Summary
Introduction:
This article evaluates the efficiency of the DNPh derivatization method for determining formaldehyde yields in e-cigarette aerosols. The study aims to address concerns that formaldehyde levels in e-cigarette aerosols may be underreported due to the formation of hemiacetals and acetals that do not react with DNPh.
Key Points:
* The aerosol generated from formaldehyde-fortified e-liquids provided a near-quantitative recovery of formaldehyde, suggesting that if any hemiacetal was formed in the aerosol, it would readily hydrolyze to free formaldehyde and, consequently, form formaldehyde hydrazone in the acidic DNPh trapping solution.
* Custom-synthesized Gly and PG hemiacetal adducts added to the DNPh trapping solution would readily hydrolyze to form the formaldehyde hydrazone.
* acetals of PG and Gly present in e-liquid are almost completely transferred to the aerosol during aerosolization.
* The DNPh derivatization method allows for an accurate measurement of formaldehyde in vapor products.
Main Message:
The study demonstrates that the DNPh derivatization method is a reliable and accurate method for determining formaldehyde yields in e-cigarette aerosols. The findings contradict previous reports suggesting that formaldehyde levels in e-cigarette aerosols may be underreported due to the formation of hemiacetals and acetals that do not react with DNPh. The study provides important information for regulators, policymakers, and researchers involved in e-cigarette regulation and public health.
Citation
Jin XC, Ballentine RM, Gardner WP, et al. Determination of Formaldehyde Yields in E-Cigarette aerosols: an Evaluation of the Efficiency of the DNPh Derivatization Method. Separations. 2021;8:151. doi:10.3390/separations8090151
