KR20210112379A - Components that release tobacco ingredients, methods of making the components, and articles comprising the components - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to components that release a tobacco component comprising an agglomerated structure formed from a precursor composition comprising tobacco particles and one or more aerosol formers. The present invention also relates to processes for preparing components that release a tobacco component, and various tobacco industry products comprising components that release a tobacco component.

Description

Components that release tobacco ingredients, methods of making the components, and articles comprising the components

The present invention relates to components that release a tobacco component comprising tobacco particles in an agglomerated structure. The present invention also relates to tobacco industry products comprising components that release a tobacco component, and methods of making the components that release a tobacco component.

It is known to provide a source of tobacco components wherein the tobacco components are released upon heating the source without combustion. The drawbacks associated with such sources may include, for example, inadequate control of the release of tobacco components, and only a relatively small proportion of the components released during normal use of the product.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a component that releases a tobacco component comprising an agglomerated structure formed of a precursor composition comprising tobacco particles, wherein the release of the tobacco components upon heating the component without combustion , (i) the surface area to volume ratio of the component; and (ii) the amount of aerosol former(s) included.

In some embodiments, the one or more aerosol formers are included in an amount from about 3% to about 30% by weight of the component, preferably from about 15% to about 30% by weight of the component.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a component for releasing a tobacco component comprising an agglomerated structure formed of a precursor composition comprising tobacco particles and at least 10% by weight of at least one aerosol former, the tobacco component being provided. The component releasing the component has one or more undulating or irregular surfaces and/or channels within the component, and the tobacco within the component does not have a base pH.

In some embodiments, a component that emits a tobacco component has one or more internal channels extending through the component.

In some embodiments, the component that emits the tobacco component has a cross-sectional shape of a spoked wheel or star.

In some embodiments, the agglomerated structure is formed by extrusion.

In some embodiments, the aerosol former is one or more selected from the group consisting of glycerol, propylene glycol and glyceryl triacetate.

In some embodiments, the component that releases the tobacco component is impregnated with one or more aerosol formers, and/or the tobacco particles are impregnated with one or more aerosol formers.

In some embodiments, the component that releases the tobacco component comprises at least 50% by weight tobacco particles.

In some embodiments, the component that releases the tobacco component comprises at least 80% by weight of a combination of tobacco particles and an aerosol former.

In some embodiments, the tobacco particles have an average diameter of 0.5 mm or less, preferably, the tobacco particles have an average particle size in the range of about 0.1 to about 0.4 mm.

In some embodiments, the component that releases the tobacco component has a generally rod-shaped outer shape.

In some embodiments, the component that releases the tobacco component has a diameter of from about 4 mm to about 10 mm, preferably from about 5 mm to about 8 mm.

In some embodiments, the component that releases the tobacco component has a length of from about 5 mm to about 80 mm, preferably from about 10 mm to about 25 mm.

In some embodiments, the component that releases the tobacco component does not have a base pH and/or the precursor composition does not have a base pH.

In some embodiments, the precursor composition does not include a basic pH adjusting agent.

In some embodiments, the component releasing tobacco component further comprises one or more binders, preferably, the one or more binders are starches, polysaccharides, pectins, celluloses, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethyl cellulose, and alginates.

In some embodiments, the component that releases the tobacco component does not include a binder to aid in agglomeration of the tobacco particles.

In some embodiments, the component that releases the tobacco component further comprises one or more flavor-modifying additives.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a process for preparing a component for releasing a tobacco component, the process comprising forming an agglomerated structure from a precursor composition comprising tobacco particles; The desired release is determined by (i) the surface area to volume ratio of the component; and (ii) heating the component without combustion by adjusting one or more of the amount of aerosol former(s) included.

In some embodiments, the process is for preparing a component that releases a tobacco component according to the first aspect.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a process for preparing a component that releases a tobacco component, the process comprising: agglomerated from a precursor comprising tobacco particles and at least 10% by weight of at least one aerosol former forming a structure by extrusion, wherein the component that releases the extruded tobacco component has one or more undulating or irregular surfaces and/or channels within the component, and wherein the process adjusts the pH of the tobacco within the component. It does not include adjusting to the base pH.

In some embodiments of the processes, the precursor composition is extruded to form an agglomerated structure.

In some embodiments of the processes, the precursor composition is extruded through a die to provide one or more internal channels extending through the component.

In some embodiments of the processes, the precursor composition is extruded through a die to provide the component with the cross-sectional shape of a spoked wheel or star.

In some embodiments of the processes, the precursor composition is heated to a temperature of about 40°C to about 120°C.

In some embodiments of the processes, the precursor composition is cooled during or after extrusion, preferably, the precursor composition is cooled by exposure to a surface having a temperature between about 5°C and about 15°C.

In some embodiments of the processes, the pH of the component and/or precursor composition is not adjusted to the base pH.

In some embodiments of the processes, the precursor composition does not include a basic pH adjusting agent.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the manufacture of a component that releases a tobacco component having an agglomerated structure formed from a precursor composition comprising tobacco particles and one or more aerosol formers, heating the component without combustion To provide a component that releases a tobacco component having a desired release of the tobacco components, the composition comprising: (i) a surface area to volume ratio of the component; and (ii) the amount of aerosol former(s) included.

In some embodiments, the use is for preparing a component that releases a tobacco component according to the first aspect.

In some embodiments of the application, the surface area to volume ratio of the component is increased by forming the agglomerated structure to provide one or more internal channels extending through the component.

In some embodiments of the use, the component has a spoked wheel or star cross-sectional shape.

In some embodiments of the use, the pH of the component and/or precursor composition is not adjusted to the base pH.

In some embodiments of the use, the precursor composition does not include a basic pH adjusting agent.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a smoking article comprising a filter and a rod of smokable material, the filter comprising a component that releases a tobacco component according to the first aspect.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a filter or filter element for a combustible smoking article comprising a component that releases a tobacco component, wherein the component that releases a tobacco component extrudes a precursor composition comprising tobacco particles wherein the component that releases the tobacco component transfers flavor to mainstream smoke upon use of the smoking article, wherein the pH of the component and/or precursor composition is not adjusted to the base pH .

In some embodiments, a filter or filter element for a combustible smoking article comprises a component that emits a tobacco component according to the first aspect.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for heating a smokable material without combustion to volatilize at least one component of the smokable material, wherein the smokable material comprises one or more tobacco components according to the first aspect. It contains emitting components.

In some embodiments, the device further comprises a liquid to be heated to form a vapor, optionally wherein the liquid does not comprise nicotine.

In some embodiments of the device, the smokeable material is heated by steam.

In some embodiments of the device, means for heating the liquid to form a vapor are included, but separate means for heating the smokable material are not included.

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings.
1 is a flowchart illustrating the main steps of a process according to embodiments of the present invention.
2A, 2B, and 2C show examples of nozzle designs for forming extruded agglomerates having internal channels, while FIGS. 2D and 2E show how such a die can be used to shape the extruded agglomerate. shows
3 shows a series of extruded agglomerates showing different cross-sectional geometries forming the inner channels.
4A shows an example of a die used to generate granules by extrusion, while FIG. 4B shows how such a die can be used to form extruded agglomerates.
5 is a schematic representation of some extruded granules.
6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a tobacco heating article for heating a smokeable material to volatilize at least one component of the smokeable material, including a component that releases a tobacco component;
7 is a schematic diagram of a hybrid device for heating a smokeable material to volatilize at least one component of the smokeable material, including a component that releases a tobacco component.
8 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an example of a cartridge containing components that release multiple tobacco components.
9 is a schematic side view of a combustible smoking article comprising a filter comprising components that emit a plurality of tobacco components;
10 is a schematic side view of a combustible smoking article comprising a filter comprising a component that emits a single tobacco component;
11 is a schematic side view of a combustible smoking article comprising a multi-segment filter, one filter segment being a component that emits tobacco components;

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to components that release tobacco components formed from tobacco particles. These components can release tobacco ingredients including flavors and nicotine. They can also act as carriers for other materials to be released. Components that release tobacco components are suitable for incorporation into a variety of tobacco industry products.

At least some of the released components are derived directly from the tobacco particles used to form the components. In some embodiments, additional materials may be added to the components for emission. These additional ingredients may also include, for example, tobacco ingredients added to supplement those derived directly from tobacco particles. Alternatively or in addition, additional materials added to the components for release may not be derived from tobacco. For example, in some embodiments, the components may also deliver and release other flavors, including those not derived from tobacco.

Components that release tobacco ingredients, incorporated into tobacco industry products, can modify the aerosol generated by the products during use. Optionally by heating, the flow of air or aerosol over and/or through the component causes release of materials from the component. In some embodiments, the emitted materials may include tobacco ingredients such as flavors and aromas, as well as other tobacco-derived materials such as nicotine, and when included in a component that releases a tobacco ingredient, It may contain materials that are not derived from tobacco or are not derived from tobacco particles included in the components.

The released materials are entrained in the air or aerosol to modify it. In some embodiments, the flavor, aroma or taste of the aerosol generated by the tobacco industry product is modified by the component that releases the tobacco component. In some embodiments, the aerosol is enriched with natural tobacco flavors and aromas. Additionally or alternatively, the aerosol is modified with non-tobacco flavors as a result of the flavor or flavor sources being incorporated into the components that release the tobacco component. In further embodiments, the aerosol may be modified by the addition of nicotine. In still further embodiments, the mouthfeel of the aerosol may be modified by materials released by tobacco component releasing components, such as aerosol formers.

The components that release the tobacco component are aggregated structures formed from a precursor composition comprising tobacco particles. This means that the components are masses or clusters formed by fusing or adhering multiple particles to each other. Ingredient particles include tobacco particles. In some embodiments, particles of other materials may also be included.

An important aspect of the present invention is that the release of materials from components emitting a tobacco component can be controlled and adapted to the specific requirements of the tobacco industry product to be incorporated therein. In particular, it is desirable to control the rate and extent of release. The release of ingredients is important to provide a desired sensory experience as well as a desired flavor profile during use of a tobacco industry product. In particular, it may be desirable to control how quickly the release occurs depending on the onset of use of the product, the lifetime of the release and the consistency of the release. It is also important to ensure that a significant proportion of the to-be-released materials retained in the component releasing the tobacco component are actually released during normal use of the tobacco industry product.

A component that releases a tobacco component is provided comprising an agglomerated structure formed from a precursor composition comprising tobacco particles, wherein the release of the tobacco component upon heating the component without combustion is: (i) a surface area of the component to volume ratio; and (ii) the amount of aerosol former(s) included.

To improve the release of tobacco components and other materials from a component during use in a tobacco industry product, wherein the component is heated but not burned, it is desirable for a component to have a high surface area to volume ratio. The increased surface area of the component that releases the tobacco component will increase the emission of the tobacco component and other materials. The increased surface area to volume ratio means that more tobacco components and other materials will be located closer to the surface of the component, so that they are heated and released more easily, and a greater proportion is released. As used herein, increased surface area or increased surface area to volume ratio refers to a comparison with the surface area of an approximately spheroid or cylindrical rod shape or a solid structure having the same volume.

As will be described in more detail below, the shape of the components that release the tobacco component increases the surface area to volume ratio by, for example, increasing the surface area by creating undulating or irregular surfaces or by creating channels within the components. may be selected to It is desirable to reduce the distance from the component's surface of tobacco components and other materials to be released, so that many of these materials are used in tobacco industry products rather than remain entrapped within an agglomerated structure. may be released during Also, the increased proximity of tobacco components and other materials to the surface of the component that emits the tobacco component causes the materials to release in a controlled manner because the materials will more readily heat up and volatilize when the component is heated. It would mean that it could be

In addition, the surface area of the component that releases the tobacco component, and thus the release of the tobacco components and other materials, may be increased by the presence of pores in the aggregated structure. Such pores will reduce the density of the agglomerated structure, thereby enhancing heat transfer throughout the tobacco component emitting component. In some embodiments, the pores may be formed by including porous materials in the precursor composition. Selecting larger diameter tobacco particles and/or tobacco particles with a narrower particle size distribution may also enhance the formation of small gaps or pores in the agglomerated structure. Alternatively or additionally, pores may be formed in the agglomerated structure after the agglomerated structure is made from the precursor composition, such as by perforating the structure or by selectively removing a portion or portions of the agglomerated structure.

Thus, the combination of shape and porosity/density of the component that releases the tobacco component controls the surface area to volume ratio and/or (i) the rate of heat transfer; (ii) an aerosol generation rate; (iii) the amount of aerosol generated; and (iv) control the extent of release of tobacco components and other materials.

The components that release tobacco components according to the invention comprise at least one aerosol former. It is known to use aerosol formers to improve the mouth feel of aerosols. The amount of aerosol former included in tobacco components or materials, such as those included in tobacco heating products, is limited because aerosol formers are generally in liquid form and present on the surface of the tobacco material to which they are added. tends to be As a result, in practice, including more than about 10% by weight of an aerosol former makes the material difficult to handle and process.

However, as will be discussed in more detail below, embodiments of the present invention allow for greater amounts of aerosol formers to be included. This provides greater flexibility in selecting the amount of aerosol former, which can be used to control or modulate the release of tobacco components and other materials from components that release the tobacco component. The release of an aerosol former in the form of an aerosol as a result of heating (but not combustion) of the component releasing the tobacco component not only improves the properties of the aerosol produced by the tobacco industry product into which the component is incorporated, but also , enhances the release of tobacco components and other materials from the component. This is especially the case when tobacco and/or agglomerated structures are impregnated with an aerosol former.

The amount of aerosol former will also affect the rate at which the aerosol is generated.

The aerosol former may be, for example, a polyol aerosol generator or a non-polyol aerosol generator, preferably a non-polyol aerosol generator. It may be solid or liquid at room temperature, but is preferably liquid at room temperature. Suitable polyols include sorbitol, glycerol, and glycols such as propylene glycol or triethylene glycol. Suitable non-polyols include monohydric alcohols, high boiling hydrocarbons, acids such as lactic acid, and esters such as diacetin, triacetin, triethyl citrate or isopropyl myristate. Combinations of aerosol formers may be used in the same or different ratios. Glycerol, propylene glycol and glyceryl triacetate (also known as triacetin) are particularly preferred.

In the present invention, the release of tobacco components or other materials is not controlled by adjusting the pH of the tobacco and/or precursor composition or component releasing the tobacco component. Such pH adjustment may change the properties of the ingredients, and may be undesirable or unacceptable from a regulatory standpoint for some products in some jurisdictions.

tobacco particles

The tobacco particles present in the precursor composition are of a size small enough to ensure that a number of such particles can be agglomerated to form components that release a tobacco component having desired dimensions based on their intended use. Smaller tobacco particles have a greater surface area to volume ratio, and thus they may exhibit improved release of tobacco components compared to particles of larger sizes.

In addition, the size of the tobacco particles (and other particles in the precursor composition) will affect the agglomerated structures and the porosity and density of the components that release the tobacco component. Thus, the size of the tobacco particles can be selected to result in a more porous aggregated structure, which will affect the release of tobacco components. Thus, the size of the tobacco particles is another factor that can be adjusted to influence the release of tobacco components.

The extrusion processes used to form the agglomerated structures can be sensitive to the size of the particles in the composition being extruded. Accordingly, it may be desirable for the particles of the precursor composition comprising tobacco particles to have an average particle size of about 0.5 mm or less, or have an average particle size of about 0.3 mm or less, as measured by sieving. In some embodiments, it may be desirable for the tobacco particles of the precursor composition to have an average particle size of about 0.5 mm or less or an average particle size of about 0.3 mm or less, as measured by sieving. In some embodiments, the average particle size is in the range of about 0.1 to about 0.4 mm, or in the range of about 0.2 to about 0.3 mm. In some embodiments, at least about 90% of the particles of the precursor composition will have a particle size in the range of 0.1 to 0.5 mm. In some embodiments, at least about 90% of the tobacco particles of the precursor composition will have a particle size within the range of 0.1 to 0.5 mm. In some embodiments, none of the particles in the precursor composition have a particle size greater than 1 mm.

Tobacco particles for incorporation into components that release tobacco ingredients may be formed by grinding, shreding, cutting, or cleaning tobacco material. Suitable machinery for producing such tobacco particles includes, for example, crushers, cutters, or grinders such as hammer mills, roller mills, or other types of commercially available milling machinery.

Without wishing to be bound by any one particular theory, it is hypothesized that chopping the tobacco to form tobacco particles enhances the release of tobacco components, including nicotine, as well as volatile flavors and aromatics. The increased surface area of the tobacco particles is also believed to aid volatilization. The smaller tobacco particles also improve the homogeneity of the agglomerated structures formed therefrom with other components.

Tobacco material used to form tobacco particles can be any type of tobacco and tobacco lamina, stem, stalk, ribs, scraps and shots or two thereof. It may be any part of the tobacco plant, including mixtures of two or more. Suitable tobacco materials include the following types: Virginia or flue-cured tobacco, Burley tobacco, Oriental tobacco, or optionally blends of tobacco materials including those listed herein. The tobacco may be expanded, such as dry-ice expanded tobacco (DIET), or may be processed by any other means. In some embodiments, the tobacco material may be reconstituted tobacco material. Tobacco may or may not be pre-processed, eg, solid stems (SS); shredded dried stems (SDS); steam treated stems (STS); or any combination thereof. Tobacco material may be fermented, cured, uncured, toasted, or otherwise pretreated.

Additional Components of the Precursor Composition

In some embodiments, the precursor composition includes a diluent. The diluent may be in solid or liquid form. In some embodiments, the diluent is inert or substantially inert.

In some embodiments, the agglomerated structure formed from the precursor composition may have an increased surface area by including the precursor composition particles of an inert filler material. Suitable inert fillers may be porous or non-porous.

In some embodiments, the precursor composition does not include a binder or binding additive. In other embodiments, the precursor composition includes a binder or binding additive. The binding additive may be selected to aid in the formation of an agglomerated structure by helping the tobacco particles adhere to each other and to other components in the composition. Suitable binding additives include, for example, starches, polysaccharides, pectins, celluloses, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethyl cellulose, and alginates.

In some embodiments, components that release a tobacco component may include a flavor-modifier to modify or add flavor to the flavor provided by the tobacco particles. In some embodiments, a flavor-modifying agent may be included in the precursor composition. Alternatively or in addition, the flavor-modifying agent may be added to or applied to the agglomerated structure. Flavor-modifying agents include, for example, casing materials as well as "flavor" and "flavour" materials, which, if local regulations permit, are desired in the product for adult buyers. It can be used to create a taste or aroma. These include extracts (eg, licorice, hydrangea, Japanese white bark magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, menthol, Japanese mint) , aniseed, cinnamon, herb, wintergreen, cherry, berry, peach, apple, drambuie, bourbon, scotch ( scotch, whiskey, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, cardamom, celery, cascarilla, nutmeg, sandalwood ), bergamot, geranium, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, cassia , caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sage, fennel, bell pepper, ginger, anise, cilantro, coffee, or mentha ( genus Mentha), flavor enhancers, bitterness receptor site blockers, sensorial receptor site activators or stimulators , saccharides and/or sugar substitutes (eg, sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharine, cyclamates, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol or mannitol) and charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, botanicals or breath freshening agents) as well as other additives. These may be imitation, synthetic or natural ingredients or mixtures thereof. They may be in any suitable form, for example oil, liquid, gel, wax or powder.

In some embodiments, the pH of the tobacco of the components releasing the tobacco component is not adjusted. In particular, in some embodiments, the component does not have a base pH and/or the precursor composition does not have a base pH. Additionally or alternatively, the precursor composition preferably does not include a basic pH adjusting agent.

In some embodiments, water may be added to the precursor composition as a processing aid. For example, the presence of water can help solubilize the components of the precursor composition, and/or the presence of water can aid bonding or improve agglomeration.

formation of aggregated structures

1 is a flow chart illustrating the main steps of the processes of the present invention. Tobacco starting material, which may be pretreated or pre-processed, is provided in the form of particles having a desired particle size. A tobacco precursor composition is formed comprising tobacco particles, at least one aerosol former, and in some embodiments, further additional components. These additional components may be in liquid form or solid form. The additional solid components are preferably in particulate or powder form. In other embodiments, additional components may be incorporated into the aggregated structure separately from the tobacco precursor composition.

In some embodiments, water may be added to the precursor composition as a processing aid. For example, the presence of water can help solubilize the components of the precursor composition, and/or the presence of water can aid bonding or improve agglomeration.

Finally, the precursor composition is formed into an agglomerated structure, ie, a monolithic structure formed of a plurality of tobacco particles and other components of the precursor composition. In some embodiments, the agglomerated structure may also be formed into a precursor composition by a process comprising one or more steps selected from the group consisting of granulation and/or extrusion, and optionally spheronization.

Granulation of the precursor composition involves binding or fusing the particles of the precursor composition to form larger multi-particle entities referred to herein as aggregated structures. Multi-particle entities formed by granulation are referred to as granules, which can have a variety of geometric shapes, including, for example, spheres of general shapes, cylinders, and the like.

In one embodiment, the granulation step used is wet granulation. In wet granulation, granules are formed by adding a granulation liquid onto a powder bed. Along with wetting of the components in the precursor composition, agitation in the system results in agglomeration of the particles resulting in wet granules. The granulating liquid may be at least partially removed by drying to provide dry granules. The granulation liquid may be water based or solvent based. Suitable granulating liquids include, for example, water, glycerol, ethanol and isopropanol, alone or in combination. In some embodiments, the granulation liquid comprises an aerosol former, such as glycerol or one of the other agents mentioned herein, and/or a binder or binding agent. In some embodiments, no water is added to the precursor composition to aid in granulation.

In another embodiment, the granulation step used is dry granulation. In dry granulation, granules are formed without the use of a granulation liquid. This type of process has the advantage that it is not necessary to expose the granules to heat to dry them, since the precursor composition is not exposed to moisture. Forming granules by dry granulation generally involves compacting and densifying the precursor composition under high pressure.

Extrusion of the precursor composition involves feeding the precursor composition through an orifice to generate extruded agglomerates. The process of applying pressure to the precursor composition combined with shear forces results in agglomerated structures.

Extrusion can be performed using one of the main classes of extruders: screw, sheave and basket, roll, and ram extruders. Forming the components that release the tobacco component by extrusion has the advantage that such processing combines mixing, conditioning, homogenization and molding of the precursor composition.

In some embodiments, during extrusion, the free-flowing precursor composition is exposed to elevated pressure and temperature and forced through an orifice, such as a shaping die, to form an extruded agglomerate. In some embodiments, the extruded agglomerate has an elongated shape and/or may be cut into segments of a desired length when exiting the orifice. The rod-shaped extruded agglomerate can then be cut into segments of the desired length.

In some embodiments, the precursor composition comprising tobacco particles is exposed in an extruder to temperatures from about 40°C to about 150°C, or from about 80°C to about 130°C. Depending on the design of the die used, the composition may be exposed to pressures ranging from about 2 bar to about 100 bar, or from about 5 bar to about 60 bar.

In some embodiments, due to the relatively high density of the extruded agglomerate and the relatively open surface of the tobacco particles therein, the components releasing the tobacco component formed into the extruded agglomerate exhibit good heat transfer and mass transfer; This has a positive effect on the release of flavors and tobacco components such as nicotine.

In some embodiments, extrusion may be a generally dry process, wherein the precursor composition is a substantially dry material comprising tobacco particles, as well as optionally other particulates including, for example, a base, diluent, solid flavor modifiers, and the like. include materials.

In some embodiments, liquids may be added to the precursor composition during the extrusion process. For example, water may be added to the precursor composition as a processing aid, for example to aid in the dissolution or solubilisation of the components of the composition, or to aid in binding or agglomeration. Alternatively or additionally, a wetting agent may be added to the precursor composition.

In some embodiments, the liquid can be an aerosol former, such as glycerol or others discussed herein. When liquid is added to the precursor composition in this way, not only is the liquid applied on the surface, but as a result of the extruder pressure combined with intensive mixing by high shear forces, the extruded agglomerates become impregnated with the liquid. When the liquid is an aerosol former, this results in a high availability of the aerosol former in the agglomerated product, enhancing the evaporation of flavor components from the tobacco particles and other components of the agglomerated structure, resulting in extruded tobacco. Enhances the release of tobacco components from the component releasing components.

In some embodiments, given impregnation of the extruded agglomerate with an aerosol former, a greater volume of such agent releases the tobacco component than if the aerosol former was simply being applied to the surface of the precursor composition or extruded agglomerate. It can be integrated into components that In some embodiments, the amount of aerosol former incorporated into the component that releases the tobacco component is at least about 3 wt%, at least about 4 wt%, 5 wt%, 6 wt%, 7 wt%, 8 wt%, 9 wt% %, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, or at least about 20% by weight. can In some embodiments, the amount of aerosol former incorporated into the component that releases the tobacco component is up to about 15%, up to about 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, 20%, 21% by weight. %, 22%, 23%, 24%, 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%, 29%, or up to about 30% by weight.

In some embodiments, the one or more aerosol formers are included in an amount from about 3% to about 30% by weight of the component, preferably from about 15% to about 30% by weight of the component.

The extruded agglomerates may be shaped by an orifice or die and forced through the orifice or die. In some embodiments, the extruded agglomerate is cut into pieces of a desired length. Pieces formed in this way may be used as components that release the tobacco component, or they may be subjected to further processing.

In some embodiments, the orifice or die is shaped to provide a solid strand of extruded agglomerate. For example, the extruded agglomerate may have the form of a solid cylindrical rod. Alternatively, the extruded agglomerates may have different cross-sectional shapes including ovals, polygons (eg, triangles, squares, etc.), and stars.

In some embodiments, the extruded composition is formed into a desired shape selected to enhance or facilitate flavor release, for example, by providing a form having a large surface area per unit volume. Such a large surface area can be provided on the outer surface of the extruded agglomerate, for example by selecting cross-sectional shapes with large perimeters. Alternatively or in addition, a large surface area may be provided through the creation of channels in the extruded agglomerate.

In some embodiments, the orifice or die is shaped to provide an extruded agglomerate having internal channels. These internal channels can provide additional surface area and enhance tobacco component release.

Examples of some nozzle or die designs are shown in FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C. These nozzles or dies have orifices 21 through which the extruded composition is forced to generate an extruded agglomerate having a spoke-like structure such as a cartwheel. These nozzles or dies are used in an extruder, as shown in FIGS. 2D and 2E , where the direction of flow of the material being extruded is indicated by an arrow (A).

3 is an image of a series of extruded agglomerates showing different cross-sectional geometries including internal channels. Some of these extruded agglomerates were prepared using the nozzle designs of FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C.

Tobacco component releasing components formed from such molded extruded agglomerate sections have an inner channel structure with a significantly enlarged inner surface and advantageously tunable strand ventilation properties resulting in improved heat and mass transfer . As a result, such components exhibit a better and more uniform release of flavor by evaporation. Moreover, the structure with internal channels exhibits significantly improved strength in both the radial and axial directions, which is beneficial for further processing of the extruded agglomerates, eg when cut into segments.

In some embodiments, the component that releases the tobacco component may have a diameter of about 4 mm to about 10 mm, or a diameter of about 5 mm to about 8 mm.

In some embodiments, the component that releases the tobacco component is a cylindrical tobacco segment. In some embodiments, the cylinder has a diameter of about 5 mm to about 8 mm and a length of about 5 mm to about 80 mm, about 15 mm to about 50 mm, or about 20 mm to about 30 mm.

Extruded agglomerates with different physical properties can be produced by various nozzle designs and/or different process parameters within the extruder, including temperature, pressure and shear forces, including different heat transfer properties, draft resistance. and/or modify aerosols drawn through the extruded agglomerate and/or generate different aerosols.

The composition of the precursor composition can also play a very important role in determining the physical and mechanical properties of the extruded material and, as a result, the components that release the tobacco component.

In some embodiments, the extruded agglomerate is shaped upon exit from the extruder. In some embodiments, the extruded agglomerate may be cut to an initial length, such as 1 m, and then cooled prior to cutting sections of desired length to provide components that release the tobacco component of desired dimensions.

In some embodiments, the extruded agglomerate may be cooled just before the agglomerate leaves the extruder or as it leaves the extruder. In some embodiments, the cooling is intensive and causes the extruded agglomerates to be at an elevated temperature, for example from about 30°C to about 100°C, or from about 40°C to about 70°C, from about 0°C to about 25°C. and exposure to a cooling means that will reduce the temperature within the range of °C, or within the range of 5 °C to about 15 °C. This rapid cooling of the extruded agglomerates can improve the internal and external stability of the extruded agglomerates. In some embodiments, it is the die that is cooled to achieve this effect.

In some embodiments, it may be desirable to control the temperature of the precursor composition during extrusion, including prior to feeding the composition through a die. This is particularly the case when the precursor composition comprises temperature sensitive components such as aerosol formers such as glycerol. Accordingly, in some embodiments, extrusion of the precursor composition comprises reducing the temperature of the precursor composition before it reaches a die. Such cooling of the precursor composition may result in the formation of extruded agglomerates having beneficial properties, or may, for example, improve the strand-shaping process in which channels must be formed in the extruded agglomerate strand.

In some embodiments, the precursor composition may be granulated prior to extrusion. When the precursor composition comprises a number of different types of particles, this granulation step can enhance homogenization within the extruded agglomerates. The granulated precursor composition can be fed into an extruder to form components that release the tobacco component.

Granulation of the precursor composition involves bonding or fusing the particles of the precursor composition to form larger multi-particle entities that are aggregated structures. Multi-particle entities formed by granulation are referred to as granules, which can have a variety of geometric shapes, including, for example, spheres of general shapes, cylinders, and the like.

In one embodiment, the granulation step used is wet granulation. In wet granulation, granules are formed by adding a granulation liquid onto a powder bed. Along with wetting of the components in the precursor composition, agitation in the system results in agglomeration of the particles resulting in wet granules. The granulating liquid may be at least partially removed by drying to provide dry granules. The granulation liquid may be water based or solvent based. Suitable granulation liquids include, for example, water, ethanol and isopropanol, alone or in combination. In some embodiments, the granulation liquid comprises an aerosol former, such as glycerol.

In another embodiment, the granulation step used is dry granulation. In dry granulation, granules are formed without the use of a granulation liquid. This type of process has the advantage that it is not necessary to expose the granules to heat to dry them, since the precursor composition is not exposed to moisture. Forming granules by dry granulation generally involves compacting and compacting the precursor composition under high pressure.

In some embodiments, spheronization is used to further process the extruded segments. These segments are typically cylindrical in shape and are cut or fractured to uniform lengths following extrusion. Then, these segments are gradually transformed into spherical shapes by spheronization. Such shaping occurs as a result of plastic deformation, which can result in spherical agglomerated structures, often with nearly uniform diameters.

Integration into products

Tobacco industry products typically include: a) Tobacco for cigarlets, cigarillos, cigars, pipes or roll-your-own cigarette (tobacco, tobacco derivatives, puffed tobacco) (expanded tobacco), reconstituted tobacco, or any based on tobacco substitutes); b) Tobacco, tobacco derivatives, puffed tobacco, reconstituted tobacco or products such as snuff, snus, hard tobacco and heat-not-burn (HnB) products. non-smoking products including tobacco substitutes; and c) other nicotine delivery systems, such as aerosol generating devices, including inhalers, e-cigarettes, lozenges and chewing gum. Any item on the market is mentioned. This list is not intended to be exhaustive, but merely illustrates the range of products manufactured and marketed in the tobacco industry.

One or more of the components that release a tobacco component disclosed herein may be incorporated into an aerosol providing device. As used herein, an aerosol providing device includes vapor devices, such as e-cigarets, devices for heating a smokeable material, such as cigarette heating devices, and hybrid devices.

As used herein, an apparatus for heating a smokeable material to volatilize at least one component of a smokeable material is a so-called "heat not burn" product or tobacco heating devices or products. and they release compounds by heating but not burning the smokeable material.

Hybrid devices are such that a liquid, such as a nicotine-bearing liquid or a nicotine-free liquid, is heated to form an aerosol, which is then drawn through a smokeable material such as a tobacco segment to pick up tobacco flavors, or devices in which a separate aerosol is formed by heating the smokable material. In some embodiments, the device comprises means for directly heating the smokable material, in addition to or as an alternative to heating of the smokable material by an aerosol formed by heating the liquid to form an aerosol.

A component that emits a tobacco component may be positioned within the device or device, thereby causing the emitted tobacco components to be entrained in an aerosol generated by the device or device in use, thereby dispensing tobacco components comprising, for example, tobacco flavor. The properties of the aerosol are modified by imparting it to the aerosol. Additionally or alternatively, the component that releases the tobacco component may itself generate an aerosol during use, the aerosol comprising the emitted tobacco component.

In some embodiments, the apparatus or device may be provided with a filter having a component emitting a tobacco component positioned within the filter. It may be in addition to or in lieu of an apparatus or device comprising components that release other tobacco ingredients.

In some embodiments, the filter or filter element may comprise a filter material having a filtration effect. A suitable filter material may comprise, for example, a tow comprising or consisting of cellulose acetate, polylactic acid, and/or other suitable polymers, or the filter or filter element may comprise a rigid material such as plastic having holes. may include

In some embodiments where multiple tobacco component releasing components are incorporated into the filter, it may be in a "Dalmatian" style filter section, wherein the tobacco component releasing components are dispersed throughout the fibrous filter plug material. do. Alternatively, the components that release the tobacco component may be located in a cavity within the filter. The cavity may be, for example, a cavity section positioned between two (or more) adjacent filter plugs, or the cavity may be a pocket defined within the filter plug. In such embodiments, the components that release the tobacco component may be small in size, for example in the form of granules.

In other embodiments, a component that emits a larger single tobacco component is incorporated into the filter. For example, a component that emits a single tobacco component may be embedded in a fibrous filter plug material.

Alternatively, the component emitting the tobacco component may be integrated into a multi-segment filter, and the component emitting the tobacco component itself constitutes one of the filter segments. In such embodiments, the component that releases the tobacco component may have any shape or size, although it may be advantageous for the component to have a cylindrical shape and dimensions similar or compatible with the dimensions of the filter segments. In some embodiments, the component that releases the tobacco component may be surrounded by a layer of filter material, such as a fibrous filter tow, to form a filter segment. In other embodiments, the component that releases the tobacco component may have the dimensions of a filter plug, which may be incorporated into a filter having one or more adjacent filter plugs. Alternatively, a component that emits a tobacco component may be included in a cavity section positioned between two (or more) adjacent filter plugs.

In some embodiments, the component that emits the tobacco component itself may be a filter element of the aerosol providing device, which may filter condensates and other particulate matter in the aerosol before the aerosol is inhaled by the user.

According to some embodiments, the components that emit one or more tobacco components are at least one component of the smokeable material (ie a tobacco heated product or a so-called non-combusted heated product) in which the tobacco segment is heated but not combusted. included in an aerosol providing device or apparatus for heating a smokable material to volatilize In some of these products, tobacco segments are heated to generate an aerosol.

One option is to incorporate one or more tobacco-releasing components into the filter of such products. In some embodiments, components that release multiple tobacco components are incorporated into the filter of the tobacco heating product. In other embodiments, a component that emits a single tobacco component is incorporated into the filter of the tobacco heating product.

Another option is to incorporate one or more tobacco component releasing components into the tobacco segment of such products. In some embodiments, components that release one or more tobacco components may be incorporated into the tobacco material to form a tobacco segment. For example, components that release one or more tobacco components may be dispersed in tobacco material, such as cut tobacco or reconstituted tobacco, to contribute to the flavor imparted by the tobacco. In other embodiments, the tobacco included in the tobacco segment of the tobacco heating product consists of, or consists essentially of, components that emit one or more tobacco components. In one embodiment, the tobacco segment heated by the tobacco heating product consists of or consists essentially of a component that emits one or more tobacco components. The component that releases the tobacco component may be directly heated. If the tobacco segments are components that release multiple tobacco components, they may be held in a container or cartridge. At least portions of the container or cartridge may be air permeable, allowing air to flow over or through the tobacco component releasing components.

6 shows a cross-sectional view of an example of a tobacco heating product for heating a smokeable material. The device 11 has a heating chamber 14 that holds a smokable material to be heated and volatilized in use. In this embodiment, the smokeable material is in the form of a component 13 that emits a monolithic tobacco component. However, the smokable material may be components that release multiple tobacco components held in a heating chamber or provided in a cartridge such as illustrated in FIG. 8 .

The device 11 of FIG. 6 additionally has an electronics/power chamber 16 that can hold, for example, electrical control circuitry and/or a power source (not shown). The electrical control circuitry may include a controller, such as a microprocessor arrangement, constructed and arranged to control heating of the smokable material via a heating element (not shown). The electrical control circuitry sends a signal sensitive to changes in air flow rate or changes in pressure, which occurs, for example, upon initiation of suction on the device 11 by the user, eg to a puff-actuated sensor. It can be received at the time of use from The electrical control circuitry may then operate to cause heating of the smokeable material “on demand”. Various arrangements are available for puff-actuated sensors, including, for example, thermistors, electro-mechanical devices, mechanical devices, optical devices, opto-mechanical devices, and micro electro mechanical systems (MEMS) based sensors. Alternatively, the device may have a manually operable switch for the user to initiate the puff.

The heating chamber 14 is held within the housing 12 . positioned between the heating chamber 14 and the housing 12 to, for example, help insulate the housing 12 from the heating chamber 14 so that the housing 12 does not become hot or untouchable during use. Determined support and/or insulating means (not shown) may be present.

The housing 12 includes an inlet 15 through which air is drawn into the device. The housing 12 also includes an outlet 17 in the mouthpiece 18 of the device 11 . Air is drawn into the device 11 through an inlet 15 , travels through the device, picks up the tobacco components emitted by the component emitting component 13 , and is produced by the device 11 . The resulting aerosol that is formed exits the device 11 through the outlet 19 and is inhaled by the user.

According to some embodiments, components that release one or more tobacco components are included in a so-called hybrid product for heating the smokeable material to volatilize at least one component of the smokeable material. In some of these products, tobacco segments are heated to produce an aerosol, in addition to heating a liquid, such as a nicotine-bearing liquid or a nicotine-free liquid, that is heated by a heat source to form an aerosol or vapor. In some hybrid products, an aerosol or vapor formed into a liquid is drawn over or through the tobacco segments to pick up the tobacco flavors. In other embodiments, the aerosol or vapor formed from the liquid is not drawn over or through the tobacco segment.

In hybrid products comprising a filter, one option is to incorporate components that release the tobacco component into the filter of such products, in a manner similar to that described for tobacco heating products. In some embodiments, components that emit multiple tobacco components are incorporated into the filter of the hybrid product. In other embodiments, a component that emits a single tobacco component is incorporated into the filter of the hybrid product.

If the smoking article is a so-called hybrid product, another option is to incorporate components that release the tobacco component into the tobacco segment of such products. In some embodiments, components that release one or more tobacco components may be incorporated into the tobacco material to form a tobacco segment. For example, components that release one or more tobacco components may be dispersed in tobacco material, such as cut tobacco or reconstituted tobacco, to contribute to the flavor imparted by the tobacco. In other embodiments, the tobacco included in the tobacco segment of the hybrid product is comprised of components that release one or more tobacco components. In one embodiment, the tobacco segment in the hybrid product consists of, or consists essentially of, components that emit one or more tobacco components.

7 shows a cross-sectional view of an example of a hybrid product for heating a smokeable material and a liquid. The device 21 has a housing 22 that contains a chamber 24 which holds a smokable material to be heated and volatilized in use. In this embodiment, the smokeable material is in the form of a component 23 that emits a monolithic tobacco component. However, the smokable material may be components that release multiple tobacco components held in a chamber or provided in a cartridge such as illustrated in FIG. 8 . The housing 22 also holds a liquid reservoir 25 that holds a liquid 26 to be heated to form a vapor.

The device 21 further has an electronics/power chamber 27 which can hold, for example, electrical control circuitry and/or a power source (not shown). The electrical control circuitry may include a controller, such as a microprocessor arrangement, constructed and arranged to control heating of the smokeable material and liquid 26 via one or more heating elements (not shown). Electrical control circuitry may allow the device 21 to be puff-driven, resulting in heating of the smokeable material “as needed”. Alternatively, the device 22 may have a switch manually operable by the user to initiate the puff.

The housing 22 also includes an inlet 28 through which air is drawn into the device. The housing 22 also includes an outlet 29 in the mouthpiece 30 of the device 21 . Air is drawn into the device 21 through an inlet 28 , and travels through the device to the component 23 , which releases vapor and tobacco components produced by heating the liquid 26 in the liquid reservoir 25 . Pick up the tobacco components emitted by the device 21 , and the resulting aerosol produced by the device 21 exits the device 21 through an outlet 29 and is inhaled by the user.

The hybrid device 21 schematically illustrated in FIG. 7 represents only one possible configuration of such a device. The relative positions of the liquid reservoir 25 and the smokable material chamber 24 may be altered as the path of air flowing through the device may be altered.

In one embodiment, the liquid reservoir is positioned upstream of the smokable material to be volatilized. Alternatively, the liquid reservoir may be positioned downstream of the smokeable material to be volatilized. In yet a further arrangement, the two aerosol sources in the device may be arranged in a side-by-side fashion.

In some embodiments, the vapor generated by heating the liquid in the liquid reservoir is over or through the smokeable material comprising or consisting of components that release one or more tobacco components. move In some embodiments, the elevated temperature of the vapor causes the tobacco components to be released. Alternatively or in addition, the smokeable material may be individually heated by means of heating means.

In some embodiments, a hybrid device is provided in which vapor generated by heating the liquid heats the smokeable material to volatilize at least one component of the flexible material. In some embodiments, the liquid is a nicotine-free liquid. In other embodiments, the liquid retains nicotine. Where the smokeable material is heated by the steam to volatilize at least one component of the smokeable material, in certain embodiments, the device does not include a separate means for heating the smokeable material. The smokable material may comprise or consist of a component that releases at least one tobacco component or may consist of a component that releases at least one tobacco component.

In other embodiments, the vapor generated by heating the liquid in the liquid reservoir is over or through the smokeable material comprising or consisting of components that release one or more tobacco components. does not move Rather, these vapors and the aerosol generated by heating the smokeable material mix only after both have formed.

Tobacco heating products and hybrid products described herein may, in some embodiments, include tobacco segments in the form of containers or cartridges holding components that release one or more tobacco ingredients. Such containers or cartridges may be removable. They may replace both the smokeable material and the chamber holding the smokeable material in the device described above, in the alternative embodiments discussed, and with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7 .

Referring to FIG. 8 , there is shown a tobacco segment cartridge 31 comprising a housing 32 defining a cavity in which one or more tobacco components releasing components (not shown) according to the present invention are held. The housing 32 may be made of, for example, molded plastic or the like. Ventilation holes in the housing 32 of the cartridge 31 so that air drawn through the device passes into the cartridge 31 and through or over and then out of the cartridge 31 , through or over components that release one or more tobacco ingredients. (33) is provided. In some embodiments, cartridge 31 may further comprise heating means heatable by suitable means for heating the components that release one or more tobacco ingredients held in cartridge 31 .

In some embodiments, components that release one or more tobacco components are incorporated into a filter or filter element for inclusion in a combustible smoking article.

As used herein, the term “combustible smoking article” refers to smokeable products, such as cigarettes, cigars and tobacco, whether based on tobacco, tobacco derivatives, puffed tobacco, reconstituted tobacco or tobacco substitutes Includes cigarillos. Combustible smoking articles include a filter comprising at least one filter element and a rod of smokeable material.

As used herein, the term "combustible smoking article" does not include aerosol generating devices, including non-combustible heating (HnB) products, or other nicotine delivery products, such as e-cigarettes or hybrid products. does not

A component that releases a tobacco component may be positioned within a filter element or within a filter element constituting a filter of the combustible smoking article, such that the emitted tobacco components are entrained in the aerosol generated by the smoking article in use. to modify the properties of the aerosol by imparting to the aerosol, for example, tobacco components, including tobacco flavor.

Filters and filter elements for use in combustible smoking articles include filter material for removing certain smoke components from mainstream smoke drawn through the smoking article during use. The filter materials are brought together to form rods that are cut to form individual filter segments. A filter for a smoking article may be made of one segment of a filter rod, or it may be made of multiple filter elements with or without cavities or spaces between multiple filter elements. A widely used filter material is a continuous tow of filamentous cellulose acetate plasticized with triacetin. Other filter materials include polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), polylactic acid (PLA), poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL), poly(1-4butanediol succinate) (PBS), poly(butylene adipate-sheet- at least one material selected from co-terephthalate) (PBAT), starch-based materials, paper, aliphatic polyester materials and polysaccharide polymers, in the form of sheets or fibers.

Filters may have a cylindrical shape and may generally have a length and an overall circumference to suit the type of combustible smoking articles in which they will be used. Smoking articles, such as cigarets and types of cigarets, are often named according to cigarette length: “regular” (typically 68-75 mm, eg, about 68 mm-about 72 mm), “short” )" or "mini" (68 mm or less), "king-size" (typically 75 - 91 mm, e.g., about 79 mm - about 88 mm), "long" or "super king" "super-king" (typically in the range of 91 - 105 mm, such as about 94 mm - about 101 mm) and "ultra-long" (typically in the range of about 110 mm - about 121 mm).

They are also named according to cigarette girth: "regular" (about 23 - 25mm), "wide" (greater than 25mm), "slim" (about 22 - 23mm), "demi-slim" (about 19) - 22 mm), "super-slim" (approx. 16 - 19 mm) and "micro-slim" (less than approx. 16 mm). Thus, a king size, super slim format cigarette would be, for example, about 83 mm in length and about 17 mm in circumference. Cigarettes in regular, king size format are 23 - 25mm in circumference and 75 - 91mm in overall length.

Each type can be made with filters having different lengths, and smaller filters are generally used for types of smaller lengths and perimeters. Typically, the filter length will be from 15mm associated with short regular types to 30mm associated with ultra long super slim types. The tipping paper will have a longer length than the filter, eg 3 - 10 mm longer.

Components emitting a tobacco component of the present invention, positioned within the filter of the combustible smoking article, are not exposed to significant temperature increases during use of the smoking article. That is, the temperature in the filter of the conventional cigarette gradually increases during use. In a conventional combustible smoking article, such as a cigarette, and under normal smoking conditions, such as an ISO smoking regime, smoking may involve 8 to 9 puffs, the first 5 to 6 puffs being a few puffs during puffs. accompanied by an increase in temperature. For example, the first puffs are accompanied by a temporary increase in temperature in the region of 1-5°C, and the temperature is maintained at 20-30°C, and in some cases 23-26°C. During the last few puffs of a conventional combustible smoking article, such as a cigarette, the temperature begins to increase further during the puffs, peaks begin above 30°C, and 60°C for the second and last puffs exceed

This temperature change may be used to trigger or assist the release of materials from the component that releases the tobacco component during use of the smoking article. For example, an increase in temperature can help volatilize the remaining components that were not released during the first few puffs. Alternatively or in addition, materials may be included in a component that releases a tobacco component specifically to be released or to enhance the release of the tobacco components at such elevated temperatures.

According to some embodiments, components that release multiple tobacco components are incorporated into a filter element for a combustible smoking article. In other embodiments, a component that emits a single tobacco component is incorporated into the filter element.

Where multiple tobacco component emitting components are incorporated into the filter, it may be in a "Dalmatian" style filter section, wherein the tobacco component emitting components are dispersed throughout the fibrous filter plug material.

Such an arrangement is shown in FIG. 9 . Referring to FIG. 9 , smoking article 21 includes a filter 22 , and a cylindrical rod of smokeable material 23 , such as a cigarette, one end of which is abutted against the end of filter 22 . aligned with filter 22 to The filter 22 is wrapped with a plug wrap (not shown) and the smokeable material rod 23 is coupled to the filter 22 by tilting the paper in a conventional manner. The filter 22 is substantially cylindrical, and includes a filter material 24 , throughout the filter material 24 , the components 25 emitting the tobacco component are dispersed.

Alternatively, the components that release the tobacco component may be located in a cavity within the filter. The cavity may be, for example, a cavity section positioned between two (or more) adjacent filter plugs, or the cavity may be a pocket defined within the filter plug. In such embodiments, the components that release the tobacco component may be small in size, for example in the form of granules.

In other embodiments, components that release a larger monolithic tobacco component are incorporated into the filter. For example, a component that emits a single tobacco component may be embedded in a fibrous filter plug material.

Such an arrangement is shown in FIG. 10 , which shows a smoking article 21 comprising a filter 22 and a cylindrical rod of smokeable material 23 , the filter 22 being surrounded by a filter material 24 . and a component 26 that releases the component.

Alternatively, the component emitting the tobacco component may be integrated into a multi-segment filter, and the component emitting the tobacco component itself constitutes one of the filter segments. In such embodiments, the component that releases the tobacco component may have any shape or size, although it may be advantageous for the component to have a cylindrical shape and dimensions similar or compatible with the dimensions of the filter segments. In some embodiments, the component that releases the tobacco component may be surrounded by a layer of filter material, such as a fibrous filter tow, to form a filter segment. In other embodiments, the component that releases the tobacco component may have the dimensions of a filter plug, which may be incorporated into a filter having one or more adjacent filter plugs. Alternatively, a component that emits a tobacco component may be included in a cavity section positioned between two (or more) adjacent filter plugs.

Referring to FIG. 11 , smoking article 21 includes a filter 22 and a cylindrical rod of smokeable material 23 , the filter 22 being composed of a plurality of filter segments. There is a filter segment 27 positioned at the mouth end of the filter and a filter segment 28 positioned at the tobacco rod end of the filter. Positioned between these filter segments comprising filter material 24 is the tobacco component emitting component 26 .

The filters and filter elements of the present invention may further include additives in some embodiments. For example, additives include, for example, activated carbon, ion exchange resins such as CR20, zeolites, silica gel, meerschaum, aluminum oxide (activated or non-activated), carbonaceous resins, magnesium silicate and sepiolite (Mg ₄ Si ₆ O ₁₅ (OH) ₂ .6H ₂ O) and combinations thereof.

Where the smoking article filter comprises an adsorbent, in some embodiments, the component that releases the tobacco component is positioned downstream of the adsorbent.

In order to address various issues and advance the field, this disclosure as a whole provides components and/or tobacco industry products comprising the claimed invention(s) in which the claimed invention(s) may be practiced and which emit superior tobacco ingredients. Various possible embodiments are shown by way of example. The advantages and features of the disclosure are merely representative samples of embodiments, are not exhaustive, and/or are not exclusive. They are presented merely to aid understanding, and to teach the claimed features. Advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures and/or other aspects of the present disclosure are subject to limitations on the disclosure as defined by the claims or limitations on their equivalents. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized, and that changes may be made without departing from the scope and/or spirit of the disclosure. Various embodiments may suitably include, constitute, or consist essentially of various combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc. Moreover, this disclosure includes other inventions not currently claimed, but may be claimed in the future.

Claims (42)

As a tobacco constituent releasing component,
wherein the component that releases the tobacco component comprises an agglomerated structure formed of a precursor composition comprising tobacco particles, wherein the release of the tobacco component upon heating the component without combustion comprises: (i) the surface area to volume ratio of the component; and (ii) the amount of aerosol former(s) included;
A component that releases tobacco components. According to claim 1,
wherein said at least one aerosol former is comprised in an amount from about 3% to about 30% by weight of said component, preferably from about 15% to about 30% by weight of said component,
A component that releases tobacco components. A component that releases a tobacco component, comprising:
wherein the component that releases the tobacco component comprises an agglomerated structure formed of a precursor composition comprising tobacco particles and at least 10% by weight of at least one aerosol former, wherein the component that releases the tobacco component comprises the component having one or more undulating and/or irregular surfaces and/or channels within, and
Tobacco in said component does not have a basal pH;
A component that releases tobacco components. 4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
having one or more internal channels extending through the component;
A component that releases tobacco components. 5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
having a cross-sectional shape of a spokedwheel or star,
A component that releases tobacco components. 6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
wherein the agglomerated structure is formed by extrusion,
A component that releases tobacco components. 7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
The aerosol former is at least one selected from the group consisting of glycerol, propylene glycol and glyceryl triacetate,
A component that releases tobacco components. 8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
the component is impregnated with one or more aerosol formers, and/or the tobacco particles are impregnated with one or more aerosol formers;
A component that releases tobacco components. 9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8,
at least 50% by weight of tobacco particles,
A component that releases tobacco components. 10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
at least 80% by weight of a combination of tobacco particles and an aerosol former;
A component that releases tobacco components. 11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10,
the tobacco particles have an average diameter of 0.5 mm or less, and
Preferably the tobacco particles have an average particle size of from about 0.1 to about 0.4 mm,
A component that releases tobacco components. 12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11,
generally having a rod-shaped outer shape,
A component that releases tobacco components. 13. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 12,
having a diameter of from about 4 mm to about 10 mm, preferably from about 5 mm to about 8 mm;
A component that releases tobacco components. 14. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 13,
having a length of from about 5 mm to about 80 mm, preferably from about 10 mm to about 25 mm;
A component that releases tobacco components. 15. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 14,
the component does not have a base pH and/or the precursor composition does not have a base pH;
A component that releases tobacco components. 16. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 15,
wherein the precursor composition does not contain a basic pH adjusting agent;
A component that releases tobacco components. 17. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 16,
one or more binders,
Preferably said one or more binders are selected from the group consisting of starches, polysaccharides, pectins, celluloses, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethylcellulose and alginates,
A component that releases tobacco components. 17. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 16,
wherein the component does not include a binder to aid agglomeration of the tobacco particles;
A component that releases tobacco components. 19. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 18,
wherein the tobacco component releasing component further comprises one or more flavor-modifying additives.
A component that releases tobacco components. A process for preparing a component that releases a tobacco component, the process comprising:
The process comprises forming an agglomerated structure from a precursor composition comprising tobacco particles;
The desired release of the tobacco components may be determined by: (i) the surface area to volume ratio of the component; and (ii) heating the component without combustion by adjusting one or more of the amount of aerosol former(s) included.
A process for preparing a component that releases a tobacco component. 21. The method of claim 20,
20. The component that releases the tobacco component is as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 19,
A process for preparing a component that releases a tobacco component. A process for preparing a component that releases a tobacco component, the process comprising:
The process comprises forming by extrusion an agglomerated structure from a precursor comprising tobacco particles and at least 10% by weight of at least one aerosol former, wherein the component releasing the extruded tobacco component comprises: having one or more undulating or irregular surfaces and/or channels within the component, and
wherein the process does not include adjusting the pH of the tobacco in the component to a base pH;
A process for preparing a component that releases a tobacco component. 23. The method according to any one of claims 20 to 22,
wherein the precursor composition is extruded to form the aggregated structure;
A process for preparing a component that releases a tobacco component. 24. The method of claim 23,
wherein the precursor composition is extruded through a die to provide one or more internal channels extending through the component;
A process for preparing a component that releases a tobacco component. 25. The method of claim 23 or 24,
wherein the precursor composition is extruded through a die to provide the component with the cross-sectional shape of a spoked wheel or star.
A process for preparing a component that releases a tobacco component. 26. The method according to any one of claims 23 to 25,
wherein the precursor composition is heated to a temperature of about 40 °C to about 120 °C;
A process for preparing a component that releases a tobacco component. 27. The method according to any one of claims 23 to 26,
the precursor composition is cooled during or after extrusion,
Preferably, the precursor composition is cooled by exposure to a surface having a temperature of from about 5°C to about 15°C;
A process for preparing a component that releases a tobacco component. 28. The method according to any one of claims 20 to 27,
the pH of the component and/or the precursor composition is not adjusted to the base pH;
A process for preparing a component that releases a tobacco component. 29. The method according to any one of claims 20 to 28,
wherein the precursor composition does not contain a basic pH adjusting agent;
A process for preparing a component that releases a tobacco component. In the manufacture of a component that releases a tobacco component having an agglomerated structure formed from a precursor composition comprising tobacco particles and one or more aerosol formers, the component having a desired release of the tobacco component upon heating the component without combustion. To provide a component that releases a tobacco component, the method comprising: (i) a surface area to volume ratio of the component; and (ii) selecting one or more of the amount of aerosol former(s) included. 31. The method of claim 30,
20. The component that releases the tobacco component is as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 19,
purpose. 32. The method of claim 30 or 31,
wherein the surface area to volume ratio of the component is increased by forming the agglomerated structure to provide one or more internal channels extending through the component;
purpose. 33. The method according to any one of claims 30 to 32,
The component has a cross-sectional shape of a spoked wheel or star,
purpose. 34. The method according to any one of claims 30 to 33,
the pH of the component and/or the precursor composition is not adjusted to the base pH;
purpose. 35. The method according to any one of claims 30 to 34,
wherein the precursor composition does not contain a basic pH adjusting agent;
purpose. A smoking article comprising a filter and a rod of smokeable material, the smoking article comprising:
20. The filter comprises a component that releases a tobacco component as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 19.
A smoking article comprising a filter and rod of smokeable material. A filter or filter element for a combustible smoking article comprising a component that releases a tobacco component, the filter or filter element comprising:
The component releasing the tobacco component comprises an agglomerated structure formed by extruding a precursor composition comprising tobacco particles, the component releasing the tobacco component being flavored into mainstream smoke upon use of the smoking article. conveys,
the pH of the component and/or the precursor composition is not adjusted to the base pH;
filter or filter element. A filter or filter element for a combustible smoking article comprising a component that releases a tobacco component according to claim 1 . An apparatus for heating a smokeable material without combustion to volatilize at least one component of the smokeable material, comprising:
20. The smokeable material comprises components that release one or more tobacco components according to any one of claims 1 to 19.
A device for heating smokeable materials without combustion. 40. The method of claim 39,
The apparatus further comprises a liquid to be heated to form a vapor;
Optionally, the liquid does not comprise nicotine,
A device for heating smokeable materials without combustion. 41. The method of claim 40,
wherein the smokeable material is heated by the steam;
A device for heating smokeable materials without combustion. 42. The method of claim 40 or 41,
means for heating the liquid to form a vapor, but not separate means for heating the smokable material;
A device for heating smokeable materials without combustion.

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