A collaborative study was initiated by the CORESTA Routine Analytical Chemistry (RAC) Sub-Group in October 2019 to verify the feasibility of expanding the calibration range of ISO 10315:2021 Cigarettes – Determination of nicotine in total particulate matter from the mainstream smoke – Gas-chromatographic method.  The intent of the study was to provide an assessment of laboratory capability to determine very low nicotine (VLN) in total particulate matter from mainstream smoke generated under ISO 3308 smoking conditions.

The results of the study demonstrate that, with modification to the calibration range, ISO 10315 is suitable for this purpose and is relevant for emerging regulations to reduce nicotine for combusted tobacco products.