Not all screens are created equal: examination of surface features and other physical properties of commonly used screen materials for smoking drugs

Original research
by
Diak, Bradley J. et al

Release Date

2023

Geography

Canada

Language of Resource

English

Full Text Available

Yes

Open Access / OK to Reproduce

Yes

Peer Reviewed

Yes

Objective

This study aims to determine what changes folding and heating have on several filter materials, including brass screens and commercially available steel wool products, and examine the implications of these changes on health of people who smoke drugs.

Findings/Key points

Commonly used steel wool alternatives degrade during the handling and stem insertion, and heating the screens in the stem. Debris is generated by wool deformation on insertion and after heating that easily separates from the screen and can be inhaled during drug consumption. The brass and stainless steel screen materials are safer to use as they remain mostly stable during the simulated drug consumption process.

Design/methods

Optical & electron microscopic examination of four screen & four steel wool filter materials

Keywords

Harm reduction