Rhizobox Top Piece for Gas Exchange Measurements & Isotope Labeling
Rhizobox and Rhizotron Gas Flux Chambers
Rhizobox Gas Flux & Labelling Chambers. Measuring CO2, O2, H2 or NH4 gas exchange in rhizoboxes is important to determine plant vigor, photosynthetic performance and ecosystem C and GHG fluxes, Nitrogen fixation. We thus build respiration chambers which can be tightly placed on top of rhizoboxes, allowing for convenient measurements of gas fluxes by attaching instruments of choice, e.g. Qubit gas analyser (IRGA) or Picarro for CO2 (isotopic) measurements. Isotopes in general are versatile research tools. The VSI top-up chambers for any type of root boxes (Rhizoboxes, RhizonBoxes, mobile Rhizotrons) can thus be used as pulse isotope labelling chambers to study a range of plant and soil functions such as exudation, water use efficiency, N fixation or transfer of labelled C assimilates to roots and their symbionts.
Sleeves (black, in Fig. above) fit tightly over the boxes, the plexiglass sealing the chambers against the PMMA edge. Additional gaskets and clamps to the (rhizobox) spacers can be fitted to connect the chambers (optional). Two (or custom numbers of) gas connectors (user defined) can be used as inlets and outlets for gas flow, either for labelling, for connecting a gas analyser for open or closed chamber approach, or for chamber air circulation with external pumps. For large top pieces, we foresee an additional fan inside the chamber to ensure enhanced air mixing. Environmental parameters within chambers, particular temperature, humidity etc. can be monitored or controlled, as recommended for "regular" plant respiration chambers. We thus foresee the required openings for inserting sensor cables and/or places to connect sensor at the inside. The chambers are fully compatible with our Gas Analysers, Gas Multiplex Systems and Gas Control Systems. We build custom rhizobox and rhizotron respiration and labelling chambers - get in contact and/or select via the Rhizobox Configuration Form (pdf).
Rhizobox / Rhizotron Gas Flux Chamber - Features
- Extend the versatility of your rhizobox / rhizotron system with gas flow measurements
- PMMA with high PAR transmittance
- Conduct pulse isotope labelling campaigns in rhizoboxes
- Customised dimensions and connections - fitting your rhizobox designs, plant height, sensor needs
- Seamless integration with available gas switching and analyser systems
Options:
- Large selection of fitting gas analysers and multiplexing systems available
- Gas Control System, for long term measurements, labelling campaigns and to keep them attached to the box body (preventing potential contamination via air)
The Rhizobox / Rhizotron Respiration and Labelling Chambers are designed for use with our "Rootbox" Observation Systems.
For measurement of both CO2 and O2 in the rhizobox / rhizotron respiration chambers, consider the Q-S159 CO2 and O2 Combi. Stand-alone analysers and research packages are available for the measurement of CO2 (0-2000 ppm), O2 in the gas phase, methane, nitrogen fixation (via H2), etc.
For operating multiple chambers in parallel, i.e. 4 to 8 gas channels in open or stop flow modes, gas switching systems are available. For longer placement of the chambers, e.g. for isotope labelling, the use of a Gas Control System is required.
Consider larger, custom respiration chambers for plant experiments using pots, mesocosm and conducting gas-flux measurements in situ.