Freebase Nicotine – What is it in Vaping?

Definition

Freebase nicotine is the pure, unprotonated form of nicotine used in traditional e-liquid and tobacco products. Chemically altered to increase potency, it delivers a stronger Hit“>throat hit and slower absorption compared to nicotine salts. In vaping, freebase nicotine is dissolved in a mix of Glycol)”>PG (propylene glycol) and Glycerin)”>VG (vegetable glycerin), allowing users to choose from a wide range of flavor profiles and nicotine strengths, typically 0–18 mg/mL in Australia. It’s ideal for vapers who prefer noticeable throat sensation and gradual nicotine satisfaction.

Technical Details

Freebase nicotine is created by de-protonating nicotine molecules using ammonia, raising the pH to ~9–10. This makes the nicotine more lipid-soluble, so it crosses membranes more slowly than nicotine salts but feels harsher on the throat. Standard concentrations for low-wattage devices are 3–12 mg/mL; high-wattage sub-ohm tanks rarely exceed 6 mg/mL to prevent excessive harshness. Because it is less stable than salt nicotine, freebase oxidises faster, darkening the e-liquid and sometimes altering flavor. Australian vendors must comply with the 20 mg/mL import limit, so most commercial freebase juices sit between 0 mg and 18 mg.

Usage & Tips

  • Device pairing: Works best in low-to-mid wattage devices (8–25 W) or mouth-to-lung tanks; high-power setups can intensify throat hit.
  • Coil care: Higher nicotine levels caramelise faster—check for flooding or burnt taste and replace cotton or coils every 7–10 mL.
  • Storage: Keep bottles tightly closed in a cool, dark place to slow oxidation and preserve flavor.
  • Safety: Always use child-proof caps; spillage on skin should be washed off immediately to avoid nicotine absorption.

History & Context

Freebase nicotine dominated vaping from 2008 until nicotine salts emerged around 2015. Its chemistry mirrors the technique tobacco companies pioneered in the 1960s to boost cigarette impact. In Australia, freebase remains popular among flavour-chasers using rebuildable atomisers and Fused Clapton coils, especially since import laws favour lower-nicotine, open-system products.

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