Electronic cigarettes use has exponentially increased since their development in 2003, making them one of the most popular Electronic Nicotine Delivery System (ENDS). Electronic cigarettes deliver vapes to users via an aerosol produced from an e-liquid. They generally contain a mixture of propylene glycol, glycerine, nicotine, as well as flavouring agents in various ratios to meet consumers’ demands. Considerable data is becoming available on the analysis of e-liquids and there is a growing body of research comparing their health effects to cigarettes. However, their rapid rise in popularity has occurred in less stringent regulatory conditions than cigarettes and the impact of this remains unknown. Currently there is little data assessing authentication and source determination of e-liquid components. These are expected to vary by manufacturers, regions and corresponding regulatory environments. By looking at key constituents, using a range of spectrometric methods in a selection of e-liquids obtained from different countries, it is possible to start differentiating between brands and understanding regional variations. This research will present an overview of the challenges these types of analyses represent and discuss results from studies to assign e-liquids for authentication.

Development of spectrometric methods for e-liquids authentication

2019 Spring National Meeting

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