Development of a Novel Odor Measurement System Using Gas Chromatography with Surface Acoustic Wave Sensor

Abstract

This paper describes a novel odor measurement system for creating arrays of virtual chemical sensors with nonover-lapping responses using ultrahigh-speed gas chromatography with a surface acoustic wave sensor (GC/SAW). This GC/SAW system provides high-resolution two-dimensional olfactory images for easy recognition of many complex odors. Separation and quantification of the individual chemicals within an odor is performed in seconds. Using a solid-state mass-sensitive detector, pico-gram sensitivity, universal nonpolar selectivity, and electronically variable sensitivity are achieved. An integrated vapor preconcentrator coupled with the electronically variable detector allows the system to measure vapor concentrations spanning 6 or more orders of magnitude. The system attributes of high speed, accuracy, and precision provide a cost-effective and complimentary tool for traditional sensory evaluations.