How to determine the proportion of e-liquid?
In the world of DIY e-liquid, mastering the proportions of various raw materials is the key to making e-liquid that meets personal tastes. PG (propylene glycol), VG (vegetable glycerin), flavors, nicotine and cooling agents are common e-liquid raw materials. Their proportions will not only affect the taste, throat hit and smoke volume of e-liquid, but also directly affect The overall taste of e-liquid. Therefore, reasonable proportions are crucial to producing satisfactory e-liquid.
First, let’s take a look at the characteristics of various raw materials and their role in e-liquid:
1. PG (propylene glycol): PG is a colorless, odorless liquid with strong hygroscopicity and solvent properties. It is usually used to carry flavors and nicotine, and provides the throat hit of e-liquid. More PG can make e-liquid taste stronger and produce less smoke.
2. VG (vegetable glycerin): VG is also a colorless, odorless liquid. It is more viscous than PG, has a stronger ability to produce smoke, and is less irritating to the throat. More VG can increase the smoke volume of e-liquid and make the taste softer.
3.Flavor is the key to giving e-liquid various flavors. It can be naturally extracted plant flavors or synthetic food-grade flavors. A reasonable flavor ratio can ensure that e-liquid has a rich and full flavor, but excessive use may result in an overly strong or artificial flavor.
4. Nicotine: Nicotine is one of the components in tobacco. It determines the nicotine content of e-liquid and is also the source of the addiction that smokers pursue. The amount of nicotine added should be adjusted according to the amount and frequency of smoking by the individual. Excessive nicotine may cause adverse physical reactions.
5. Cooling agent: Cooling agent can bring a refreshing taste to e-liquid, and is usually added to e-liquid containing mint or mint flavor. An appropriate amount of cooling agent can increase the taste of e-liquid, but excessive use may cause the e-liquid to be too irritating.
Next, let’s talk about how to reasonably mix the proportions of these raw materials:
1. The ratio of PG to VG: The ratio of PG to VG directly affects the taste and smoke volume of e-liquid. Generally speaking, the ratio of high PG to low VG will make the e-liquid taste stronger and have a more obvious throat hit, which is suitable for users who pursue exciting tastes; while the ratio of high VG to low PG will make the e-liquid have a larger smoke volume and a better mouthfeel. It is softer and suitable for users who are looking for smoke effects. Common ratios are 70% PG/30% VG or 50% PG/50% VG. The specific ratio can be adjusted according to personal taste.
2. The amount of flavor used: The amount of flavor used should be determined according to personal taste. Generally speaking, the amount of flavor added is between 5% and 20% of the total e-liquid amount. It should be noted that different concentrations and types of flavors will affect the amount added, so the appropriate amount should be added according to the actual situation when blending, and the best ratio can be determined through repeated trials.
3. Nicotine content: Nicotine content should be determined based on the amount and frequency of smoking of an individual. Generally speaking, the content is more common between 3mg/ml and 18mg/ml. For heavy smokers, there is a higher nicotine content option, while for light smokers or ex-smokers, there is a lower content or nicotine-free e-liquid.
4. The amount of cooling agent used: The amount of cooling agent used should be determined according to personal taste and preference for cooling. Generally speaking, the amount added is between 1% and 5% of the total e-liquid amount. . It should be noted that the concentration and type of cooling agent will affect the amount added, so it should be used with caution during preparation to avoid affecting the overall taste of e-liquid.
When preparing e-liquid, in addition to mastering the proportions of various raw materials, you should also pay attention to some details, such as the quality and purity of raw materials, the uniformity of mixing, and the aging time of e-liquid, etc., which will affect final smoke.