Based on the experiments of ESR dating for more than 100 samples

the feasibilities of ESR dating using different centres of quartz in sediments at room temperature are discussed. Reliable ESR ages of sediments within several handred thousands years can be obtained from Ge centres of quartz

while the ESR ages of older sediments （more than 5×105a）can be obtained from E’ centres of quartz in some geological conditions （marine sediments or loess） by using a higher microwave power. OHC centres can not be used for ESR dating

but it can judge whether quartz samples are from the same origin .