Best Practices: Measuring CO2, Humidity and Temperature in Life Science Incubators

 Best Practices: Measuring CO2, Humidity and Temperature in Life Science Incubators

by Jacalyn Whitney, Application Sales Engineer, Vaisala

Life science innovation depends on accurate incubator environment measurements. From the success of experiments to the viability of biological samples, incubators demand specific environmental conditions to facilitate optimal cell and microorganism growth and development — and viable outcomes.

Life science incubators provide carbon dioxide control in a humidified atmosphere with a constant temperature to maintain the most favorable environment for cell growth. Even the slightest fluctuations in CO2, humidity and temperature can significantly impact sample viability and experimental results. Consequently, incubators must remain sealed properly to prevent outside contaminants from affecting the samples. And accurate incubator measurements can help ensure the success of your experiments, increase the reproducibility of your results, and promote the safety of researchers and staff.

In this article, let’s explore critical life science incubator measurement parameters, the importance of correctly installed, high-quality measurement solutions and what to look for when determining the right solution.

What is Measured in Laboratory Incubators?

Utilized across various life sciences applications, including cell culture, microbiology and molecular biology, laboratory incubators enable biological samples to grow and develop under specific conditions. The key parameters typically measured in laboratory incubators include temperature, humidity, and CO2 concentration, but pressure and oxygen also play a part.

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