Electronic Nose

Arjav Gandhi - 2021 01448

Hemant Narayani - 2021 01253
Chaxu Patel - 2021 01166

I. INTRODUCTION human olfactory process. An illustrative example of an E-

The introduction to the Electronic Nose (E-nose) system nose in action is likened to a breath analyzer used by law
underscores its significance and wide-ranging applications enforcement, where a chemical sensor measures alcohol
across industries, mirroring the olfactory capabilities of concentration in breath and converts it into an electronic
biological noses. Comprised of sensor arrays, signal signal. Similarly, the E-nose mimics human olfaction by
processing units, and pattern recognition algorithms, E- using sensor responses to analyze compounds and transmit
noses have revolutionized fields such as environmental electronic signals for data interpretation. This introduction
monitoring, healthcare diagnostics, and food quality control. highlights the paper’s primary focus on the chemical
This section highlights the paper’s focus on developing an sensing system and the associated electronic components,
E- nose with network capabilities and a proposed room examining their limitations and proposing nanomaterial-
temperature gas sensor array. It emphasizes the necessity of based solutions to overcome these challenges.
monitoring ambient air quality, especially in industries like
livestock production and chemical laboratories, highlighting II. WORKING OF ELECTRONIC NOSE:
the limitations of traditional odor measurement methods and
the advantages of E-nose technology as a more objective The diagram provided below illustrates the overall
and cost-effective alternative. Furthermore, the integration operation of an Electronic Nose (E-Nose).
of E-noses with nanomaterial-based sensors is explored, • Upon the introduction of air, the flow meter regulates
concentrating on nanoelectronics’ pivotal role in enhancing airflow, controlling the volume of the sample entering the
performance and sensitivity while discussing challenges, e-nose system.
prospects, and the transformative potential of this
technology in contemporary societal and industrial • Solenoid valves are actuated to direct incoming air to
landscapes. either the reference sample container or the analyte
The E-nose’s operational principle, inspired by biological sample container, depending on the measurement stage.
olfaction, detects and identifies odors, volatile organic com-
• During the reference phase, the solenoid valves direct air
pounds, and gases through sensor arrays, signal processing
to the reference sample container. The e-nose measures
units, and pattern recognition algorithms, emulating the
 • The sensing material is printed on the sensing element
with the heater formed on the reverse side.
• The sensing material is heated by the heater to several
hundred degrees Celsius.

Fig. 1.The schematic diagram of the proposed E-Nose system.

the baseline response of its sensors in the presence of the

reference sample.
• In the analyte phase, the solenoid valves switch to direct
incoming air to the analyte sample container. The e-nose
measures the response of its sensors in the presence of
the analyte. Fig. 2. MOS Gas Sensor.

• The analyte gas then reaches the Metal-Oxide

Semiconductor Gas sensor array, and the data regarding • The flow of electricity within the sensing material is
the change in resistance is transmitted to the determined by the number of free electrons.
microcontroller. • In clean air, oxygen is adsorbed onto the sensing mate-
• The camera can be triggered at the start of the analyte rial, attracting free electrons, thereby increasing sensor
phase, capturing images of the sample. This aspect resistance. Consequently, fewer electrons flow within
represents an advanced feature of the E-Nose, enabling the sensing material.
analysis and utilization of additional information captured • If the gases present are propane or methane, the sensor
by these cameras. resistance decreases due to their chemical properties.
• During the analyte phase, colorimetric sensors respond to 2) Array of MOS Gas Sensor
the analyte, resulting in a color change. If present, the
camera captures these color changes. This functionality • A natural question that arises is: How do MOS Gas
is also an advanced feature for analyzing colors and sensors detect different gases? Moreover, if MOS gas
extracting information about different gases. It proves sensors can detect various gases, why do we need an
useful in assessing whether the environment is suitable, array of sensors?
unfavorable, or hazardous for living solely by observing • To address the first question, within the array of sensors,
color changes. we utilize different ’Metal Oxides.’ Each metal oxide
• Throughout both the reference and analyte phases, the exhibits varying tendencies to alter electrical
microcontroller processes data from the sensor array, conductivity in the presence of different gases.
identifying differences in sensor responses between the • The straightforward answer to the second question is
reference and analyte phases. It can trigger alarms or that while MOS sensors are capable of detecting
provide output indicating the presence and identity of the multiple gases, they do not possess equal sensitivity to
analyte. all gases. Different types of MOS sensors may display
varying levels of sensitivity to different gases.
• Finally, the data is sent to the computer. Predefined Employing a sensor array allows for enhanced
machine learning algorithms and Principal Component selectivity by combining sensors optimized for specific
Analysis (PCA) will then perform their functions. With gases. This selectivity proves crucial for accurate gas
the aid of predefined data, we will be able to predict the identification.
gas odor.
3) Microcontrollers
III. BRIEF WORKING OF EACH COMPONENT:
• The microcontroller serves multiple functions, including
1) Metal Oxide Semiconductor Gas Sensor acquiring sensor data, controlling the pneumatic system,
and transmitting data via ZigBee.
 Odors, Cost, Data Analysis Complexity, Limited Long-Term
Stability, Cross-Sensitivity, Lack of Standardization.
V. NANO-ELECTRONICS IN ELECTRONIC NOSE:

1) Carbon Nanotube:
• In this section, our focus lies on Single-Walled Car-
bon Nanotubes (SWCNT) due to their superior static
electrical properties compared to Multi-Walled Carbon
Nanotubes (MWCNT). The use of SWCNTs as Gas
Sensors in electronic noses is attributed to their high
surface area, efficiency in gas adsorption, and electrical
response.

Fig. 3. The modular circuit design scheme of the hardware system

• The operation of an electronic nose commences with the

power supply derived from the lithium battery, regulated
by the power supply transfer circuit. Subsequently, the
gas or air sample is directed through the magnetic valve
to the sensor array, where various chemical compounds
are detected and identified.
• An air pump regulates the sample’s flow over the sensor
array, while temperature and humidity data are collected
by the SHT15/DS18B20 sensors, contributing to
environmental analysis. The silicon heating band
maintains the sensor array at an optimal temperature to
ensure accurate readings.
• Signal levels undergo adjustment by the level switching
circuit, enabling proper interaction among components.
Simultaneously, the switch circuit allows user control. Fig. 4. Honeycomb lattice of carbon atoms in graphene. A
The USB wireless module facilitates data transfer for graphene piece with different direction was rolled up to form a CNT.
remote monitoring or further analysis.
• SWCNTs possess fixed electrical properties determined
• The LCD touchscreen displays information regarding during their manufacturing process. These nanotubes are
the detected odors or gases, completing the sequence formed by arranging carbon atoms in a two-dimensional
of operations for user interpretation and interaction. hexagonal lattice on a graphene sheet. Rolling the
graphene sheet along specific vectors and bonding the
IV. LIMITATIONS OF E-NOSE MADE BY USE OF edges together creates a carbon nanotube. If we define
CURRENT TECHNOLOGY: the chiral vector Ch, then the chiral vector can be
written like Ch = na1 + ma2. where n-m is an
Electronic noses (e-noses) are devices crafted to replicate integer multiple of three, the SWCNT exhibits metallic
the human olfactory system by detecting and identify- properties; otherwise, it demonstrates semiconducting
ing odors and volatile compounds. Despite their diverse properties. This inherent property makes nanotubes
applications, such as food quality control, environmental valuable in electronic devices like the Electronic Nose.
monitoring, and healthcare, they possess limitations even
without incorporating nanotechnology. Here are some of 2) Brief Mechanism of SWCNT as Gas Sensor:
the primary limitations of current technology-based e-noses
(non-nanotechnology-based): • Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes (SWCNTs) act as gas
sensors in electronic noses by utilizing their high surface
Some limitations of present E-Nose systems include: area and sensitive conductive properties. Upon exposure
Limited Sensitivity, Limited Selectivity, Lack of to gas molecules, these nanotubes experience changes in
Discrimination, Calibration and Drift, Limited Recognition conductance due to interactions with the gas molecules
of Non-Volatile on their surface. Functionalization or coatings applied
 to the SWCNTs can enhance their specificity to certain properties. Their reusability, achieved by removing ad-
gases, influencing the degree of conductance change. sorbed odor molecules, presents a cost-effective and
The sensor’s response is transmitted to a environmentally friendly aspect. Additionally, their
microcontroller, which interprets and digitizes the small size makes them suitable for integration into
altered conductance data. Machine learning algorithms compact e-nose devices. Depending on the FET material
within the electronic nose then process this data, and functionalization, FET-based e-noses exhibit
enabling the identification and differentiation of various versatility in detecting a broad spectrum of odorants,
gases based on unique conductance patterns. The including gases, volatile organic compounds, and even
system’s sensitivity to these conductance changes biological molecules.
facilitates accurate detection and quantification of
different gases. This makes SWCNT- based gas sensors VI. FUTURE OF NANOELECTRONIC NOSE:
crucial components in electronic noses used across
environmental, industrial, and medical sec- tors for
precise gas analysis and monitoring. It allows for the
development of portable and handheld e-noses for
various applications.
• Coating SWCNTs with different functional groups or
chemicals improves the sensor’s responsiveness to
specific gases. Its increased surface area enhances gas
sensing effectiveness, allowing gas molecules to more
readily adhere to the SWCNT surface compared to MOS
Gas Sensors. Fig. 5. Future of E-Nose systems.

• Despite numerous benefits, SWCNT sensors can be The future prospects for compact e-noses appear
sensitive to humidity and environmental factors, promising, aligning with trends aiming for integration with
potentially leading to interference or false readings in IoT, wearables, and mobile systems. As IoT technology
real-world conditions. Fabrication complexity and costs advances, interconnectedness between compact e-noses and
pose major challenges from a business perspective. smart devices is likely to expand their applications,
Additionally, after sensing each gas, cleaning the including indoor environmental monitoring and hazard
SWCNT becomes necessary since it physically absorbs detection. Researchers are already merging portable e-noses
gas molecules, persisting until removal. with IoT, facilitating seamless integration into daily life.
3) MOSFET(Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) As sensor technology progresses, accompanied by reduced
size and power consumption, compact e-noses could
• MOSFETs find applications in electronic noses (e- become as ubiquitous as mobile phones, watches, and
noses) as sensing elements for detecting and identifying bracelets. Furthermore, their potential integration into
odors. Their operation involves modulating current flow mobile robots or UAVs could amplify sensing capabilities,
be- tween source and drain terminals by varying the further extending their utility.
voltage applied to the gate terminal. MOSFET-based
sensors exhibit high sensitivity to changes in gate 1) IoT-enabled e-nose
voltage or current, enabling detection of minute amounts
• The Internet of Things (IoT) encompasses a network
of odor molecules. This heightened sensitivity is pivotal
where physical objects, equipped with sensors and soft-
for e- noses in distinguishing between various odors.
ware, connect and share data over the Internet. In the
More- over, MOSFETs offer rapid response times,
context of IoT-compatible portable e-noses, a crucial
allowing real-time detection and identification of odors.
goal is size reduction for effective integration. One pro-
Their reusable nature, achievable through appropriate
posed method involves optimizing sensor arrays based
cleaning or desorption techniques to eliminate adsorbed
on VOCs concentration data, reducing the initial ten
odor molecules, enables multiple measurements.
sensors to four. Presently, e-noses often transfer data
4) FET(Field Electronic Transistor) offline to computers, limiting real-time applications.
However, IoT’s rise fosters a trend of interconnecting
• FET-based sensors demonstrate remarkable sensitivity instruments, using smartphones as control hubs. A
as absorbed molecules on the FET’s surface recent hardware design utilizes advanced System-on-a-
modulate its conductivity. This sensitivity allows e- Chip (SoC) technology, featuring Wi-Fi connectivity for
noses to detect even trace quantities of odorants. FETs real- time data transmission and storage in the cloud.
also provide selectivity, facilitating specific interaction
with distinct odor molecules. These sensors offer swift • Further innovations include e-nose nodes for wireless
response times, detecting real-time changes in sensor networks, enhancing adaptability. Addressing
electrical
 health and social concerns, an e-nose is designed as a systems, incorporating features like unsupervised
smoke detector, leveraging an Arduino microcontroller. learning, location tracking, and modular design,
This solution detects smoke in public spaces, issuing broadens their applicability. Additionally, integrating e-
warnings to smokers and uploading data to the cloud noses in mobile robots enhances their olfactory
for analysis using machine learning techniques. Looking perception, mimicking human behavior without
ahead, the IoT-enabled e-nose holds promise in smart significant cost escalation.
city construction, contributing to efficient resource
utilization and improved urban services. Its potential to • In smart farming, these systems prove valuable for
inform citizens about air quality through mobile assessing soil fertility by detecting organic volatile
applications and city screens aligns with broader goals compounds. Challenges such as slow response times
of enhancing the quality of life in smart cities. are addressed through innovations like multi-chamber
e-noses. Despite advancements, two main difficulties
2) Wearable e-nose systems persist: prolonged measurement response and recovery
times, limiting application scenarios, and the impact of
• The current surge in smart wearable devices, such as
external factors on odor measurement. Research
watches and glasses, presents an opportunity for the
directions include exploring multiple robots with diverse
widespread adoption of compact e-noses designed as
sensing techniques and understanding olfactory
wearable gadgets. Resembling a watch with an
interactions.
integrated time display, these wearable e-noses could
gain substantial popularity by actively detecting human • The sensing material is printed on the sensing element
body odors or environmental gases in real-time. This with the heater formed on the reverse side.
innovation holds the promise of evaluating human
health or environmental safety, providing continuous
monitoring and protection. Equipped with existing VII. CONCLUSION:
detection capabilities like heart rate monitoring, blood
oxygen saturation, and exercise tracking, wearable e- The integration of nanomaterials and nanoelectronics into
noses could evolve into potent medical smartwatches the realm of Electronic Noses (E-noses) has opened new
frontiers in sensor technology, offering heightened
• For instance, a proposed wearable e-nose targets skin sensitivity, enhanced selectivity, and improved performance
odors, featuring a sensor array comprising in odor detection and gas analysis. This transformative
functionalized carbon nanotubes and polymers for synergy underscores the significant role played by
wireless transmission. Another design concentrates on nanoelectronics in pushing the boundaries of E-nose
analyzing armpit odors, utilizing inkjet-printing capabilities. Through this report’s exploration of the
technology and ZigBee wireless communication. fundamental principles, advantages, and challenges of E-
Additionally, a wearable textile chemical sensor system noses interfacing with nanomaterial-based sensors, it
for humanoid robots includes prototypes for monitoring becomes evident that nanoelectronics serves as the
human axillary odors, tracking foot odors, and detecting backbone of these advanced sensing systems.
personal gas leaks. These innovations could seamlessly Nanomaterials’ unique electrical properties and surface
integrate into high- performance wearable wellness functionalities are harnessed to address limitations in
platforms like smart clothes and shoes, suggesting a traditional sensor technologies, presenting innovative
future where wearable e-noses play a pivotal role in solutions to achieve higher sensitivity, selectivity, and
everyday life. The ongoing exploration of bionic e-nose responsiveness in E-nose applications across diverse fields
technologies further bolsters the potential for e-noses such as environmental monitoring, healthcare diagnostics,
worn on the human body to become increasingly and industrial quality control.
popular in the future.
Moreover, the future trajectory of E-nose technology in
3) Mobile e-nose systems conjunction with nanoelectronics promises continued
advancements and breakthroughs. As we navigate the
• Mobile e-nose systems, featured on platforms like evolving landscape of nanomaterials and electronics, the
robots and UAVs, serve three primary roles in robotics: development of E-noses stands at the forefront of
hazardous environmental odor detection, enhancing innovation, driving the pursuit of more sophisticated,
robot intelligence, and contributing to smart farming. miniature, and portable sensing devices. Challenges persist
The urgency of gas detection in perilous situations in ensuring robustness, reproducibility, and cost-
emphasizes the need for mobile e-nose systems, effectiveness, yet the potential applications and societal
reducing safety risks to humans by employing robots impact of these nano electronic-enabled E-noses are
with integrated e- noses. In disaster relief, robots undeniable. With ongoing research, innovation, and
equipped with e-noses aid rescuers by mapping gas collaborations across interdisciplinary do- mains, the
distributions and identifying hazardous substances. The journey towards harnessing the full potential of
development of these nanoelectronics in E-nose systems not only addresses
current challenges but also shapes the future landscape of
sensor technology, positioning E-noses as indispensable
tools in addressing societal and industrial needs.
 REFERENCES

[1] Meng Hao, Pei-Feng Qi, and Achim J. Lilienthal, “Development of

compact electronic noses: A review,” April 2021.
[2] Aung Khant Maw, Pakpum Somboon, Werayut Srituravanich and
Arporn Teeramongkonrasmee, “A Hybrid E-nose System based on
Metal Oxide Semiconductor Gas Sensors and Compact Colorimetric
Sensors,” 2021 IEEE International Conference on Automatic Control
and Intelligent Systems (I2CACIS 2021), 26 June 2021, Shah Alam,
Malaysia.
[3] Jisub Bae, Christine Baly, karolina Corin, Aurélie Dewaele, Peter Yi
Dong, Jean-François Gibrat, Naihua Natalie Gong, Seunghun Hong,
Jyongsik Jang, and Hye Jun Jin, “Bioelectronic Nose Integration of
Biotechnology and Nanotechnology,” Springer Science+Business
Media Dordrecht 2014.
[4] Seung Yol Jeong, KI KANG KIM, KAY HYEOK AN, HA RYONG
HWANG, CHANG SOO HAN, MIN HEE YUN, YOUNG HEE
LEE, and I. N. Sneddon, “FABRICATION OF GAS SENSOR
USING SINGLE-WALLED CARBON NANOTUBES DISPERSED
IN DICHLOROETHANE,” World Scientific Publishing Company, 6
November 2006.
[5] Zainab Yunusa, Mohd Nizar Hamidon, Z. Awang and Ahsanul
Kaiser, “Gas Sensors: A Review,” Research-Gate, April 2014.