Frequently Asked Questions

The IDRO sensor measures the lactate in sweat (in mMol/l). In addition, the temperature in the sampling cell is also measured, which is a good reflection of the temperature of the sweat at the measurement site. The pH and temperature are measured because this gives more insights into the physiological processes inside the body during exercise. There are clear links between lactate in sweat, sweat temperature and sweat pH. With these values, you get your accurate results.

The IDRO system directs sweat from the skin into a cartridge, where it touches sensors that produce a small electrical signal. The electronic reader processes this signal, converts it into a lactate value, and displays it in real-time on the IDRO smartphone app. You can read more in this blog post and see an animation on the process.

The validity of the IDRO sensor has already been scientifically investigated. The sweat measurements of the IDRO device were compared with the gold standard, ion chromatography and we found a good correlation between both measurements (R² = 0,95) with a difference ranging from 2 to 11%. Please read the scientific article on this topic here. 

When using a wearable sweat sensor with a ‘flow through’ of sweat, it is possible to do real-time and continuous measurements of lactate in sweat. With the IDRO sensor, we found a relationship between sweat lactate and exercise, with an increase in lactate with increasing exercise intensity. It is possible to detect exercise thresholds with sweat lactate values.  Please read more on how to use sweat lactate in sports on our blog.

To ensure accurate lactate readings, the cartridge holder must be placed directly against the skin so micro sweat drops can reach the sensor. A common HR-chest strap can be used in case you've lost your IDRO belt. When positioning the electronic reader on the body, make sure the arrow is pointing downward. Recommended placement areas include the back, chest, upper leg and fore arm that can be selected in the mobile app.

The IDRO sensor consists of a reusable part, being the electronic reader and a disposable cartridge.

A single measurement with one cartridge can take up to eight hours of continuous exercise. Note that during periods without sweating, this could cause drying out of the sensors, which will then take a longer time to reactivate. 

Yes, as soon as there is sufficient sweat production (eg. after a 4-10 min. warming-up) you can read the lactate values in real-time on your phone screen.