Threshold Test with n-Butanol

The ODOFIN Sniffin’ Sticks smell threshold n-butanol is determined in a so called “staircase procedure”. After a start concentration of the smell is found out, the dilution step is identified at which the smell can just be distinguished from nonsmelling pens (blanks).

Threshold smell test n-butanol

The question which you have to ask the test subject is: From which concentration on can you perceive an odorant (n-butanol)? Repeatedly, three pens will be presented to you one after another. Only one of these pens contains the odorant, the other two contain just water. You have to find out the pen in which you think you have perceived the odorant. In any case, you have to pick one of the three pens, even if you are not sure with your decision.

Contents threshold test

The complete test comes with 3 x 16 sticks, an instruction manual, evaluation material and holder as seen on the picture above.

The holder is only needed once. If the test has to be renewed, a refill set can be ordered.

Cotton gloves and a sleeping mask can be purchased separately.

N-butanol or 2-phenylethanol version

The Sniffin’ Sticks threshold test is available in 2 versions with only one difference: the smell of the target pen. The 2-phenylethanol version has a rose smell (and is therefor also known as the rose version) and the n-butanol version has an alcohol like smell.

Another difference is that the 2-phenylethanol version has a longer expiration date (1,5 year) compared to the n-butanol version (7-8 months). This is because the n-butanol substance is very volatile.

Shelf life threshold test

Each stick is labelled with a best before date, you can use the Sniffin’ Sticks for as many persons as you want before this date. Important is that you use the stick correctly, don’t touch the tip of the pen with fingers or nose. That will contaminate the stick and you cannot use the stick anymore because you cannot guarantee the quality of the odor of the stick. The shelf life for the threshold test n-butanol is approx. 7-8 months.

Due to hygienic reasons and the expiration date of these tests we cannot accept returns of the sticks.

Refill set

Refill sets are also available, please click on the following link: refill threshold test n-butanol