When you pick up an e‑cigarette and draw on the device, a cloud of vapor emerges that looks like smoke but behaves quite differently. The visible mist is often assumed to be “just water,” yet scientific analysis tells a far more complex story. Understanding exactly what is present in that vapor is essential for anyone who vapes, whether you are a beginner looking for a safe entry point or a seasoned enthusiast seeking to fine‑tune your setup.
1. The Basics: How an e‑cigarette Produces Vapor
An e‑cigarette (also called a vapour‑pen, vape, or ENDS – Electronic Nicotine Delivery System) is essentially a battery‑powered heating element (the atomiser or coil) that vaporises a liquid mixture known as e‑liquid or e‑juice. The liquid typically contains:
| Component | Typical proportion (by weight) | Primary function |
|---|---|---|
| Propylene Glycol (PG) | 30‑70 % | Carrier for flavor, produces throat hit |
| Vegetable Glycerin (VG) | 30‑70 % | Thickens vapor, adds sweetness |
| Nicotine (optional) | 0‑50 mg ml⁻¹ (up to 60 mg ml⁻¹ in some markets) | Stimulant, mimics tobacco addiction |
| Flavorings (natural & synthetic) | 1‑10 % | Provides taste and aroma |
When the coil heats the liquid to temperatures typically between 200 °C and 250 °C (some sub‑ohm setups can exceed 300 °C), the PG/VG matrix transforms from a liquid into an aerosol of microscopic droplets suspended in air. The visible cloud is therefore a condensed aerosol, not a traditional gas.
2. What Scientists Actually Find When They “Look Inside” the Vapor
2.1 Core Constituents – PG, VG, and Nicotine
- Propylene Glycol – A colourless, slightly sweet organic compound used in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. In vapor it remains largely unchanged, but at high temperatures it can break down into carbonyl compounds (formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, acrolein).
- Vegetable Glycerin – A viscous, sweet‑tasting tri‑ol derived from plant oils. It also degrades at high heat, producing the same carbonyls as PG, though at a slower rate because of its higher boiling point.
- Nicotine – An alkaloid that ionises upon heating, producing both free‑base nicotine (more harsh) and protonated nicotine (smoother). Studies show that the nicotine yield in vapor can be 30‑80 % of the amount present in the e‑liquid, depending on device power and puff duration.
2.2 Flavor‑Related Chemicals
Flavoring libraries contain hundreds of individual chemicals (e.g., diacetyl, acetyl propionyl, cinnamaldehyde, vanillin, menthol). The majority are Generally Recognised as Safe (GRAS) when ingested, but inhalation safety is a separate issue.
- Diacetyl & Acetyl Propionyl – Known for buttery flavours. Chronic inhalation can cause bronchiolitis obliterans (“popcorn lung”). Modern formulations often label “diacetyl‑free,” yet trace amounts may still be present due to cross‑contamination.
- Cinnamaldehyde – Gives cinnamon flavour, shown to be cytotoxic to airway cells at concentrations above 5 µg cm⁻³.
- Menthol – Provides a cooling sensation, reduces perceived harshness, but also can enhance nicotine absorption and mask irritation.
2.3 Thermal Degradation Products (TDPs)
At the temperatures used in most vaping devices, PG and VG undergo pyrolysis, forming a suite of carbonyl compounds:
| Compound | Typical concentration in aerosol (µg puff⁻¹) | Health relevance |
|---|---|---|
| Formaldehyde | 0.01–5 | Known carcinogen; irritation of eyes and respiratory tract |
| Acetaldehyde | 0.02–2 | Irritant; probable carcinogen |
| Acrolein | 0.001–0.5 | Highly irritating, linked to lung diseases |
| Glyoxal & Methylglyoxal | 0.01–1 | Cytotoxic, can modify proteins |
The actual yield is heavily influenced by coil resistance, wattage, puff duration, and e‑liquid composition. Low‑power, mouth‑to‑lung (MTL) devices typically produce far fewer carbonyls than high‑power, direct‑to‑lung (DTL) sub‑ohm setups.
2.4 Metals and Trace Elements
When the heating coil (often made of Nichrome (Ni‑Cr), Kanthal (Fe‑Cr‑Al), Stainless Steel (SS), or Nickel) reaches high temperatures, metal particles can be liberated:
- Nickel, Chromium, Iron, Lead, Tin – Measured in the range of 0.1–10 µg puff⁻¹ in laboratory tests.
- Source – Oxidation of the coil, wear of the wick, or contamination from solder joints.
- Implication – Chronic inhalation of metals may contribute to oxidative stress and inflammatory responses.
2.5 Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Beyond carbonyls, vaping aerosol can contain other VOCs such as benzene, toluene, and xylene, though at levels generally orders of magnitude lower than those found in cigarette smoke. These arise from the breakdown of flavouring agents or from the TGO‑110‑compliant e‑liquids that meet Australian standards.
2.6 Particulate Matter (PM)
The aerosol consists of droplets ranging from 200 nm to 1 µm in aerodynamic diameter. This size range allows particles to penetrate deep into the alveolar region. While the droplets are primarily PG/VG, some studies suggest that ultrafine particles can carry adsorbed metals and carbonyls, acting as vectors for deeper delivery.
3. How These Components Compare to Traditional Cigarette Smoke
| Category | Conventional Cigarette Smoke | E‑cigarette Vapor |
|---|---|---|
| Tar | ~12 mg per cigarette (complex mixture of PAHs, nicotine, etc.) | None – PG/VG aerosol does not contain true tar, but does contain some carbonyls |
| Carbon Monoxide (CO) | 15–20 ppm (impairs oxygen transport) | Generally undetectable (<0.1 ppm) |
| Nicotine | 0.8‑2 mg per cigarette (free‑base) | Variable, often 0.5‑1 mg per puff; can be titrated |
| Formaldehyde | 1‑5 µg per puff (high) | 0.01‑5 µg per puff (device‑dependent) |
| Metals | Lead, cadmium, arsenic (higher levels) | Nickel, chromium, iron (lower but present) |
| Particulate Size | 0.1‑1 µm (solid particles) | 0.2‑1 µm droplets (liquid) |
Overall, the toxicant load in e‑cigarette aerosol is substantially lower than in conventional smoke, but it is not zero. The risk profile is therefore reduced, not eliminated.
4. Factors That Influence What’s in the Vapor
- Device Power & Coil Resistance – Higher wattage → higher temperature → increased carbonyl formation and metal shedding.
- Airflow Design – Restrictive airflow raises coil temperature; ample airflow cools the coil and reduces degradation.
- E‑liquid Composition – High PG ratios create a harsher throat hit and can generate more carbonyls; high VG yields thicker clouds but may produce more glycerol‑derived aldehydes at extreme heat.
- Puff Topology – Long, deep puffs (≥4 s) expose the coil to sustained heat, increasing toxicant yield. Shorter puffs (≈2 s) limit exposure.
- Device Age & Maintenance – Worn wicks, coil buildup, and residue can alter heating dynamics and release additional particles.
Regularly cleaning the atomiser, replacing coils as recommended, and using devices that respect the TGO‑110 standard (Australia’s regulated limit for nicotine content and emissions) can dramatically improve safety.
5. The Australian Market: Quality and Compliance
Australia’s regulatory landscape is among the strictest globally. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) classifies nicotine‑containing e‑liquids as prescription medicines, while non‑nicotine liquids fall under the Australian Consumer Law. Brands that operate within this framework are required to:
- Adhere to ISO‑9001 and ISO‑13485 quality‑management systems.
- Provide batch‑level testing for nicotine concentration, metal content, and carbonyl emissions.
- Label products with clear nicotine strength, PG/VG ratio, and ingredient list.
These safeguards are integral to delivering a trustworthy vaping experience.
IGET & ALIBARBAR – What Sets Them Apart
| Feature | IGET | ALIBARBAR |
|---|---|---|
| Longevity | Devices such as the IGET Bar Plus claim up to 6 000 puffs per unit, thanks to low‑drain batteries and efficient coil architecture. | ALIBARBAR disposable models provide 5‑7000 puffs with a sealed, leak‑proof design. |
| Flavor Portfolio | Over 30 distinct blends, ranging from Grape Ice to Mango Banana Ice, formulated with pharmaceutical‑grade flavourings. | Focus on classic tobacco, menthol, and fruit medleys, each tested for diacetyl‑free compliance. |
| Ergonomics | Slim, pen‑style devices with magnetic mouthpieces for easy swapping; optional flat‑box form factor for a modern aesthetic. | Compact, flat‑box design with a tactile grip, ideal for pocket‑carry. |
| Safety & Certification | ISO‑certified production, compliant with TGO‑110 nicotine limits (max 20 mg ml⁻¹). | ISO‑9001, rigorous batch testing for metals and carbonyls; all devices meet Australian standards. |
| Distribution Network | Strategic warehouses in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, ensuring same‑day dispatch to major metro areas. | Integrated logistics with nationwide courier partners for fast, trackable shipping across AU. |
By partnering with these brands, vapers in Australia gain access to premium quality devices that have been engineered to minimise harmful emissions while delivering an enjoyable flavour experience.
6. Practical Guidance: Choosing a Safer Vape
- Prefer Low‑Power, High‑Resistance Coils for an MTL style if you are concerned about carbonyl formation.
- Select High‑VG Liquids for smoother draws and thicker clouds, but avoid excessive heat (>260 °C).
- Look for “ISO‑Certified” or “TGO‑110 Compliant” Labels – they indicate that the product has undergone independent testing.
- Stay Informed About Flavor Additives – if you have respiratory sensitivities, steer clear of buttery flavourings (diacetyl) and high‑cinnamaldehyde blends.
- Replace Coils Regularly – a worn coil not only changes flavour but also spikes metal emissions.
- Use Devices with Temperature Control (TC) – these allow you to set a safe maximum temperature, reducing the risk of overheating PG/VG.
7. Emerging Research: What the Future Holds
- Long‑Term Cohort Studies – Several Australian universities are tracking health outcomes of vapour users over a decade, focusing on respiratory function, cardiovascular markers, and oral health. Early results suggest a lower incidence of COPD compared with smokers, but a small increase in chronic bronchitis among heavy vapers.
- Nanoparticle Analysis – Advanced microscopy is revealing that e‑cigarette aerosol can contain nanoplastics derived from polymeric components of the device (e.g., silicone wicks). The clinical significance is still under investigation.
- Biomarker Development – Researchers are identifying unique metabolomic signatures in urine and blood that correspond to specific flavouring exposures, paving the way for personalized risk assessments.
Staying updated with peer‑reviewed publications from journals like Nicotine & Tobacco Research and Tobacco Control will help you make evidence‑based decisions.
8. Bottom Line: What’s Really In The Vapor?
The visible cloud from an e‑cigarette is a complex aerosol made up of:
- Base carriers – mainly propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin, largely inert but capable of forming aldehydes at high temperatures.
- Nicotine – the addictive component, delivered efficiently but at lower levels than a traditional cigarette when using regulated devices.
- Flavor chemicals – a massive variety, many of which are safe for ingestion but still under scrutiny for inhalation safety.
- Thermal degradation products – carbonyls (formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, acrolein) whose amounts are highly dependent on device settings.
- Metals and trace elements – released from coil materials, typically in microgram quantities per puff.
- Ultrafine droplets – that can reach deep into the lungs, acting as carriers for the aforementioned substances.
While the overall toxicant burden is significantly lower than that of cigarette smoke, the presence of any potentially harmful chemicals means that vaping is not risk‑free. A thoughtful approach—choosing reputable brands, maintaining devices, and respecting power limits—can dramatically reduce exposure.
Conclusion
Inside every puff of e‑cigarette vapor lies a carefully balanced mixture of carrier liquids, nicotine, flavourings, and inevitable thermal by‑products. Scientific investigations consistently show that, when used responsibly, modern devices—especially those from IGET and ALIBARBAR, which adhere to ISO and TGO‑110 standards—produce an aerosol that is considerably cleaner than traditional tobacco smoke.
Nevertheless, the presence of carbonyl compounds, metal particles, and flavour‑related chemicals underscores the importance of informed usage. Vapers should:
- Select high‑quality, regulated products (e.g., IGET & ALIBARBAR) that undergo rigorous batch testing.
- Maintain devices to prevent coil degradation and metal shedding.
- Control temperature and power to minimise harmful by‑products.
- Stay educated about emerging research and regulatory updates in Australia.
By integrating these practices, you can enjoy the sensory satisfaction of vaping while keeping your exposure to unwanted chemicals to a minimum.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is e‑cigarette vapor just “water vapour”?
No. The visible cloud is an aerosol of propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin droplets, not pure water. It also contains nicotine, flavour chemicals, and trace amounts of thermal degradation products.
Q2. Are the flavourings in e‑liquids safe to inhale?
Most flavourings are GRAS for ingestion, but inhalation safety is a separate matter. Some, like diacetyl and cinnamaldehyde, have been linked to respiratory irritation or toxicity at high concentrations. Look for products that are labeled “diacetyl‑free” and avoid overly strong cinnamon or buttery flavours if you have lung sensitivities.
Q3. How much formaldehyde does a vape produce compared to a cigarette?
Typical vape emissions contain 0.01–5 µg of formaldehyde per puff, whereas a cigarette can deliver 1–5 µg per puff. The exact amount varies with device power; higher wattage settings increase formaldehyde formation.
Q4. Can metals from the coil end up in the vapor?
Yes. Studies detect nickel, chromium, iron, and trace lead in the aerosol at levels typically 0.1–10 µg per puff. Using low‑resistance coils at moderate power and replacing coils regularly reduces metal shedding.
Q5. Does nicotine level in the vapor equal the nicotine concentration in the e‑liquid?
Not exactly. Only 30‑80 % of the nicotine in the e‑liquid is transferred to the aerosol, depending on device efficiency, coil temperature, and puff duration.
Q6. Are disposable vapes, like those from ALIBARBAR, more harmful than refillable kits?
Disposable devices often use pre‑filled, sealed cartridges that limit user error (e.g., over‑filling). However, their coil design and battery life can lead to higher temperatures if used until the battery depletes, potentially increasing carbonyl formation. Choose reputable brands that adhere to quality standards.
Q7. What is the “TGO‑110” standard mentioned in Australian vaping regulations?
“TGO‑110” is an Australian regulatory benchmark that sets maximum allowable nicotine concentration (20 mg ml⁻¹) and emission limits for harmful constituents in e‑liquids marketed domestically. Products compliant with TGO‑110 have undergone testing for purity and safety.
Q8. How can I minimise toxic by‑products while vaping?
- Use low‑power settings (≤10 W) and higher‑resistance coils.
- Choose high‑VG liquids (≥60 % VG).
- Avoid “dry‑puff” conditions where the wick is not saturated.
- Replace coils regularly and clean the atomiser.
- Opt for devices with temperature control to keep coil temperatures below 260 °C.
Q9. Is vaping a safe alternative for smokers trying to quit?
Current evidence suggests that vaping is less harmful than smoking conventional cigarettes and can be an effective cessation aid when combined with behavioral support. However, complete abstinence from nicotine remains the healthiest outcome.
Q10. Where can I purchase reliable e‑cigarette products in Australia?
The IGET & ALIBARBAR E‑cigarette Australia store offers a curated selection of ISO‑certified, TGO‑110 compliant devices and e‑liquids, with fast shipping from hubs in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth. Their commitment to quality control and customer support makes them a trusted source for Australian vapers.