The Chemistry and Biology of Volatiles

Volatile compounds are molecules with a relatively low molecular weight allowing for an efficient evaporation into the air. They are found in many areas of our everyday-life: they are responsible for the communication between species such as plants, insects or mammals; they serve as flavours or fragrances in many food products or perfumed consumer articles; and they play an important role in atmospheric chemistry.

The Chemistry and Biology of Volatiles takes an interdisciplinary approach to volatile molecules. Review-style introductions to the main topics in volatile chemistry and biology are provided by international experts, building into a broad overview of this fascinating field. Topics covered include:

• The structural variety of volatile compounds

• Biogeneration of volatiles

• Synthesis of natural and non-natural volatiles

• Analysis of volatiles

• Volatile compounds as semiochemicals in plant-plant or plant-insect interactions

• Volatiles in pest control

• Pheromones and the influence of volatiles on mammals

• Olfaction and human perception

• Volatiles as fragrances

• The generation of flavours and food aroma compounds

• Stabilisation and controlled release of volatiles

• The impact of volatiles on the environment and the atmosphere
  

The Chemistry and Biology of Volatiles is an essential overview of this important field for students and researchers in organic and bioorganic chemistry, biochemistry, flavour and fragrance research, pest control, and atmospheric chemistry.