Portable, low-cost carbon dioxide isotope analyzer for field-based earth science applications

腔衰荡光谱学(CRDS)的最新进展已经产生了一种坚固耐用的、现场便携(&lt；30公斤)的仪器，其成本是典型IRMS的十分之一，但产生的13C/12C测量结果同样精确。由于它们的低成本、现场准备就绪、操作简单以及能够以精细的时间分辨率进行实时测量，这些仪器有望推动同位素科学的革命性进步。这项RTI提案要求为现场便携式CRDS系统提供资金。该系统的分析引擎将是一个腔振荡式光谱仪，旨在测量二氧化碳气体中的13C/12C值，并配备一个多用途进气歧管。我们的目标是用这个非凡的设备产生最大的科学影响。我们将从三个方面实现这一目标。(1)该仪器每年365天全天候使用。(2)用户群体经验丰富，每个人都有大量的博士后、研究生和本科生。(3)我们的应用是刻意多样化的，从固体地球问题，到环境和气候变化问题，再到天体生物学和早期地球挑战。这一仪器将对我们各自的研究计划产生重大影响。

Recent advances in Cavity Ring-Down Spectroscopy (CRDS) have produced a robust, field-portable (<30 kg) instrument that is one-tenth the cost of a typical IRMS, yet produces 13C/12C measurements that are just as precise. Because of their low cost, field readiness, ease of operation, and ability to make measurements in real time at fine temporal resolution, these instruments are poised to cause a revolutionary advance in isotope science. This RTI proposal requests funds for a field-portable CRDS system. The analytical engine of the system will be a Cavity Ring-Down Spectrometer designed to measure 13C/12C values in CO2 gas and equipped with a multi-use inlet manifold. Our goal is to make the maximum scientific impact with this remarkable device. We will achieve this objective in three ways. (1) The instrument will be used 24/7 for 365 days each year. (2) The user group is highly experienced, with each individual having large groups of postdocs, graduate students, and undergraduates. (3) Our applications are deliberately diverse, ranging from solid earth problems, through environmental and climate changes issues, to astrobiology and early Earth challenges. This instrument will have a major impact on our respective research programs.