diff --git a/openqdc/datasets/base.py b/openqdc/datasets/base.py
index fcf9d95..026bfd7 100644
--- a/openqdc/datasets/base.py
+++ b/openqdc/datasets/base.py
@@ -250,7 +250,7 @@ def force_unit(self):
         units = self.__forces_unit__.split("/")
         if len(units) > 2:
             units = ["/".join(units[:2]), units[-1]]
-        return ForceTypeConversion(*units)
+        return ForceTypeConversion(tuple(units))  # < 3.12 compatibility
 
     @property
     def root(self):