ECAM: A low-cost vaping device for generating and collecting electronic cigarette condensate for in vitro studies

• Main Authors: R.T. Campbell, V. Suresh, K.S. Burrowes
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier 2021-10-01
• Series: HardwareX
• Subjects: Vaping topography; Condensate collection; In vitro exposure; Chemical analysis; Open source; Standardised
• Online Access: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2468067221000547

The use of electronic cigarettes (ECs) has become widespread despite many unknowns around their long-term health impact. ECs work by vapourising a liquid, known as an e-liquid, typically consisting of propylene glycol, glycerol, flavourings and nicotine. The chemical constituents and resultant impact on cells and tissue are dependent on several factors, including the flavourings used, the vaping topography/use pattern, and the device used. ECAM (Electronic Cigarette Aerosol Machine) is an open source, portable device for creating EC aerosol – for condensate collection and in vitro studies - using a controlled methodology. ECAM was developed as a low cost, automated, and customisable alternative to commercial devices. ECAM consists of a micro diaphragm gas pump to draw air/EC aerosol through the system. The device is automated using an Arduino and solenoid pinch valves are used to alternate between air and EC vapour. Condensate is collected in a vial within a cold-water bath. Each ECAM unit uses a temperature/humidity sensor to measure ambient air conditions and a differential pressure sensor to determine the pressure within the system. ECAM is programmed to adhere to International Standards Organisation 20768:2018. The design files, source code, and build instructions for this device can be found at https://dx.doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/3NGU4.