Chemicals in vapes

The vapor produced by e-cigarettes is not harmless water vapor; instead, it is a complex aerosol composed of various harmful or potentially harmful chemicals.
These chemical substances can be roughly classified into three categories: the original additives in the e-liquid, the harmful substances newly generated during heating, and the pollutants that are released from the components of the equipment.
?? The original additives in the e-liquid
These are intentionally added components to create smoke, provide flavor and a sense of satisfaction.
Chemical substances Primary uses/source Potential health risks
Nicotine (Nicotine) An alkaloid found in tobacco, the main addictive substance Highly addictive; affects the development of the adolescent brain; increases risks to cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Some products labeled "without nicotine" may also contain it.
Propylene Glycol (Propylene Glycol) A common solvent used to create a smoke effect Heating it may lead to decomposition into harmful aldehydes; may trigger or exacerbate asthma.
Glycerine (Glycerine) A common solvent used to create a smoke effect Inhalation may damage the respiratory tract.
Flavourings (Flavourings) Imitate the flavors of fruits, candies, mint, etc. Some flavourings (such as diacetyl) are associated with severe lung diseases (known as "popcorn lung"). Many flavourings are safe for consumption but inhalation is not safe.
?? New harmful substances generated by heating
When the e-liquid is heated, its chemical components undergo thermal decomposition, generating new and more harmful compounds.
Chemical substances Primary sources Potential health risks
Formaldehyde (Formaldehyde) By-products of the thermal decomposition of propylene glycol and glycerol Known carcinogen; can permanently damage the lungs.
Acetaldehyde (Acetaldehyde) By-products of the thermal decomposition of propylene glycol and glycerol Possible carcinogen; irritates the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract.
Acrolein (Acrolein) By-products of the thermal decomposition of propylene glycol and glycerol Highly toxic and highly irritating; commonly found in herbicides; damages the lungs.
Glyoxal, Methylglyoxal (Glyoxal, Methylglyoxal) By-products of the thermal decomposition of propylene glycol and glycerol Toxic aldehydes, increase the risks of cardiovascular and lung diseases.
⚙️ Pollutants released by equipment
The metal heating coils and internal components of electronic cigarettes release metal particles at high temperatures.
Heavy metals: include lead, chromium, nickel, tin, cadmium, silver, aluminum, iron, copper, etc. Long-term inhalation can damage the lungs and cardiovascular system.
Other volatile organic compounds: such as toluene (a component of paint thinner), benzene (a component of gasoline, a carcinogen), etc.
⚠️ Special Warning: Illegal Additives
The use of illegal or untraceable electronic cigarettes poses extremely high risks and may contain controlled drugs.
Synthetic cannabinoids: psychoactive substances, extremely harmful.
Etomidate and midazolam: Medical anesthetics that have been illegally used as drugs.
In summary, the aerosol of electronic cigarettes is a complex mixture containing addictive nicotine, carcinogens, heavy metals and other harmful substances. Using electronic cigarettes can cause definite harm to the lungs, cardiovascular system and brain.