What are the advantages and disadvantages of the different e-liquid compositions?
On the market we can find several compositions of e-liquids, but how do you know which one to choose? Well to start, you have to understand what we are talking about.
Understanding E-Liquid Compositions: A Comprehensive Guide
The e-liquid market features a diverse array of compositions. Knowing which one to choose can be a challenge. To start, it's important to understand the ingredients that make up e-liquids.
What Makes Up an E-Liquid?
E-liquid primarily consists of Propylene Glycol (PG), Vegetable Glycerin (VG), food-grade flavoring, water, and, if desired, nicotine. The most common products feature a "base", a mixture of propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin. This base can vary in composition (PG/VG ratio), resulting in different vaping experiences.
The Role of PG and VG
Propylene glycol is more liquid than vegetable glycerin, which has a more viscous, fatty texture. Typically, e-liquids contain a 50% PG / 50% VG ratio, providing a balanced vaping experience. This liquid can be consumed in any e-cigarette, regardless of whether it's designed for direct or indirect inhalation.
E-liquids primarily composed of vegetable glycerin (with an 80% VG / 20% PG ratio being the most popular) are suited for high-power, direct inhalation use. The fatty nature of VG ensures a thicker, more comfortable vapor at high volumes, but it is also sweeter, which can damage the coil faster.
Conversely, e-liquids mainly composed of propylene glycol are not suitable for high-power use. However, you can find compositions like 70% PG / 30% VG in lower-quality e-liquids, as propylene glycol is cheaper than vegetable glycerin. For low-power use (indirect inhalation), a 50/50 PG/VG ratio is often preferred.
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