Summary
Introduction:
This article summarizes a study investigating the impact of electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) vaping on indoor air quality in a controlled chamber. The study aimed to determine the composition of e-cigarette mainstream vapor in terms of propylene glycol, glycerol, carbonyls, and nicotine emissions using a smoking machine with adapted smoking parameters.
Key points:
* E-cigarettes were found to be sources of propylene glycol, glycerol, nicotine, carbonyls, and aerosol particulates.
* The extent of exposure differs significantly for active and passive 'vapers' (users of electronic cigarettes).
* In chamber studies, peak concentrations of 2200 /h9262g m−3for propylene glycol, 136 /h9262g m−3for glycerol, and 0.6 /h9262g m−3for nicotine were reached.
* Carbonyls were not detected above detection limits in chamber studies.
* Particles in the size range of 20 nm to 300 nm constantly increased during vaping activity and reached final peak concentrations of 7 × 106particles L−1.
* Products showed design flaws such as leakages from the cartridge reservoirs.
* Possible long-term effects of e-cigarettes on health are not yet known.
Main message:
The study emphasizes the need for further research into the product characteristics of e-cigarettes and refill liquids. Consumers would benefit from harmonized quality and safety improvements of e-cigarettes and refill liquids. It is crucial to ensure that decisions of policymakers, health care providers, and consumers are based on sound science, considering the potential impact of e-cigarettes on indoor air quality and health.
Citation
Geiss, Otmar, Ivana Bianchi, Francisco Barahona, and Josefa Barrero-Moreno. “Characterisation of Mainstream and Passive Vapours Emitted by Selected Electronic Cigarettes.” International Journal of hygiene and Environmental health 218, no. 1 (January 2015): 169–80. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijheh.2014.10.001.
