The Measurement of CO2Content with the AutoAnalyzer. A Comparison with 3 Standard Methods and a Description of a New Method (Alkalinization) for Preventing Loss of CO2from Open Cups

Abstract

The AutoAnalyzer method for the measurement of CO2 content was compared with the microgasometer assay, the Astrup assay and CO2 content calculated from directly measured pH and Pco2. No significant differences were found when CO2 loss was prevented. The addition of 1 drop (0.035 ml.) of 1 N ammonium hydroxide to 1 ml of plasma prevented significant loss of CO2 from plasma or serum in open Auto-Analyzer cups.