The Science Behind Vaping
When a vape device is activated, its heating element converts the formulation into an aerosol of microscopic droplets. This aerosol contains solvents, flavorings, cannabinoids and, when conditions are sub-optimal, harmful by-productssuch as carbonyls (formaldehyde, acetaldehyde) generated from terpene breakdown or common thinning agents like PG, VG and MCT oil. Our laboratory doesn't just analyse the liquid — we collect and analyse the inhaled aerosol using the CORESTA Recommended Method 81 (CRM-81) to reveal the true chemical exposure of consumers.
What We Measure
Device Performance
Verify coil integrity, airflow and consistency across the life-cycle of the cartridge or pod at multiple power settings.
Dose Delivery
Quantify cannabinoids, terpenes or nicotine delivered per puff to guarantee accurate, repeatable dosing for consumers.
Chemical Analysis
Detect heavy metals, pesticides, carbonyls and other toxins in both the liquid extract and the generated aerosol.
Stability & Shelf-Life
Assess long-term performance through accelerated aging to ensure flavour, potency and safety remain intact over time.
Why Aerosol Testing Matters
- • Safety: Identify harmful chemicals and contaminants present in both e-liquid and vapor.
- • Quality Control: Maintain device consistency and product excellence from the first to the last puff.
- • Consumer Protection: Prevent unsafe or sub-standard products from reaching the market.
- • Regulatory Compliance: Stay ahead of evolving state and national standards with defensible data.
- • Research & Innovation: Generate insights that inform better formulations and hardware design.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does aerosol emissions testing differ from standard oil analysis?
Standard compliance panels evaluate the extract itself. Emissions testing examines what is generated during heating under simulated use conditions. Device temperature, airflow, and voltage all influence the compounds formed during inhalation — which is why aerosol analysis gives a more complete picture of actual consumer exposure.
What harmful by-products can form during vaping?
When terpenes, thinning agents (such as PG, VG, or MCT oil), or other formulation components are exposed to heat, they can generate carbonyl compounds including formaldehyde and acetaldehyde. Our testing identifies these at trace levels before products reach consumers.
Can device design affect emissions test results?
Yes. Battery output, coil material, airflow configuration, and temperature consistency all influence aerosol composition. Our testing evaluates how hardware factors interact with the formulation during activation, which can differ meaningfully from raw oil analysis alone.
How can stability or shelf life testing inform packaging decisions for vape products?
Exposure to heat, light, and humidity affects both potency retention and the formation of degradation by-products over time. Stability data helps manufacturers determine appropriate expiration timelines and select packaging that preserves product integrity before it reaches retail.
What methodology does SQRD Lab use for aerosol testing?
We use CORESTA Recommended Method 81 (CRM-81), the industry standard for collecting and analyzing cannabis aerosol. This method simulates real-world inhalation conditions and is defensible for regulatory purposes.
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