Improvements to the Shaw-Type Absolute Palaeointensity Method

Palaeointensity information enables us to define the strength of Earth’s magnetic field over geological time, providing a window into deep interior. The difficulties in acquiring reliable measurements are substantial, particularly from older rocks. Two most significant causes experimental failure laboratory induced alteration remanence carriers and effects relating multidomain carriers. One method that has been claimed overcome both these problems is Shaw method. Here we detail evaluate method, comparing various selection criteria controlled experiment performed on large, non-ideal dataset mainly Precambrian Monte Carlo analyses used determine an optimal set criteria; end result new, improved protocol lends itself very well automated Rapid 2G magnetometer system enabling experiments be carried out expeditiously with greater accuracy.