Odor Intensity and Hedonic Quality Designation using an Olfactometer

Olfactometry is an advanced method of analyzing air quality that allows precise determination of the intensity and character of odors, known as hedonic quality.

By using an olfactometer, it is possible not only to detect the presence of odor substances but also to objectively assess their impact on human perception.

What is odor intensity?

Odor intensity describes the strength of perceived smell. It is a key parameter in assessing the impact of emissions on the environment. By using an olfactometer, odor intensity is determined based on air sample dilution in controlled conditions, which allows for reliable results regardless of subjective sensations.

What is hedonic quality of an odor?

Hedonic quality relates to the emotions and sensations evoked by a given odor – from pleasant to repulsive. This analysis helps evaluate whether a given odor can be acceptable to people in a specific environment. This parameter is especially crucial in the context of the impact of industrial facilities or technological installations on the local community.

How does designation using an olfactometer work?

Air sample collection

Contaminated air containing odor substances is collected in airtight bags or containers.

Analysis in an olfactometer

The sample is subjected to dilutions and evaluated by a group of trained individuals, so-called panelists, who determine the odor intensity and its hedonic quality.

Documentation of results

Measurement results are recorded in numerical form, enabling data comparison and further interpretation.

Inventorying sources of odor emissions

This is a key stage in developing odor analyses and minimizing odor nuisances. It involves detailed analysis of locations, processes, and installations responsible for odor emissions. It includes determining the location and characteristics of each emission source divided into:

point sources,
active surface sources,
passive surface sources,
volume sources.

Sample collection

In our laboratory, all samples are collected by qualified and experienced personnel. Each of our employees has the necessary authorizations and has been properly trained in the applicable health and safety regulations, procedures, and workplace instructions.

We care about the highest standards of safety and quality, which is why all actions conducted within the sampling of gas samples are performed exclusively by authorized specialists who follow the rigorous principles defined in our procedures.

By entrusting us with your tests, you can be assured that every stage, from sample collection to analysis, is conducted with the utmost care and in compliance with the applicable standards.

PN-EN 13725:2022-07: Emission from stationary sources. Determination of odor concentration by dynamic olfactometry and odor emission rates.
PN-EN ISO 16911-1:2013-07: Emission from stationary sources. Manual and automatic determination of velocity and volume flow in ducts.
VDI 3880:2011: Olfactometry. Static sampling.

Sampling for olfactometric analysis involves collecting a representative air sample in a manner that allows for later determination of its intensity. This process includes the following stages:

Equipment preparation (use of specialist bags, ensuring sterility and no reaction of the bag with the collected air).
Setting sampling parameters (devices are used for sampling that control airflow and sampling time).
Sample collection process (filling the bag with air safely, avoiding contamination or change in air composition).
Each sample is precisely labeled and described, including location, time, environmental conditions, and sampling method.

Transport and storage

Samples are hermetically sealed and transported to the laboratory under conditions that minimize their degradation. The time from sampling to analysis should be as short as possible.

Why use olfactometry?

Measurement accuracy

Olfactometry is a method compliant with international standards, e.g., PN-EN 13725.

Objectivity

Thanks to the use of panelists and standardized procedures, results are independent of individual perceptions.

Practical usefulness

Research results allow for undertaking actions to reduce the emission of troublesome odors.

Our laboratory offers professional services in determining odor intensity and hedonic quality using the most modern methods and equipment. Contact us to learn more about how we can assist in managing air quality in your environment.

The service is intended for companies that emit odor substances

Each of these clients can commission measurements and analyses to assess odor nuisance, compliance with legal regulations, and as part of planning new investments or corrective actions.

Industry and production
Industrial plants (e.g., chemical, petrochemical, pharmaceutical)
Sewage treatment plants
Landfills and waste processing installations
Farms and food processing plants

Biogas and bioenergy production plants
Administration and local governments
Municipal and city authorities responsible for environmental protection
Environmental protection inspections
Sanitary and epidemiological services

Consulting and research companies
Companies involved in environmental impact assessment (EIA)
Research laboratories and scientific units
Consulting companies dealing with environmental protection

We invite you to contact our laboratory to find out how we can assist in managing odor emissions and improving air quality in your surroundings.

Olfactometric Odor Measurements