Measurement of the magnetization

Rocks as well as terracotta magnetize each other, thereby fossilizing the direction and the local standards of the Earth's magnetic field. By studying the magnetization of the rocks, it is possible, for example, to reconstruct the position of continents during geological time, to reveal some aspects of local tectonics to understand the functioning of the Earth's magnetic field in the past or date the magnetized objects. The magnetization of terracotta is also a tool for dating archaeological material.

Main equipment:

• A 2G Cryogenic Magnetometer (4°K without liquid helium) with an in-line alternating field demagnetization system, all placed in a nonmagnetic chamber
• A JR-6 Spinner Magnetometer
• A Molspin Spinner Magnetometer
• Non-magnetic ovens (Pyros and MMTD) and alternating field demagnetization system (Schonstedt)
• A KLY3 AGICO Susceptibilimeter for measuring the anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS) with a micro-oven to determine the Curie temperatures
• ASC Impulse Magnetometer
• Pumping system for heating vacuum-packed samples
• Sample Preparation Room (Saw, vertical corer)
• Field equipment (electric drills and thermal drills, sample orientation system)

• Geosciences staff :
  • Annick Chauvin,
  • Philippe Cullerier,
  • Guillaume Dupont-Nivet,
  • Bruno Kergosien,
  • Pierrick Roperch
• Associated staff :
  • Philippe Dufresne (IRAMAT, CRPAA),
  • Philippe Lanos (IRAMAT, CRPAA)