High-resolution accelerator-based mass spectrometry: precision, accuracy and background.

Radiocarbon accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) is a high-sensitivity analysis technique which is nowadays widely used in many research fields such as archaeology, geology, environmental and earth sciences. We report on the features of the new high throughput accelerator mass spectrometer at the University of Lecce, Italy. The experimental apparatus is described and its general characteristics are reported in terms of measurement precision, accuracy and achievable background.