Why analyze a disposable vape?
Disposable vapes are sealed, single-use devices, so users, regulators and even some brand owners have limited visibility into how they’re built or what they release. Each device combines a battery, heating element, wick and e-liquid reservoir in a compact housing. The materials, formulation and the way those parts interact all affect what ends up in the aerosol. A multi-technique analysis gives a measurable, evidence-based picture of both the hardware and the chemistry.
How we analyzed it
2D X-ray imaging: internal structure
Non-destructive X-ray imaging shows the internal layout of the sealed device without opening it, including the components involved in generating aerosol and how they’re arranged.
GC-MS: e-liquid formulation
Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry separates and identifies the organic compounds in the e-liquid. This revealed the major ingredients, including nicotine, carrier solvents and cooling agents.
ICP-MS: trace metals
Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry detects metals at very low concentrations. This identified trace metals that raise questions about where they come from in the device and how much people may be exposed to.
What’s in the full case study
- X-ray images of the disposable vape’s internal components and how each one contributes to aerosol generation
- GC-MS results identifying the main e-liquid ingredients
- ICP-MS results for trace metals, and what they suggest about material sources
- How combining imaging, organic analysis and elemental analysis builds a complete picture of a consumer device
Who this is for
E-cigarette and e-liquid manufacturers, regulatory and compliance teams, product stewardship groups and public health researchers who need reliable data on device construction, formulation and trace metal content.
Download the full case study to see the X-ray images, e-liquid composition and trace metal results.