Odor Modification in Rigid Polyethylene Waste: Impact of Different Washing on Sensory Analysis and Characterization
Belé T, Roosen M, Loos H, De Meester S, Büttner A (2026)
Publication Type: Journal article
Publication year: 2026
Journal
Book Volume: 10
Article Number: e70114
Journal Issue: 6
DOI: 10.1002/gch2.70114
Abstract
Persistent odor in recycled polyethylene (PE) limits its use in high-demand applications, necessitating effective deodorization. We investigated how washing affects the odor profile and intensity of post-consumer rigid PE, using sensory analysis, comparative odor extract dilution analysis (cOEDA), and two-dimensional gas chromatography-mass spectrometry/olfactometry (2D-GC-MS/O). Three methods were evaluated, varying in temperature and surfactant use: room temperature water (RT, 25°C), hot water (HW, 80°C), and detergent with caustic soda (DW). Sensory analysis showed that no treatment significantly reduced overall odor intensity or hedonic ratings, although washing modified the qualitative odor profile. Median values indicated a modest downward trend for DW (17% reduction), though not statistically significant. cOEDA and 2D-GC-MS/O results aligned with these qualitative shifts, including reduced moldy and increased soapy and flowery notes. Of 32 odor-active compounds detected in post-consumer rigid PE, 28 were identified. Rose oxide, dihydromyrcenol, hexyl salicylate, and α-hexylcinnamaldehyde are reported for the first time in post-consumer PE. This study deepens understanding of post-consumer PE odor and highlights challenges in developing advanced deodorization techniques for the circular economy.
Authors with CRIS profile
Tiago Belé
Lehrstuhl für Aroma- und Geruchsforschung
Helene Loos
Lehrstuhl für Aroma- und Geruchsforschung
Andrea Büttner
Lehrstuhl für Aroma- und Geruchsforschung
Involved external institutions
Belgium (BE)How to cite
APA:
Belé, T., Roosen, M., Loos, H., De Meester, S., & Büttner, A. (2026). Odor Modification in Rigid Polyethylene Waste: Impact of Different Washing on Sensory Analysis and Characterization. Global Challenges, 10(6). https://doi.org/10.1002/gch2.70114
MLA:
Belé, Tiago, et al. "Odor Modification in Rigid Polyethylene Waste: Impact of Different Washing on Sensory Analysis and Characterization." Global Challenges 10.6 (2026).
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