Attempts at Simplified Measurement of Odors in Japan using Odor Sensors

The simplified odor measurement in Japan is conducted using simplified versions of the conventional sensory tests or by methods using a detection tube. In addition, research has recently been undertaken to create practical odor sensors with a single sensor element and electronic noses with multiple sensor elements. The odor sensor with a single sensor element, already used for more than 10 years, features the ability to provide measurement results immediately on-site and to conduct continuous monitoring. However, to match the sensitivity of the nose, the odor sensor requires the creation of calibration curve for each odor element. Also care must be taken about interfering gases when using the odor sensor. To solve these problems, research has been conducted in recent years into electronic noses that incorporate multiple odor sensor elements. Attempts are being made to create electronic noses that automatically evaluate odor category, evaluate the intensity of odor regardless of its category and output odor category information for the identification of odor sources. Future investigation is required to determine if the electronic nose incorporating multiple sensors can act as a replacement for the human sense of odor, as well as to determine the practical limits to its application.