Luminescence Dating: Applications in Earth Sciences and Archaeology

Abstract

Over the last 60 years, luminescence dating has developed into a robust chronometer for applications in earth sciences and archaeology. The technique is particularly useful for dating materials ranging in age from a few decades to around 100,000-150,000 years. In this chapter, following a brief outline of the historical development of the dating method, basic principles behind the technique are discussed. This is followed by a look at measurement equipment that is employed in determining age and its operation. Luminescence properties of minerals used in dating are then examined after which procedures used in age calculation are looked at. Sample collection methods are also reviewed, as well as types of materials that can be dated. Continuing reinements in both methodology and equipment promise to yield luminescence chronologies with improved accuracy and extended dating range in the future and these are briely discussed.

Luminescence dating of archaeometallurgical slag from Buriram Province, northeastern Thailand

“…Theoretically, luminescence dating can date various types of minerals, such as calcite, feldspar, quartz, etc. However, in practice, quartz is the most common mineral that is utilized [19][20][21]. In this study, all the slag samples were checked for their mineral composition using XRD analysis before dating.…”

Remote sensing and luminescence dating of archaeological sites in Buriram province, northeastern Thailand

“…Luminescence dating is a method of determining the age of archaeological, geological, and environmental materials through the measurement of the amount of light emitted when a sample is stimulated. The method is based on the fact that luminescence minerals, such as quartz and feldspar (Munyikwa, 2016), contain trace amounts of radioactivity that emit ionizing radiation, which can cause the accumulation of trapped electrons or "electron holes" in the crystal lattice of the mineral. When these minerals are exposed to sunlight or heat, the trapped electrons are released and the minerals emit light, known as luminescence.…”

“…TL dating was used to date a wide range of archaeological materials, including ceramics, pottery, and burnt material. In the 1990s, the development of OSL dating further expanded the application of luminescence dating that can use the light in stimulation (Munyikwa, 2016). OSL dating can be used to directly date unheated sediments, which was not possible with TL dating, and this creates new opportunities for further research.…”

“…Theoretically, luminescence dating can date various types of minerals, such as calcite, feldspar, quartz, etc. However, in practice, quartz is the most common mineral that is utilized (Guedes et al, 2013;Liritzis et al, 2013;Munyikwa, 2016). In this study, all the slag samples were checked for their mineral composition using XRD analysis before dating.…”