[Role of human olfaction in detection of space vehicle air contamination by gases emitted during thermal destruction of polymers]

The paper deals with the ability of human olfaction to identify odours associated with thermal destruction of polymers. The investigations confirmed the ability of early detection of equipment overheating and subjective odour evaluation using the 5-point intensity scale and calculating the relation of odour intensity to the maximum admissible concentration of volatile chemical contaminants aboard piloted space vehicles. Emission of gases by polymers in electrical equipment starts with heating temperature rise to 100 degrees C. A new odour smelled by only some of humans due to individual perception signifies typically that emitted gases are below MAC for space vehicle. Odour sensed by everyone though not irritating signifies, as a rule, of chemical contamination above MAC but not contingency. Symptoms of irritation by products of thermal destruction of polymers signify contingency and require the use of personal protection equipment.