Comparison of the Performance of Cartomizer Style Electronic Cigarettes from Major Tobacco and Independent Manufacturers

Introduction:
This article compares the performance of 12 brands of cartomizer style electronic cigarettes (EC) using different puffing protocols and measuring the concentrations of nicotine in each product. The study aimed to evaluate the consistency and quality control of these products in the market.

Key Points:

* The study used two puffing protocols: the first 10 puffs and a modified smoke-out protocol.
* The air flow rate required to produce aerosol ranged between brands from 4 - 21 mL/s, and pressure drop ranged from 14 - 71 mmh2O.
* absorbance, a measure of aerosol density, was relatively consistent between puffs but varied between brands.
* With the modified smoke-out protocol, most brands lasted at least 300 puffs, and performed similarly within brands with respect to pressure drop and absorbance.
* Five brands had inconsistent performance when products were purchased at different times.
* The labeled and measured nicotine concentrations were within 10% of each other in only 1 out of 10 brands.

Main Message:
The study highlights the inconsistency and quality control issues in the EC market, particularly in cartomizer style products. The findings suggest that there is a need for better regulation and standardization of these products to ensure consumer safety and product quality. The significant variation in nicotine concentrations and performance parameters indicates a potential risk for consumers, and the industry should take appropriate measures to address these concerns.

Williams, Monique, amanda Villarreal, Barbara Davis, and Prue Talbot. “Comparison of the Performance of Cartomizer Style Electronic Cigarettes from Major Tobacco and Independent Manufacturers.” Edited by Yunchao Su. PLOS ONE 11, no. 2 (February 18, 2016): e0149251. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0149251.