A PORTABLE SYSTEM FOR THE MEASUREMENT OF SEDIMENT OSL IN THE FIELD

A compact and lightweight computer-controlled system is described that allows for the measurement of optically stimulated luminescence of se diments in the field, whether in the form of loose grains or compresse d pellets. The unit uses infrared OSL excitation, with highly efficien t bleaching and OSL regeneration provided by cold-running gas discharg e lamps. The modular form means that the mobile system can be built up into a full luminescence excitation/emission spectrometer useful in t he wavelength range 380-1000 nm, thus allowing both quartz and feldspa r to be analysed. The characteristics and performance of the individua l components are described, and examples of measurements on Danish sed iments are presented.