This seminar is structured to build your understanding step by step. We will begin with the chemistry of essential oils and how they are produced, because extraction method influences VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) composition. Then we will examine the VOC profiles of each scent-work oil in detail, including the dominant compounds and their volatility characteristics and how best to use them and when not to use them. After that, we will explore environmental factors such as temperature and vapour pressure, which determine how VOCs evaporate and disperse. We will also discuss odour cocktailing — the mixing of multiple VOC sources — and overshadowing, where a stronger odour masks a weaker one. Finally, we will look at VOCs released by adhesives, plastics, and storage materials, which can unintentionally influence the scent picture and affect training outcomes. By the end of the lecture, you will have a comprehensive understanding of how scent-work odours behave in the real world.

-Sonja Needs