The role of the electronic nose in condition monitoring

Gas sensing has for many years been a valuable tool in condition monitoring, usually employing gas-specific solid-state sensors. The development of arrays of non-specific sensors, using microtechnology, associated with intelligent signal processing procedures - the so-called electronic nose - promises substantial versatility ar a low cost. Commercial desk-top electronic noses are available from several companies (for example Alpha MOS (France), AromaScan pie, and Neotronics Scientific Ltd) and their application is increasing. This paper examines the wide range of condition monitoring applications for such devices in electrical engineering - cables, aerospace - cabin air quality, environmental studies - air pollution, and healthcare - breath, blood etc. Present needs are assessed, current nose limitations identified and some of the studies, which have advanced the technology, are described.