Virgin olive oil sensory evaluation by an artificial olfactory system, based on Quartz Crystal Microbalance (QCM) sensors

The potential of an artificial olfactory system, constituted by an array of five Quartz Crystal Microbalance (QCM) sensors, to discriminate virgin olive oil samples based on their aromatic profiles was researched. Five gas chromatographic stationary phases (OV-17, OV-275, PEG, Span 80 and Vaseline) were employed as sensing films of QCM sensors. The steady state sensor responses measured by a statistical measurement system were used to evaluate the discrimination properties of the system by Principal Component Analysis (PCA) method. The results of this study provide promising perspectives for the use of a low-cost, easy to use and fast system for the differentiation of edible from lampante virgin olive oils.