Summary
Introduction:
This text provides an in-depth analysis of the potential risks and harms associated with vaping, with a focus on the formation of oxidative products. The study uses an in-situ thermal desorption GC/MS method to investigate the formation of oxidative products of several monoterpenes at or below typical vaping temperatures. The text also discusses the potential adverse effects of inhaling these oxidative products during vaping.
Key Points:
* The study used an in-situ thermal desorption GC/MS method to investigate the formation of oxidative products of several monoterpenes at or below typical vaping temperatures.
* among the five tested monoterpenes, the unchanged portion of the parent compound in the vapour varied from 97 to 98% for myrcene to 11-28% for terpinolene.
* The majority of formed oxidative products in the vapour have a molecular weight of 134 (loss of two hydrogens), 150 (insertion of one oxygen and loss of two hydrogen atoms) or 152 (insertion of one oxygen atom).
* Three products, likely to be p-(1-propenyl)-toluene, β-pinone and fenchol were also observed.
* The toxicity of inhaling these oxidative products is not clear yet, but allergic and irritation reactions associated with oxidized monoterpene oils are well documented.
* Vaping is more common among younger people, with 14% of youth aged 15 to 19 and 35% of young adults aged 20 to 24 reported having vaped in the past 30 days.
* Chemicals in vaping liquids may produce transformation products in vapor under heat, leading to possible additional toxicities.
Main Message:
The text highlights the need for further research to better understand the potential risks and harms associated with vaping, particularly in relation to the formation of oxidative products. The study demonstrates that even at relatively low temperatures, monoterpenes can undergo thermal oxidation to form various products. This raises concerns about the potential health impact of inhaling these oxidative products during vaping. The text also highlights the need for increased regulation and education around vaping, particularly among younger people who are more likely to use these products.
Citation
Zhu J, Niu J, Das D, Cabecinha a, abramovici h. In-situ TD-GCMS measurements of oxidative products of monoterpenes at typical vaping temperatures: implications for inhalation exposure to vaping products. Scientific reports. 2022;12(1):11019. doi:10.1038/s41598-022-14236-4