DEVELOPMENT OF HIGH SENSITIVITY LASER ICP MASS SPECTROMETER FOR ZIRCON CHRONOLOGY

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We have been developing a new analytical method for precise U-Pb age determinations using an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry coupled with newly developed laser microprobe technique. In order to determine the precise U-Pb age data from 10 microns spot of the zircon samples, laser ablation sampling technique using 266nm UV laser beam was developed. Resultant sample volume for the analysis was decreased down to 1/50 level compared with conventional laser sampling technique using IR fundamental Nd-YAG laser, and therefore enhancement of elemental sensitivity of the mass spectrometer was inevitable for the U-Pb age determinations. In this study this was achieved by different three techniques ; (a) modification of ion extraction lens, (b) improving the vacuum for first ion extraction stage by applying the high capacity rotary pump, and (c) sensitive ion detection using 2 dimensional solid ion detector called AMI (Amplified MOS Imager). The basic isotopic data obtained here demonstrate clearly that U-Pb chronology using Laser-ICPMS has a potential to become a significant and cost-effective tool for use in U-Pb zircon chronology.