The resulting diazotisation reaction produces nitrogen gas which can be observed qualitatively or measured quantitatively.
This was of high importance to be able to recognize a beginning acidosis in diabetic patients as early as possible, in order to start alkali treatment.
The Van Slyke apparatus became a standard equipment in clinical laboratories around the world and the results of Van Slyke's research are still used today to determine abnormalities in the acid-base homeostasis.
Using the new method, he was able to further investigate the role of gas and electrolyte equilibria in the blood and how they change in response to respiration.
[5][6] The oxygen carrying capacity of blood is estimated by Van Slyke gasometry method.