When measuring odours, 2 different methods can be used depending on the characteristics of the Odours (1).
- Physicochemical Methods: Gas Chromatography, FID, piezoelectric sensors (electronic noses), colorimetric tubes, etc.
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Sensory methods: Olfactometry, Nasal Ranger, psychometric assessment, etc.
The physical-chemical methods are suitable when the Odorous compound is known or when we pretend to monitor the emissions of certain installations in continuum to control the presence of gas leakages associated with odorous compounds. This methods are not very specific or sensitive nowadays.
Although it is a relatively new technique, Olfactometry is presented as the future standard to measure odours until other devices, such as the electronic nose, are further developed.
In January of this year, olores.org visited to the facilities of
In December 2006, Olores.org visited the facilities of St Croix Sensory in Lake Elmo, Minnesota, USA. St. Croix Sensory is a sensory testing and training company that specializes in odor testing of air samples, commercial products, and materials and in training of odor assessors, monitors, inspectors, and investigators. Likewise, St. Croix Sensory manufactures state-of-the-art odor sampling and odor measurement equipment. Their products set the standard in odor sampling, testing, and measurement.