Decomposing bodies are often characterized by their pungent and nauseating odor, which is a result of bacteria and grubs breaking down every inch of flesh. Scientists, however, have been intrigued by the true smell of dead bodies — before the process of decay sets in.
To find out the answer, a team of researchers from the University of Huddersfield in the U.K. analyzed the different gases that decomposing bodies typically give off, and they have made some interesting discoveries.
In a study presented at the British Science Festival in Bradford, the researchers reported that during the initial stages of decomposition – even before bacteria and grubs set in – the flesh on a dead body begins to digest itself, resulting in the release of a compound known as hexanal, which has a similar aroma to that of freshly cut grass.
Dr. Anna Williams, one of the researchers from Huddersfield, said that while a cadaver has a rank odor, it experiences several changes as it goes through the different decomposition stages.
She said that during the first few days, the dead body goes through a process called autolysis, in which it basically digests its own cells. The body becomes putrid when bacteria gets involved in the process.
Williams said that another component, known as indole, has a very pungent smell similar to feces — but small amounts of it can be found in some rich and heady perfumes.
A third compound in the scent of dead bodies is known as trimethylamine. This component typically gives off a strong fishy stench, but it can also smell like nail polish remover or paint thinner.
The Huddersfield researchers made use of pig cadavers during their study. They allowed the dead bodies to decompose in boxes, with some containers filled with water.
They then used a gas chromatography device in order to analyze the different vapors that were produced during the decomposition.
Williams and her colleagues hope that their research could lead to improved cadaver dog training to help make them more effective at locating dead bodies.
Williams said that it is still uncertain which specific factors cadaver dogs will respond to. They wish to have a better understanding as to how the animals work and how they can be trained.
She added that the canines could respond only at specific stages of the decomposition process, and that they could be better trained through scientific ways.
Photo: Andy Melton | Flickr
