Transfer of Metals to the aerosol Generated by an Electronic Cigarette: Influence of Number of Puffs and Power.

Introduction:
This text discusses a study on the transfer of potentially harmful heavy metals from electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) parts to the aerosol plume and liquid in the storage tank. The study aims to understand the mechanism of metal transfer and the potential variables that affect metal concentrations.

Key Points:

* The study used a refillable mod-type electronic cigarette, which allowed for control of the power and temperature settings on the coil and allowed the e-liquid to be tested separately from the e-cigarette.
* The e-cigarette used a nichrome heating element, allowing for the potential transfer of nickel and chromium directly to the aerosol during heating.
* The study measured chromium, nickel, copper, and lead concentrations in the aerosol and tank liquid as a function of the number of times the e-cigarette was puffed and the power setting on the e-cigarette.
* The concentrations of metals increased in both the aerosol and tank liquid the more times the e-cigarette was puffed, but at varying rates for each element and depending on the power applied to the heating coil.
* Chromium and nickel concentrations were greater in the aerosol than in tank liquid, consistent with the direct transfer of those metals to the aerosol from heating of the nichrome coil element.
* Copper and lead concentrations were similar or greater in the tank compared to the aerosol, consistent with transfer first into the storage tank liquid, followed by vaporization into the aerosol.

Main Message:
The study highlights the potential health risks associated with the use of e-cigarettes due to the transfer of harmful heavy metals from the device components to the aerosol plume and liquid in the storage tank. The findings suggest that the number of times the e-cigarette is puffed and the power setting on the device can affect metal concentrations. Therefore, it is important to consider these factors when using e-cigarettes and to be aware of the potential health risks associated with their use.

Rastian B, Wilbur C, Curtis DB. Transfer of Metals to the aerosol Generated by an Electronic Cigarette: Influence of Number of Puffs and Power. International journal of environmental research and public health. 2022;19(15). doi:10.3390/ijerph19159334