Inter-laboratory test for gas concentration measurements of the R3C network calorimetric chambers

摘要

Four sites (Clermont Ferrand, Paris, Rennes, and Tours) involved in the R3C (Reseau de Competence en Chambre Calorimetrique) network own a setup to determine energy expenditure (EE) by indirect calorimetry. EE is computed from the measurements of theO_2 and CO_2 concentration changes in the calorimetric chamber (CC) during the stay of a volunteer or an animal (depending on the site). Because we want reliable measured values, the gas analysers have to be calibrated with standard gases. But the precision we need for these gases is not available in the gas trade. Thus each site has built its own standard gas and controls it with its previous standard. Then the values of the standard gases may drift step by step for each site. Moreover such a drift could impact on EE calculation.