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Comparison of the Volatile Organic Compounds Present in Human Odor Using Spme-GC/MS

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Abstract

We evaluated the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present in human odor by using headspace solid phase microextraction gas chromatography–mass spectrometry for the extraction, separation, and analysis of the collected samples. Volatile organic compounds present in the headspace above axillary sweat samples collected from different individuals showed the presence of various types of compounds including organic fatty acids, ketones, aldehydes, esters, and alcohols. Qualitative differences and similarities noted between the males and females studied along with differences in chemical ratio patterns among the common compounds demonstrated the ability to differentiate between individuals through the examination of VOCs.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, International Forensic Research Institute, Florida International University, University Park, CP 345, Miami, FL, 33199, USA

    Allison M. Curran, Scott I. Rabin, Paola A. Prada & Kenneth G. Furton

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  1. Allison M. Curran
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  2. Scott I. Rabin
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  3. Paola A. Prada
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  4. Kenneth G. Furton
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Correspondence to Kenneth G. Furton.

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Curran, A.M., Rabin, S.I., Prada, P.A. et al. Comparison of the Volatile Organic Compounds Present in Human Odor Using Spme-GC/MS. J Chem Ecol 31, 1607–1619 (2005). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10886-005-5801-4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10886-005-5801-4

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