Granier-type thermal dissipation probes are common instruments for quantifying tree water use in forest hydrological studies. Estimating sapflow using Granier-type sapflow sensors requires determining the maximum temperature gradient (∆Tmax) between the heated probe and the reference probe below. ∆Tmax represents a state of zero sap flux, which was originally assumed to occur each night leading to a ∆Tmax determination on a daily basis. However, researchers have proven that, under certain conditions, sapflow may continue throughout the night. Therefore alternative approaches to determining ∆Tmax have been developed. Multiple ∆Tmax approaches are now in use; however, sapflow estimates remain imprecise because the empirical equation that transfers the raw temperature signal (∆T) to sap flux density (Fd) is strongly sensitive to ∆Tmax. In this study, we analyze the effects of different ∆Tmax determination approaches on sub-daily, daily and (intra-)seasonal Fd estimations. On this basis, we quantify the uncertainty of sapflow calculations, which is related to the raw signal processing. We show that the ∆Tmax determination procedure has a major influence on absolute ∆Tmax values and the respective sap flux density computations. Consequently, the choice of the ∆Tmax determination approach may be a significant source of uncertainty in sapflow estimations.
Keywords: Norway spruce; Picea abies; data processing; heat dissipation; maximum temperature gradient; thermal dissipation; transpiration.