Facilities & Instrumentation

About Our Facility

Since 1986, SIRFER has operated as a premier open-access facility providing stable isotope ratio analyses. Our state-of-the-art laboratory is equipped with multiple isotope ratio mass spectrometers and infrared spectrometers capable of providing both bulk and trace gas analyses.

We are committed to providing high-quality sample preparation and analysis using the latest technology, performed by expert research staff.

SIRFER laboratory facility

New Facility - Sutton Building

After 3 decades in the Skaggs Biology Building, SIRFER has moved to a new state-of-the-art facility in the Frederick Albert Sutton Building!

Location

Fredrick Albert Sutton Building, Room 155
115 S 1460 E
Salt Lake City, Utah 84112

Space

Over 3,000 square feet of laboratory and office space on the first floor

Features

Fully modern laboratory and office facilities designed for advanced isotope analysis

Core Instrumentation

Continuous Flow Isotope Ratio MS

High-precision measurement of H, O, C, N, and S isotopes in various sample types using continuous flow interfaces. Ideal for liquid water, gas, and combustion analyses.

  • Multiple IRMS systems for redundancy and high throughput
  • Automated sample introduction systems
  • Real-time data processing and quality control

Isotope Ratio Infrared Spectrometry (IRIS)

High-precision measurement of H and O isotope ratios in water using infrared absorption spectroscopy. Excellent for large sample volumes and non-destructive analysis.

  • Rapid sample analysis (minutes per sample)
  • Minimal sample preparation
  • Perfect for large research programs and monitoring networks

Laboratory Capabilities

Analysis Types

  • ✓ Bulk isotope ratios
  • ✓ Trace gas isotopes
  • ✓ Compound-specific isotopes
  • ✓ Multi-element analysis

Sample Processing

  • ✓ Grinding and preparation
  • ✓ USDA-approved handling
  • ✓ Quality assurance standards
  • ✓ Expert technician staff