Computerized olfactronic identification of persons using comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography with mass spectrometry

Abstract

This paper demonstrates the possibilities of the computer identification of individuals based on the digitized scent signatures using comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography with mass spectrometry (GCxGC-MS). This identification is performed by comparing an unknown digital scent sample (i.e., a chromatogram) with the digital scent signatures in the database. The olfactronic (performed by computers) identification of persons will replace the olfactoric identification currently performed by trained police dogs. This olfactoric identification is considered to be only a subjective method and therefore it needs to be replaced by an objective olfactronic method. The results obtained in this study demonstrate the advantages of this objective olfactronic identification. In addition to this objectivity, the olfactronic identification method makes it possible to compare and store hundreds or even thousands of digital scent signatures in the database so that they do not change. A higher recognition percentage of identification is achieved when applying two differently constructed signatures. The article shows that with this approach comparison algorithm can reach up to a 100-percent correct identification for unknown samples. In this pilot study, 400 scent samples from 40 volunteers (20 women, 20 men) were analyzed by GCxGC-MS whereas ten scent samples were taken from each person.