The smoking revolution or how vaping conquered the modern world

18. 04. 2025

• An invention the world wasn't ready for
• What is a vape?
• E-cigarette or vaping pen?
• Who invented disposable vapes and when?
• Potential used to the maximum: Vapes with flavour
• Conclusion

An invention the world wasn't ready for

The first concept of a vaporising device was proposed by American inventor Joseph Robinson almost a century ago. He patented his design in 1927, but he was ahead of his time and the invention never saw commercial production. The market was not ready for the smoking revolution even in 1963, when Herbert Alan Gilbert introduced his own design.

It wasn't until the early 21st century that a device of this type was brought to market. Chinese pharmacist Hon Lik developed the e-cigarette in 2003, inspired by his desire to find a healthier alternative to smoking after his father died of lung cancer. His device began to be manufactured by Ruyan in 2004, opening the way for mass production and global distribution of vapes.

What is a vape?

A vape is a device that simulates smoking without burning tobacco. It works on the principle of heating the cartridge from the reservoir using the electricity generated by the battery. This energy creates a vapour (aerosol) in the atomiser which the user inhales through the mouthpiece. The main advantage of vaping is the simulation of the smoking experience without the production of smoke and pollutants that are produced when tobacco is burned.

E-cigarette or vaping pen?

Both vapes and e-cigarettes are used to inhale e-liquid or other refills. E-liquids, or e-juices, are special liquids designed as refills for vaping devices.

 

As the name suggests, an e-cigarette is an electronic version of a cigarette - it is meant to mimic it in appearance and use. It is a compact device designed for simple use without complicated preparation and setup.

Compared to e-cigarettes, vaping pens tend to be larger, more powerful and more customisable (e.g. by adjusting the temperature or wattage). However, this is not the case for disposable vaping pens, which, like e-cigarettes, require no adjustment or maintenance, making them suitable for those who prefer the easiest to use and maintenance-free operation.

Who invented disposable vapes and when?

Although the concept of a disposable device is associated with the early days of e-cigarettes, manufacturers originally sought to create vapes that could be used repeatedly, i.e. with the ability to recharge and refill. However, it became apparent that users were interested in a more convenient option and companies therefore began to focus on improving the design of disposable vapes.

 

Modern devices are designed to be as simple as possible - they don't require cleaning, refilling, adjusting or recharging. When the vape runs out of juice, it is simply thrown away. Thanks to their unpretentiousness, affordability, and wide selection of designs and flavors, modern disposable vapes have quickly become a popular choice for both existing and new vapers.

JUUL is considered to be a pioneer in the market for modern disposable vapes and is responsible for the dramatic increase in the popularity of this type of device thanks to its product design and massive marketing aimed at young people. Just two years after its inception, in 2017, it had a 72% share of the expanding e-cigarette market.

Potential used to the maximum: Vapes with flavour

Vapes were created to allow smokers to enjoy nicotine without having to burn it, and the first models focused solely on perfecting this technology. As interest in vapes grew, manufacturers began to experiment and produce vapes with customization options and refills rich in a variety of ingredients and scented with different flavours.

Exactly who invented flavored vapes and when is unclear, but as early as three years after the vapes market began, in 2007, users could enjoy menthol and fruit variants from a variety of manufacturers.

Today, the range of fillings is abundant and growing - so there is something for everyone! You'll find dessert and cocktail flavours on offer, along with a range of very unusual flavours - what does Jack Herer or cosmos taste like?

 

Refills contain high and low concentrations of nicotine or are completely nicotine-free. Nicotine-free vapes are an ideal choice for those who are quitting nicotine and looking for a means to relax without developing an addiction and the additional risks associated with cigarette smoking.

Vapes have also become popular among cannabis users. Refills containing various cannabinoids, such as the popular CBD, are available on the market. The main advantage of consuming cannabinoids through vaping is the rapid onset of effects compared to other methods.

There are also specially designed vapes on the market that focus on promoting sleep, calm and relaxation or improving cognitive function. These products contain e-liquids with natural extracts that can help to balance the mind or contribute to energy and concentration.

Conclusion

Vapes represent a combination of tradition and technology that has continuously evolved over the years. Although it has taken decades for these devices to find their place in the market, they have quickly become the preferred choice not only for cigarette smokers, but also for cannabis users and those looking for a means of recreation.

The main advantages of vapes include the absence of pollutants associated with the burning of tobacco and the variety of devices and refills available. Both vaping connoisseurs and those who prefer simple devices will find a great deal to their liking.

 

Author: HotHouse Cucumber

 

   

Photo: AI

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