JPH03114470A - Smoking article - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE: To obtain the smoking goods generating an aerosol similar to a tobacco smoke, of a less incomplete combustion, and the more smaller content of a thermally decomposed product than a normal cigarette by preferably forming them into a cigarette shape. CONSTITUTION: Smoking goods have the same whole size as a conventional cigarette, and comprise a short combustible element 10, an aerosol generating means 12 and the paper cylinder 14 of a cigarette holding end 15. A fuel element 10 is formed by a cracked tobacco material and the mixture of containing a few amount of a combustible carbon, and has a longitudinal hole 16. The aerosol generating means 12 has a passage 17 and a porous carbon body 13 impregnated with an aerosol generating agent. The paper cylinder 14 comprises an aerosol conveying passage 18, and then the quantity of a heat transmission toward the aerosol generating means is increased causing by the existence of the paper cylinder 14 for connecting the non-combustible end of the fuel element 10. The plug of the tobacco material, i.e., an inserting body 20 is contained for adding an aroma into the aerosol; as an optional selection. A filter plug 22 is inserted into the cigarette holding end 15.

Description

[Detailed description of the invention] The present invention generates an aerosol similar to cigarette smoke.
The present invention relates to a smoking article, preferably in the form of a cigarette, which has a significantly lower content of incomplete combustion and pyrolysis products than conventional cigarettes.

11 Various smoking articles have been proposed, especially over the last 20 to 30 years, but none of them have achieved commercial success.

Despite decades of interest and research, cigarettes are produced without the significant amounts of incomplete combustion and pyrolysis products found in conventional cigarettes. There are currently no smoking articles on the market that provide a similar taste experience to that obtained by smoking conventional cigarettes.

The present invention provides a method for smoking, preferably in the form of a cigarette, using a small high-density combustible fuel element in conjunction with a separate aerosol generating means containing an aerosol generating agent of l fm class or higher. provide goods;

Preferably, the aerosol generating means is in a conductive heat exchange relationship with the fuel element, and/or the fuel element is preferably surrounded at least in part by an elastic insulation jacket in order to reduce heat loss due to radiation. ,
When ignited, it generates heat, which evaporates the aerosol generating agent within the aerosol generating means. This volatile material is drawn towards the mouth end of the smoking article and into the smoker's mouth during the smoker's inhalation action, similar to the smoke of a conventional cigarette.

The smoking article of the present invention is capable of generating a significant amount of aerosol throughout its useful life and can provide the user with a sensation similar to smoking a cigarette.

The aerosol created by this aerosol generating means is created with almost no deterioration due to heat,
Moreover, the amount of incomplete combustion and pyrolysis products produced is considerably lower than in conventional cigarettes.

The small fuel element used in the present invention is approximately 30 mm long.
It is preferably about 20 mm or less and has a density of at least about 0.5 g/cc, preferably at least about 0.7 g/cc, as measured, for example, by mercury displacement.

The fuel element may include ground tobacco material or reconstituted tobacco material;
and/or can be molded or extruded from a substitute for tobacco material, preferably containing combustible carbon. The fuel element is also preferably provided with one or more passages, preferably ≦5 to 9, in order to control heat transfer from the burning fuel element to the aerosol generating agent in the aerosol generating means. It is more preferable to provide , or more passages.

Advantageously, the aerosol generating means comprises a support or carrier, preferably made of a heat-stable material, carrying one or more aerosol generating agents. Conductive heat exchange between the fuel element and the aerosol generating means is accomplished by a metal conductor such as a metal conductor that contacts both the fuel element and the aerosol generating means and effectively conducts heat from the burning fuel element to the aerosol generating means. It is preferable to carry out this by providing a heat conductive member. The heat conductive member preferably surrounds and contacts at least part of the outer peripheral surfaces of the fuel element and the aerosol generating means, in order to avoid interference with ignition and combustion of the fuel element, and to avoid protrusion of the heat conductive member. The thermally conductive member preferably has a thickness of at least about 3
Preferably, the thermally conductive member is spaced or retracted from the tip of the fuel element by a distance of at least about 5 mm, more preferably at least about 5 mm, and more preferably the thermally conductive member surrounds at least a portion of the aerosol generating agent support. Alternatively, a separate thermally conductive container or capsule may be provided to enclose the aerosol generating agent.

Furthermore, it is preferred that at least a portion of the fuel element is covered with a surrounding insulation member, such as a jacket made of insulating fibers, the jacket being preferably of an elastic non-combustible material with a thickness of at least 0.5 mm. This insulation member is
It serves to reduce radiant heat loss, assist in retaining and directing heat from the fuel element toward the aerosol generating means, and suppress the flame-producing properties of the fuel. Preferably, the insulating member surrounds at least a portion of the fuel element and at least a portion of the aerosol generating means to mimic the feel of a conventional cigarette. The insulation material for the fuel element and the insulation material for the aerosol generating means may be the same material or different materials.

Since the fuel element is relatively short, its burning conical mass remains in close proximity to the aerosol generating means throughout, thus maximizing heat transfer to the aerosol generating means, especially for multichannel fuel elements, Embodiments with conductive and/or insulating members maximize aerosol production. A relatively dense fuel material is used such that the small fuel element burns for approximately the same amount of time as a conventional cigarette and provides sufficient thermal energy to generate the required amount of aerosol. . Because the aerosol generating means is physically separate from the fuel element, it is exposed to significantly lower temperatures than if it were placed within the burning cone, reducing the risk of thermal deterioration of the aerosol generating agent. minimized.

Smoking articles of the invention are typically provided with a mouthpiece that includes means, such as a longitudinal passageway, for delivering the volatile substances created by the aerosol generating means to the user. Preferably, the mouthpiece includes an elastic outer member, such as an annular body of cellulose acetate tow, to mimic the feel of a conventional cigarette. Advantageously, the smoking article has the same overall dimensions as a conventional cigarette, so that the mouthpiece and the aerosol delivery means typically
The smoking article has a length of approximately 1000 mm or more of the total length of the smoking article. or alternatively, create a smoking article consisting solely of the fuel element and aerosol generating means, without incorporating a mouthpiece or aerosol delivery means, and combine it with a separate disposable or reusable mouthpiece. It may also be used.

The smoking articles of the present invention may also be supplemented with a charge of tobacco material that can be used to add tobacco flavor to the aerosol. A charge of tobacco material can be inserted between the aerosol generating means and the mouthpiece end. Preferably, it is fitted onto the outer peripheral surface of the aerosol generating means, which is an annular member made of tobacco material. In that case, the tobacco ring also acts as an insulator and helps mimic the flavor and feel of conventional cigarettes. The tobacco pack may be mixed with the aerosol generating agent or may be used as a support for the aerosol generating agent. Other substances, such as flavoring agents, can also be incorporated into the smoking article to flavor or otherwise modify the aerosol.

The smoking articles of the present invention typically use significantly less fuel on a volume, and preferably weight, basis than conventional cigarettes to generate the required aerosol.

Also, the aerosol that is inhaled into the user's mouth has a low content of incomplete combustion and thermal decomposition products. This is because the aerosol created from the aerosol generating means is not thermally degraded, and the pyrolysis products and , or products of incomplete combustion, are considerably lower than in conventional cigarettes, even if the fuel element is made of tobacco wood or other cellulosic material.

As used herein, "aerosol" refers to vapor, gas, particles, etc. ( (visible or invisible), especially those that look like smoke. In addition, the term "aerosol generating agent" as used herein refers to a volatile flavoring agent and/or a pharmacologically active (i.e., having a pharmacological effect), regardless of whether the aerosol generated is visible or not. Includes drugs that are physiologically active (i.e., have a chemically refreshing effect, etc.).

A "conductive heat exchange relationship" refers to a physical arrangement of the aerosol generating means and the fuel element arranged such that heat is transferred by conduction from the fuel element to the aerosol generating means throughout the combustion of the fuel element. A conductive heat exchange relationship may be provided by placing the aerosol generating means in contact with the fuel element and in close proximity to the combusting portion of the fuel element, and/or for transferring heat from the burning fuel element to the aerosol generating means. It can be set by using a conductive member. It is preferable to use the above two methods of conducting heat transfer by conduction in combination.

The term "insulating member" as used herein includes any material that primarily functions as a heat insulator. They are preferably those that do not burn during use, such as slow-burning carbon, and especially,
Insulation materials, which may include materials that melt during use, such as low-temperature varieties of glass fibers, have g-cal/(
sec) (am”) ('C/am) approximately 0.05
or less, preferably about 0.02 or less, most preferably about 0
．． It is preferable to have a thermal conductivity of 0.005 or less. (“
Buck's Chemistry Dictionary" 34. 1969 4th edition and "Lang's Chemistry Handbook J10.272-274.197
The smoking article of one embodiment of the invention, shown in FIG. 1, preferably has the same overall dimensions as a conventional cigarette, with a length of approximately It consists of a short combustible fuel element 10 of 20 mm, an aerosol generating means 12 in contact with it, and a foil-lined paper tube 14 constituting the mouth end 15 of the article. In this example, the fuel element 10 is extruded or molded from a mixture containing crushed or reconstituted tobacco and/or tobacco substitute, and a small amount of combustible carbon, and includes five longitudinal Directional hole 16 (
Figure 1A). The firing end of fuel element 10 may be tapered or otherwise reduced in diameter to facilitate ignition.

The aerosol generating means 12 are arranged in one or more channels 1
7 and is provided with a porous carbon body 13 impregnated with one or more aerosol generating agents such as triethylene glycol, propylene glycol, glycerin or mixtures thereof.

The paper tube 14 (lined with foil) constituting the mouth end piece 15 surrounds the aerosol generating means 12 and the rear non-ignition end of the fuel element, which are spaced approximately 15 mm from the ignition end of the fuel element 10. are doing. The tube 14 also has an aerosol delivery passage 1 between the aerosol generating means 12 and the mouth end 15.
8. The presence of the foil-lined paper tube 14 connecting the non-igniting end of the fuel element IO to the aerosol generating means 12 increases the amount of heat transferred to the aerosol generating means. Paper tube 1
The lining foil at 4 also serves to extinguish the cone of the fuel element. If only a small amount of unburned fuel remains, the heat loss through the foil acts as a heat sink and thus serves to extinguish the cone. The foil used in this article is typically 0.35 mil (0.0089 mm) thick aluminum foil, but virtually any desired degree of conductivity can be achieved by varying the thickness and type of conductor used. The amount of heat transfer can be obtained.

The article illustrated in FIG. 1 optionally includes a tobacco plug or charge 20 for flavoring the aerosol. The tobacco material charge 20 may be located at the suction end of the carbon body 13 as shown in FIG. good. For aesthetic purposes, a low efficiency cellulose acetate filter plug 22 can be inserted at the mouth end 15, if desired.

The example smoking article shown in Figure 2 has a length of approximately 20 mm.
combustible fuel element 24 and an aerosol generating means 12 connected to the fuel element 24 by a heat transfer rod 26 and a foil-lined paper tube 14. Aerosol generating means 12 comprises a thermally stable carbonaceous support or carrier 28, such as a porous carbon plug, and one or more aerosol generating agents impregnated into the support. In this embodiment, a space 30 is provided between the fuel element 24 and the support 28, and the peripheral wall of the portion of the foil-lined paper tube 14 surrounding this space is provided with a wall sufficient to provide a suitable pressure drop. A plurality of holes 32 are drilled to allow air to flow into the space 30.

As shown in Figures 2 and 2A, in this embodiment the heat transfer means consists of a heat transfer rod 26 and a foil-lined paper tube 14, both spaced apart from the firing end of the fuel element. The rod 26 is approximately 5 mm from the firing end, and the tube 14 is approximately 15 mm. The rod 26 is preferably formed of aluminum and has at least one cross section to allow air to flow through the aerosol generator support 28.
It has one, preferably two to five circumferential grooves 34. The article of the embodiment of FIG. 2 has the advantage that the air introduced into the space 30 contains less oxidation products because it is drawn directly from outside air, rather than through the burning fuel element. have

The article of the embodiment shown in FIG.
6 and a fuel element 10 having a length of about 10 mm. The firing end of the fuel element may also be tapered or reduced in diameter to facilitate ignition. The support 38 of the aerosol generating means is thermally stable granular carbon or aluminum impregnated with an aerosol generating agent. The tobacco material charge body 20 is a support; 8
is placed immediately after. In this embodiment, a collar 40 made of cellulose acetate is provided instead of the foil-lined paper tube. Tube 40 suspends an annular member 42 of elastomeric cellulose acetate tow surrounding an optional plastic tube 44 (made of polypropylene, Nomets, Mylar, etc.). The suction end 15 is also provided with a low-efficiency filter plug 45 made of acetic acid cell. This article can be wrapped over its entire length with cigarette wrapping paper 4C. The mouth end 15 of the article may be provided with a coating 48 of black, red or white ink to resemble the end of a conventional cigarette. A foil strip 50 is also provided inside the wrapper 46 near the fuel end of the article. This foil strip serves as fuel element 1
The tobacco material charging body 20 surrounds about 2 to 3 mm of the rear end of 0.
It is preferable to extend it to the concave end of the wrapping paper 4C, and it may be integrated with the wrapping paper 4C, or it may be wound around the support body 38 separately when wrapping the wrapping paper.

The embodiment of FIG. 4 is similar to that of FIG. In this embodiment, the fuel element 1o has a length of about 15 mm and the aerosol generating means 12 is filled with a granular support 54 impregnated with an aerosol generating agent or, as shown, a granular support 54 impregnated with an aerosol generating agent. It is composed of an aluminum capsule 52 filled with a mixture of tobacco material 56 and tobacco material 56. The capsule 52 is crimped at both ends to enclose and retain the aerosol generator-impregnated particulate material therein. Fuel end or fuel element 10 of the article
The crimp end 58 of the capsule proximate preferably abuts the rear end of the fuel element 10 to provide conductive heat transfer.

The space 62 defined by the crimp end 58 also serves to prevent aerosol generating agent from escaping to the side of the fuel element. The aerosol generator is provided with longitudinal passages 59,61 for air to flow therethrough. The capsule 52 and the fuel element IO can be connected by a conventional cigarette paper 47 as shown in the figure or by a perforated ceramic paper or a metal strip or tube. If cigarette paper is used, the paper strip 64 located near the rear end of the fuel element should be treated with sodium silicate or other known material to prevent ignition of the paper. If a metal foil is used, place the foil approximately 8-12 mm from the firing end of the fuel element.
It is preferable to space them 1 liter apart. The article can be wrapped over its entire length with conventional tobacco wrapping paper 46.

The embodiment shown in FIG. 5 shows an example in which a support 66 impregnated with one or more types of aerosol generating agent is embedded within a large cavity 68 within the fuel element 10. Support 66 is typically a relatively rigid porous material. The article can be wrapped over its entire length with conventional tobacco wrapping paper 46. Moreover, the fuel element 10
can be connected to the cellulose acetate cylinder 4o, and a foil strip 70 can be provided as a means for preventing the fuel element from catching on fire. This strip is spaced approximately 5-10 mm from the firing end.

The embodiments shown in FIGS. 6-8 each include an elastic insulating jacket surrounding the fuel element to isolate heat from the fuel element and concentrate the heat within the fuel element. These embodiments are also intended to prevent the burning cone from spreading to other parts of the body and to mimic the feel of conventional cigarettes.

In the embodiment of FIG. 6, the fuel element IO has a plurality of holes 16 and is surrounded by an elastic jacket 72 (FIG. 6A) having a thickness of about 0.5 mm. This jacket is
For example, it is made of insulating fibers such as ceramic (eg glass) fibers or non-combustible carbon or graphite fibers. The aerosol generating means 12 includes a single axial hole 17
The porous carbon body 13 has a porous carbon body 13, and an aerosol generating agent impregnated or supported on the carbon body.

In the embodiment of FIG. 7, an elastic fiberglass insulation jacket 72 surrounds the outer circumferential surfaces of both the fuel element lO and the aerosol generating means 12, preferably at low temperatures that will melt during use. It is a substance. This jacket is
For example, P87 sold by Kimberly-Clark
It is covered with a non-porous paper 73 such as 8-5. Preferably, the fuel element is about 15-20 mm long and has three or more holes 16 to improve air flow. Three preferred hole arrangement configurations include the seventh
Illustrated in Figures A, 7B and 70.

The aerosol generating means 12 has a metal container 74 surrounding a granular support 38 and/or a compressed tobacco material 76, and either or both of the support 38 and the tobacco material 76 are impregnated with an aerosol generating agent. 0 As shown, container 7
The open end 75 of 4 is located at a rear end portion of 3 to 5 mm of the fuel element 10.
is surrounding. Alternatively, open end 75 may abut the rear end of the fuel element. The opposite end of container 74 is crimped to form an end wall 78.

End wall 78 includes a plurality of holes 8 for passing gas, tobacco flavor and/or aerosol generating agent to aerosol delivery passageway 18.
It has 0.

The plastic tube 44 abuts or preferably surrounds the end wall 78 of the metal container 74 and is surrounded by an annular member of resilient high density cellulose acetate tow 42 . A layer of adhesive 82 or other material may be applied to the fuel end of the tow 42 to seal the tow 42 and prevent air flow therethrough. Preferably, a low efficiency filter plug 45 is inserted into the mouth end and the filter plug and tow 42 are wrapped with conventional plug wrapping paper 85. Additionally, a cigarette paper 86 is provided to connect the rear end portion of the insulation jacket 72 and the tow filter portion.
can be used.

As a variation of the embodiment of FIG. 7, cellulose acetate tow 4
A heat insulating jacket can also be used instead of 2. In that case, the insulation jacket is connected to the filter plug 4 from the ignition end.
Extend it to 5. Then, preferably, the layer of adhesive is applied to the annular end surface of the filter plug 45 that abuts the end of the insulation jacket, or the adhesive is applied to the opposing end surfaces of the insulation jacket and the filter plug, and the A short annular member made of a tow is interposed between the filter plug and the filter plug.

FIG. 8 shows an embodiment in which a fuel element 10 having a length of 10 to 15 mm is covered with a glass fiber insulation jacket 72, and the aerosol generating means is covered with a tobacco material jacket 88, which is used in this embodiment. The glass fibers preferably have a softening temperature of about 650° C. or less, such as experimental fibers 6432 and 6437 manufactured by Owens Corning Co., Toledo, Ohio, USA, so that they melt during use. 72 and tobacco material jacket 88 are each wrapped with a plug wrapping paper 85 such as Extalo 46 and a tobacco material jacket 88 manufactured by Kimberly-Clark.
It is bound by a cigarette paper 89 such as 0-63-5 or P878-16-2. The aerosol generating means includes a granular support and/or compressed tobacco material, and a metal capsule 90 surrounding the granular support and/or compressed tobacco material, as in the embodiment shown in FIG.
It can be composed of an aerosol generator impregnated or supported in some manner on either or both of the support and the tobacco material. In this embodiment, the metal capsule 90 of the aerosol generating means surrounds the rear end of the fuel element 10 by 3 to 4 mm at a distance of approximately 6 to 12 mm from the ignition end. The rear portion of capsule 90 is crimped into a lobe shape as shown in Figure 8B. A passageway 91 is formed in the center of the suction end of the capsule. Four additional passages 92 are drilled at the transition between the crimped and uncrimped portions of the capsule. Alternatively, the rear portion of the capsule 90 may be rectangular or square in cross-section, rather than lobe-shaped (e.g., cloverleaf-shaped in cross-section), and may or may not be provided with a peripheral passageway 92. Alternatively, a simple cylindrical capsule with a crimped suction end can be used.

Attached to the suction end of the tobacco jacket 88 is a mouth end piece 40 which includes an annular body of cellulose acetate tow 42, a plastic tube 44, a low efficiency filter plug 45, and a wrapping paper 85,89. This mouthpiece end piece 40 is connected to the jacketed fuel element/capsule (aerosol generating means) assembly by a jacket layer of mouthpiece paper 86.As shown in the figure, the end of the plastic tube 44 on the capsule side is spaced from capsule 90. The hot vapor (aerosol) exiting through passageway 92 therefore passes through tobacco jacket 88, thereby vaporizing or extracting the volatile components in the tobacco material within the jacket.
These aerosols flow into the passageway 18 at the point where the tobacco jacket 88 and the cellulose acetate tow 42 abut.

In this type of embodiment with a low-density fuel shield jacket 72, some air and gas will pass through the jacket 72.
It flows into the tobacco material jacket 88 through the tobacco material jacket 88 . Accordingly, capsule 90 does not necessarily need to include peripheral passageway 92 to extract tobacco flavor from tobacco material jacket 88.

In the embodiment of FIG. 9, the jacket 94 is made of tobacco material or a mixture of tobacco material and insulating fibers, such as glass fibers. 96, but could extend the entire length of the smoking article to the filter plug 45 at the mouth end. In this embodiment, the outer circumferential surface of the container 96 includes one or more longitudinal slots 99 (preferably 180°
preferably two spaced apart slots);
Thereby, the vapor (aerosol) from the aerosol generating means flows through the annular portion of the tobacco material surrounding the generating means and flows into the passageway 18 after extracting the tobacco flavor.

As in the embodiments of FIGS. 7 and 8, the aerosol generating means includes a granular support and/or compressed tobacco material, a metal container 96 surrounding it, and any of the support and the tobacco material. It can be composed of an aerosol generating agent impregnated in one or both of them or supported in some manner.

As shown, the tobacco at the fuel element end of the jacket 94 is compressed to reduce air flow through the tobacco material of the jacket 94, thus preventing combustion of the tobacco material. Further, the metal container 96 serves to extinguish the tobacco material in the jacket 94 by functioning as a heat sink; this heat dissipation effect serves to extinguish the combustion of the tobacco material surrounding the capsule or container 96; Heat is evenly distributed over the tobacco material of the jacket 94 surrounding the capsule 96 or aerosol generating means, thereby aiding in the release of tobacco flavor components. Furthermore, tobacco wrapping paper (paper wrapper) is used to help extinguish tobacco materials.
85.89, it is desirable to treat the portion of the fuel element near the rear end with a material such as sodium silicate to substantially prevent tobacco material from burning beyond the exposed end of the fuel element 10 into the interior thereof. . Alternatively, the tobacco material itself may be treated with a flammability modifier to prevent combustion of the tobacco material in the jacket 94 surrounding the aerosol generating means.

The wrapping paper 73, wrapping paper 85, and wrapping paper 89 in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 7 to 9 described above are also referred to as a "paper wrapper."

In each of the above-described embodiments, the fuel element burns when ignited and generates heat for volatilizing the aerosol generating agent present in the aerosol generating means. The volatilized substance, or aerosol as it is referred to herein, is drawn towards the mouth end, particularly when the user inhales, and into the user's mouth in the same way as conventional cigarette smoke. Because the fuel element 10 is relatively short, the burning hot conical mass remains in close proximity to the aerosol generating means throughout, thereby ensuring that the aerosol generating means is in close proximity to the aerosol generating means, especially when using preferred heat conducting members. and to the tobacco material charge optionally disposed therein, thereby maximizing aerosol and tobacco flavor production.

Also, because the length of the fuel element 10 is short, there is no long unburned fuel section to act as a heat sink as in conventional thermal aerosol articles.
Particularly in embodiments in which the fuel element contains carbon and/or has multiple passages, it is effective to suppress the amount of incomplete combustion products or thermal decomposition products. The holes or passages provided in the fuel element also have the effect of increasing the heat transfer and thus the aerosol delivery rate by passing hot air to the aerosol generating means, especially during the user's inhalation action. Heat transfer is also increased by thermally conductive members. The heat conductive member is arranged so as not to interfere with the ignition and combustion of the fuel element, and
It is spaced rearward from the firing end of the fuel element, ie, retracted, so that it does not protrude unsightly after use. Additionally, the insulation members described above serve to trap and concentrate heat toward the central core of the article, thereby increasing the heat transferred to the aerosol generating agent.

Because the aerosol generating means is physically separate from the fuel element, it is exposed to significantly lower temperatures than if it were within the burning cone.

Therefore, the possibility of thermal deterioration of the aerosol generator and associated flavor deterioration is minimized. This configuration also generates aerosol when inhaled by the user, but minimizes aerosol generation when not inhaled (i.e., while the fuel is "smoldering"). In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, Passages in the recessed heat transfer member, insulation member, and/or fuel element cooperate with the aerosol generating means to produce a substantial amount of aerosol and optional flavor upon each inhalation motion of the user. 1. After ignition, the conical mass of the fuel element comes close to the aerosol generating means when inhaled, and the heat conducting member, the heat insulating member, and/or the fuel element constitute a system (article) that can generate In cooperation with the multiple passages provided in the inhaler, sufficient heat transfer can be achieved during the user's inhalation movements and also during the relatively long rest (smoldering) times between inhalations.

The aerosol generating means of the present invention is maintained at a relatively high temperature during the pause period between inhalations, and during the inhalation operation the additional heat, which is considerably increased by the preferred passageway provided in the fuel element, is primarily used to generate the aerosol. used to evaporate the agent. This increased heat transfer makes fuel energy more efficient, reduces fuel requirements, and allows for earlier delivery of the aerosol.

Furthermore, the composition of the fuel element, the number of passages in the fuel element, the size,
By appropriate selection of the shape and arrangement, insulating jacket, wrapper, and/or heat transfer means, it is possible to substantially control the combustion characteristics of the fuel element, thereby reducing the heat transferred to the aerosol generating means. and thereby alter the number of inhalations of the user and/or the amount of aerosol delivered into the user's mouth.

Generally, the length of fuel elements that can be used in the practice of the present invention is about 30 mm or less, preferably about 2 mm.
It should be 0 mm or less, more preferably about 15 mm or less. Advantageously, the diameter of the fuel element is less than or equal to about 8 mm, preferably about 3 to 7 mm, more preferably 4 to 6 mm.
Let it be m. The density of the fuel element that can be used in the present invention is, for example, about 0.5 g/m measured in terms of mercury displacement.
cc to about 1.5 g/cc, preferably 0.7 g/cc or more, more preferably 0.8 g/cc
/cc or more. In most cases, higher densities are desirable in order to make the fuel element's burn time comparable to that of a conventional cigarette and to provide sufficient thermal energy to generate the required amount of aerosol. .

The fuel element used in the present invention can be molded or extruded from crushed tobacco leaves, reconstituted tobacco material, or tobacco material substitutes (modified cellulose, degraded or prepyrolyzed tobacco material, etc.). It is advantageous to do so. Suitable materials include U.S. Patent Section 4347.855, No. 3,931,8
No. 24, No. 885°574 and No. 4,008,723
No. 1, and "Tobacco Material Substitutes J" (1976) by Cityrag, published by Noyce Data Corporation.It can be burned for a time equivalent to that of a conventional cigarette, and is an aerosol generating means. Other combustible materials may be used as long as they can provide sufficient heat to generate the required amount of aerosol from the material.

Typically, the fuel element preferably includes a carbon material such as that obtained by pyrolyzing or carbonizing a cellulosic material such as wood, rayon, tobacco leaf, coconut, paper, or the like. In most cases, combustible carbon is desirable for its high heat generation capacity and low generation of incomplete combustion products; the carbon content of the fuel element is preferably about 20-40% by weight or more. .

The most preferred fuel element for use in the practice of the present invention is US patent application Ser.
and 769,532. Carbonaceous fuel elements are particularly advantageous in that they have low pyrolysis and incomplete combustion products, little or no visible sidestream smoke, low ash production, and high heat capacity. Of course, the aerosol delivered into the user's mouth should have no mutagenic effects, as determined by, for example, the Ames test (see Ames et al., Mutition Research).

Res, ) J 31:347-364 (1976) and Nagus et al.
42:335 (1977)).

Combustion additives or modifiers may also be added to the fuel element to optimize its combustion and glowing properties. If desired, fillers such as diatomaceous earth and binders such as sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (SCMC) can also be added to the fuel element. Additionally, flavoring amounts such as tobacco extract can be added to the fuel element to impart a tobacco or other flavor to the aerosol.

Preferably, the fuel element is formed with one or more longitudinal passageways. These passageways serve to control heat transfer from the fuel element to the aerosol generating means.

This control of heat transfer is important both in terms of transferring enough heat to generate enough aerosol and in avoiding transferring so much heat that it degrades (decomposes) the aerosol generating agent. It is also important in Generally, these passageways increase the amount of initial heat transfer to the support by imparting porosity to the fuel element and increasing the amount of hot gas that reaches the support of the aerosol generating means. or,
These passages also serve to increase the combustion rate of the fuel.

In general, when a large number of passages, such as about five to nine, or more, are provided, particularly with relatively wide spacing between the passages, as shown in Figures 1A, 7A, and 9A,
A high conductive heat transfer rate is obtained, resulting in a high aerosol delivery rate. Also, providing multiple passages facilitates ignition of the fuel element.

The amount of high conductive heat transfer is due to the CO contained in the mainstream of the aerosol.
There is a tendency to increase the amount of CO levels can be reduced by using fewer passageways or by making the fuel element more dense, which generally makes the fuel element harder to ignite and reduces conductive heat transfer. , therefore,
Reduce aerosol delivery rate and volume. However, if the passages are closely spaced as shown in Figure 7B, the passages will coalesce into one passage due to combustion, at least at the ignition end, so It has been found that the combustion products contain less CO than in the case of the configuration.

The optimal placement, shape and number of passages in the fuel element provide a stable and sufficient amount of aerosol, facilitate ignition, and reduce CO2.
It is determined with consideration to reducing the amount generated. Various combinations of arrangement, shape and/or number of passages in carbonaceous fuel elements used in embodiments of the present invention were tested. As a result, fuel elements having about 5 to 9 passages relatively closely spaced to combust and coalesce into one large passage are preferred fuel elements for use in the present invention, and are particularly preferred. It was found to best meet the requirements of carbonaceous fuel elements. This is believed to be true for a variety of non-carbon fuel elements that can be used in the practice of the present invention.

Variables that affect the rate at which passages in a fuel element burn and coalesce include the density and composition of the fuel element, the size, shape, and number of passages, the spacing between passages, and the pattern in which the passages are arranged. For example, for a carbonaceous fuel element with a density of 0.85 g/cc having seven passages of approximately 0.5 mm diameter, in order for the passages to coalesce into one passage upon combustion, The core diameter, i.e. within the diameter of the smallest circle circumscribing the outer edge of their passages, i.e. approximately 1.6
It should be located within the range of mm to 2.5 mm. If the diameter of each of these seven passages is increased to about 0.6 mm, the diameter of the cores that coalesce by combustion is about 2 mm.
．． Increases from 1 mm to about 3.0 mm.

Another preferred fuel element passage arrangement for use in the practice of the present invention is shown in FIG. 9B. This passage arrangement is C
o It has been found to be particularly advantageous in reducing emissions and facilitating ignition. In this preferred notation,
A plurality of passages 16, preferably about 5 to 9, are formed in a short section at the firing end of the fuel element, which merge into a large cavity 97 extending to the suction end of the fuel element. The multiple passages on the lighting end provide a large surface area that is desirable for easy ignition and early delivery of the aerosol. Approximately 30 to 9 of the total length of the fuel element
Cavity 97 extending over 5%, preferably over 50%
serves to ensure uniform heat transfer to the aerosol generating means and to reduce the CO delivery into the main stream of the aerosol.

The aerosol generating means used in the practice of the present invention is physically separate from the fuel element.

By "physically separate" is meant that the support, container, or chamber containing the aerosol generating agent does not mix with the combusting fuel element or portion thereof. As mentioned earlier, this configuration serves to suppress or eliminate thermal degradation of the aerosol generating agent and the presence of sidestream smoke. This conductive heat exchange relationship, which is preferably a conductive heat exchange relationship and preferably in contact with or in close proximity to the fuel element, is preferably established by a heat conductive material such as a metal tube or metal foil, and Preferably, the conductive member is spaced apart from and recessed from the firing end of the fuel element.

Preferably, the aerosol generating means comprises one or more thermally stable materials carrying one or more aerosol generating agents. The term "thermally stable material" as used herein refers to one that can withstand high temperatures of, for example, 400° C. to 600° C., which occur in the vicinity of the fuel element, without decomposing or burning. Although not necessarily preferred, other means of aerosol generation, such as thermally ruptured microcapsules or solid aerosol generators, are also viable, as long as they are capable of releasing sufficient aerosol-generating vapor to resemble tobacco smoke. It is within the scope of the invention.

Thermally stable materials that can be used as supports or carriers for aerosol generators are well known to those skilled in the art. Suitable supports should be porous and capable of retaining the aerosol generating agent when not in use and capable of releasing aerosol generating vapors when heated by the fuel element. If it is a particulate material, it can be housed in a container preferably formed of a thermally conductive material.

Suitable thermostable materials include thermostable carbons such as porous carbon, graphite, activated or inert carbon. Other inorganic solids such as ceramics, glasses, alumina, vermiculite, and clays such as bentonite are also suitable. Preferred carbon materials for the support include PC-25 and PG-60 manufactured by Union Carbide, and SQL manufactured by Carbon.
Porous carbon such as carbon. Also, a preferred alumina for the support is SMR-14-1896, available from Davidson Chemical Division of W. R. Brace & Company.

This alumina is sintered at a high temperature of, for example, about 1000° C. or higher, washed, and dried.

Suitable granular supports may also be compressed into particles in a single step from carbon, tobacco wood or a mixture of carbon and tobacco wood using a machine manufactured by Fuji Paradal in Japan and sold under the trade name "Marmerizer". It has been found that it can be formed into the shape of This machine is based on German Patent No. 1,294,
No. 351, U.S. Patent No. 3.277.520 (Patent No. 2
(Reissued as No. 7,214) and Special Publication No. 1973
-8684.

The aerosol generating means used in the present invention is spaced from the ignition end of the fuel element by about 40 mm, preferably by about 30 mm, and most preferably by about 20 mm. The length of the aerosol generating means is about 2 mm to about 60 mm, preferably about 5 m.
m to 40 mm, most preferably about 20 mm to 35 mm. The diameter of the aerosol generating means may be between about 2 mm and about 8 mm, preferably between about 3 mm and 6 mm. If a non-granular support is used, the support can be provided with one or more holes to increase the surface area of the support and to increase air flow and heat transfer.

The aerosol generating agent used in the present invention must be capable of generating an aerosol at the temperatures that occur within the aerosol generating means when heated by the combusting fuel element. The aerosol generator is preferably composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, but may contain other components.

The aerosol generator can also be in solid, semi-solid, or liquid form. The boiling point of the aerosol generator and/or a mixture of multiple types of aerosol generators is 500
It may be up to ℃. Materials with such properties include polyhydric alcohols such as glycerin and propylene glycol, and aliphatic esters of mono-, di-, or polycarboxylic acids such as methyl stearate, dimethyl dodecadiate, and dimethyl dodecadiate.

Preferred aerosol generators are polyhydric alcohols or mixtures of polyhydric alcohols, particularly preferred are glycerin, propylene glycol, triethylene glycol or mixtures thereof.

The aerosol generating agent can be dispersed around or within the aerosol generating means at a concentration sufficient to penetrate or coat the support, carrier or container, e.g.
The aerosol generator can be applied to the support undiluted or in the form of a diluted solution by dipping, spraying, vapor deposition, or other techniques. The solid aerosol-generating component can be mixed with a support and uniformly distributed within the aerosol-generating means.

The amount of aerosol generating agent charged varies depending on the type of carrier or the type of aerosol generating agent, but in the case of a liquid aerosol generating agent, the amount is generally about 2
0 mg to about 120 mg, preferably about 35 mg to about 85 mg
mg, most preferably in the range of about 45 mg to 65 mg. It should be ensured that as much of the aerosol generating agent carried by the aerosol generating means as possible is delivered to the user as WTPM. Preferably about 2% by weight of the aerosol generating agent supported on the aerosol generating means.
More preferably about 15% by weight and most preferably about 20% by weight of the above is delivered to the user as WTPM.

The aerosol-generating means may also contain one or more flavoring agents such as menthol, lacquer, tobacco extract, nicotine, caffeine, liquor, and other agents that impart flavor to the aerosol; Additionally, any other desired eruptive solid or liquid materials may be included. Alternatively, these optional agents are optionally provided in a separate support or chamber provided between the aerosol generating means and the mouth end, e.g. in a passageway leading from the aerosol generating means to the mouth end. It can also be inserted into the aforementioned tobacco inserts. If desired, these volatile agents can be used in place of some or all of the aerosol generating agents, in which case a non-aerosol flavor is delivered to the user.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol generating means comprises an alumina carrier and one or more tobacco flavor modifiers, such as spray-dried tobacco extract, levulinic acid, or It consists of a further flavoring agent and an aerosol generator such as glycerin. This support may be mixed with compressed tobacco particles produced, for example, in a "marmerizer", and these tobacco particles may also be impregnated with an aerosol generating agent.

The smoking article disclosed herein can be used as an aerosol generator,
Can also be used as a pharmaceutical delivery article to deliver volatile, pharmacologically or physiologically active substances such as ephedrine, metaproterenol, turbutalin, etc., or used as a pharmaceutical delivery article It can be modified to suit.

As shown in the illustrated embodiments, the smoking article of the present invention includes a tobacco charge or plug, or a tobacco-containing substance downstream of the fuel element, for imparting tobacco flavor to the aerosol. can be set. In that case, hot steam is drawn through the tobacco material without burning or substantially thermally decomposing volatile substances within the tobacco material.
Extract and vaporize.

One preferred location for locating the tobacco filler is
Particularly in embodiments in which a thermally conductive member or container is provided between the aerosol generating agent and the tobacco material jacket, the outer periphery of the aerosol generating means increases the heat transfer to the tobacco material, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9. It is around. In these embodiments, the tobacco material also serves as a shield for the aerosol generating agent and acts to mimic the feel and aroma of conventional cigarettes.

Another preferred location for placing tobacco material is
Among the aerosol generating means. In that case, the tobacco material may be mixed with a support for the aerosol generating agent or may be used in place of the support. Any available tobacco material can be included, such as reconstituted tobacco, extruded or compressed tobacco mixtures, tobacco-containing sheets, and the like. Advantageously, tobacco blends are used to provide a variety of flavours. The tobacco-containing material may also contain conventional tobacco additives such as fillers, casings, reinforcing materials such as glass fibers, humectants, and the like. Preferred thermally conductive members used in the practice of the present invention, in which flavorants and flavor modifiers may also be added to the tobacco material, typically have a thickness of about 0.01 mm or less to about 0.2 mm.
or more metal (e.g. aluminum) tube, strip or foil. Type of conductive material, thickness, and
Alternatively, virtually any desired degree of heat transfer can be achieved by changing the shape. For example, metals other than aluminum or "Graph Oil" manufactured by Union Carbide can also be used. Generally, thermally conductive members are
It should be placed sufficiently recessed so as not to interfere with the ignition end of the fuel element, but close enough to the ignition end to allow conductive heat transfer during the user's initial and intermediate suction action. must be maintained.

As shown in each of the embodiments illustrated herein, the thermally conductive member preferably contacts or overlaps the rearward portion of the fuel element and at least a portion of the aerosol generating means, and extends at least approximately from the ignition end of the fuel element. Retractable by 3 mm, preferably about 5 mm or more. Preferably, the thermally conductive member extends for at most about half of the total length of the fuel element, and more preferably, for at most about 5 mm of the rear end portion of the fuel element, it overlaps or contacts in some way. let In this way, the heat conductive member is retractable from the ignition end, so it does not interfere with the ignition or combustion of the fuel element, and also functions as a heat sink, reducing the contact point between the fuel element and the heat conductive member. It works to digest the combustion when it burns up to the point where it burns. In addition, the heat conductive member is
Even after the fuel is consumed, it does not protrude ahead of the fuel element.

Preferably, the thermally conductive member constitutes a thermally conductive container surrounding the aerosol generating agent, or alternatively, a separate component, particularly in embodiments using particulate supports or semi-liquid aerosol generating agents. A conductive container may also be provided. The conductive container not only functions as a container for the aerosol generating agent, but also facilitates heat distribution to the aerosol generating agent and the surrounding tobacco jacket, which is provided in a preferred embodiment, as well as distributing the aerosol generating agent to the smoking article. The container also prevents the smoking by varying the number, size and/or position of the channels for delivering the aerosol towards the mouth end. Provides a means for controlling pressure drop through the article. Furthermore, in embodiments in which a tobacco material jacket is disposed around the outer periphery of the aerosol generating means, channels or slots may be provided in the peripheral wall of the container to allow and control the flow of vapor through the tobacco material. I can do it. The use of containers also has the effect of simplifying the manufacture of smoking articles by reducing the number of parts and/or manufacturing steps required.

Insulating members that can be used in the practice of the present invention are preferably formed from one or more layers of insulation material in the form of an elastic jacket. This jacket has at least 0.
5 mm thick, preferably at least about 1 mm, more preferably about 1.5 to about 2 mm thick. The jacket preferably extends over half or more of the total length of the fuel element, and more preferably covers the entire outer peripheral surface of the fuel element and all or part of the aerosol generating means. As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 8, these two components of the smoking article (fuel element and aerosol generating means)
Different materials can also be used for thermal isolation.

The heat insulating member that can be used in the present invention generally includes inorganic materials such as glass, alumina, silica, vitreous materials, mineral wool, carbon, silicon, boron, organic polymers, cellulose materials, etc., and mixtures thereof. Or it is made of organic fibers. Non-fibrous materials such as silica airgel, perlite, glass formed into mats, strips or other shapes may also be used. The heat insulating member is preferably elastic and has the effect of resembling the feel of conventional cigarettes, has a softening temperature of about 650 to 700°C or less so that it melts during use, and Preferably non-combustible,
However, slow-flammable carbon and similar materials can be used.

These materials function primarily as thermal insulation jackets, retaining a significant portion of the heat created by the fuel element and directing it to the aerosol generating means. Since the insulation jacket becomes hot in close proximity to the burning fuel element, it conducts some heat towards the aerosol generating means.

Preferred insulating materials for the fuel element include ceramic fibers such as glass fibers. Maniglas 1000 and Maniglas 1 from Manning Paper Company, USA
Glass fiber sold under the trade name 200 is suitable. Preferably, the glass fiber material for the present invention has a low softening point of about 650° C. or less as measured by ASTM Test Method C338-73. Also preferred for use in the present invention are glass fibers sold by Orglass Corning, Inc. under product numbers 6432 and 6437. This glass fiber has a softening point of about 640° C. and melts during use when applied to the present invention.

Binders that serve to maintain structural integrity (e.g. P
Several types of inorganic fibers bonded by VA) are commercially available. Binders that give off unpleasant odors when heated should be removed, for example, by introducing air at about 650° C. for up to about 15 minutes before use. If desired, about 3% by weight of pectin can also be added to the fibers to provide mechanical strength to the insulation jacket without emitting unpleasant odors.

Alternatively, some or all of the insulation may be replaced with loose or tightly compressed tobacco material. The use of tobacco material as a substitute for some or all of the insulation provides, in addition to its function as insulation, the additional function of adding tobacco flavor to the mainstream aerosol and generating a side stream of tobacco flavor. do. In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol generating means is enclosed by a tobacco jacket, which functions as a non-combustible insulator as well as imparting a tobacco flavor to the mainstream aerosol. In an embodiment in which the fuel element is wrapped in tobacco material,
Preferably, the tobacco material is combusted at most up to the point where the fuel element is combusted, ie to the point of contact between the fuel element and the aerosol generating means. Such a configuration can be achieved by compressing the tobacco material around the fuel element and/or by using a conductive heat sink, as in the embodiment of FIG. Alternatively, such a configuration may include a wrapper made of cigarette paper and/or a wrapper made of cigarette paper with a substance having the effect of extinguishing the tobacco material at a portion where the tobacco material overlaps the aerosol generating means. obtained by processing.

If the insulation member is constructed of a fibrous material other than tobacco material, shielding means may be provided between the insulation member and the mouth end of the smoking article. Such shielding means can be constituted, for example, by a ring of dense cellulose acetate tow. Such an annular body is abutted against a fibrous insulation member and the ends are sealed, for example with an adhesive, to prevent air flow through the tow.

In most embodiments of the invention, the fuel-aerosol generating means assembly is attached to a mouthpiece, such as a foil-lined paper tube, a cellulose acetate tube, or a plastic tube as shown in the accompanying drawings; The end piece may be provided separately, for example in the form of a cigarette holder; the mouth end piece constitutes a passageway for the vaporized aerosol generating agent to the user's mouth. The mouth piece has a suitable length (preferably about 35-50 mm or more) to keep the hot cone away from the user's mouth and fingers so that the hot aerosol is not used. Allow sufficient time to cool before reaching the person's mouth.

The mouthpiece is preferably inert to the aerosol generating agent and may have a water-resistant inner layer to minimize loss of aerosol through condensation or filtration and to prevent other components of the smoking article. It should be able to withstand high temperatures at the interface with the component. Preferred mouthpieces are cellulose acetate tubes, which are used in many of the embodiments illustrated herein. This tube functions as a resilient outer member and has the effect of mimicking the feel of the mouth end of a conventional cigarette. Other suitable mouthpieces will readily occur to those skilled in the art.

A filter tip can be used as the mouthpiece of the article of the invention to mimic the appearance of a conventional filter cigarette. Such filters include low efficiency cellulose acetate filters and hollow or baffled filters made of plastic such as polypropylene.

These filters have little interference with aerosol delivery.

The outer surface of the article of the invention can be wrapped over its entire length or any portion thereof with tobacco paper (paper wrapper). In that case, the wrapping paper on the fuel end side must not flare up during combustion of the fuel element.

The cigarette paper is also provided with an insulating jacket around the fuel element, preferably having certain smoldering properties, resulting in a gray, cigarette-like ash, from which the cigarette paper burns. In the peelable embodiment, maximum heat transfer is achieved because airflow to the fuel element is unrestricted. However, wrapping paper (paper trumpet)
The fuel element can also be designed to remain intact, in whole or in part, when exposed to heat from the fuel element.

In that case, the wrapper serves to restrict the air flow to the burning fuel element, thereby controlling the combustion temperature of the fuel element and the heat transfer to the aerosol generating means.

Non-porous paper treated to be slightly porous, e.g. non-flammable with perforations, to reduce the burning rate and temperature of the fuel element, thereby lowering the CO/CO2 ratio. mica paper can be used as the jacket l. Such paper is especially suitable for intermediate suction motions (i.e. 4
The amount of heat delivered during the suction operation of the first to sixth doses is controlled.

In order to maximize the aerosol delivery rate by preventing the aerosol from being diluted by outside air penetrating radially inward from the outside, the area from the aerosol generating means to the mouth end is made of non-porous material. It can be covered with paper.

These papers are well known in the cigarette art and can be used in combination to achieve a variety of effects. Preferred papers for use in articles of the present invention include plug-wrapping paper Ecsta 01788 and 666, manufactured by Ecsta, USA; KC paper, manufactured by Kimberly-Clark;
-63-5, P878-5, P878-16-2 and 7
80-63-5 etc.

Smoking articles according to preferred embodiments of the present invention provide at least 0.6 m of total wet particulate matter (WTPM) in the first three puffs when smoked under FTC smoking conditions.
g of aerosol can be delivered. (FTC smoking conditions are 2 seconds of inhalation (with a total volume of 35 m) separated by a 58 second smoldering (pause) period.) A smoking article according to a more preferred embodiment of the present invention initially 1.5 mg or more of aerosol can be delivered in a three-dose inhalation operation. In the most preferred embodiment, the first three puffs can deliver 3 mg or more of aerosol when smoked under FTC smoking conditions. Also, in a preferred embodiment, an average of at least about 0.8 m per puff over at least about 6, preferably 10 puffs.
g (W T P M ) of aerosol is delivered.

4. Figures 1 to 9 are longitudinal sectional views of smoking articles according to respective embodiments of the present invention.

Figure 1A is a sectional view taken along line I A-I A in Figure 1, Figure 2A is a sectional view taken along line 2A-2A in Figure 2, and Figure 6A is a sectional view taken along line 6A in Figure 6. Figures 7A, 7B, 7C, and 9A are end views showing passage configurations of fuel elements suitable for use in each embodiment; Figures 8A and 8A are cross-sectional views taken along line 6A; FIG. 8B is an enlarged end view of the metal container used in the embodiment of FIG. 8, and FIG. 9B is a vertical cross-sectional view of the preferred passage structure of the fuel element. be.

10: Fuel element 12: Aerosol generation means 14: Foil-covered paper tube (thermal conduction means) 16: Hole or passage 20: Tobacco material charging body 22: Filter plug 26: Heat conduction rod 28: Support (carrier) 52: Capsule 72: Insulation jacket 94: Insulation jacket FIG.3 FIG.4 FIG.7 FIG. 7A FIG. 7B FIG, 7G FIG, 8△ FIG. 8B FIG.9 Go to FIG. 9

Claims (1)

[Scope of Claims] 1. A combustible fuel element; an aerosol generating means physically separate from the fuel element and containing at least one type of aerosol generating agent; and surrounding at least a portion of the fuel element. a layer of insulation; a paper wrapper physically separate from the layer of insulation and configured to remain at least partially unbroken to restrict air flow to the burning fuel element during smoking; A smoking article consisting of;