Jokesters have long used stink bombs as the ultimate revenge. Though not so common any more, they are still sold in many novelty and joke shops across the country. They are usually small, easy to carry, and, of course, smell absolutely awful.

There may be a new future for stink bombs, however. Smell remains one of the most elusive and untapped senses; it is an extremely complex sense that is still not wholly understood by scientists. Extremely powerful, smell has the ability to change people's moods in an instant, initiate bodily responses, and more.

Military Stink Bombs?

That power is now the subject of much research. Chemical senses centers are delving deep into the science of smell, and trying to make sense of the senses. News reports from a few years ago indicate that some research labs are being tapped by the government to investigate smells that may be used as a non-lethal weapon or deterrent.

If successful, the product may synthesize foul odors that are recognizable to any culture or group of people into one ultimate stench tool that could be used to keep people away from sensitive areas or disperse unruly crowds or riots.