Extending the Limit of Measurement for Dual H and O Isotope Ratios Using Thermolysis.

Hydrogen and oxygen isotope ratios are of use to determine the origin of matter. Thermolysis is used to convert matter to H and CO gases, which are the respective substrates for measurement of these two isotope ratios, using isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS). This work was done in response to the need for analysis of small invasive insects, requiring a decrease in the limit of measurement for isotope ratiometry of hydrogen and oxygen, while determining both isotope ratios on the same sample.