Container used to determine the amount of CO2 absorbed and / or emitted by a material sample over time.

Abstract

The present invention relates to a container (1) for determining the amount of CO2 absorbed and / or released by a sample of substance over time, comprising: - a bottom compartment (2) designed to receive a sample of substance (M); - a top compartment (3) receiving a component (C) for capturing CO2, the top compartment being linearly positioned with respect to and communicating with the bottom compartment (2) and having an exhaust opening (31) that allows gas to escape from the top compartment (3) after passing through the component (C) for capturing CO2; - a separation component (4) disposed between the bottom compartment (2) and the top compartment (3) and configured to allow gas to be transferred from the bottom compartment (2) to the top compartment (3).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a container for determining the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) absorbed and / or released by a sample of matter over time, wherein the sample of matter is in particular an organic substance containing leavening agents such as yeast and / or leavening agents and / or baking powder, such as dough containing baking yeast.

[0002] The present invention also relates to an apparatus including this container for determining the amount of CO2 absorbed and / or emitted by a material sample over time.

[0003] The present invention also relates to a method for determining the amount of CO2 absorbed and / or emitted by a material sample over time. Background Technology

[0004] For example, the primary function of leavening agents such as yeast and / or leavening agents and / or baking powders is to rise dough. To this end, it produces CO2, which rapidly saturates the liquid phase of the dough-like matrix and, at the end of kneading, transforms into a gas phase within the many cores present in the dough, thus causing the dough to expand and producing numerous small pores in the final product, like breadcrumbs. This expansion is made possible solely by the dough's ability to retain gas, particularly by wheat flour-based dough.

[0005] The expansion of dough can be easily observed. This expansion can be assessed macroscopically by placing a given mass of dough in a test piece and regularly measuring the height of the dough within the test piece. This measurement is not extremely precise and is subject to other phenomena due to its macroscopic characteristics, such as the rheological properties of the dough. For example, dough of the same volume may have different dough heights ("flat" or "rounded" expansion), and air pockets may be present between the dough and the test piece, which can lead to measurement errors.

[0006] For a long time, instruments have existed for measuring the total CO2 production of yeast in dough. The principle is as follows: a piece of dough of known mass is placed in an airtight container; subsequently, as the yeast produces CO2, this creates overpressure in the container. This overpressure is primarily due to the increase in the volume of the dough, thus compressing the top layer of gas in the container, and secondarily because the dough expels CO2 from the top layer of gas, thus increasing the number of CO2 molecules present therein. This overpressure can be quantified by the displacement of the liquid corresponding to a direct volume measurement, and / or by using pressure sensors in some known measuring instruments, such as those sold under the names Risograph® or Rhéofermentomètre®. The main advantage of these instruments is that they provide a kinetic visual representation of the phenomenon of CO2 production by the dough over time.

[0007] However, measuring the total CO2 produced by dough does not distinguish between the portion retained by the dough (causing dough expansion) and the portion lost to the atmosphere. Therefore, it provides information precisely about the yeast's fermentation activity, rather than the proportion of CO2 retained in the dough. However, many factors related to both bread-making recipes (starting with the quality of the flour) and processes (e.g., frozen uncooked ingredients) greatly modulate this gas retention / escape. A precise view of the kinetics of gas retention / escape, aside from rheological aspects, is therefore necessary to decouple the effects related to yeast fermentation activity from the properties of the dough matrix.

[0008] The Rhéofermentomètre® mentioned above attempts to provide a technical solution to this problem. This solution involves simultaneously measuring the pressure change in the top layer of the gas in a container containing dough via a direct channel and via a channel passing through a CO2 trap, including, for example, soda lime. The direct channel is used to obtain the total CO2 production of the dough, while the channel passing through the trap is used to measure only the overpressure caused solely by the expansion of the dough (which actually causes compression of the top layer of the gas in the container). In this apparatus, the CO2 trap is connected to the container containing the dough via a conduit and is therefore separated from the container and thus from the top layer of the gas in the container containing the dough sample.

[0009] The curve shown in Figure 1A illustrates an estimate of how the CO2 release rate from the dough sample changes over time in this type of device.

[0010] However, this technical solution is less than satisfactory because it takes into account the changes in CO2 retention / emission of the dough over time. This is because, according to the inventors' findings and as can be seen from the curves in Figure 1B, if the flour-based dough is replaced by a reference system containing yeast but unable to retain CO2, such as a beaker containing water, sugar, and yeast, the curve representing the CO2 retention of the reference system, obtained by pressure measurements via a channel with a CO2 trap, should remain near zero (because water does not expand when sugar is converted into CO2 by yeast), will actually superimpose for a short period of time on the curve representing the increase in total pressure in the container, obtained by pressure measurements via a direct channel. If the system (the beaker containing the fermented sugar solution) retains CO2 for more than an hour, anything can happen, but in reality, it will not exceed one hour. This apparatus therefore cannot provide complete information, at least in an absolute manner, about the occurrence of CO2 leakage in the dough, and therefore cannot be used to accurately meet the goal of monitoring the kinetics of CO2 retention / emission in dough, and more generally in material samples, and especially in yeast-containing organic matter, during fermentation time.

[0011] A method is also known from FR2528175, published in 1983, which makes it possible to measure the rheological quality of fermented dough and predict its performance during the thermal shock of baking. This method also makes it possible to assess the dough's performance during gaseous aeration, as well as the effects of additives and improvers prior to baking.

[0012] The apparatus for implementing the method includes: - A thermostatically controlled container for holding dough and a mass block, and a component for measuring and recording the movement of the mass block attached to the dough during dough rise. - A component for simultaneously measuring and recording the rate of gas release during dough fermentation and the rate of gas removal after carbon dioxide has been removed.

[0013] These measuring components include a nozzle located on the lid of the vessel, which is connected via a conduit to the inlet of a motor-controlled four-way control valve. One of the outlet passages of the control valve is connected via a first conduit to a pressure sensor of a control recorder. Another passage is connected via a conduit to the sensor, including a CO2 trap containing a potassium alkali absorbent slurry inserted into the conduit. As the control valve rotates, the nozzle's conduit is successively connected to a conduit directly connected to the pressure sensor, then to the atmosphere, then to a conduit indirectly connected to the pressure sensor via the CO2 trap, then back to direct connection to the sensor, and so on.

[0014] This device makes it possible to distinguish the moment when the dough proteins can no longer withstand the stress caused by fermentation and dough settling, thus releasing CO2, i.e., the moment when the two curves separate. The first curve represents the pressure change when the control valve is directly connected to the pressure sensor, and the second curve represents the pressure change when the control valve is only connected to the pressure sensor through the CO2 trap. The ratio on the vertical axis indicates the proportion of CO2 emitted (exhausted) by the dough.

[0015] Similar to Rhéofermentomètre®, FR2528175 is based on a CO2 trap positioned at a certain distance from the sealing shell containing dough, and on the assumption that the gas released from the dough has been absorbed by the CO2 trap, an assumption that is not very reliable in reality, as disclosed in the curve in Figure 1B made by the inventors.

[0016] Another technical approach exists that uses one or more CO2 sensors in the atmosphere (e.g., consisting of one or more infrared probes) to make it possible to deduce the kinetics of CO2 retention / escape from a material sample, particularly dough containing leavening agents such as yeast and / or leavening agents and / or baking powder. Its use is technically complex because the volume change of the gas top layer in the container containing the dough must be dynamically compensated for due to the expansion of the material sample. Comparing the total CO2 production in the container in parallel is tricky because the two pieces of information are fundamentally different (a pressure measurement to determine the total CO2 production of the dough in the container, and a measurement of the CO2 concentration in a variable-volume gas top layer to determine the amount of CO2 retained / escaped by the dough in the container). Several known appliances use this technique, such as those sold under the name Bluesens®.

[0017] A similar apparatus for measuring changes in the amount of gas released during fermentation, particularly dough fermentation, is described in GB 495 849, published in 1938. This apparatus comprises two airtight containers, one of which allows measurement of all gases produced by the first part of the dough, and the other measuring gases formed during fermentation but still retained by the dough. Each container is completely airtight and includes a fixed bottom portion and a bell-shaped top portion. The bell shape slides vertically relative to the bottom portion of the container in a sealed manner according to changes in internal pressure. A seal between the fixed and moving parts of the container is achieved by immersing the container in a heat-regulated oil bath circulated by a pump. Changes in volume at each container are measured indirectly and mechanically by a pulley and counterweight system.

[0018] Technical issues Therefore, the objective of this invention is to overcome the deficiencies of the prior art in determining the amount of CO2 retained / emitted over time by organic matter in a material sample, and in particular by a leavening agent containing, for example, yeast and / or fermenting agent and / or baking powder, making it possible to more reliably and simply determine the amount of CO2 retained / emitted over time by organic matter in a material sample, and in particular by a leavening agent containing, for example, yeast and / or fermenting agent and / or baking powder.

[0019] Another objective of the present invention is to make it possible to determine, at a reduced cost, the amount of CO2 retained / emitted over time by a sample of material, and in particular by organic matter containing leavening agents such as yeast and / or starter cultures and / or baking powders. Summary of the Invention

[0020] An apparatus is proposed for determining the amount of CO2 absorbed by an organic matter sample over time, the sample containing yeast and / or leavening agents and / or baking powder, particularly dough, the apparatus comprising: -Pressure measuring components, and - At least one container, comprising: --The bottom compartment is designed to receive material samples. --A top compartment receiving a component for capturing CO2, the top compartment being linearly positioned and communicating with the bottom compartment, and having an exhaust opening allowing gas to escape from the top compartment after passing through the CO2-capturing component. --A separation element, positioned between the bottom and top compartments, is configured to allow gas to pass from the bottom compartment to the top compartment. The pressure measuring member is connected to the vent opening of the top compartment of the container so as to determine the change in pressure over time in the bottom compartment that receives the material sample after gas from the bottom compartment has been passed into the top compartment of the container.

[0021] Optional features of the invention, obtained individually or in combination: The bottom compartment is at least partially, and preferably entirely, made of a transparent material, such as glass or thermoplastic, so that an observer can see the contents of the bottom compartment and, in particular, monitor the rise of the dough during fermentation. -The bottom compartment, top compartment, and separation components form a self-supporting assembly; - The separation component includes a screen with multiple openings, the screen being configured to allow gas to pass from the bottom compartment to the top compartment; - The component for capturing CO2 contains soda lime particles; - The quicklime particles are placed directly on the screen, and the openings of the screen are configured to prevent the quicklime particles from being transferred from the top compartment to the bottom compartment; - The container includes a top opening and a top compartment includes a bottom opening, the top opening of the container being aligned with the bottom opening of the top compartment, and the separating member being aligned with both the top opening of the container and the bottom opening of the top compartment; - The top compartment is fully positioned within the container, and in particular, a removable plug is positioned in the top opening of the container to make the container airtight; - The plug includes a perforation that is aligned with the exhaust opening of the top compartment so that gas from the top compartment can escape from the top compartment through the exhaust opening; - The separation component is located at the bottom opening of the top compartment; - The separating member is in particular removably fastened to the top compartment, optionally by means of a fastening member; -The bottom and top compartments are removably secured; - The container includes a substantially cylindrical outer wall, and the top compartment also includes a substantially cylindrical outer wall, the axis of the outer wall of the top compartment coinciding with the axis of the outer wall of the container; - The container also includes, in particular, a removable connecting member configured to allow the top compartment to be connected to a conduit, and in particular a flexible conduit, the connecting member being positioned at an exhaust opening of the top compartment and extending through the exhaust opening; - The connecting member is held in place relative to the top compartment through the vent opening of the top compartment, and the connecting member extends through the perforation of the plug and is held in place relative to the plug through the perforation; - The top compartment includes a top wall, and the exhaust opening is disposed in the top wall.

[0022] The present invention also relates to a method for determining the amount of CO2 absorbed over time by a sample of material comprising organic matter, said material sample containing yeast and / or leavening agents and / or baking powder, particularly dough, said method comprising: / a / provides an apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention; Place the material sample in the bottom compartment of the container. / c / After the gas from the bottom compartment is transferred to the top compartment of the container, the pressure change over time in the bottom compartment that receives the material sample is measured.

[0023] When this method is implemented, the pressure change is attributed to fermentation that produces CO2 retained by the sample (i.e., absorbed CO2), rather than to CO2 expelled from the sample, because the expelled CO2 is eliminated by the components in the top compartment used for CO2 capture.

[0024] Since the fermentation reaction only produces CO2 gas, the amount of CO2 absorbed can be determined by calculation by knowing the internal volume of the container, or even by increasing the internal volume of the flexible conduit connecting the exhaust port to the pressure measuring component.

[0025] This disclosure also relates to a method for determining the amount of CO2 emitted from an organic matter sample over time during a CO2-generating fermentation reaction, the matter sample containing yeast and / or leavening agents and / or baking powder, particularly dough, the method comprising simultaneously performing a first measurement and a second measurement on a first portion and a second portion of the sample having equal volumes, wherein the first measurement is configured to measure a pressure change solely due to the amount of gas absorbed, and the second measurement is configured to measure a pressure change due to both the amount of gas absorbed and the amount of gas emitted. And the first measurement includes: / a1 / Provides an apparatus according to the above description, the apparatus including a component for capturing CO2 received in the top compartment of the container; / b1 / Place the first portion of the material sample (M) in the bottom compartment of the container. / c1 / After the gas from the bottom compartment is transferred to the top compartment of the container, the pressure change over time in the bottom compartment of the first part receiving the material sample is measured. The CO2 emitted from the sample is used for CO2 capture and removal. And the second measurement includes: / a2 / Provide a second device according to the above description, which does not have a component for capturing CO2 received in the top compartment (3) of the container; / b2 / Place the second part of the material sample in the bottom compartment of the container. / c2 / After the gas from the bottom compartment is transferred to the top compartment (3) of the container, the pressure change over time in the bottom compartment of the second part that receives the material sample is measured without the need for components for capturing CO2. Furthermore, the amount of CO2 emitted by the sample is obtained from the difference between the second measurement and the first measurement. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Other features, details, and advantages of the invention will become apparent upon reading the detailed description below and analyzing the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1A [Figure 1A] shows a graph illustrating the change in CO2 release rate over time for a dough sample prepared using existing equipment.

[0027] Figure 1B [Figure 1B] shows a graph illustrating the change in CO2 release rate over time for a water + yeast + sugar sample prepared using existing equipment.

[0028] Figure 2A [ Figure 2A The graph shown illustrates the change in CO2 release rate over time for a dough sample prepared using the apparatus according to the invention.

[0029] Figure 2B [ Figure 2B The graph shown illustrates the change in CO2 release rate over time for a sample of water + yeast + sugar prepared using the apparatus according to the invention.

[0030] Figure 2C [ Figure 2C The graph shown illustrates the change over time in the total amount of CO2 released from a sample of water, yeast, and sugar prepared using the apparatus according to the invention.

[0031] Figure 2D [ Figure 2D The graph shows the change in the total amount of CO2 released over time from dough samples with or without ingredient A.

[0032] Figure 3 [ Figure 3 This diagram illustrates a container according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 4 [ Figure 4 This diagram illustrates a container according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 5 [ Figure 5 This diagram illustrates a container according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 6 [ Figure 6 This image shows a perspective view of the top compartment of a container according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 7A [ Figure 7A This image shows a perspective view of the bottom portion of the top compartment of a container according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 7B [ Figure 7B This image shows a perspective view of a sieve of a container according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 8 [ Figure 8 This image shows a perspective view of a connecting member of a container according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 9A [ Figure 9A This image shows a perspective view of the top compartment of a container according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 9B [ Figure 9B This image shows a perspective view of the top compartment of a container according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 10 [ Figure 10 This image shows a perspective view of an apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0042] The accompanying drawings and descriptions below essentially contain elements with well-defined properties. Therefore, they are not only useful for enhancing a better understanding of this disclosure, but also for helping to define it where applicable.

[0043] Throughout this application, the terms "top / bottom" and "lateral" regarding the position of certain elements of the container refer to the normal position in which the container according to the invention is used, wherein the top compartment is positioned above the bottom compartment in a substantially vertical direction in space.

[0044] This invention relates to a container 1 for determining the amount of CO2 absorbed and / or emitted by a substance sample M, comprising: - Bottom compartment 2, which is designed to receive material sample M, and in particular organic matter containing leavening agents such as yeast and / or leavening agents and / or baking powder, especially dough (i.e., a mixture of flour, water, salt, yeast, etc.). - A top compartment 3, which receives a component C for capturing CO2, is linearly positioned and communicates with the bottom compartment 2, and has an exhaust opening 31 that allows gas to escape from the top compartment 3 after passing through the component C for capturing CO2. - Separation component 4, which is disposed between bottom compartment 2 and top compartment 3, is configured to allow gas to be transferred from bottom compartment 2 to top compartment 3.

[0045] This container 1 advantageously makes it possible to position the component C for capturing CO2 as close as possible to the substance sample M. Therefore, all CO2 emitted from the substance sample M over time is captured by the CO2-capturing component C.

[0046] Because of this, by taking pressure measurements, for example, at the outlet of the top compartment 3 downstream of the exhaust opening 31, the measured pressure thus reflects only the CO2 retention / emission capacity of the substance sample M, and its changes advantageously reflect the CO2 retention / emission kinetics of the substance sample M, and as... Figure 2A The curves in (dough), 2B, and 2C (liquid water + yeast + sugar system) are more clearly visible on the graphs.

[0047] Furthermore, according to the inventors' findings, if a sample of a reference system containing yeast but unable to retain CO2, as described above, is placed in the bottom compartment 2 of container 1, for example, a beaker containing water, sugar, and yeast, then the curve representing the CO2 retention of the reference system, obtained by pressure measurement via the vent opening 31 of the top compartment 3 of container 1, stagnates near essentially zero. Figure 2B and 2C As can be seen on the curve in the graph, this is consistent with what happens in the bottom compartment 2, since water does not retain CO2, and is contrary to measurements made by prior art appliances and containers as explained above and seen on the curve in Figure 1B.

[0048] Therefore, all the CO2 emitted by the substance sample M, which is placed in the bottom compartment 2, and especially by the dough, is captured by the component C for capturing CO2, which is placed in the top compartment 3.

[0049] The container 1 according to the invention thus proves particularly advantageous for reliably determining the change over time in the amount of CO2 retained / released by a substance sample M, and especially organic matter containing leavening agents such as yeast and / or leavening agents and / or baking powders, particularly dough. Figures 2A to 2C The curves in the graph are visible.

[0050] Therefore, the effects of various parameters on the changes over time of CO2 retention / emission in a material sample M, particularly organic matter containing leavening agents such as yeast and / or leavening agents and / or baking powders, especially dough, can be determined with particular reliability. Figure 2D As can be seen from the graphs, the inventors were able to determine, by means of the container 1 according to the invention, that adding ingredient A to the dough composition does not affect the total CO2 production of the dough (the two solid curves are essentially superimposed), but does affect the amount of CO2 retained / released by the dough over time (the sample of dough containing ingredient A retained more CO2 over time than the sample of dough without ingredient A, as shown by the two dashed curves). This is impossible with prior art techniques and apparatus.

[0051] In addition, this container 1 has a particularly simple design, which reduces its cost.

[0052] The bottom compartment 2 can advantageously be produced at least partially, preferably entirely, from a transparent material such as glass or thermoplastic material, so that an observer can see the contents of the bottom compartment 2.

[0053] The top compartment 3 can advantageously be produced at least partially, preferably entirely, from a rigid material, such as a plastic or metal material, and in particular aluminum.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the bottom compartment 2, the top compartment 3, and the separation member 4 form a self-supporting assembly.

[0055] This advantageous arrangement facilitates the disposal, use, and manufacture of the container 1 according to the invention.

[0056] According to one embodiment, and as Figure 7B and 9B More specifically, the separating member 4 includes a screen 41 with a plurality of openings 42, the screen being configured to allow gas to pass from the bottom compartment 3 to the top compartment 2.

[0057] Separate component 4 therefore has a simple design and reduced cost.

[0058] The screen 41 can be made of metal, for example, and especially of stainless steel.

[0059] Advantageously, the opening 42 may have a width between 150 µm and 350 µm, preferably between 200 µm and 300 µm.

[0060] To facilitate access to the CO2 capture component C and optionally the separation component 4, the top compartment 3 can advantageously be made into two removable parts: a top portion 3S and a bottom portion 3I. Threads can advantageously be provided on the periphery of the top portion 3S and the periphery of the bottom portion 3I to allow for assembly / disassembly of the bottom portion 3I and the top portion 3S of the top compartment 3 by screwing / unscrewing.

[0061] According to one embodiment, and as Figures 3 to 5 More specifically, the component C used to capture CO2 contains soda lime particles C.

[0062] Soda lime granules are well-known components for capturing CO2. The main components of soda lime are generally calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH).

[0063] Soda lime granules are particularly effective at capturing CO2 because they react with CO2 to form water according to the following chemical reaction: H₂O + CO₂ = H₂O + + HCO3 NaOH + H₂CO₃ = NaHCO₃ + H₂O 2NaHCO3 + Ca(OH)2 2+ = 2NaOH + CaCO3 + H2O The advantage of using quicklime granules as component C for capturing CO2 is that once they are no longer able to react with CO2 to capture CO2, they can simply be replaced with new quicklime granules so that the container 1 according to the invention can be operated again.

[0064] The amount of quicklime granules C is adjusted according to the amount of CO2 to be captured and the available volume in the top compartment 3 of container 1.

[0065] According to one embodiment, and as Figures 3 to 5 More specifically, the soda lime particles C are placed directly on the screen 41, and the openings 42 in the screen 41 are configured to prevent the soda lime particles C from being transferred from the top compartment 3 to the bottom compartment 2.

[0066] This advantageously makes it possible to simplify the design of the container 1 according to the invention, since it is not necessary to provide additional components for ensuring that the soda lime particles C are kept in the top compartment 3.

[0067] According to one embodiment, and as Figures 3 to 5 More specifically as seen on 7A and 9B, the container includes a top opening 21 and a top compartment 3 includes a bottom opening 32.

[0068] The top opening 21 of the container can be advantageously aligned with the bottom opening 32 of the top compartment 3.

[0069] Advantageously, the separating component 4, and in particular the screen 41, can also be aligned with the top opening 21 of the container 1 and the bottom opening 32 of the top compartment 3.

[0070] Therefore, container 1 can have a reduced footprint and ensure optimal CO2 transfer from bottom compartment 2 to top compartment 3 through separation member 4.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the top compartment 3 is completely positioned within the container 1. Advantageously, and as... Figure 5 More specifically, a removable plug 5 can be positioned in the top opening 21 of the container to make the bottom compartment 2 airtight.

[0072] With the help of this advantageous arrangement of the invention, the airtightness of the container is ensured, so that all CO2 emitted by the material sample M over time will pass through the top compartment 3 and thus through the component C for capturing CO2.

[0073] Alternatively, and without departing from the scope of the invention, the airtightness of the bottom compartment 2 can be provided by the top compartment 3. Specifically, the top compartment 3 can be configured to close the top opening of the bottom compartment 2 when at least partially received therein. Similarly, sealing members fastened to the top compartment 3 can be provided, and in particular gaskets positioned on the periphery of the outer wall 35 of the top compartment 3.

[0074] Advantageously, plug 5 can be produced using elastomeric materials.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the plug 5 includes a perforation 51 that is linearly positioned with respect to the vent opening 31 of the top compartment 3 so that gas from the top compartment 3 can escape from it through the vent opening 31.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the separating member 4, and in particular the screen 41, is positioned at the bottom opening 32 of the top compartment 3.

[0077] This advantageously makes it possible to position the component C used for CO2 capture as close as possible to the bottom compartment 2, and thus to the material sample M.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the separating member 4, and in particular the screen 41, is designed to be removably fastened to the top compartment 3, optionally by means of a fastening member.

[0079] Specifically, when the separating member 4, and in particular the screen 41, is removably secured to the top compartment 3, this facilitates its removal, for example, for maintenance.

[0080] According to one embodiment, and as Figure 4 and 9B More specifically, the top compartment 3 includes a bottom wall 33, in which a bottom opening 32 is provided.

[0081] Advantageously, the screen 41 may have a width W41 that is greater than the width W32 of the bottom opening 32, so that it can be resting against the bottom wall 33 of the top compartment 3.

[0082] Therefore, the screen 41 can be advantageously held in place in the top compartment 3, while being "clamped" between the bottom wall 33 and the soda lime particles C.

[0083] Similarly, to further enhance the holding of the screen 41 in place within the top compartment, a removable elastic ring, having a width substantially equal to the width W41 of the screen 41, is provided. This ring is designed to be supported on the screen 41 while remaining fixed relative to the bottom wall 33 of the top compartment 3, so as to maintain its abutment against the bottom wall 33 of the top compartment 3, wherein the screen 41 is inserted between the elastic ring and the bottom wall 33.

[0084] According to one embodiment, the top compartment 3 includes a removable cover 34, which is designed to allow access to the interior of the top compartment 3 when removed.

[0085] The cover 34 can in particular form the top portion 3I of the top compartment 3 as described above.

[0086] The removable cover 34 thus facilitates access to the interior of the top compartment 3, and in particular to the component C for capturing CO2, especially for carrying out its maintenance, such as replacing the soda lime granules C.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the bottom compartment 2 and the top compartment 3 are designed to be fastened in a removable manner.

[0088] This advantageous arrangement of the invention facilitates maintenance of the container 1 according to the invention and facilitates access to the interior of the bottom compartment 2, particularly enabling the positioning or removal of material samples M therein. This simplifies the design of the container 1 according to the invention, as it eliminates the need to provide additional access openings to the interior of the bottom compartment 2.

[0089] According to one embodiment, container 1 includes a substantially cylindrical outer wall 22, and top compartment 3 also includes a substantially cylindrical outer wall 35 whose axis coincides with the axis of the outer wall 22 of bottom compartment 2.

[0090] The plug 5 can advantageously have a substantially truncated conical shape in order to provide airtightness of the container by conforming to the shape of the outer wall 22 of the container.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the container 1 further includes, in particular, a removable connecting member 6 configured to allow the top compartment 3 to be connected to a conduit, and in particular a flexible conduit, the connecting member 6 being positioned at an exhaust opening 31 of the top compartment 3 and extending through the exhaust opening 31.

[0092] like Figure 4 , 5 As seen in 8 and 9A, the connecting member 6 may, for example, have a substantially truncated conical shape to facilitate the connection and retention of catheters, particularly flexible catheters. One or more annular ribs may be provided on the periphery of the connecting member 6 to facilitate the retention of catheters, particularly flexible catheters, in place thereon.

[0093] The connecting member 6 may therefore have a perforation 61 extending between the bottom longitudinal end 62 and the top longitudinal end 63. The bottom longitudinal end 62 may advantageously be positioned inside the top compartment 3, while the top longitudinal end 63 may be positioned outside the top compartment 3.

[0094] In particular, a filter element 7 made of nylon, such as a porous membrane, can be fastened to the bottom longitudinal end 62 to filter gas passing through the perforation 61 and thus prevent dust from passing through the perforation 61, which would, for example, pose a risk of damaging the pressure measuring element located downstream.

[0095] This connecting member 6 features a simple design and reduced cost. In particular, it can be a standard commercially available connecting member.

[0096] According to one embodiment, the connecting member 6 is held in place relative to the top compartment 3 through the vent opening 31 of the top compartment 3, the connecting member 6 extending through the perforation 51 of the plug 5, in particular its perforation 61 being in line with the perforation 51 of the plug 5, and held in place relative to the plug 5 through the perforation 51.

[0097] With the help of this advantageous arrangement of the invention, the connection 6 can also fulfill the function of keeping the top compartment 3 in place relative to the bottom compartment 2 by providing force transmission between the top compartment 3 and the plug 5 which is held in place relative to the bottom compartment 2.

[0098] Alternatively, in order to ensure that the top compartment 3 is held in place relative to the container, within any fitting gap, the diameter D35 of the outer wall 35 of the top compartment 3 may be substantially equal to the diameter D22 of the outer wall 22 of the container, and thus the outer wall 22 at least partially rubs against the outer wall 35 of the top compartment 3.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the top compartment 3 includes a top wall 36, and an exhaust opening 31 is disposed in the top wall 36.

[0100] Advantageously, the top wall 36 can be formed in the top portion 3S of the top compartment 3 and / or in the cover 34.

[0101] The present invention also includes Figure 10 The above relates to an apparatus 10 for determining the amount of CO2 absorbed and / or released over time by a substance sample M, and particularly organic matter containing leavening agents such as yeast and / or leavening agents and / or baking powder, especially dough, said apparatus comprising: - Component 11 for measuring pressure, - At least one container 1 according to one of the embodiments of the present invention described above.

[0102] Advantageously, the pressure measuring component 11 can be designed to be connected to the vent opening 31 of the top compartment 3 of the container 1 so as to determine the change in pressure over time in the bottom compartment 2 receiving the material sample M after the gas from the bottom compartment 2 is transferred to the top compartment 3 of the container 1.

[0103] This apparatus 10 advantageously makes it possible to easily and reliably know the pressure change in the bottom compartment 2 of the container 1 due to the volume of CO2 released / retained by the substance sample M, and in particular to know the change over time in the amount of CO2 retained and / or released by the substance sample M, and in particular organic matter containing leavening agents such as yeast and / or leavening agents and / or baking powder, especially dough.

[0104] Advantageously, the appliance can be made with minimal adjustments using commercially available appliances, such as the appliance described above sold under the name Risograph®.

[0105] The apparatus 10 may advantageously include a plurality of containers 1 according to the invention in order to make simultaneous pressure measurements of the various containers 1 and simultaneously determine the pressure changes over time in the bottom compartments 2 of these containers 1, and in particular to know the changes over time in the amount of CO2 held and / or discharged by the plurality of material samples M.

[0106] The pressure measuring component 11 can be connected, in particular, to the vent opening 31 of the top compartment 3 of the container 1 by means of a conduit P and, advantageously, a flexible conduit, particularly via a plug 5 and / or a connecting component 6.

[0107] The pressure measuring component 11 may be, for example, a pressure sensor connected to the control unit.

[0108] All the arrangements described above relate to apparatus suitable for use with the device 10 according to the invention for determining the amount of CO2 absorbed and / or emitted by a substance sample M over time.

[0109] The present invention also relates to a method for determining the amount of CO2 absorbed (i.e. retained by the sample) over time by a substance sample M, and particularly organic matter containing leavening agents such as yeast and / or leavening agents and / or baking powder, especially dough, comprising: / a / Provides a container according to one of the embodiments of the invention described above; / b / Place the material sample M in the bottom compartment 2 of container 1. / c / After the gas from the bottom compartment 2 is transferred to the top compartment 3 of the container 1, the pressure change over time in the bottom compartment 2 that receives the material sample M is measured.

[0110] Advantageously, the method according to the invention can be implemented in the appliance 10 according to the embodiments of the invention as described above.

[0111] When this method is implemented, the pressure change is attributed to fermentation that produces CO2 retained by the sample (i.e., absorbed CO2), rather than to CO2 expelled from the sample, because the expelled CO2 is used for removal by the components that capture CO2.

[0112] Since the fermentation reaction produces only CO2 gas, the amount of CO2 absorbed (retained by the sample) can be determined by calculation by knowing the internal volume of the container, or even by increasing the internal volume of the flexible conduit to which the exhaust opening is connected to the pressure measuring component.

[0113] This method advantageously makes it possible to know simply and reliably the pressure change in the bottom compartment 3 of container 1 caused by the CO2 retention of substance sample M during the fermentation reaction, and in particular the change in the amount of CO2 retained over time by substance sample M, and in particular organic matter containing leavening agents such as yeast and / or leavening agents and / or baking powder, especially dough.

[0114] This specification also relates to a method for determining the amount of CO2 emitted over time from a sample of organic matter, particularly dough, containing yeast and / or leavening agents and / or baking powder during a CO2-generating fermentation reaction.

[0115] This method includes both a first measurement of a first portion of the sample and a second measurement of a second portion of the sample. The first and second portions have the same volume and are typically obtained on the sample, particularly freshly prepared dough.

[0116] The first measurement is configured to measure the pressure change solely due to the amount of gas absorbed, and thus make it possible to determine the amount of CO2 absorbed (or retained) as previously explained, while the second measurement is configured to measure the pressure change not only due to the amount of gas absorbed but also due to the amount of gas expelled, and thus make it possible to determine the total amount of CO2 produced (absorbed and expelled) by fermentation.

[0117] The amount of CO2 emitted is determined by the difference between the second measurement and the first measurement.

[0118] Specifically, the first measurement includes: / a1 / Provides a first apparatus according to this specification, the first apparatus including a component C for capturing CO2 received in the top compartment of a container; / b1 / Place the first part of the material sample in the bottom compartment 2 of container 1. / c1 / After the gas from the bottom compartment 2 is transferred to the top compartment 3 of the container 1, the pressure change in the bottom compartment 2 receiving the sample M is measured over time, and the CO2 discharged from the sample is used for CO2 capture and removal.

[0119] The second measurement taken simultaneously with the first measurement includes: / a2 / A second apparatus according to this specification is provided, the second apparatus not having a component C for capturing CO2 received in the top compartment 3 of the container 1; / b2 / Place the second part of the material sample M in the bottom compartment 2 of container 1. / c2 / After the gas from the bottom compartment 2 is transferred to the top compartment 3 of the container 1, the pressure change over time in the bottom compartment 2, which receives the second substance sample M, is measured without the need for components used to capture CO2.

[0120] This method advantageously makes it possible to know the change over time in the amount of CO2 emitted by a substance sample M, and especially organic matter containing leavening agents such as yeast and / or leavening agents and / or baking powder, particularly dough, during the fermentation reaction.

[0121] like Figure 2A and 2B As can be seen from the curves in the graph, the method according to the invention makes it possible, for example, to know the change in the rate of CO2 emission / retention of the substance sample M, and in particular the dough, over time. Figure 2A The sawtooth curves actually show the changes in the CO2 emission rate of the dough sample.

[0122] Similarly, as explained above, the method according to the invention also makes it possible, with particular reliability, to determine the effects of various parameters on the changes over time in the amount of CO2 retained / released by a material sample M, and particularly organic matter containing leavening agents such as yeast and / or leavening agents and / or baking powders, especially dough. Specifically, as explained above and as... Figure 2D As can be seen from the graph, the inventors were able to determine that adding ingredient A to the dough composition does not affect the total CO2 production of the dough, but does affect the amount of CO2 retained / emitted by the dough over time, which is impossible with prior art methods.

[0123] All provisions previously described relating to determining the amount of CO2 absorbed and / or expelled over time by a sample of substance M received in the bottom compartment 2 of a container 1 according to one of the embodiments of the invention described above apply to the method according to the invention.

[0124] List of reference numerals 1. Container; 2. Bottom compartment; 21. Opening at the top; 22. Outer wall; D22. Diameter; 3. Top compartment; 3I. Bottom section; 3S. Top section; 31. Exhaust opening; 32. Open at the bottom; 33. Bottom wall; 34. Cover; 35. Outer wall; D35. Diameter; 36. Top wall; W32. Width; 4. Separate components; 41. Sieve; W41. Width; 42. Opening; 5. Plug; 51. Perforation; 6. Connecting components; 61. Perforation; 62. Bottom longitudinal end; 63. Top longitudinal end; 7. Filter components; 10. Utensils; 11. A component used to measure pressure; C. Components for capturing CO2 / soda lime granules; M. Material sample; P. Catheter.

Claims

1. An apparatus (10) for determining the amount of CO2 absorbed by an organic sample over time, the sample containing yeast, the apparatus comprising: - Pressure measuring component (11), and - At least one container (1) comprising: --The bottom compartment (2) is designed to receive material samples. --A top compartment (3) receiving a component for capturing CO2, the top compartment being linearly positioned and communicating with the bottom compartment (2), and having an exhaust opening (31) that allows gas to escape from the top compartment (3) after passing through the component for capturing CO2. --Separation member (4), which is disposed between the bottom compartment (2) and the top compartment (3), is configured to allow gas to be transferred from the bottom compartment (2) to the top compartment (3). The pressure measuring member (11) is connected to the exhaust opening (31) of the top compartment (3) of the container (1) by means of a flexible conduit, so as to determine the change of pressure in the bottom compartment (2) that receives the material sample over time after the gas from the bottom compartment (2) is passed into the top compartment (3) of the container (1).

2. The appliance according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bottom compartment (2) is at least partially made of a transparent material so that an observer can see the contents of the bottom compartment (2).

3. The appliance (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The bottom compartment (2), the top compartment (3), and the separation member (4) form a self-supporting assembly.

4. The appliance (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The separation component (4) includes a screen (41) with a plurality of openings (42) configured to allow gas to pass from the bottom compartment (2) to the top compartment (3).

5. The appliance (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The component used for capturing CO2 contains soda lime particles.

6. The appliance (10) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The component for capturing CO2 comprises quicklime particles, wherein the quicklime particles are placed directly on the screen (41), and the openings (42) in the screen (41) are configured to prevent the quicklime particles from being transferred from the top compartment (3) to the bottom compartment (2).

7. The appliance (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The container (1) includes a top opening (21) and the top compartment (3) includes a bottom opening (32), the top opening (21) of the container (1) being aligned with the bottom opening (32) of the top compartment (3), and the separating member (4) being aligned with the top opening (21) of the container (1) and the bottom opening (32) of the top compartment (3).

8. The appliance (10) according to claim 7, characterized in that, The top compartment (3) is fully positioned in the container (1), and a removable plug (5) is positioned in the top opening (21) of the container (1) to make the container (1) airtight.

9. The appliance (10) according to claim 8, characterized in that, The plug (5) includes a perforation (51) that is aligned with the exhaust opening (31) of the top compartment (3) so that gas from the top compartment (3) can escape from the top compartment through the exhaust opening (31).

10. The appliance (10) according to any one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that, The separation component (4) is positioned at the bottom opening (32) of the top compartment (3).

11. The appliance (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bottom compartment (2) and the top compartment (3) are fastened in a removable manner.

12. The appliance (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The container (1) has a substantially cylindrical outer wall, and the top compartment (3) also has a substantially cylindrical outer wall, the axis of which coincides with the axis of the outer wall of the container (1).

13. The appliance (10) according to claim 1, further comprising a connecting member (6) configured to allow the top compartment (3) to be connected to a conduit, the connecting member (6) being positioned at an exhaust opening (31) of the top compartment (3) and extending through the exhaust opening (31).

14. The appliance (10) according to claim 13, characterized in that, The top compartment (3) is fully positioned within the container (1), and a removable plug (5) is positioned within the top opening (21) of the container (1) to make the container (1) airtight. Furthermore, the plug (5) includes a perforation (51) aligned with the exhaust opening (31) of the top compartment (3) so that gas from the top compartment (3) can escape from the top compartment through the exhaust opening (31). Furthermore, the connecting member (6) is held in place relative to the top compartment (3) through the exhaust opening (31) of the top compartment (3), and the connecting member (6) extends through the perforation (51) of the plug (5) and is held in place relative to the plug (5) through the perforation (51).

15. The appliance (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The top compartment (3) includes a top wall (36), and the exhaust opening (31) is disposed in the top wall (36).

16. A method for determining the amount of CO2 absorbed by an organic matter sample over time during a CO2-producing fermentation reaction, said matter sample containing yeast, the method comprising: / a / Provide an apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 15, the apparatus comprising a component for capturing the CO2 received in a top compartment (3) of the container (1); / b / Place the substance sample in the bottom compartment (2) of the container (1), / c / After the gas from the bottom compartment (2) is transferred to the top compartment (3) of the container (1), the pressure change in the bottom compartment (2) that receives the material sample over time is measured, and the CO2 emitted from the material sample is eliminated by the component used to capture the CO2.

17. A method for determining the amount of CO2 emitted from an organic matter sample over time during a CO2-producing fermentation reaction, said matter sample containing yeast, said method comprising simultaneously performing a first measurement and a second measurement on a first portion and a second portion of the sample having equal volumes, wherein said first measurement is configured to measure a pressure change solely due to the amount of gas absorbed, and said second measurement is configured to measure a pressure change due to both the amount of gas absorbed and the amount of gas emitted. And the first measurement includes: / a1 / Provides a first apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 15, the apparatus comprising a component for capturing the CO2 received in the top compartment (3) of the container (1); / b1 / The first part of the material sample is placed in the bottom compartment (2) of the container (1). / c1 / After the gas from the bottom compartment (2) is transferred to the top compartment (3) of the container (1), the pressure change over time in the bottom compartment (2) receiving the substance sample is measured, and the CO2 emitted from the substance sample is eliminated by the component used to capture the CO2. And the second measurement includes: / a2 / Provide a second appliance according to any one of claims 1 to 15, the appliance not having a component for capturing the CO2 received in the top compartment (3) of the container (1); / b2 / The first part of the material sample is placed in the bottom compartment (2) of the container (1). / c2 / After the gas from the bottom compartment (2) is transferred to the top compartment (3) of the container (1), the pressure change over time in the bottom compartment (2) of the second part that receives the material sample is measured without the need for components used to capture the CO2. Furthermore, the amount of CO2 emitted by the substance sample is obtained from the difference between the second measurement and the first measurement.

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