Abstract
Abstract Among the most significant challenges in maximizing the precision and accuracy of U-Pb zircon geochronology by LA-ICP-MS is minimizing the impact of downhole fractionation, the time-dependent evolution of Pb/U ratios caused mainly by complex differences in the volatility and chemical properties of elements as they are excavated from the ablation site. To produce meaningful dates for unknown materials, downhole fractionation is typically quantified in a reference zircon and a time-based correction factor subsequently employed to yield constant Pb/U in both standard and unknown zircons. This assumes that both the reference and unknown zircon exhibit similar downhole behaviour. As a test of this assumption, downhole fractionation trends were characterized and quantified in three common zircon reference materials (Plesovice, 337 Ma; Temora-2, 417 Ma; 91500; 1065 Ma) and in three low-U (
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