Glycerin – What is it in Vaping?

Definition

Glycerin—also called vegetable glycerine (VG)—is a thick, slightly sweet, clear liquid derived from plant oils such as palm or soy. In vaping, glycerin is one of the two main e-liquid bases (alongside propylene glycol). It acts as the cloud-producing agent: when heated by an atomiser, glycerin vaporises to create the dense, visible vapour that Australian vapers exhale. Its high viscosity also smooths the Hit“>throat hit and carries flavourings and nicotine in varying ratios. Beginners will see “70 % VG” on bottles; this simply means 70 % of that liquid is glycerin, promising bigger clouds and milder sensation.

Technical Details

chemically, glycerin is a trihydric alcohol (C₃H₈O₃) with a boiling point of 290 °C. In VapeJuice“>vape juice, it is USP/EP pharmaceutical grade, 99.5 % pure, water content ≤ 0.5 %. Standard ratios range from 50 % VG in “mouth-to-lung” juices up to 90 % VG for “cloud-chasing” or sub-ohm drippers. Because of its density, pure glycerin can resist wicking in tiny channels, leading to dry hits or gunk build-up on coils. Most manufacturers therefore blend in distilled water or a small percentage of propylene glycol to lower viscosity to 12–18 mPa·s at 25 °C. There are also organic, non-GMO, and “USP Kosher” variants, but chemically they perform identically in vape tanks and rebuildable atomisers.

Usage & Tips

  • Wicking: High-VG liquids work best with low-resistance (sub-ohm) coils and generously-sized cotton or mesh wicks. If you hear gurgling, thin the mix with 5–10 % distilled water or PG.
  • Temperature: Keep wattage moderate (below 230 °C coil temperature) to minimise gunk formation; glycerin caramelises above 250 °C, shortening coil life.
  • Storage: Store sealed, away from sunlight; glycerin is hygroscopic and will absorb water, darkening flavour over months.
  • Safety: Pharmaceutical-grade glycerin is inert and non-toxic, but excessive VG can mute flavours and strain coil heads; balance is key for consistent Australian vaping.

History & Context

Vegetable glycerin entered the vaping scene in 2004 when early e-cigarette pioneers sought a safer alternative to polyethylene glycol. Its cloud-friendly viscosity quickly made VG the dominant base for “mod” users, especially after the mid-2010s sub-ohm boom. Today, almost every e-liquid manufactured in Australia or abroad relies on glycerin, and local nicotine import laws specify that DIY mixers import pure VG to self-blend compliant juices.

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