Who can submit samples?

The National Laboratory for Age Determination is dating samples for research and public institutions, as well as private customers.

What can be dated?

Generally, all materials younger than 50 000 years containing carbon can be dated by radiocarbon. However, the radiocarbon measurement does not result in accurate dates for all sample types. Typical sample materials, which usually gives good results, are wood, charcoal, bones, antlers, food residues, paper, leather, textiles, and carbonates such as shells or stalagmites. We have refined cleaning methods for samples that were subjected to conservation agents and other contaminants that are difficult to remove. If your sample does not fit any of the mentioned types or you expect unusual contamination, contact us so that we can give you advice whether radiocarbon dating is feasible.

How can I order radiocarbon dating?

1. Check that you have suitable material for testing. When in doubt, contact us for clarification.
2. Fill the submission form.
3. Contact us to announce the coming samples and send the submission form.
4. Pack sample material and send it.

How much does the dating cost?

Prices for radiocarbon dating for 2025-2026. These prices apply to samples received by our laboratory from 1 April 2025 onwards. Prices will be revised at the end of 2026, and new prices will apply to samples received by our laboratory from 1 April 2027 onwards. All prices are exclusive of VAT.

Regular price: NOK 4100 per sample (charcoal, wood, charred and uncharred seeds, grains and plant remains, shells, corals, foraminifera and other carbonate samples, hair, wool, and textiles).

Additional charges for samples requiring more extensive preparation:

Cremated bones, soil, and sediments with low carbon content (less than 3% C): NOK 500 extra, giving a total price of NOK 4600 per sample.

Bone, tooth, antler, horn, hide, skin, leather, and food crusts from pottery: NOK 1000 extra per sample. This includes up to three isotope measurements per sample (δ¹³C and δ¹⁵N).

We also offer fast-track service (approximately 3 weeks) for NOK 5500 per sample and express dating (1-2 weeks processing time) for NOK 7000 per sample. It is also possible to obtain even faster dating (5-8 days) for samples that do not require complicated preparation procedures, subject to laboratory capacity. Please contact us before sending such samples.

Species identification

For an additional NOK 630 per sample, we offer species identification:

Charcoal: microscopic identification of wood species and selection of short-lived species from samples containing multiple charcoal fragments.

Wood: microscopic identification of wood species.

Fibres, textiles and leather: microscopic identification of animal or plant species (e.g. distinguishing cotton, flax, wool, silk, or synthetic fibres in textiles).

Bone, tooth and hide/skin: species identification by protein analysis (ZooMS).

What is included in a dating?

The dating is summarized in a report containing result, description, interpretation and calibration. We are also available for advice, assistance in interpretation of results and general issues related to dating and sampling.

How long does it take to obtain a dating result?

The laboratory processes orders as quickly as possible. However, you should generally expect 6-12 weeks before the result is issued. Processing time depends on factors such as the number of samples awaiting analysis and the type of material submitted. Once your sample has been

received, we will provide an estimated processing time, which should not be regarded as a fixed deadline. Please contact us if you have a specific deadline. See above for information about our fast-track and express services.