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Natural Environment Research Council
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Details of Award

NERC Reference : NER/B/S/2000/00105

The human colonisation of Australia: Breaking the 40 ka BP radiocrbon barrier.

Grant Award

Principal Investigator:
Professor C Turney, Royal Holloway, Univ of London, Geography
Science Area:
Earth
Overall Classification:
Earth
ENRIs:
Global Change
Science Topics:
Science-Based Archaeology
Quaternary Science
Abstract:
Chronologies based largely on optical dating favour the arrival of humans in Australia at 50-60ka or earlier. However, conventional radiocarbon chronologies suggest arrival ~40ka BP, in agreement with the movement of modern hominids 'out of Africa'. A newly developed acid-base-wet oxidation pretreatment with stepped combustion (ABOX-SC) system has been developed, with backgrounds of 60ka BP. Such a system has enormous potential for U.K. archaeological and environmental scientists working at the conventional limit of radiocarbon dating. It is proposed to build an ultra-clean 14C line in the U.K. (the first of its kind in the northern hemisphere), to undertake systematic measurements of 14C, in combination with alternative dating techniques, to develop a comprehensive test of the timing of colonisation and distribution of modern hominids in Australia.
Period of Award:
14 Dec 2000 - 13 Sep 2001
Value:
£35,268
Authorised funds only
NERC Reference:
NER/B/S/2000/00105
Grant Stage:
Completed
Scheme:
Small Grants Pre FEC
Grant Status:
Closed
Programme:
Small Grants

This grant award has a total value of £35,268  

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FDAB - Financial Details (Award breakdown by headings)

Total - T&STotal - Other CostsTotal - Equipment
£4,684£2,752£27,831

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