High-precision 41K/39K measurements by MC-ICP-MS indicate terrestrial variability of δ41K
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Abstract
Potassium is a major component in continental crust, the fourth-most abundant cation in seawater, and a key element in biological processes. Until recently, difficulties with existing analytical techniques hindered our ability to identify natural isotopic variability of potassium isotopes in terrestrial materials. However, measurement precision has greatly improved and a range of K isotopic compositions has now been demonstrated in natural samples. In this study, we present a new technique for high-precision measurement of K isotopic ratios using high-resolution, cold plasma multi-collector mass spectrometry. We apply this technique to demonstrate natural variability in the ratio of 41K to 39K in a diverse group of geological and biological samples, including silicate and evaporite minerals, seawater, and plant and animal tissues. The total range in 41K/39K ratios is ca. 2.6‰, with a long-term external reproducibility of 0.17‰ (2, N=108). Seawater and seawater-derived evaporite minerals are systematically enriched in 41K compared to silicate minerals by ca. 0.6‰, a result consistent with recent findings1, 2. Although our average bulk-silicate Earth value (-0.54‰) is indistinguishable from previously published values, we find systematic δ41K variability in some high-temperature sample suites, particularly those with evidence for the presence of fluids. The δ41K values of biological samples span a range of ca. 1.2‰ between terrestrial mammals, plants, and marine organisms. Implications of terrestrial K isotope variability for the atomic weight of K and K-based geochronology are discussed. Our results indicate that high-precision measurements of stable K isotopes, made using commercially available mass spectrometers, can provide unique insights into the chemistry of potassium in geological and biological systems.
Publication type | Article |
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Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
Title | High-precision 41K/39K measurements by MC-ICP-MS indicate terrestrial variability of δ41K |
Series title | Journal of Analytical Atomic Spectrometry |
DOI | 10.1039/C7JA00257B |
Volume | 33 |
Year Published | 2018 |
Language | English |
Publisher | Royal Society of Chemistry |
Contributing office(s) | Central Mineral and Environmental Resources Science Center |
Description | 12 p. |
First page | 175 |
Last page | 186 |
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