Automated measurement of the concentration and13C enrichment of carbon dioxide in breath and blood samples using the finnigan MAT breath gas analysis system

The operation and performance of the Finnigan MAT automated Breath Gas Analysis System for the routine analysis of 13C breath tests taken in 20-ml Vacutainers is described. Up to four samples per hour can be analysed with a standard deviation of delta 13C of less than 0.05% being achieved over the range 10-50 mumol CO2. The equipment can also be used for the automatic measurement of the concentration and 13C enrichment of CO2 derived from carbonate or bicarbonate solutions, including blood and other physiological fluids.