Chemosensor Systems and Odour Measurement - Current Developments in Electronic Olfactometry

Abstract

Chemosensor measuring systems termed “electronic noses” have been introduced which, very generally speaking, imitate the biological sense of smell. Even though these systems cannot primarily analyze odour char- acteristics, but rather compositions of gas mixtures, they are also used for “electronic olfactometry”. In this contribution, the background and the problems of their use and application for odour measurement are discussed. The methods which have been employed so far do not provide meaningful results. In addition, perspectives and research goals for future development are Described.