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402-0621-00L 6 Credits DR , MSC D-PHYS , D-USYS

Introduction to Accelerator Mass Spectrometry

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Marcus Christl, Dr. Lukas Wacker, Dr. Arnold Müller, Dr. Christof Vockenhuber
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:07:40

Abstract

This course gives an introduction into Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS), the most sensitive method for measuring long-lived radionuclides in natural samples.

Objective

Students learn the basic concepts of Accelerator Mass Spectrometry. Based on the underlying physics of ion matter interaction they learn the measurement methods and interpretation of the results for most of the important AMS radionuclides, e.g. radiocarbon (14C), the cosmogenic radionuclides 10Be, 26Al, 36Cl, and anthropogenic nuclides 129I, 236U and other actinides.

Content

Introduction into the physics of ion matter interaction: ion stopping, ion scattering and charge exchange. Ion optics and ion acceleration. Mass separation, molecular destruction and isobar separation. Ion detection and identification. The measurement methods for all the important radionuclides and the interpretation of their results are discussed on a few examples from the application: 14C – radiocarbon dating and environmental studies 10Be, 26Al, 36Cl – cosmogenic dating and ice core research 129I, 236U, actinides – anthropogenic tracers in the environment 14C, 41Ca – biomedical studies 60Fe, 244Pu – astrophysics Alternative methods: ICP-MS, RIMS, ATTA A visit to the Tandem accelerator and AMS facilities at ETH Hönggerberg is organized as part of lectures and exercises.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Lecture notes will be distributed in pdf:https://polybox.ethz.ch/index.php/s/aqrNNZBBkwb7HTN

General Information

Language
English
Levels
DR , MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
end-of-semester examination
Mode
oral 20 minutes

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Introduction to Accelerator Mass Spectrometry No time listed 2 h weekly
exercise Introduction to Accelerator Mass Spectrometry No time listed 1 h weekly

Offered In