Smell power

Researchers at the Sandia National Laboratories in the US are developing a hand-held device that can provide a chemical analysis through smell.

It is hoped that the system will eventually be able to sniff out land mines, detect pollutants and check environmental safety for emergency services who suspect possible chemical or biological hazards.

The portable device creates a chemical fingerprint through a process called chromatography. Built-in lasers, semi-conductors and a microprocessor analyse the elements and compounds which can be detected at parts per billion.

Almost within a minute, a result is flashed onto the instrument's small computer screen with the names and quantities of the components.

Published by Engineering, London Underground Limited,
30 The South Colonnade, Canary Wharf, London E14 5EU, in association with
Financial & Business Publications, Regent House, 24-25 Nutford Place, London W1H 5YN
© London Underground Limited, 2000

For further information,
T: +44 (0)20-7569 3040  F: +44(0)20-7569 3041