Thermoluminescence (TL) and Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) measurements are performed using a Risø TL/OSL DA-20 reader equipped with Sr-90 beta and Am-241 alpha irradiation sources. The instrument is routinely applied in heritage science for the determination of the firing age of ceramic materials and the depositional age of sediments. The upper age limit depends on the mineral used: ~50–60 ka for quartz and ~300–400 ka for feldspar, with limits set by signal saturation and dose-rate conditions.

binx

Micro-destructive (removal or permanent alteration of very small, inconspicuous portions)

DTU Risø

DA-20

Ø 3-5 mm diameter and 5-10 mm deep hole for TL authenticity testing of ceramics and pottery
Ø 5-10 mm diameter and 5-10 mm deep pit for detailed TL dating of ceramics and pottery
200-300 g sample for OSL dating of sediments