Speaker: Paul Sheppard, Arizona State University
Program Description
Dendrochemistry is the measurement and environmental interpretation of elements in tree rings. Applications include atmospheric chemistry, nutrient imbalances, pollution, and radiation. At first glance, dendrochemistry seems simple: measure wood for just about anything in the Periodic Table and interpret environmental change through time. Upon actually trying it, dendrochemistry is vexed with issues, including just how best to measure wood for mere trace quantities of elements. In particular, nuclear techniques, including use of synchrotron energy, have been applied in dendrochemistry, but with mixed results. After describing a couple of case studies, attempts by others to use synchrotron methods will be summarized. Preliminary results of a test case using the synchrotron at SLAC will also be shown.
