Chemicals released by vaping cannabis
Emerging Trends in the Chemistry of Cannabis Vaping and Toxicant Emissions
This work looks at which chemicals are produced when people vape concentrated cannabis and how different devices and formulations change those emissions, with special attention to risks for young users.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Portland State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11324297 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If you vape cannabis or are concerned about youth vaping, this project examines what chemicals form when concentrated cannabis oils are heated and turned into an aerosol. Researchers will develop lab methods to capture vapor from different cannabis formulations and vaping devices and chemically analyze the gases and particles produced. They will focus on ketene, a highly reactive gas that can harm the lungs, and on how device settings and ingredients affect toxicant formation. The aim is to identify product features and behaviors that increase harm so clinicians, regulators, and users can make safer choices.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who currently vape cannabis concentrates—especially adolescents and young adults who use vaping products—are the most directly relevant group for these findings.
Not a fit: People who never vape or who only use cannabis by smoking, edibles, or other non-vapor methods may not receive direct benefit from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could identify harmful chemicals and device factors that inform safer product rules, clinical advice, and personal choices to reduce lung injury risk from cannabis vaping.
How similar studies have performed: Previous lab work and public health investigations (e.g., EVALI) have linked certain additives to harmful vaping emissions, so this project builds on established findings while testing many newer formulations and devices.
Where this research is happening
Portland, United States
- Portland State University — Portland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Strongin, Robert M — Portland State University
- Study coordinator: Strongin, Robert M
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.