L3: Smell Odour Description & Classification

Question 1

What kind of blotters should be used for odour analysis and why?

Answer 1

Thinner blotter, to allow recognition of different smelling phases.

Question 2

What kind of blotters should be used for presenting a finished perfume and why?

Answer 2

Heavier and more absorbent paper, holds full composition better.

Question 3

What does tapering blotters do?

Answer 3

• Facilitate dipping

- Minimise amount of material to be analysed.

Question 4

How should perfume samples be prepared for smelling?

Answer 4

Dilute

For alcoholic perfumery work:
- Allow alcohol to evaporate completely before smelling

For work on other products:

• Choice of solvent
• Ideally, diluent/solvent should be similar or identical to product base

For smelling perfume compounds in neat, undiluted
form:
- Do not dip blotters too deeply
- Confine actual smelling to a few inhalations

Question 5

How to sniff?

Answer 5

• Do not sniff directly from the bottle; risk of sniffing finely powdered materials
• Olfactory fatigue
• Write down notes of odour impressions
• Rest intervals

Question 6

How should the workplace be for optimal smell analysis?

Answer 6

• Well-ventilated with slight overpressure in working
  area.
• Odourless, tempered air of natural humidity
• Quiet surroundings

Question 7

Can the odour of a perfume be different if the ingredient used is grown in different countries?

Answer 7

Yes.

Question 8

What are the 3 odour classification and their “founders”?

Answer 8

Rimmel: 18 distinct types

Piesse: Based on musical notes; fragrant blends could be made by using harmonious chords

Poucher: Based on volatility of fragrant materials; Top, middle and base notes

Question 9

What are the 6 odour effects?

Answer 9

1. Erogenic
2. Narcotic
3. Stimulating
4. Anti-erogenic
5. Mental stimulant
6. Relaxing