Summary
Introduction:
This article describes a study that investigates the presence of heavy metals in the aerosol produced by inhaling cannabis concentrates through a vaporizer cartridge. The study also aims to establish a method for collecting and analyzing the aerosol produced by cannabis vaporizer cartridges. The results of this study could have important implications for the safety of cannabis vaporizer cartridges and the regulation of heavy metals in cannabis products.
Key Points:
* The study compares various methods for nonpolar aerosol capture and subsequent analysis of 10 metals in two model cannabis matrices, flower and concentrate.
* Spiked cannabis concentrates were vaped in commercially available cartridges, and their aerosol mixtures were investigated for recovery of the metals.
* Spiked flower samples were also combusted to compare collection rates of the 10 metals.
* The study found that not all metals that are present in the concentrate or flower can be fully recovered in the aerosol capture processes at standard voltage settings or combustion temperatures.
* The study also demonstrates the importance of a nonpolar solvent as part of the aerosol collection to increase the recovery of some metals.
* The high concentration of some metals seen in the concentrate suggests that the devices themselves are potential routes of exposure.
* The ICP-MS analysis method was further validated by evaluating different parameters including linearity, matrix effect, limit of detection, limit of quantitation, and repeatability.
Main Message:
The study highlights the importance of developing a standardized method for collecting and analyzing the aerosol produced by cannabis vaporizer cartridges. The results suggest that not all metals are fully recovered in the aerosol capture process, and the use of a nonpolar solvent can increase the recovery of some metals. The high concentration of some metals seen in the concentrate suggests that the devices themselves are potential routes of exposure, and further research is needed to ensure the safety of cannabis vaporizer cartridges. The study also highlights the need for further research on the potential health impacts of inhaling heavy metals present in cannabis concentrates. Overall, the study provides valuable insights into the safety and regulation of cannabis vaporizer cartridges and the need for further research to ensure public health and safety.
Citation
Mallampati SR, McDaniel C, Wise aR. Strategies for Nonpolar aerosol Collection and heavy Metals analysis of Inhaled Cannabis Products. aCS omega. 2021;6(26):17126-17135. doi:10.1021/acsomega.1c02740
