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Updated: Jul 20, 2025
08:39
Generation of Electronic Cigarette Aerosol by a Third-Generation Machine-Vaping Device: Application to Toxicological Studies
Published on: August 25, 2018
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Metals quantification in e-cigarettes liquids by Total Reflection X-ray Spectrometry
Gabriel Minto Faria1, Tiago Dutra Galvão2, Paulo Sergio Parreira1
1Applied Nuclear Physics Laboratory, Universidade Estadual de Londrina (UEL), 86057-970, Londrina, PR, Brazil.
Summary
This study analyzed electronic cigarette liquids (e-liquids) using Total Reflection X-ray Spectrometry (TXRF). Some e-liquids contained potentially harmful metal concentrations exceeding safe drinking water limits.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Environmental Health
- Materials Science
Background:
- Electronic cigarettes (e-cigs) are increasingly popular globally.
- The health risks associated with e-cigarette use necessitate thorough investigation.
- Characterizing the chemical composition of e-liquids is crucial for risk assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the elemental composition of electronic cigarette liquids (e-liquids).
- To evaluate the suitability of Total Reflection X-ray Spectrometry (TXRF) for e-liquid analysis.
- To identify potentially hazardous constituents in e-liquids.
Main Methods:
- Utilized Total Reflection X-ray Spectrometry (TXRF) for elemental analysis.
- Employed the internal standard method for accurate quantification of constituents.
- Validated spectrometer performance using certified reference materials and spiked samples.
Main Results:
- Quantified elements including K, Ca, Ti, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Br, and Pb in e-liquids.
- Detected concentrations of certain elements exceeding potable water limits in 10 out of 38 analyzed samples.
- Principal Component Analysis effectively identified samples with elevated toxic element levels.
Conclusions:
- TXRF is a highly effective and simple technique for the elemental analysis of e-liquids.
- The presence of certain metals in e-liquids poses potential health risks.
- Further research into e-liquid constituents and their toxicological impact is warranted.
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