E-Cigarette airflow Rate Modulates Toxicant Profiles and Can Lead to Concerning Levels of Solvent Consumption

Introduction:
This article examines the impact of air flow rates on the toxicant profiles and solvent consumption of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes). With the growing popularity of enhanced air flow e-cigarettes and the lack of standardized analytical protocols, understanding the effects of varying air flow rates is crucial. This study aims to shed light on how different air flow rates can influence aerosol product profiles and solvent consumption in e-cigarettes.

Key Points:

1. The study used a Tesla Invader III battery with two 18650 hG2 LG batteries and a KangerTech SubTank Mini atomizer.
2. E-liquid was prepared with equimolar amounts of GLY and PG, and aerosol was produced using a Single Cigarette Smoking Machine with CORESTa and Custom Square Modes.
3. aerosol generated by the electronic cigarette was drawn into an impinger containing DMSO-d6 followed by a -78°C cold trap connected to the SCSM-STEP Machine.
4. The research focused on propylene glycol (PG) and glycerol (GLY) decomposition product profiles as a function of flow rate.
5. The study found that thermal dehydration products form more readily at slower air flow rates, while oxidation products form at relatively greater levels when air flow is increased.
6. E-cigarette solvent consumption increases significantly with increased air flow, which can lead to concerning levels of solvent intake.
7. The findings highlight the importance of accounting for air flow rates when comparing intra- and interlaboratory studies of toxicant levels.

Main Message:
The study emphasizes the significant role of air flow rates in shaping e-cigarette aerosol product profiles and solvent consumption. as e-cigarette users, particularly young people, engage in direct lung inhalation and cloud tricks, it is crucial to understand the potential health implications of higher air flow rates. The findings underscore the need for standardized analytical protocols, clear labeling of e-cigarette devices, and public education on safe usage practices to minimize potential health risks associated with e-cigarette use.

Korzun, Tetiana, Maryana Lazurko, Ian Munhenzva, Kelley C. Barsanti, Yilin huang, R. Paul Jensen, Jorge O. Escobedo, Wentai Luo, David h. Peyton, and Robert M. Strongin. “E-Cigarette airflow Rate Modulates Toxicant Profiles and Can Lead to Concerning Levels of Solvent Consumption.” aCS Omega 3, no. 1 (January 31, 2018): 30–36. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsomega.7b01521.