Lead isotope analysis using TIMS following single column-single bead Pb separation

This study examines separation of lead from igneous rock samples for Pb isotope ratio analysis，using a two-step single column-single bead separation technique．The separates were then analyzed by thermal ionization mass spectrometry（TIMS）．The purification of lead achieved by the technique resulted in high Pb ionization efficiency in the TIMS analysis．Loading of the Pb separates and a normal silica-gel absorber on to single Ta filaments yielded signals that were stable for over 30 minutes．Analyses of six igneous rock standard samples produced by the Geological Survey of Japan agreed well with their published Pb isotope ratios．The single bead separation step is a versatile technique for purification of lead
contained in materials with complex matrices．