Details of Award

NERC Reference : NER/A/S/2001/01037

Radiocarbon calibration and palaeoclimate during oxygen isotope stage 3: testing hypotheses of abrupt change using New Zealand kauri (agathis australi

Principal Investigator:: Professor M Baillie, Queen's University of Belfast, Geography Archaeology and Palaeoecology
Co-Investigator:: Dr J Palmer, Queen's University of Belfast, Sch of Natural and Built Environment
Co-Investigator:: Dr F McCormac, Queen's University of Belfast, Sch of Natural and Built Environment
Grant held at:: Queen's University of Belfast, Geography Archaeology and Palaeoecology

Abstract:: It is well known that radiocarbon years do not directly equate to calendar/sidereal time. However, no calibration curve beyond 25,000 cal. B.P. (before present) has been generated that can unambiguously be attributed to changes in atmospheric radiocarbon content. Moreover, recent results from a U-series dated speleothem in Bahamas has suggested previously unidentified massive changes in the radiocarbon inventory of the atmosphere during Oxygen Isotope Stage 3. Here we propose to undertake a systematic dendrochronological and radiocarbon programme in New Zealand that will significantly contribute towards resolving the above issues, using climatically sensitive kauri (Agathis australis) that is capable of achieving both an immense size (greater than 4m diameter) and age (greater than 2,000 years) and from which we now have samples within the period 40-30,000 14C B.P.

Authorised funds only

This grant award has a total value of £94,764

Total - Staff	Total - T&S	Total - Other Costs	Total - Equipment	Total - Indirect Costs
£27,928	£18,363	£31,525	£4,100	£12,847

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