DOI
https://doi.org/10.25772/jmew-pq93
Defense Date
2025
Document Type
Directed Research Project
Department
Forensic Science
First Advisor
Michelle Peace
Second Advisor
Amanda Woods
Third Advisor
Alaina Holt
Fourth Advisor
Ashley Harris
Abstract
Electronic cigarette liquids (e-liquids) are typically formulated as a mixture of propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG), flavorants, and pharmacologically active compounds such as nicotine. Advancements have enabled e-cigs to be co-opted for use with drugs other than nicotine. The interaction between substances can form a eutectic mixture promoting aerosolization. The purpose of this experiment was to determine if varying concentrations of ethanol impacted aerosolization efficiency and recovery of nicotine. E-liquids were made using five different PG:VG ratios, 12 mg/mL nicotine, and seven different ethanol concentrations in each matrix. Aerosol capture was performed on the 35 eliquids using an aerosol trapping system. Each trial (n=5) consisted of 10, four second puffs. The device tank was weighed before and after each aerosolization session. Samples were analyzed by headspace-gas chromatography-flame ionization detection and liquid chromatograph-tandem mass spectrometry. The average aerosolized nicotine dose per puff [percent coefficient of variation] was determined to be 0.56 ± 0.06 mg [10%] to 0.66 ± 0.05 mg [8%] in 100% propylene glycol and 0.42 ± 0.06 mg [13%] to 0.48 ± 0.03 mg [5%] in 100% vegetable glycerin from 0% to 25% ethanol in an e-liquid. Increasing the concentration of ethanol in e-liquids decreased the liquid’s viscosity, promoting aerosolization and increasing the nicotine dose delivered. Matrix effects were also noted. Similar results could be expected if nicotine was replaced with a different solvent. Increased drug availability from less viscous e-liquid formulations can lead to untoward effects. While experienced consumers self-titrate the amount of drug consumed to manage effects, the increased dose delivered can facilitate substance addiction.
Rights
© The Author(s)
Is Part Of
VCU Master of Science in Forensic Science Directed Research Projects
Date of Submission
12-5-2025