Analysis of Radiocarbon
- Buyer
- University of Waterloo
- Location
- Kitchener-Waterloo-Barrie, ON, CAN
- Closing date
- Aug 4, 2026
- Published
- Jul 10, 2026
- Province or region
- Ontario
- Notice type
- Open to bid
- Reference number
- 0000327064
- Solicitation number
- 2027-ACAN-00554 SG
Summary
University of Waterloo (EIL/EES) seeks external laboratory services for radiocarbon (14C) analysis. Requirements: AMS-quality results within ±20–25 years for samples <5,000 years, turnaround ≤4 weeks, ability to analyze samples as small as 0.5 mL CO2 in 6 mm quartz breakseals; estimated cost ≈ $300 USD per sample.
From the notice
BACKGROUND The EIL is an analytical facility within EES that operates contingent on funding generated by fee for analysis, supporting 10+ technical staff and subsidizing analytical costs for internal users. For the analysis of radiocarbon, UW does not operate an accelerated mass spectrometer (AMS) and as such we must subcontract radiocarbon analyses out to an external facility on a per sample basis. SPECIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS The Analysis of Radiocarbon includes the following Specifications: Radiocarbon results must be within ±20–25 years for samples younger than 5,000 years, and turnaround time within 4 weeks. Samples as low as 0.5 mL of CO2 in 6 mm quartz breakseals. The EIL will provide δ13C results for marine reservoir calibration purposes. The cost is approximately $300 USD per sample.