In a recent webinar titled Vape Chemistry: Decoding the Cloud, Dr. Jody Moller, a senior lecturer at the University of Wollongong’s School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, provided a comprehensive overview of the chemical composition of vaping products and the evolving landscape of e-cigarette use in Australia. As a leading expert in chemical analysis of vaping products, Dr. Moller’s research has significantly influenced federal and state vaping policies.

The Rise of Vaping in Australia

Dr. Moller began by highlighting the dramatic increase in vaping among young people in Australia. Recent data shows that about 40% of e-cigarette users are under 25, with 60% under 30. This surge has been largely attributed to the introduction of disposable e-cigarettes.

Regulatory Landscape

The presentation outlined the changing regulatory environment in Australia:

1. October 2021: Introduction of prescription requirements for nicotine-containing e-cigarettes, while nicotine-free products remained available over the counter.

2. 2024 Changes: 

   – January: Ban on disposable devices

   – March: Removal of importation scheme

   – Limiting products to tobacco, mint, and menthol flavours

   – Including nicotine-free vapes in regulations

   – Upcoming plain packaging requirements and ingredient restrictions

Chemical Analysis of Vaping Products

Dr. Moller’s research team analyses both the liquid and vapour content of e-cigarettes. Their study, conducted in collaboration with New South Wales Health, examined 597 vaping devices confiscated from students in 18 high schools. Key findings include:

• Device Types: 593 out of 597 were disposable e-cigarettes.
• Flavours: Over 85% were fruit-flavoured.
• Popular Brands: Four brands dominated, with iGet being the most prevalent.
• Nicotine Content: 97.3% of analysed samples contained nicotine, mostly in salt form.
• Nicotine Concentration: Average of 40 mg/mL, significantly higher than traditional e-cigarettes.
• Coolants: 99.7% of samples contained cooling agents, a recent addition to vaping products.
• Banned Substances: 3.4% of samples contained substances banned in Australia, including ethylene glycol.

Market Adaptations and Emerging Trends

Dr. Moller discussed how the vaping market has adapted to regulatory changes:

• Removal of nicotine labelling from packaging following the 2021 regulations.
• Introduction of pod-style devices like the iGet Bar Plus in response to the disposable ban.
• Emergence of nicotine pouches and pearls as alternative products.
• Increase in device capacity, with some reaching up to 25,000 puffs.
• Development of stealth vaping products disguised as everyday objects.

Health Concerns and Safety Issues

The presentation highlighted several health and safety concerns:

• Inconsistent labelling and concentrations across products.
• Presence of potentially harmful chemicals and metals.
• Formation of new compounds (adducts) in e-liquids that may be more toxic than parent compounds.
• Evidence of users tampering with devices, leading to potential safety hazards.
• Degradation of coils and wicks with extended use, potentially increasing exposure to harmful substances.

Implications for Public Health and Harm Reduction

Dr. Moller emphasised the importance of accessing regulated products through legal channels. While vaping is considered less harmful than smoking, it’s not without risks. The variability in product quality and composition makes it challenging to assess long-term health impacts accurately.

Dr. Moller’s presentation provided valuable insights into the complex world of vaping chemistry and the rapidly evolving e-cigarette market. As regulations continue to change, ongoing research and analysis will be crucial in informing public health policies and harm reduction strategies. The presentation underscored the need for continued vigilance in monitoring vaping products and educating the public about potential risks associated with their use.

For more detailed information, please refer to the original webinar or Dr. Moller’s published research.