Characterization of E-cigarette coil temperature and toxic metal analysis by infrared temperature sensing and scanning electron microscopy - energy-dispersive X-ray.

Introduction:
This text is a summary of a scientific study that characterized the temperature output and metal composition of two types of coils commonly used in electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes). The study aimed to understand the potential toxic metal exposure from inhaling e-cigarette aerosols. The temperature output of the two coils was measured in contact and non-contact configurations under dry conditions and wet conditions when saturated with different e-liquid mixtures. The metal profile of the two coils before and after heating was determined using scanning electron microscopy energy dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX). The study provides valuable information about the safety of e-cigarettes and the potential health risks associated with their use.

Key Points:

* The study used two types of coils, Kanthal a-1 and nickel chromium (nichrome), in contact and non-contact configurations.
* The coils were tested under dry conditions and wet conditions when saturated with different e-liquid mixtures, including 100% vegetable glycerin, 100% propylene glycol, and a 50:50 mixture.
* The temperature output of the coils was measured using an infrared (IR) temperature sensor.
* The metal profile of the coils was determined using SEM-EDX before and after heating.
* The coils were heated for one, 50, and 150 times at their maximum operating temperatures.
* The study found that the coils reached temperatures above 1000 °C when dry but were below 300 °C when saturated with e-liquid.
* The study also found a significant loss of metals, including chromium, iron, and nickel, from the coils after heating, suggesting that these metals may be entering the aerosol of the e-cigarette and being inhaled by the user.

Main Message:
The study highlights the potential health risks associated with the use of e-cigarettes, particularly the potential toxic metal exposure from inhaling e-cigarette aerosols. The loss of metals from the coils after heating suggests that these metals may be entering the aerosol and being inhaled by the user. The study emphasizes the need for further research to understand the long-term health effects of e-cigarette use and the need for appropriate regulation to ensure the safety of e-cigarette products. It is crucial to inform the public about the potential risks associated with e-cigarette use to enable them to make informed decisions about their use.

Mulder ha, Stewart JB, Blue IP, et al. Characterization of E-cigarette coil temperature and toxic metal analysis by infrared temperature sensing and scanning electron microscopy - energy-dispersive X-ray. Inhalation toxicology. 2020;32(13-14):447-455. doi:10.1080/08958378.2020.1840678