A test for smells that can distinguish between real and counterfeit perfumes
has been developed by chemists at the University of Illinois. To make the
sensor, Kenneth Suslick impregnated small teflon discs with 24 compounds called
metalloporphyrins, which contain metal ions. 鈥淭hese are really colourful
compounds,鈥 says Suslick. Because gases cause specific colour changes in each
metalloporphyrin, smelly gases can be identified by the colours on the discs.
鈥淚t鈥檚 like a litmus test for smells,鈥 says Suslick.
More from New Scientist
Explore the latest news, articles and features
Technology
Test moderators use AI-generated writing to judge literacy standards
News
Mind
THC in cannabis may reduce nightmares in people with PTSD
News
Environment
Fishers detonate a bomb every hour on one Indonesian coral reef
News
Environment
How bad is the UK drought and how long will it continue?
News
Popular articles
Trending New Scientist articles