Correlation of volatile carbonyl yields emitted by e-cigarettes with the temperature of the heating coil and the perceived sensorial quality of the generated vapours

Introduction:
This article summarizes a study on the correlation between the temperature of the heating coil in e-cigarettes and the yield of volatile carbonyls, which are potentially harmful compounds formed during the vaporization process. The study used a third-generation e-cigarette with adjustable battery output and vaped it using a smoking machine with standardized vaping conditions. Emissions of carbonyls at each wattage were linked with the temperatures occurring on the heating coil and the qualitative sensorial perception of the generated vapor by an experienced vaper.

Key Points:

* The study found that increasing battery outputs generate increasing levels of carbonyls.
* The determination of the qualitative vapor perception and the measurement of the heating coil temperature were not within the aims of a previous study, but were included in this study.
* The e-cigarette used in this study was a third-generation product with adjustable battery output and a transparent tank with a capacity of approximately 4.5 mL.
* The e-liquid used for all measurements was composed of glycerol (50%), propylene glycol (40%), water (6%), tobacco fragrance (3%), and nicotine (0.9%).
* Carbonyl emissions were determined under standardized vaping conditions with the auxiliary of an analytical smoking machine.
* The carbonyls formed during the vaping process were selectively trapped on cartridges filled with 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine (DNPh) coated silica gel adsorbent, followed by analysis by hPLC/UV.
* The DNPh sorbent cartridges were placed directly behind the e-cigarette, thereby minimizing loss of carbonyls due to ad- or absorption processes.
* In total 6 replicates (10 puffs/replicate) were analyzed for each of the 5 wattages.

Main Message:
The study highlights the importance of developing standardized testing methods for the assessment of carbonyl emissions and emissions of other potentially harmful compounds from e-cigarettes. The wide variety and variability of products available on the market make the development of such methods and the associated standardized testing conditions particularly demanding. The study also emphasizes the need for accurate quantification of carbonyls, which is crucial for the correct interpretation of exposure levels and potential health risks. Overall, the study underscores the need for continued research and regulation of e-cigarettes to ensure their safety and public health.

Geiss, Otmar, Ivana Bianchi, and Josefa Barrero-Moreno. “Correlation of Volatile Carbonyl Yields Emitted by E-Cigarettes with the Temperature of the heating Coil and the Perceived Sensorial quality of the Generated Vapours.” International Journal of hygiene and Environmental health 219, no. 3 (May 2016): 268–77. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijheh.2016.01.004.