Stable Isotope Analysis UK | IRMS Laboratory Services | Elemtex

Based in Gunnislake, Cornwall, UK, Elemtex provides high-precision stable isotope analysis and isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) services for environmental, food authenticity, forensic, ecological, archaeological, agricultural, pharmaceutical, and geochemical applications. We support clients across the United Kingdom and internationally.

High-Precision Stable Isotope Analysis for Environmental, Food, Forensic, and Research Applications

Stable isotope analysis is a powerful analytical technique used to determine the isotopic composition of elements within a sample. By measuring naturally occurring stable isotopes such as carbon (13C/12C), nitrogen (15N/14N), oxygen (18O/16O), hydrogen (2H/1H), and sulfur (34S/32S), scientists can gain valuable insights into environmental processes, food authenticity, geographical origin, climate studies, forensic investigations, and biological systems.

Our laboratory provides accurate and reliable stable isotope analysis using state-of-the-art isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) and rigorous quality control procedures.

How Stable Isotope Analysis Works

Stable isotope analysis measures the relative abundance of non-radioactive isotopes within a sample. Because different physical, chemical, and biological processes can alter isotope ratios in predictable ways, these measurements serve as powerful tracers and indicators of origin, movement, and transformation.

Stable isotope data can help answer questions such as:

• Where did a sample originate?
• How have environmental conditions changed over time?
• Is a food product authentic?
• What are the sources of pollution or contamination?
• How do nutrients move through ecosystems?

Applications of Stable Isotope Analysis

Environmental and Ecological Research

Stable isotopes are widely used to track nutrient cycling, food web interactions, water movement, and ecosystem dynamics. Researchers rely on isotope analysis to understand environmental change and support sustainable resource management.

Food Authenticity and Traceability

Stable isotope testing helps verify the origin and authenticity of food products, including:

• Honey
• Wine
• Dairy products
• Meat and seafood
• Fruit juices
• Coffee and tea

By identifying characteristic isotopic signatures, stable isotope analysis can detect adulteration and support quality assurance programs.

Forensic Investigations

Forensic scientists use stable isotope analysis to determine geographic origin, reconstruct movement patterns, and provide evidence in criminal and humanitarian investigations.

Geological and Geochemical Studies

Isotope measurements are essential tools in:

• Mineral exploration
• Petroleum studies
• Sediment analysis
• Paleoclimate reconstruction
• Carbon sequestration research

Frequently Asked Questions 

What samples can be analysed?

We analyse water, soils, sediments, plants, animal tissues, food products, geological materials, and many other organic and inorganic samples.

Do you provide sample preparation?

Yes. Clients can submit pre-weighed samples or utilise our complete sample preparation service.

How should I prepare samples for IRMS analysis?

If you choose to pre-prepare samples, they should be accurately weighed into high-purity tin capsules (available from Elemtex) using a microbalance with a precision of at least six decimal places.

How should tin capsules be sealed after filling?

After adding the sample, the capsule should be carefully folded closed and shaped into a compact, approximately spherical form using clean forceps. This helps ensure smooth handling during automated analysis.

Do you supply tin capsules and consumables?

Yes. Elemtex supplies high-purity tin capsules and other laboratory consumables designed specifically for stable isotope analysis and IRMS applications.

Which isotopes do you measure?

We routinely measure carbon (δ13C), nitrogen (δ15N), oxygen (δ18O), hydrogen (δ2H), and sulfur (δ34S) isotopes.

How long does stable isotope analysis take?

Turnaround times depend on sample type and workload.

Why Choose Our Stable Isotope Analysis Services?

• High-precision isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS)
• Experienced analytical scientists
• Comprehensive quality assurance protocols
• Fast turnaround times
• Customized analytical solutions
• Support for academic, industrial, and regulatory projects

Our team works closely with clients to ensure data quality, accurate interpretation, and reliable reporting.

Sample Types Accepted

We routinely analyse:

• Water samples
• Soil and sediment
• Plant material
• Animal tissues
• Food and beverages
• Geological samples
• Organic and inorganic materials

If you have a unique sample type, our specialists can advise on preparation requirements and analytical options.

Analysed Using High-Quality Consumables from Our Cornwall Facility

The accuracy and reliability of stable isotope analysis depend not only on advanced instrumentation but also on the quality of the consumables used throughout the analytical process. To maintain the highest standards, we utilize premium laboratory consumables manufactured at our dedicated production facility in Gunnislake, Cornwall.

By producing critical consumables in-house, we maintain strict quality control throughout the manufacturing process, ensuring consistency, traceability, and performance across every analysis. This integrated approach helps minimize contamination risks, improve analytical precision, and support the generation of robust, reproducible isotope ratio data.

Our Cornwall manufacturing facility operates to rigorous quality standards, supplying consumables designed specifically for demanding analytical applications, including stable isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS), environmental testing, geochemical investigations, and scientific research.

This commitment to both manufacturing excellence and analytical expertise enables us to deliver dependable stable isotope analysis services trusted by researchers, laboratories, and industry professionals worldwide.

Request a Stable Isotope Analysis Quote

Whether you require stable isotope analysis for environmental monitoring, food authenticity testing, forensic investigations, or scientific research, our laboratory can provide accurate, dependable results tailored to your project needs.

We accept pre weighed samples or we can deal with sample preparation for you.

Please get in touch for a personal quotation tailored to your specific needs.