VW PV 3900 Odor Test

In the VW PV 3900 standard developed by Volkswagen automobile company, a test method is defined to evaluate the level of odor caused by climatic exposure of interior materials of Volkswagen cars.

The “new car smell” is a quality indicator that adds to a customer's excitement about purchasing a new car. However, some of this odor produced by vehicle interior components is irritating. The test method defined in this standard is carried out as follows:

• The fragrance is assigned to a variable in the sealed container.
• The sample is exposed to the defined temperature condition for the specified time.
• The tester uses the pure scent funnel system to evaluate the sample.
• The odor is assessed after inspection using a 6-grade scale.
• For variants 1 and 2: The test cup filled with 5 ml of water is evaluated immediately after it is removed from the desiccator.
• For Variant 3: After adding water to the test vessel, it is removed from the desiccator and cooled to a temperature of 60 plus/minus 5 degrees Celsius before evaluation.

The test method described in the VW PV 3900 standard is a method for determining the odor impression made by a material used in the passenger compartment. However, the results obtained using this method are not suitable for making any statements about the amount of organic matter emitted by such a material, or for making continuous assessments regarding the health effects of the odor. Furthermore, the results obtained are in no way considered suitable as a basis for evaluating the odor impression occurring in the passenger compartment of a vehicle.

Briefly, this standard defines a test method for evaluating odor characteristics with exposure to temperature and climate. The test is carried out on materials in the passenger compartment and on parts that come into contact with the airflow supply to the passenger compartment.

For the purposes of this standard, the expression odor properties refers to the tendency of materials to emit volatile compounds with a dispersible odor after temperature and environmental aging.

Among the numerous tests, measurements, analyses, and evaluations our organization provides for businesses in various sectors, we also offer odor testing services under the VW PV 3900 standard, utilizing a trained and expert team and advanced technological equipment.