The Influence of Contaminating (Fossil) Carbonate and the Variations of δ¹³C in Mortar Dating

Abstract

The influence of the aggregate in mortar dating is examined. Sample activity as well as isotopic fractionation approach the expected values at lower yields of the preparation reaction of the counting gas. Good results are obtained at low fossil carbonate concentration. δ 13 C cannot give information about this concentration but preliminary visual and chemical analysis of the mortar makes prediction of sample validity possible.