A systematic multi-technique comparison of luminescence characteristics of two reference quartz samples

Further developments in luminescence dating, dosimetry and temperature-sensing require a deep understanding of processes their driving parameters. Natural quartz is one the most widely used minerals for these purposes. Still, poor reproducibility results often hampers comparability credibility from findings literature. We identified lack suitable natural reference samples as pivotal problem impeding significant progression. Ideally, basic investigations involve several laboratories working on well-characterised with different characteristics. Investigations should include multiple complementing methods to analyse properties mineralogical geochemical composition. Here, we present such multi-technique comparison two samples. Next recently introduced Fontainebleau (FB) quartz, propose another sample derived ‘Silver Sands Morar’ (lab code ‘MR’; Scotland, UK). Our experiments confirm that both behave fundamentally terms signal composition sensitivity. The comparative characterisation targeted electron traps via thermoluminescence (TL) optically stimulated (OSL) techniques centres radioluminescence time-resolved OSL spectrometry. In summary, conclude all observed differences are likely divergent defect concentrations rather than variances defects' (nature). measurement data our study accessible open-access inspection by others.