How does Dynamic Olfactometry Work?
Dynamic olfactometry (UNI EN 13725) is the official European method for determining odour concentration in gaseous samples — recognised by the European Commission as the standard reference method. It is applied directly at the emission source, before the odorous gas is released and diluted in the atmosphere.
The method uses a trained panel of human assessors who act as sensors. Using an olfactometer, the sample is diluted with neutral air at precise ratios and presented to the panel at decreasing concentrations until the detection threshold is reached.
- Chimneys & exhaust stacks
- Biofilters
- Effluent & wastewater tanks
- Composting plants
- Waste treatment facilities
- Industrial processes
What is Dynamic Olfactometry?
UNDERSTANDING THE METHOD
Dynamic olfactometry is the official European method for determining the odour concentration of gaseous samples — recognised by the European Commission as the standard reference method. It is applicable to odorous samples with a concentration above the olfactory detection threshold.
The result of each olfactometric test is an odour concentration value expressed in European odour units per cubic metre of air (ouE/m³). This value indicates how much the sample must be diluted before it reaches the olfactory detection threshold — and is used for permit applications, compliance verification, and environmental impact assessments.
Benefits of Dynamic Olfactometry
Dynamic olfactometry is the only method recognised by the European Commission for the official determination of odour concentration. It delivers legally valid, reproducible results — applicable at every stage from permit applications to court proceedings.
Legally Recognised Results
Results obtained under UNI EN 13725 are accepted by regulatory authorities, environmental agencies, and courts across Italy and Europe.
Accredited & Reliable
Our laboratory is ACCREDIA-accredited (no. 00475) under ISO/IEC 17025:2018 — guaranteeing the accuracy, precision, and traceability of every measurement.
At-Source Measurement
Odour is measured directly at the emission point — chimney, biofilter, or tank — before dilution occurs, giving you the most accurate picture of your actual emissions.
~5,000 Tests Per Year
With nearly three decades of experience and approximately 5,000 olfactometric tests carried out annually, we are one of the largest and most trusted laboratories in Europe.
Frequently
Asked Questions
Questions we often asked
What emission sources can be measured with dynamic olfactometry?
The method is applicable to any point source where odorous gas is released — including chimneys, exhaust stacks, biofilters, effluent tanks, composting windrows, and industrial process vents — provided the odour concentration exceeds the olfactory detection threshold.
How is the odour concentration expressed?
Results are expressed in European odour units per cubic metre of air (ouE/m³). This value indicates how many times the sample must be diluted with neutral air before it reaches the olfactory detection threshold.
Is the method legally recognised?
Yes. Dynamic olfactometry as described in UNI EN 13725 is recognised by the European Commission as the official method for odour concentration determination. Results are accepted by Italian regulatory authorities and courts.
Is your laboratory accredited for this method?
Yes. Our laboratory is accredited by ACCREDIA (no. 00475) under ISO/IEC 17025:2018 specifically for this method — and has been since 2004, making us the first accredited laboratory in Italy.
Can the results be used in legal proceedings?
Yes. Our staff has extensive experience as court-appointed (CTU) and party-appointed (CTP) technical experts in civil and criminal proceedings related to olfactory pollution.
