The Science Behind Vape Juice: Understanding Nicotine, VG, and PG Ratio

Vape juice also known as e-liquid is a carefully formulated mixture that creates vapour in vaping devices. Understanding its core components nicotine vegetable glycerin (VG) and propylene glycol (PG) can help vapers choose the best e-liquid for their preferences. This blog dives into the science behind these ingredients their roles in vaping and how different ratios can impact your overall experience.

What is Nicotine in Vape Juice?

Nicotine is a naturally occurring stimulant found in tobacco plants. In vape juice nicotine serves as the ingredient that helps curb nicotine cravings without the harmful chemicals found in traditional cigarettes. The science behind nicotine is rooted in its interaction with the brain's reward system creating a sense of relaxation and satisfaction.

There are two main types of nicotine used in vape juice:

• Freebase nicotine: The most common form of nicotine used in e-liquids. It provides a stronger throat hit which is preferred by many ex-smokers transitioning to vaping.

• Nicotine salts: A smoother alternative nicotine salts deliver a less intense throat hit and allow higher nicotine concentrations without irritation. This is ideal for those who need a more potent nicotine fix.

The nicotine strength in e-liquids is typically measured in milligrams per milliliter (mg/ml) and selecting the right level depends on personal preference and smoking habits. For instance:

• 0 mg: No nicotine.

• 3-6 mg: Low nicotine suitable for light smokers.

• 12-18 mg: Medium nicotine ideal for moderate smokers.

• 24 mg and above: High nicotine best for heavy smokers.

Understanding VG (Vegetable Glycerin) in Vape Juice

Vegetable glycerin (VG) is a natural compound derived from vegetable oils known for its thick viscous nature. In e-liquids VG plays a crucial role in producing dense vapour clouds. If you're a vaper who enjoys cloud-chasing or prefers a smooth inhale a higher VG ratio is ideal for you.

VG is hypoallergenic and generally considered safe for inhalation. Its key properties include:

• Vapour production: VG is responsible for creating large dense clouds of vapour. The higher the VG content the thicker the clouds.

• Smoother throat hit: A high VG ratio results in a smoother vaping experience with less throat irritation.

Common VG to PG Ratios Include

• 70% VG / 30% PG: Offers balanced vapour production and flavour delivery ideal for sub-ohm vaping.
• 80% VG / 20% PG: Preferred by cloud-chasers seeking maximum vapour output with minimal throat hit.

Understanding PG (Propylene Glycol) in Vape Juice

Propylene glycol (PG) is a synthetic compound that is colorless odorless and thinner compared to VG. It’s widely used in a variety of products from cosmetics to food and in vape juice it serves two main purposes: flavour delivery and throat hit.

• Flavour enhancer: PG is excellent at carrying flavour making it a crucial component in vape juice. Higher PG content ensures a more pronounced taste.
• Stronger throat hit: If you prefer a vaping experience that mimics the sensation of smoking a higher PG ratio delivers a sharper throat hit.

PG ratios affect the overall feel of your vape with typical mixtures including:

• 50% PG / 50% VG: A balanced ratio providing both strong flavour and decent vapour production. Ideal for vapers who enjoy an equal mix of throat hit and clouds.
• 30% PG / 70% VG: This mixture leans towards smoother inhales and larger clouds while still offering enough flavour to satisfy.

Choosing the Right VG/PG Ratio

The VG to PG ratio is a critical factor in determining your vaping experience. Here’s a breakdown of how different ratios can impact your session:

• High VG (70% VG or more): If you're into cloud-chasing and prefer a smooth inhale choose an e-liquid with a higher VG ratio. The thicker consistency of VG liquids also works best with sub-ohm tanks.
• High PG (60% PG or more): If you're looking for strong flavour and a pronounced throat hit opt for a higher PG ratio. These juices are better suited for mouth-to-lung vaping devices like pod systems.
• Balanced (50% VG / 50% PG): For a more versatile vaping experience a balanced ratio works well. You get the best of both worlds: decent vapour clouds and good flavour.

Final Thoughts: Finding Your Perfect Mix