Advances in analytical techniques for isotopic dating and tracing of the refractory elements

The Pt-Os, Hf-W and Re-Os isotopes represent the three pivotal radiogenic isotopic systems as the refractory elements, which are indispensable and effective approaches for investigating deep Earth core-mantle material cycling, precisely constraining the timing of metallic ore deposits, and determining the ages and sources of organic-rich sediments (and oil and gas reservoirs). The existing analysis techniques still have shortcomings and are difficult to meet the requirements of high-precision analysis, i.e., it is an urgent need to develop new technologies to enhance the accuracy of measurement and the efficiency of analysis. This paper summarizes recent advances of our team on establishing and refining analytical techniques for isotopic systems of the refractory elements: (1) Establishment of a new high-precision Pt-Os analytical approach, i.e., the Sb-fire-assay Pt-Os isotope analysis that fundamentally differ from the traditional multi-Carius tube method; (2) Innovated two high-precision analysis techniques for W isotopes; (3) Optimization of Re-Os isotopic analysis in sulfides from metallic ore deposits, significantly enhancing the precision of metallogenic age determinations; (4) Refinement of accurate dating and genetic tracing techniques for organic-rich sediments (and oil and gas reservoirs) and achieving age precision at the current international forefront. The paper further outlines prospects for future advancements in Pt-Os, Hf-W and Re-Os isotope analytical techniques.