Abstract: A device and method are disclosed to apply ESI-based mass spectroscopy to submicrometer and nanometer scale aerosol particles. Unipolar ionization is utilized to charge the particles in order to collect them electrostatically on the tip of a tungsten rod. Subsequently, the species composing the collected particles are dissolved by making a liquid flow over the tungsten rod. This liquid with dissolved aerosol contents is formed into highly charged droplets, which release unfragmented ions for mass spectroscopy, such as time-of-flight mass spectroscopy. The device is configured to operate in a switching mode, wherein aerosol deposition occurs while solvent delivery is turned off and vice versa.

Abstract: A device having a cavity configured to receive or to hold an e-cigarette, which includes a push-hold button to actuate vapor generation and/or formation. The device further comprises an automatic plunger capable of pressing the push-hold button based upon a command. The plunger may receive the command from a controller or alternatively from the airflow caused by the puff. A mechanism configured for positioning the automatic plunger proximate to the push-hold button is also incorporated into the device.