SR-XFA as a method of choice in the search of signals of changing palaeoclimates in the sediments of Lake Baikal, compared to INAA and ICP-MS

Sediments of Lake Baikal obtained on top of the underwater Akademichesky Ridge for reconstruction of the palaeoclimates of Holocene and Upper Pleistocene were subjected to elemental analysis with three methods: (i) synchrotron radiation X-ray fluorescent analysis (SR-XFA); (ii) instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA); (iii) induction-coupled plasma mass-spectrometry (ICP-MS). Comparison of the results obtained is accompanied by statistical tests and shows that, due to its high sensitivity, simplicity, and non-destructive nature, SR-XFA can be recommended as a method of choice in the search of geochemical signals of changing palaeoclimates.