Detection of Nicotine in Nicotine-Free E-Cigarette Refill Liquid Using GC–MS

An electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) is a device which contains a battery, cartridge and heating elements that vaporizes liquid for inhalation. The popularity of the e-cigarette has been on the rise since 2001 in Malaysia, and it has become an alternative to conventional tobacco smoking. As per today, neither the FDA nor any international and/or local organizations have set regulations for refill liquid’s compound limit, including nicotine. Refill liquid available in the local market, Malaysia, has 3–24 mg nicotine concentration. However, sellers and users have the ability to alter the nicotine concentration in the refill liquid. Quantification of nicotine in electronic cigarette refill liquid is necessary. This study aims to determine the concentration of nicotine in nicotine-free electronic cigarette refill liquid from the local market in Malaysia using GC–MS. Seven samples of nicotine-free refill liquid from different brands but with same flavour were purchased in the Selangor area, Malaysia. Sample was diluted with dichloromethane and analyzed using GC–MS. Nicotine concentration standards were plotted in calibration curves range 5–100 ppm. The results conclude to found traces of nicotine in two out of seven samples with nicotine concentration value 16.38 ppm and 9.63 ppm. T test was conducted on the concentration value with significant difference with p < 0.5.