Infrastructure
The KPA supports and uses the already strong infrastructure at the University of Cologne, such as the globally unique platform for geochronology. Selected examples are listed:
CologneAMS is the center for Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS) at the University of Cologne.
An electrostatic tandem accelerator with a maximum voltage of 6 MV and various detectors for ion analysis has been in routine operation at the Institute of Nuclear Physics since the end of 2011.
At the end of 2011, routine operation was initially started for 14C. In 2012, 10Be und 26Al were added to the standard measurement program. In the meantime, Cl and Pu measurements are also routinely performed.
CologneAMS is not only available to scientists at the University of Cologne, but also to external users. Funding for the center was provided by both the DFG and the University of Cologne. Additional funding for the extension and expansion of the facility was provided by the German Geoscience Center Potsdam (GFZ) under a cooperation agreement.
Inductively coupled multicollector plasma mass spectrometry (MC-ICP-MS) offers the unique possibility to perform precise isotope ratio measurements for a wide range of elements.
The Geochemistry/Cosmochemistry group previously had two ThermoFisher Neptune MC-ICP-MS systems equipped with autosamplers and various sample delivery systems. The latest large-scale device, which replaces one of the long-standing systems, has been under construction since November 2023. This has an additional collosion chamber and therefore offers more options. More details here.
Isotope variations in nature result from radiogenic ingrowth, the mass-dependent fractionation of stable isotopes. In meteorite samples in particular, isotope variations also result from irradiation processes or residues of nucleosynthesis. The investigation of the isotopic composition of elements in geological and cosmochemical materials makes it possible to gain new insights, e.g. into the formation of the solar system and its planets, geodynamic processes on Earth, environmental changes and the temporal sequence of geological events.
There are many other measuring instruments for analysing hard rocks, gases and liquids - see the facilities of the Institute of Geology and Mineralogy - as well as a clean laboratory (see below) where the samples are prepared.
Sample preparation and in particular the chemical extraction of elements for isotope analyses is carried out in our clean lab facilities equipped with laminar flow work stations, distils, hotplates, balances etc. in five lab compartments. - see Facilities of Institute for Geology and Mineralogy.
As a central institution, the Computer Center RRZK offers comprehensive IT services to members of the University of Cologne. For example, we provide you with a staff or student account that you can use for numerous services at the university. Central services such as WLAN, e-mail or VPN are directly managed by us. We will be happy to support you by e-mail, telephone or in person at our offices in Weyertal 121.
Since 2012, the core-renovated building offers premises for all employees of the RRZK. About 100 people work here in 7 departments (student and research assistants, employees in technology and administration as well as science).
Since August 2022, the meteorological measuring station at the University of Cologne exists on the grounds of the UniSport to measure relevant weather, climate and environmental parameters.
Jülich Observatory for Cloud Evolution (JOYCE)
operates ground-based active and passive remote sensing instruments for cloud and precipitation observations.
Central goals of JOYCE are:
- High-resolution and state-of-the-art cloud and precipitation observations using instrument synergy
- Standardized and documented operation procedures for cloud and precipitation research
- Centralized access for external users to instruments, operation and observation platforms
- Easy and open access to database and observations of all instruments