2019-02-142019-02-142018-122018-122018-12https://hdl.handle.net/2346/82680The prevalence of terrorism around the globe has made explosive detector dogs an invaluable tool for homeland security, creating a need for reliable training aids for optimal performance results. While research exploring the use of other animals such as rats, wasps, honey bees, and moths as explosive detectors have been done, canines remain the preferred method of detection. The use of an olfactometer in olfaction-based research is the key to understanding complex odor mixtures. This instrument is used to not only detect and measure odors but also to investigate and understand odor dilutions. One of the benefits that arise from using an olfactometer to create training aids for canines will be the ability of these training aids to expose the canines to the actual odor of the explosive source that the canine is expected to detect without posing a safety or handling risk to either the dog or the handler. The creation of explosive training aids using an olfactometer also opens the door to rapidly and optimally generating training aids from new homemade explosive devices. This could mean that military and law enforcement personnel could collect explosive residue from the field and allow the analyst to create a training aid that simulates current threats. This thesis experiment was conducted with the intent of evaluating the potential of training aids using commercially available smokeless powders, sugar, and a laboratory made olfactometer, specifically designed to investigate various experimental parameters for use in training dogs in explosives detection. By evaluating if training aids created using an olfactometer have a detectable odor signature for use and discovering the longevity of these new training aids, this thesis experiment hopes to open up a new avenue for canine training aid manufacture to be used throughout the United States for national defense at home and abroad.application/pdfengCaninesOlfactometerExplosivesTraining AidsSPME-GC/MSSmokeless PowdersThesis2019-02-14Access is not restricted.