Real-Time Measurement of Electronic Cigarette aerosol Size Distribution and Metals Content analysis

Introduction:
This text is a summary of a scientific study that investigates the particle size distribution and chemical composition of aerosols generated by electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) compared to conventional cigarettes. The study used advanced real-time instrumentation with high resolution to measure the particle size and concentration of the aerosols generated by e-cigarettes and compared them to that of conventional cigarettes. The study found that e-cigarette aerosols have a unique size distribution and chemical composition compared to conventional cigarette smoke.

Key Points:

* The study used three brands of commercially available cigalike e-cigarettes and one tank-style e-cigarette to measure the particle size and concentration of the aerosols generated.
* The study found that e-cigarette aerosols typically exhibit a bimodal size distribution with comparable number concentrations of nanoparticles and submicron particles.
* The highest concentration of nanoparticles is observed at the beginning of the puff.
* Bulk aerosol analysis suggests that metals contribute to nanoparticle formation, but comprehensive particle size segregated chemical analysis is required to obtain full information about the chemical composition of nanoparticles.
* The study used the DMS500 instrument to measure the particle size and concentration of e-cigarette aerosols, but noted that it underestimates the particle size of the submicron fraction.
* The study suggests that nanoparticles in e-cigarette aerosols may contain metals and other unknown low volatile chemicals.
* The toxicological impact of inhaled nanoparticles could be significant, though not necessarily similar to the biomarkers typical of combustible tobacco smoke.
* The study highlights the need for further research to assess the potential health impact of e-cigarettes, particularly with regards to nanoparticle formation and toxicity.

Main Message:
The study highlights the unique particle size distribution and chemical composition of e-cigarette aerosols compared to conventional cigarette smoke. The presence of high concentrations of nanoparticles in e-cigarette aerosols could have significant toxicological implications and highlights the need for further research to assess the potential health impact of e-cigarettes. The study also highlights the need for improved instrumentation to accurately measure the particle size and composition of e-cigarette aerosols. Overall, the study emphasizes the need for careful regulation and monitoring of e-cigarettes to ensure public health and safety.

Mikheev, Vladimir B., Marielle C. Brinkman, Courtney a. Granville, Sydney M. Gordon, and Pamela I. Clark. “Real-Time Measurement of Electronic Cigarette aerosol Size Distribution and Metals Content analysis.” Nicotine & Tobacco Research 18, no. 9 (September 2016): 1895–1902. https://doi.org/10.1093/ntr/ntw128.