Assessing the datability of young sediments by IRSL using an intrinsic laboratory protocol

A series of young sediment samples, for which most of the IRSL dates are in complete disagreement with available stratigraphic information, are used to develop a laboratory protocol based only on luminescence measurements to assess their datability. A parameter R-I is introduced, defined as the increase of luminescence upon added dose for individual grains. The statistical distribution of this parameter for a sediment is shown to be an indicator of homogeneity of bleaching at time of deposition. A second set of measurements is performed on the same group of grains in which the luminescence is monitored over a limited period of time. This is in order to assess luminescence stability and, hence, fading. This protocol should be used for acceptance or rejection of samples in the course of a luminescence dating program. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Ltd.