Liquid Nicotine – What is it in Vaping?

Definition

Liquid Nicotine is the purified, concentrated form of nicotine dissolved in a carrier base of propylene glycol (PG) and/or vegetable glycerin (VG). Commonly called “nic shots” or “nic base” in Australia, it is the active ingredient that former smokers add to nicotine-free flavoured VapeJuice“>vape juice to satisfy cravings. Unlike pre-mixed nicotine e-liquid (illegal to sell locally), liquid nicotine is imported by individual vapers under the Personal Importation Scheme and must be diluted before use. It delivers the familiar Hit“>throat hit and absorption profile that makes vaping an effective cigarette substitute, while allowing users to control their exact nicotine strength and gradually taper down if desired.

Technical Details

Pure liquid nicotine is measured in milligrams per millilitre (mg/mL) or as a percentage. Common strengths for DIY mixing are 100 mg/mL (10 %), 72 mg/mL (7.2 %), 48 mg/mL (4.8 %) and 36 mg/mL (3.6 %). It is supplied in amber glass or PET bottles with child-resistant caps; high-strength nic is often suspended in PG because PG is a better solvent and produces less Low Resistance viscosity issues. Free-base nicotine provides a stronger throat hit, while “nic salts” use benzoic acid to lower pH, enabling smoother Lung Hit at higher strengths without harshness. Storage below 20 °C in a freezer slows oxidation; oxidised nic turns pink or brown and tastes peppery. Always shake well before decanting to ensure homogeneity.

Usage & Tips

  • Mixing: Use syringes or scales accurate to 0.01 g; add nic first to empty bottle, then top up with flavoured juice to avoid “hot spots”.
  • Calculations: Online calculators such as Steam-Engine simplify target-strength maths—never guesstimate high-strength nic.
  • Common problems:Leaking pods can dilute your mix; check o-rings and coil seating. If your LED Indicator flashes low-battery mid-puff, a Lithium Battery voltage sag may under-heat the coil, giving weaker nic delivery—keep cells above 3.2 V.
  • Safety: Wear nitrile gloves, mix in a well-ventilated area, and lock bottles away from children and pets. Spills on skin: wash immediately with soap and water for 5 min; seek medical advice if irritation persists.

History & Context

Pharmaceutical-grade liquid nicotine entered the vape scene circa 2008 when early “nic juice” vendors in the US and China began diluting 99 % nicotine concentrate. Australia’s 2021 prescription model pushed vapers toward DIY mixing with personal imports, turning 100 mg/mL nic shots into the de-facto standard. Today, local shops sell flavour and hardware only, while TGA-regulated importers ship liquid nicotine discreetly to verified patients, cementing its pivotal—if legally grey—role in the country’s harm-reduction landscape.

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