Micro Devices know 'sniff' people trapped in earthquakes

Researchers at ETH, Zurich, Switzerland have developed a "smallest and smallest" device that can detect human odors buried in earthquakes, avalanches, and so on.

Picture 1 of Micro Devices know 'sniff' people trapped in earthquakes
The device "smell" the smell of human researchers of Switzerland - (Photo: ETH Zurich / Andreas Güntner).

According to ScienceDaily, this small device the size of a computer chip, which contains sensitive sensor can detect and smell acetone, ammonia, hydrogen, carbon liquid (isoprene), carbon dioxide (CO 2) and moisture - the signs show human presence.

In a statement, the research team at ETH said that their equipment could be used in rescue work instead of rescuers needing a break and not always available in emergency situations.

It can also be equipped with unmanned aerial vehicles to help reach remote, inaccessible areas in search of survivors.

ETH is currently looking for industrial partners or investors to develop a prototype and test the device in practice.