Analysis of error cases induced with regard to the calculation of the dilution factor during the proficiency test of certified odor measurement agencies

Abstract

The aim of this study is to analyze error cases induced during the proficiency test of certified odor measurement agencies. In the case of the homogeneity test performed in three panel groups, the geometric mean dilution factor of the site boundary PTMs(proficiency testing materials) was 1.4 ± 0.2, 1.7 ± 0.2, 1.8 ± 0.1 and that of the outlet PTMs was 3.7 ± 0.2, 3.7 ± 0.3, 3.7 ± 0.3, respectively. In the case of the stability test for 72 h, the geometric mean dilution factor of the site boundary PTMs was 1.6 ± 0.1 and that of the outlet PTMs was 3.6 ± 0.1. Among error cases induced during the proficiency test of certified odor measurement agencies, the proportion of error cases was in the order of case II(discontinuance of estimation)(40.0%) > case I(error on estimation procedure by panelist)(33.3%) > case III(miswriting of estimation result)(13.3%) > case IV(miswriting of dilution factor) and V(writing of wrong estimation result)(6.7%). Therefore, it seems likely that additional education related to error cases II and I is required.

Analysis of the influence of panel characteristics on odor measurement based on the air dilution olfactory method in Korea

“…The value was 3.690 ± 0.033 for the outlet PTMs. The deviation between the hourly log values of dilution rates was not significant, which indicates that the stability of the PTM samples was maintained over time [17].…”