An evaluation of the heat balance method for direct transpiration measurement

Abstract

The measurement of sap flow has been sought after for many years. Various methods have been devised to accomplish this task, one of which is the heat balance method. This method is non-invasive and accurate, but its simplifying assumptions were questionable and needed to be critically examined. This study evaluated the heat balance method and sap flow gauges. The method yielded satisfactory results when compared to the calibration system. The satisfactory results were over a limited range, which exemplified the necessity for the gauges to be calibrated. The heat balance method's simplified heat transfer analysis does not reflect the complexity of the physical situation. Sap flow gauge improvements were suggested.