Summary
Introduction:
This text provides an in-depth analysis of the particle size distribution and number concentration of aerosols produced by electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) and tobacco burning cigarettes. The study employs a spectral transmission procedure and an electrical mobility analyzer to measure the particle size distribution of e-cigarette aerosols and tobacco burning cigarette smoke. The text also discusses the obstacles presented by high number concentration and volatile particulate matter in measuring the particle size distribution of tobacco burning cigarette smoke and e-cigarettes.
Key Points:
* The particle size distribution of aerosols produced by e-cigarettes and tobacco burning cigarettes was measured using a spectral transmission procedure and an electrical mobility analyzer.
* Undiluted e-cigarette aerosols were found to have particle diameters of average mass in the 250-450 nm range and particle number concentrations in the 10^9 particles/cm3 range.
* Total particulate mass for e-cigarettes calculated from the size distribution parameters measured by spectral transmission was in good agreement with replicate determinations of total particulate mass by gravimetric filter collection.
* average particle diameters determined for e-cigarettes by the electrical mobility method are in the 50 nm range and total particulate masses calculated based on these diameters are orders of magnitude smaller than those determined gravimetrically.
* The spectral transmission method is validated against measurements on tobacco burning cigarette smoke and is supported as yielding an accurate characterization of the e-cigarette aerosol particle size distribution.
* high number concentration and volatile particulate matter make it challenging to measure the particle size distribution of tobacco burning cigarette smoke and e-cigarettes.
* Measurement procedures requiring dilution of the aerosol may result in significant particulate matter evaporation and alteration of the particle size distribution.
Main Message:
The study highlights the importance of accurately measuring the particle size distribution and number concentration of e-cigarette aerosols and tobacco burning cigarette smoke. The spectral transmission method is validated as a reliable method for measuring the particle size distribution of e-cigarette aerosols and tobacco burning cigarette smoke. The text also emphasizes the challenges presented by high number concentration and volatile particulate matter in measuring the particle size distribution of tobacco burning cigarette smoke and e-cigarettes. accurate measurements of the particle size distribution and number concentration of e-cigarette aerosols and tobacco burning cigarette smoke are crucial for assessing respiratory dosimetry and ensuring public health safety.
Citation
Ingebrethsen, Bradley J., Stephen K. Cole, and Steven L. alderman. “Electronic Cigarette aerosol Particle Size Distribution Measurements.” Inhalation Toxicology 24, no. 14 (December 2012): 976–84. https://doi.org/10.3109/08958378.2012.744781.
