δ18O

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δ18O (delta-18 O) refers to the ratio of two stable oxygen isotopes: 18O:16O. Each contains eight protons with the former containing ten neutrons and the latter, eight neutrons. δ18O analysis, also referred to as isotopic signature, takes advantage of how environmental variation differentially affects the relative abundance of each isotope in the signature. δ18O measurements can help inform agricultural soil science, ecology, ocean science, hydrology, paleontology, and the food & beverage industry.

For example, these signatures can be used to help identify groundwater’s source by exposing its interaction with minerals. Similarly, δ18O analysis can reveal the geographical provenance of a food (e.g. apples) or whether or not a product branded as 100% homogenous (e.g. 100% olive oil) has been diluted. δ18O can also be used to provide information on past water temperatures, for example, from shells of certain marine organisms.

Picarro has designed and produced several isotope analyzers that precisely measure δ18O in water for laboratory and field studies.

Analyzers

Product Measurements Applications

L2130-i Isotope and Gas Concentration Analyzer

High-precision triple oxygen isotope research in water is finally simple and affordable.

L2140-i Isotope and Gas Concentration Analyzer

The Picarro L2140-i isotopic water analyzer enables simultaneous measurements of δ18O, δ17O, δ2H and determines 17O-excess for paleoclimate, (eco) hydrology, and atmospheric science applications.

PI5131-i Isotope and Gas Concentration Analyzer

Coming Soon

The Picarro PI5131-i isotopic and gas concentration analyzer enables simultaneous measurements of site-specific and bulk δ15N and δ18O in nitrous oxide (N2O). It is an ideal solution for discerning and measuring the source of N2O emissions through grab-sample measurements in the lab. The isotopomers of N2O can be used to probe sources and sinks in the global nitrogen cycle by identifying nitrification and denitrification processes in soils and water.

  • High-precision at atmospheric concentrations
  • δ15N compound-specific and site-specific measurements 
  • δ18O measurement
  • Cryogen-free, continuous operation, field and laboratory deployable

The PI5131-i analyzer measures δ15N, δ15Nα, and δ15Nβ with a precision of 0.7 per mil, δ18O with a precision of 0.7 per mil, and N2O concentration with a precision of <0.05 ppb (all precision measurements are at a 10-minute average).