the aim to form a regional centre of excellence. Besides the regular funding by the Ministry of Science, Laboratory has an excellent track record of participation in international projects funded by European Commission (FP5, FP6, and FP7) and IAEA and has a significant cooperation with numerous cultural institutions, local authorities and industry.

ISOTOPE MEASUREMENTS:

  Radiocarbon dating of archaeological, geological and paleontological samples

  Tritium activity measurements of natural waters (precipitation, surface and groundwater)

  Use of stable (²H, ¹³C, ¹⁸O) and natural radioactive isotopes (³H, ¹⁴C) in hydrogeological studies (protection of water resources, especially in karst areas)

  Use of isotopes in paleoclimatological and ecological studies

  Study of physico-chemical conditions necessary for formation of secondary carbonates (tufa, speleothems) in karst regions

OTHER ACTIVITIES:

  Study of the energy degradation (energetic, subexcitation and thermalized electrons)in pure gases and gas mixtures