Abstract
With the global surge in the use of electronic cigarettes, there is a corresponding increase in the consumption of e-liquid. However, different regions and countries impose varying regulatory requirements concerning the types and concentrations of flavorings added to electronic liquids (e-liquids). Analyzing the flavorings in e-liquids poses a challenge due to their substantial content of propylene glycol, glycerol solvent, and nicotine as a matrix.
Conventional methods such as traditional solvent extraction and simultaneous distillation/extraction necessitate the use of solvents, leading to time-consuming, labor-intensive, and cumbersome procedures. Additionally, the sensitivity of solid-phase microextraction is limited, and headspace analysis may be affected by solvent interference.
In response to these challenges, Stir Bar Sorptive Extraction (SBSE) emerges as a modern, green, and solvent-free sample extraction technology. Renowned for its efficiency, high sensitivity, and user-friendly operation, SBSE proves particularly effective in extracting volatile flavor and aroma components from e-liquids. The analytical process involves utilizing a Cooled Inlet System, thermal desorption, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry for the analysis and identification of volatile flavor and aroma compounds in e-liquids. The AromaOffice2D flavor compounds database software is then employed to process the GC-MS data, enhancing the precision and efficiency of flavor compound identification.
Keywords
E-liquid, Flavor, Flavorings, Stir Bar Sorptive Extraction SBSE, Twister, Thermal Desorption
