Measurement of Perceived Odor Intensity Using Gas-Sensor Systems

In the present study Multi gas-sensor systems (MGSS) are used to evaluate the odor intensity as it is perceived by humans. These systems measure volatile compounds in a holistic manner and present a signal pattern of the air sample. The model for the determination of the odor intensity consists of two major parts: discrimination into odor classes and subsequent quantification of the intensity. The discrimination is achieved by multivariate statistical methods or neural networks. The correlation to the intensity is done by odor class specific regression methods. The development of the data processing is based on calibration data consisting of simultaneously obtained MGSS responses and assessments of the perceived intensity by a trained human panel using a comparative scale. Different building materials were investigated. The study shows that MGSS have the potential to be used as a measurement device for perceived intensity using a data processing method on basis of an odor classification.