Conclusion

Olfactometry, or odor measurement by sensory analysis, has many applications in the field of air pollution by industrial odors. It can be used to study complex gaseous effluents, and provides objective results that take into account the disparities in olfactory perception that naturally exist between individuals.

Several quantities can be measured, some of which are covered by standards applicable in France (see summary in table 2 ):

• odor concentration (given by the dilution factor at the perception threshold measured in accordance with French standard NF X 43-101 between 1986 and 2003 and European standard EN 13725 from the end of 2003);

• odor intensity (NF X 43-103 standard);

• olfactory annoyance,...