If you attended the Goldschmidt workshop, we thank you for your contribution.
Recent advances in laser ablation carbonate U-Pb geochronology have opened up the possibilities for providing timing constraints to a range of previously ‘undateable’ geological materials and processes. These include applications to a variety of geological settings, including, sedimentary deposition and diagenesis, hydrothermal mineralization, pedogenesis, paleohydrology and brittle deformation. The goal of this workshop was twofold: first, to share experiences in analysis, application and interpretation, and second, to review, update, and discuss best practice for laser ablation carbonate U-Pb geochronology methods. The workshop covered subjects through the entire workflow, including: sample selection and preparation, imaging techniques, instrumentation and protocols, carbonate reference materials, data reduction and corrections, and age interpretation. The workshop also highlighted developments in complimentary analyses such as stable and clumped isotope geochemistry, trace element composition, fluid inclusions, and strain analysis, and will include discussion of key issues within the application to timing of geological events and processes. The workshop provided a platform for community discussion of best practice and future avenues for carbonate geochronology. Many issues relating to carbonate dating are equally applicable to other common-lead bearing minerals. The workshop is affiliated with the LA-ICP-MS U-Pb Network (plasmage.org) and the EARTHTIME community initiative (earth-time.org).
