History of luminescence dating from an instrumentation perspective

Bibliographic Data

ID24088705
AuthorsOlav B Lian (0000-0002-2810-6806, University of the Fraser Valley, corresponding author), Nigel A Spooner (0000-0002-8534-3816, The University of Adelaide), I K Bailiff (0000-0001-8932-181X, Durham University), Ian Bailiff (Durham University), B W SMITH (0000-0003-1451-7660, The University of Adelaide), Kristina J Thomsen (0000-0002-4883-1220, Danish Technical University), D I Godfrey-Smith (Defence Research and Development Canada)
Year2026
Pages1-18
Publication date2026-02-11
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueQuaternary Research (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0033-5894 • E-ISSN: 1096-0287
PublisherCambridge University Press (CUP) (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1017/qua.2025.10068
OpenAlexW7128485237
LanguageEN
References cited101

Luminescence dating has developed over the last ∼60 years as a powerful technique for placing environmental and anthropogenic change into a secure temporal framework. However, over time, many have forgotten, or were never introduced to, the history of how of the method developed, particularly the role of unique instruments built in-house that enabled key methodological advances. In this paper we provide a concise history of the technique’s evolution, drawing on our own experiences.

Instrumentation (computer programming) · Key (lock) · Perspective (graphical) · Thermoluminescence dating · Conservation Techniques and Studies · Cultural Heritage Materials Analysis · Geology and Paleoclimatology Research