Development of a novel odor measurement system using gas chromatography with surface acoustic wave sensor

This paper describes a novel odor measurement system for creating arrays of virtual chemical sensors with nonoverlapping 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, picogram 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.