Method for manufacturing tobacco sheet for non-combustion heating type flavor suction device

Abstract

This invention provides a non-combustion heated flavored tobacco sheet for inhalers with high fluffiness. A method for manufacturing a non-combustion heated flavored tobacco sheet for inhalers includes: a step of forming a mixture comprising tobacco raw material and an aerosol generating agent into a sheet shape; and a step of drying the formed sheet mixture, wherein the moisture reduction rate during drying is 0.8% WB / s or higher.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a method for manufacturing tobacco sheets for non-combustion heated flavored inhalers. Background Technology

[0002] In combustible flavored inhalers (cigarettes), flavor is obtained by burning tobacco filling containing tobacco leaves or tobacco sheets. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses tobacco sheets for combustible flavored inhalers. As an alternative to this combustible flavored inhaler, a non-combustible heated flavored inhaler has been proposed, in which flavor sources such as tobacco sheets are heated instead of burned to obtain flavor. The heating temperature of the non-combustible heated flavored inhaler is lower than the combustion temperature of the combustible flavored inhaler, for example, below approximately 400°C. Thus, since the heating temperature of the non-combustible heated flavored inhaler is low, from the viewpoint of increasing smoke volume, an aerosol generator can be added to the flavor source for the non-combustible heated flavored inhaler. The aerosol generator is vaporized by heating, producing an aerosol. This aerosol is supplied to the user along with flavor components such as tobacco components, allowing the user to obtain a sufficient amount of flavor.

[0003] Non-combustion heated flavored inhalers may include, for example, a tobacco-containing section filled with tobacco sheets, a cooling section, and a filter section. Due to its relationship with the heating element, the axial length of the tobacco-containing section in a non-combustion heated flavored inhaler is typically shorter than that of the tobacco-containing section in a combustion-type flavored inhaler. Therefore, in non-combustion heated flavored inhalers, a large amount of tobacco sheets is filled within the short tobacco-containing section to ensure sufficient aerosol generation during heating. To fill such a large amount of tobacco sheets within a short section, non-combustion heated flavored inhalers typically use tobacco sheets with low bulk, i.e., high density. It should be noted that bulk refers to the volume of a given mass of tobacco sheets compressed under pressure for a certain period of time.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Publication No. 60-45914 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0008] However, the inventors have discovered that, considering the heating method, the heating capacity of the heater, and aerosol generation, using tobacco sheets with low bulk (high density) increases the total heat capacity of the tobacco-containing section. Therefore, depending on the heating method and the capacity of the heater, the tobacco sheet filled in the tobacco-containing section sometimes cannot fully exert its aerosol generation effect. To solve this problem, reducing the total heat capacity of the tobacco-containing section can be considered.

[0009] To reduce the total heat capacity of the tobacco-containing segment, the inventors have explored (1) reducing the specific heat of the tobacco raw material contained in the tobacco sheet and (2) using a tobacco sheet with high bulk (low density). However, for (1), reducing the specific heat of the tobacco raw material itself is difficult, so it is considered effective to reduce the total heat capacity of the tobacco-containing segment by means of (2). Therefore, it is desirable to develop a tobacco sheet with high bulk (low density) suitable for use in non-combustion heated flavored inhalers.

[0010] The purpose of this invention is to provide a non-combustible heated tobacco sheet for a flavored inhaler with high fluffiness.

[0011] Problem Solving Methods

[0012] The present invention includes the following embodiments.

[0013] [1] A method for manufacturing a tobacco sheet for a non-combustion heated flavored inhaler, the method comprising:

[0014] The process of forming a mixture containing tobacco raw materials and aerosol generating agents into a sheet; and

[0015] The process of drying the above-mentioned mixture that has been formed into sheet form.

[0016] The rate of moisture reduction during the above drying process is above 0.8% WB / s.

[0017] [2] The method for manufacturing tobacco sheets for a non-combustion heated flavored inhaler according to [1], wherein,

[0018] The above drying is carried out by airflow drying.

[0019] [3] The method for manufacturing tobacco sheets for non-combustion heated flavored inhalers according to [2], wherein

[0020] In the above-described airflow drying method, the temperature of the hot air blown onto the mixture formed into sheet form is 140–350°C.

[0021] [4] The method for manufacturing tobacco sheets for non-combustion heated flavored inhalers according to [2] or [3], wherein,

[0022] In the above-described airflow drying method, the wind speed of the hot air blown onto the mixture formed into sheet form is 12 to 50 m / s.

[0023] [5] A method for manufacturing a non-combustion heated flavored tobacco sheet for a smoker according to any one of [1] to [4], wherein,

[0024] The water content of the above-mentioned sheet-shaped mixture before drying is 20-50% WB, and the water content of the above-mentioned sheet-shaped mixture after drying is 8-15% WB.

[0025] [6] A method for manufacturing a non-combustion heated flavored tobacco sheet for a smoker according to any one of [1] to [5], wherein,

[0026] The tobacco raw material mentioned above is tobacco powder selected from at least one of tobacco leaves, leaf veins and stem residues.

[0027] [7] A method for manufacturing a non-combustion heated flavored tobacco sheet for a smoker according to any one of [1] to [6], wherein,

[0028] The proportion of the above-mentioned tobacco raw materials contained in 100% by mass of the above mixture is 45-95% by mass on a dry basis.

[0029] [8] A method for manufacturing a non-combustion heated flavored tobacco sheet for a smoker according to any one of [1] to [7], wherein,

[0030] The aforementioned aerosol generator is selected from at least one of glycerol, propylene glycol, and 1,3-butanediol.

[0031] [9] A method for manufacturing a non-combustion heated flavored tobacco sheet for a smoker according to any one of [1] to [8], wherein,

[0032] The proportion of the above aerosol generating agent contained in 100% by mass of the above mixture is 4 to 50% by mass on a dry basis.

[0033]

[10] A method for manufacturing a non-combustion heated flavored tobacco sheet for a smoker according to any one of [1] to [9], wherein,

[0034] The mixture further contains a molding agent.

[0035]

[11] The method for manufacturing tobacco sheets for a non-combustion heated flavored inhaler according to

[10] , wherein,

[0036] The molding agent mentioned above is selected from at least one of polysaccharides, proteins and synthetic polymers.

[0037]

[12] The method for manufacturing tobacco sheets for non-combustion heated flavored inhalers according to

[10] or

[11] , wherein,

[0038] The proportion of the above-mentioned molding agent contained in 100% by mass of the above mixture is 0.1 to 15% by mass on a dry basis.

[0039]

[13] A method for manufacturing a non-combustion heated flavored tobacco sheet for a smoker according to any one of [1] to

[12] , wherein,

[0040] The mixture further includes fibrous material as a reinforcing agent.

[0041]

[14] The method for manufacturing tobacco sheets for a non-combustion heated flavored inhaler according to

[13] , wherein,

[0042] The proportion of the fibrous material contained in 100% by mass of the above mixture is 5 to 50% by mass on a dry basis.

[0043] The effects of the invention

[0044] According to the present invention, a non-combustible heated tobacco sheet for a flavored inhaler with high fluffiness can be provided. Attached Figure Description

[0045] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a non-combustion heated fragrance inhaler according to this embodiment.

[0046] Figure 2 The following are cross-sectional views showing an example of the non-combustion heated fragrance inhalation system of this embodiment: (a) is a cross-sectional view showing the state before the non-combustion heated fragrance inhaler is inserted into the heating device, and (b) is a cross-sectional view showing the state in which the non-combustion heated fragrance inhaler is inserted into the heating device for heating.

[0047] Symbol Explanation

[0048] 1. Non-combustion heated fragrance inhaler

[0049] 2. Tobacco-containing sections

[0050] 3 Cooling Section

[0051] 4. Central Hole Section

[0052] 5. Filter section

[0053] 6. Cigarette mouthpiece section

[0054] 7. Cylindrical components

[0055] 8. Perforation

[0056] 9 Second fill layer

[0057] 10 Second inner bar packaging material

[0058] 11 Outer Packaging Material

[0059] 12 Cigarette mouthpiece liner paper

[0060] 13 Heating device

[0061] 14. Fuselage

[0062] 15 Heaters

[0063] 16 Metal pipes

[0064] 17 battery cells

[0065] 18 Control Unit

[0066] 19 concavity Detailed Implementation

[0067] [Manufacturing method of tobacco sheets for non-combustible heated flavored inhalers]

[0068] The manufacturing method of the non-combustion heated flavored inhaler tobacco sheet (hereinafter also referred to as "tobacco sheet") of this embodiment includes the following steps: a step of forming a mixture containing tobacco raw material and an aerosol generating agent into a sheet shape (hereinafter also referred to as "forming step"); and a step of drying the above-formed sheet-shaped mixture (hereinafter also referred to as "drying step"). Here, the moisture reduction rate in the above-mentioned drying is 0.8% WB / second or more.

[0069] In the method of this embodiment, the moisture reduction rate of the sheet-like mixture (hereinafter also referred to as "sheet mixture") formed in the above-mentioned drying process is 0.8% WB / s or more. Because the moisture in the sheet mixture evaporates rapidly, the sheet mixture can be deformed into a three-dimensional twisted shape (curled shape (wrinkled, curled)) and fixed while sufficiently retaining the aerosol generating agent. As a result, the volume of the obtained tobacco sheet increases, exhibiting high bulkiness. Therefore, by using the tobacco sheet manufactured using the method of this embodiment, the total heat capacity of the tobacco-containing segment can be reduced, which sufficiently facilitates the generation of aerosols in the tobacco sheet filled with the tobacco-containing segment. Furthermore, the tobacco sheet manufactured by the method of this embodiment preferably further contains a forming agent, and by keeping the proportions of tobacco raw material, aerosol generating agent, forming agent, reinforcing agent, etc., within a given range, the bulkiness of the tobacco sheet is further improved.

[0070] The method of this embodiment includes at least the above-described molding process and the above-described drying process, and may further include other processes.

[0071] (Molding process)

[0072] <Tobacco Raw Materials>

[0073] In this process, a mixture containing tobacco raw materials and an aerosol generating agent is formed into a sheet. The tobacco raw materials are not particularly limited as long as they contain tobacco components; examples include tobacco powder and tobacco extract. Examples of tobacco powder include tobacco leaves, leaf veins, and stem residues. One or more of these can be used. By cutting them to a given size, they can be used as tobacco powder. From the viewpoint of further improving bulkiness, it is preferable that the cumulative 90% particle size (D90) in the particle size distribution on a volume basis, as determined by dry laser diffraction, is 200 μm or more.

[0074] As a tobacco extract, an example is obtained by coarsely crushing tobacco leaves, mixing / stirring them with a solvent such as water to extract water-soluble components from the tobacco leaves, and then drying and concentrating the resulting water extract under reduced pressure. The proportion of the tobacco raw material contained in 100% by mass of the above mixture is preferably 45 to 95% by mass on a dry basis. By making the proportion of the tobacco raw material 45% by mass or more, sufficient tobacco aroma can be generated upon heating. Furthermore, by making the proportion of the tobacco raw material 95% by mass or less, aerosol generating agents and forming agents can be included in sufficient quantities. The proportion of the tobacco raw material is more preferably 60 to 90% by mass on a dry basis, and even more preferably 70 to 80% by mass. It should be noted that in this embodiment, the proportion on a dry basis refers to the proportion based on the amount dried, indicating the proportion when all components other than water in the mixture are set at 100% by mass.

[0075] <Aerosol generator>

[0076] Examples of aerosol generating agents include glycerol, propylene glycol, and 1,3-butanediol. One or more of these can be used. The proportion of the aerosol generating agent contained in 100% by mass of the above mixture is preferably 4 to 50% by mass on a dry basis. By making the proportion of the aerosol generating agent 4% by mass or more, sufficient aerosol can be generated upon heating, from a quantitative point of view. Furthermore, by making the proportion of the aerosol generating agent 50% by mass or less, sufficient aerosol can be generated upon heating, from a heat capacity point of view. The proportion of the aerosol generating agent on a dry basis is more preferably 6 to 40% by mass, more preferably 8 to 30% by mass, and particularly preferably 10 to 18% by mass.

[0077] <Forming Agent>

[0078] From the viewpoint of ensuring shape, the above mixture preferably further includes a molding agent. Examples of molding agents include polysaccharides, proteins, and synthetic polymers. One of these can be used, or two or more can be used in combination. Examples of polysaccharides include cellulose derivatives and naturally derived polysaccharides.

[0079] Examples of cellulose derivatives include: cellulose ethers such as methylcellulose, ethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxymethylethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, benzylcellulose, triphenylmethylcellulose, cyanoethylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, carboxyethylcellulose, and aminoethylcellulose; organic acid esters such as cellulose acetate, cellulose formate, cellulose propionate, cellulose butyrate, cellulose benzoate, cellulose phthalate, and toluenesulfonylcellulose; and inorganic acid esters such as cellulose nitrate, cellulose sulfate, cellulose phosphate, and cellulose xanthate.

[0080] Examples of naturally derived polysaccharides include: guar gum, tara gum, locust bean gum, tamarind gum, pectin, gum arabic, tragacanth gum, ebony gum, ghatti gum, arabinogalactan, flaxseed gum, cassia gum, plantain seed gum, Artemisia argyi seed gum, and dextran, all derived from plants; carrageenan, agar, alginic acid, propylene glycol alginate, red algae gum, and Cysticercus extract, all derived from algae; xanthan gum, gellan gum, guar gum, pullulan, Agrobacterium succinoglycan, Brunei gum, macropox gum, and rhamsan gum, all derived from microorganisms; chitin, chitosan, and glucosamine, all derived from crustaceans; and starch, sodium starch glycolate, α-starch, and dextrin, among others.

[0081] Examples of proteins include cereal proteins such as wheat gluten and rye gluten. Examples of synthetic polymers include polyphosphate, sodium polyacrylate, and polyvinylpyrrolidone.

[0082] When the above mixture contains a forming agent, the proportion of the forming agent contained in 100% by mass of the mixture is preferably 0.1 to 15% by mass on a dry basis. By making the proportion of the forming agent 0.1% by mass or more, the mixture of raw materials can be easily formed into a sheet. Furthermore, by making the proportion of the forming agent 15% by mass or less, other raw materials required to ensure the functionality of the tobacco-containing segment of a non-combustion heated flavored inhaler can be fully utilized. The proportion of the forming agent on a dry basis is more preferably 0.2 to 13% by mass, and even more preferably 1 to 10% by mass.

[0083] In particular, from the viewpoint of being able to adequately balance the retention performance of the aerosol generator and the retention performance of the rolled shape of the manufactured tobacco sheet, the above mixture preferably further includes a first forming agent and a second forming agent. Here, the first forming agent and the second forming agent may be of different types, or they may be of the same type but different forms. Examples of the first forming agent and the second forming agent include the aforementioned polysaccharides, proteins, synthetic polymers, etc.

[0084] When the above mixture contains a first forming agent, the proportion of the first forming agent in 100% by mass of the mixture is preferably 0.1 to 15% by mass on a dry basis. By making the proportion of the first forming agent 0.1% by mass or more, the mixture of raw materials can be easily formed into flakes. Furthermore, by making the proportion of the first forming agent 15% by mass or less, other raw materials required to ensure the function of the tobacco-containing segment of a non-combustion heated flavored inhaler can be fully utilized. The proportion of the first forming agent on a dry basis is more preferably 0.1 to 12% by mass, further preferably 0.1 to 10% by mass, and particularly preferably 0.1 to 7% by mass.

[0085] When the above mixture contains a second forming agent, the proportion of the second forming agent in 100% by mass of the mixture is preferably 0.1 to 15% by mass on a dry basis. By making the proportion of the second forming agent 0.1% by mass or more, the mixture of raw materials can be easily formed into flakes. Furthermore, by making the proportion of the second forming agent 15% by mass or less, other raw materials required to ensure the function of the tobacco-containing segment of a non-combustion heated flavored inhaler can be fully utilized. The proportion of the second forming agent on a dry basis is more preferably 0.1 to 12% by mass, further preferably 0.1 to 10% by mass, and particularly preferably 0.1 to 7% by mass.

[0086] Furthermore, when the first and second molding agents are of the same type but different forms, for example, the first molding agent can be a powder and the second molding agent can be a solution or slurry. For instance, the first molding agent can be directly mixed in powder form, and the second molding agent can be dispersed or swollen in a solvent such as water for mixing. This method can achieve the same effect as when using two different types of molding agents.

[0087] <Reinforcer>

[0088] From the viewpoint of further improving physical properties, the above mixture may further include a reinforcing agent. Examples of reinforcing agents include fibrous materials such as fibrous pulp and fibrous synthetic cellulose, and liquid substances such as pectin suspended in water that have the function of forming a film during drying. One of these can be used, or two or more can be used in combination. From the viewpoint of further improving bulkiness, it is preferable that the above mixture further includes a fibrous material as a reinforcing agent.

[0089] When the above mixture contains a reinforcing agent, the proportion of the reinforcing agent contained in 100% by mass of the mixture is preferably 4 to 40% by mass on a dry basis. Within this range, other raw materials required to ensure the function of the tobacco-containing segment of the non-combustion heated flavored inhaler can be fully utilized. The proportion of the reinforcing agent is more preferably 4.5 to 35% by mass on a dry basis, and even more preferably 5 to 30% by mass. Furthermore, when the reinforcing agent is a fibrous material, the proportion of the fibrous material contained in 100% by mass of the above mixture is preferably 5 to 50% by mass on a dry basis.

[0090] <Moisturizer>

[0091] From the perspective of maintaining quality, the above mixture may further include a humectant. Examples of humectants include, for instance, sugar alcohols such as sorbitol, erythritol, xylitol, maltitol, lactitol, mannitol, and reduced maltose syrup. One of these may be used, or two or more may be used in combination.

[0092] When the above mixture contains a humectant, the proportion of the humectant contained in 100% by mass of the mixture is preferably 1 to 15% by mass on a dry basis. Within this range, other raw materials required to ensure the function of the tobacco-containing section of the non-combustion heated flavored inhaler can be fully utilized. The proportion of the humectant is more preferably 2 to 12% by mass on a dry basis, and even more preferably 3 to 10% by mass.

[0093] <Other Ingredients>

[0094] In addition to the aforementioned tobacco raw materials, aerosol generating agents, forming agents (first and second forming agents), reinforcing agents, and humectants, the mixture may also include, as needed, flavoring agents such as fragrances and flavoring agents, coloring agents, humectants, preservatives, and diluents such as inorganic substances. Furthermore, the mixture may contain water.

[0095] <Molding Method>

[0096] There is no particular limitation on the method for forming the above mixture into a sheet shape; for example, it can be formed by a known method such as calendering. As a method for forming the above mixture into a sheet shape by calendering, for example, a method including the following steps can be cited.

[0097] (1) A process of mixing water, tobacco raw materials, aerosol generating agent, forming agent and reinforcing agent to obtain a mixture.

[0098] (2) The process of feeding the mixture into the calendering rolls for calendering.

[0099] (3) The process of peeling the calendered product off the calender roll using a scraper.

[0100] The surfaces of each calender roll can be heated or cooled depending on the purpose, and the rotational speed of each calender roll can also be adjusted. Furthermore, by adjusting the spacing between the calender rolls, the desired tobacco sheet weight per unit area can be obtained.

[0101] (Drying process)

[0102] In this process, the mixture formed into sheet form by the above-described molding process is dried. Here, in the method of this embodiment, the moisture reduction rate of the sheet mixture in the drying process is 0.8% WB / s or more. By making the moisture reduction rate 0.8% WB / s or more, the moisture in the sheet mixture evaporates rapidly, and therefore, the sheet mixture can be deformed into a three-dimensional twisted shape (curled shape (wrinkled, curled)) and fixed while sufficiently retaining the aerosol generating agent. As a result, the volume of the obtained tobacco sheet increases, and it can have high fluffiness. The moisture reduction rate is preferably 1.0% WB / s or more, more preferably 1.3% WB / s or more. The upper limit of this moisture reduction rate range is not particularly limited, for example, it can be 15.0% WB / s or less. It should be noted that in this embodiment, the "moisture reduction rate" is a value calculated by dividing the amount of moisture reduction of the sheet mixture from the start of heating in the drying process to the end of heating by the time from the start of heating to the end of heating. The amount of moisture loss can be calculated by measuring it using a heated drying moisture meter (e.g., A&D Corporation, model MX-50). Additionally, "%WB" indicates the moisture content on a wet basis (wet weight basis).

[0103] In this process, drying the sheet mixture using an airflow drying method is preferred because it easily achieves a moisture reduction rate of 0.8% WB / s or more. Airflow drying is a method of drying by blowing a high-temperature airflow onto the object to be dried. The moisture reduction rate in airflow drying can be calculated based on the amount of moisture reduction during the time from the start to the end of blowing the high-temperature airflow.

[0104] When drying is performed by airflow drying, the temperature of the hot air blown onto the sheet mixture is preferably 140–350°C. By maintaining the hot air temperature at 140°C or higher, a sufficient rate of moisture reduction can be obtained. Furthermore, by maintaining the hot air temperature at 350°C or lower, heat-induced quality degradation can be suppressed. The hot air temperature is more preferably 150–320°C, and even more preferably 160–300°C.

[0105] When drying is performed by airflow drying, the velocity of the hot air blown onto the sheet-like mixture is preferably 12 to 50 m / s. By setting the hot air velocity to 12 m / s or higher, a sufficient rate of moisture reduction can be achieved. Furthermore, by setting the hot air velocity to 50 m / s or lower, breakage of the sheet-like mixture can be suppressed. The hot air velocity is more preferably 13 to 40 m / s, and even more preferably 15 to 35 m / s.

[0106] When drying is performed by airflow drying, the time for blowing hot air onto the sheet mixture (drying time) is preferably 10 seconds or less. By keeping the drying time to 10 seconds or less, heat-induced quality degradation can be suppressed. The drying time is more preferably 7 seconds or less, and even more preferably 6 seconds or less. The lower limit of the range of this drying time is not particularly limited, for example, it can be 2 seconds or more.

[0107] Regarding the moisture content of the sheet mixture before and after drying, it is preferable that the moisture content of the sheet mixture before drying is 20-50% WB and the moisture content of the sheet mixture after drying is 8-15% WB. By keeping the moisture content of the sheet mixture before and after drying within the above range, the change in moisture content before and after drying is large, and by reducing the moisture at the moisture reduction rate of this embodiment, a sufficiently curled shape can be imparted. More preferably, the moisture content of the sheet mixture before drying is 20-45% WB and the moisture content of the sheet mixture after drying is 8-15% WB, and even more preferably, the moisture content of the sheet mixture before drying is 20-40% WB and the moisture content of the sheet mixture after drying is 9-14% WB. It should be noted that the moisture content of the sheet mixture is a value measured by a heated drying moisture meter (e.g., A&D Corporation, model MX-50).

[0108] (Other processes)

[0109] In addition to the molding and drying processes described above, this embodiment may further include, for example, a process of cutting the sheet mixture and a process of spraying a coating agent onto the surface between the molding and drying processes. In the process of cutting the sheet mixture, for example, after cutting the sheet mixture into strips using a rotary roller, it may also be cut in the length direction, resulting in a sheet mixture with a length of 3-40 mm and a width of 0.5-3.0 mm. The thickness of the tobacco sheet obtained by the method of this embodiment can be, for example, 100-1000 μm.

[0110] (The fluffiness of tobacco sheets)

[0111] The fluffiness of the tobacco sheet manufactured by the method of this embodiment is preferably 190cc / 100g or more. By achieving a fluffiness of 190cc / 100g or more, the total heat capacity of the tobacco-containing section of a non-combustion heated flavored inhaler can be sufficiently reduced, and the tobacco sheet filled in the tobacco-containing section can more effectively generate aerosols. More preferably, the fluffiness is 210cc / 100g or more, and even more preferably 230cc / 100g or more. The upper limit of this fluffiness range is not particularly limited and can be, for example, 800cc / 100g or less. It should be noted that this fluffiness is measured using a DD-60A (trade name, manufactured by Borgward) after the tobacco sheet is cut to a size of 0.8mm × 20mm and stored in an indoor environment regulated to 22°C and 60% humidity for 48 hours. The measurement is performed by placing 15g of the cut tobacco sheet into a cylindrical container with an inner diameter of 60mm and calculating the volume when compressed with a 3kg load for 30 seconds.

[0112] [Non-combustion heated fragrance inhaler]

[0113] The non-combustion heated flavored inhaler of this embodiment includes a tobacco-containing section comprising a tobacco sheet manufactured by the method of this embodiment. Because the non-combustion heated flavored inhaler of this embodiment includes a tobacco-containing section filled with a highly fluffy tobacco sheet of this embodiment, the total heat capacity of the tobacco-containing section can be significantly reduced, and the tobacco sheet filled in the tobacco-containing section is more conducive to aerosol generation.

[0114] An example of a non-combustion heated aroma inhaler according to this embodiment is shown. Figure 1 . Figure 1 The non-combustion heated flavored inhaler 1 shown includes: a tobacco-containing section 2 filled with a tobacco sheet manufactured by the method of this embodiment; a cylindrical cooling section 3 having perforations 8 on its circumference; a central hole section 4; and a filter section 5. In addition to the tobacco-containing section, cooling section, central hole section, and filter section, the non-combustion heated flavored inhaler of this embodiment may also have other sections.

[0115] The axial length of the non-combustion heated flavored inhaler of this embodiment is not particularly limited, but is preferably 40 mm or more and 90 mm or less, more preferably 50 mm or more and 75 mm or less, and even more preferably 50 mm or more and 60 mm or less. Furthermore, the circumferential length of the non-combustion heated flavored inhaler is preferably 16 mm or more and 25 mm or less, more preferably 20 mm or more and 24 mm or less, and even more preferably 21 mm or more and 23 mm or less. Examples include a tobacco section length of 20 mm, a cooling section length of 20 mm, a center hole section length of 8 mm, and a filter section length of 7 mm. It should be noted that the length of the filter section can be selected within the range of 4 mm or more and 10 mm or less. Additionally, the airflow resistance of the filter section can be selected such that the average resistance per section is 15 mmH2O / seg or more and 60 mmH2O / seg or less. These section lengths can be appropriately varied depending on manufacturing adaptability, required quality, etc. Furthermore, even without using the central hole section, but instead only arranging the filter section on the downstream side of the cooling section, it can function as a non-combustion heated fragrance inhaler.

[0116] (Including tobacco sections)

[0117] The tobacco-containing section 2 contains tobacco sheets manufactured by the method of this embodiment within a roll of paper (hereinafter also referred to as packaging material). The method of filling the tobacco sheets into the roll of paper (hereinafter also referred to as packaging material) is not particularly limited; for example, the tobacco sheets can be wrapped in packaging material or filled into a cylindrical packaging material. When the tobacco sheets have a rectangular shape with a longitudinal direction, the tobacco sheets can be filled in an unspecified direction within the packaging material along that longitudinal direction, or they can be arranged in a direction axial to or perpendicular to the tobacco-containing section 2.

[0118] (Cooling section)

[0119] like Figure 1 As shown, the cooling section 3 can be constructed from a cylindrical member 7. The cylindrical member 7 can be, for example, a paper tube obtained by processing thick paper into a cylindrical shape.

[0120] The cylindrical member 7 and the mouthpiece liner 12 (described later) are provided with perforations 8 penetrating both. Through the presence of the perforations 8, external gas is introduced into the cooling section 3 during inhalation. As a result, the aerosol vaporized components generated by heating the tobacco-containing section 2 come into contact with the external gas, causing its temperature to drop and liquefy, thus forming an aerosol. The diameter (diameter length) of the perforations 8 is not particularly limited and can be, for example, 0.5 mm or more and 1.5 mm or less. The number of perforations 8 is not particularly limited and can be one or more. For example, multiple perforations 8 can be provided on the circumference of the cooling section 3.

[0121] The amount of external gas introduced through the perforation 8 is preferably 85% by volume or less, more preferably 80% by volume or less, relative to the total volume of gas inhaled by the user. By keeping the proportion of the external gas at 85% by volume or less, the reduction in fragrance due to dilution by the external gas can be sufficiently suppressed. It should be noted that, in other words, this is also referred to as the ventilation ratio. From the viewpoint of cooling performance, the lower limit of the ventilation ratio range is preferably 55% by volume or more, more preferably 60% by volume or more.

[0122] Additionally, the cooling section can be a section comprising a sheet of material that has been pleated, folded, or bent. The cross-sectional profile of such a component sometimes shows randomly oriented channels. Furthermore, the cooling section can comprise a bundle of longitudinally extending tubes. Such a cooling section can be formed, for example, by rolling pleated, folded, or bent sheet material into a paper roll.

[0123] The axial length of the cooling section can be, for example, 7 mm or more and 28 mm or less, or for example, 18 mm. In addition, the axial cross-sectional shape of the cooling section can be substantially circular, and its diameter can be, for example, 5 mm or more and 10 mm or less, or for example, about 7 mm.

[0124] (Central bore section)

[0125] The central hole section consists of a filling layer having one or more hollow portions and an inner packaging material (inner roll paper) covering the filling layer. For example, such as Figure 1 As shown, the central hole section 4 is composed of a second filling layer 9 having a hollow portion and a second inner rod packaging material 10 covering the second filling layer 9. The central hole section 4 functions to improve the strength of the mouthpiece section 6. The second filling layer 9 can be, for example, made into a rod with an inner diameter of φ1.0 mm or more and φ5.0 mm or less, formed by filling high-density cellulose acetate fibers and adding 6% to 20% by mass of a plasticizer containing triacetin relative to the mass of cellulose acetate, and then curing it. The high fiber filling density of the second filling layer 9 means that during inhalation, air and aerosol only flow through the hollow portion and essentially do not flow through the interior of the second filling layer 9. Since the second filling layer 9 inside the central hole section 4 is a fiber filling layer, the touch feel from the outside during use is less likely to cause discomfort to the user. It should be noted that the central hole section 4 can maintain its shape by thermoforming without having the second inner rod packaging material 10.

[0126] (Filter section)

[0127] The composition of filter section 5 is not particularly limited and can consist of one or more filling layers. The outer side of the filling layer can be wrapped with one or more sheets of roll paper. The average airflow resistance per section of filter section 5 can be appropriately varied depending on the amount and material of the filling material. For example, if the filling material is cellulose acetate fiber, increasing the amount of cellulose acetate fiber in filter section 5 will increase the airflow resistance. When the filling material is cellulose acetate fiber, the filling density of cellulose acetate fiber can be 0.13–0.18 g / cm³. 3 It should be noted that the ventilation resistance is a value measured using a ventilation resistance meter (trade names: SODIMAX, SODIM).

[0128] The circumferential length of the filter section 5 is not particularly limited, but is preferably 16–25 mm, more preferably 20–24 mm, and even more preferably 21–23 mm. The axial length of the filter section 5 can be selected from 4 to 10 mm, with an airflow resistance of 15–60 mmH2O / seg. The axial length of the filter section 5 is preferably 5–9 mm, more preferably 6–8 mm. The cross-sectional shape of the filter section 5 is not particularly limited, and can be, for example, circular, elliptical, or polygonal. Furthermore, destructive capsules, fragrance beads, or fragrances containing fragrance can be directly added to the filter section 5.

[0129] like Figure 1 As shown, the central hole section 4 and the filter section 5 can be connected using an outer packaging material (outer roll paper) 11. The outer packaging material 11 can be, for example, a cylindrical paper. Furthermore, the tobacco section 2, the cooling section 3, and the connected central hole section 4 and filter section 5 can be connected using a mouthpiece liner 12. Their connection can be achieved, for example, by coating the inner surface of the mouthpiece liner 12 with a slurry such as vinyl acetate and then winding the three sections together. It should be noted that these sections can be connected together using multiple separate liner papers.

[0130] [Non-combustion heated fragrance extraction system]

[0131] The non-combustion heated aroma inhalation system of this embodiment includes the non-combustion heated aroma inhaler of this embodiment and a heating device for heating the tobacco-containing section of the non-combustion heated aroma inhaler. The non-combustion heated aroma inhalation system of this embodiment may have other configurations besides the non-combustion heated aroma inhaler of this embodiment and the aforementioned heating device.

[0132] An example of the non-combustion heating aroma extraction system of this embodiment is shown. Figure 2 . Figure 2The non-combustion heated aroma inhalation system shown includes a non-combustion heated aroma inhaler 1 according to this embodiment, and a heating device 13 that heats the tobacco-containing section of the non-combustion heated aroma inhaler 1 from the outside.

[0133] Figure 2 Image (a) shows the state before the non-combustion heated fragrance inhaler 1 is inserted into the heating device 13. Figure 2 (b) shows the state in which the non-combustion heated fragrance inhaler 1 is inserted into the heating device 13 for heating. Figure 2 The heating device 13 shown includes a body 14, a heater 15, a metal tube 16, a battery unit 17, and a control unit 18. The body 14 has a cylindrical recess 19. The heater 15 and the metal tube 16 are positioned on the inner side of the recess 19, corresponding to the tobacco-containing section of the non-combustion heated flavored inhaler 1 into which the recess 19 is inserted. The heater 15 can be a resistance-based heater, powered by the battery unit 17 according to instructions from the temperature control unit 18. The heat emitted by the heater 15 is conducted to the tobacco-containing section of the non-combustion heated flavored inhaler 1 through the metal tube 16, which has a high thermal conductivity.

[0134] exist Figure 2 In diagram (b), since the illustration is schematic, a gap exists between the outer periphery of the non-combustion heated flavored inhaler 1 and the inner periphery of the metal tube 16. However, for the purpose of efficient heat conduction, it is preferable that there is no gap between the outer periphery of the non-combustion heated flavored inhaler 1 and the inner periphery of the metal tube 16. It should be noted that the heating device 13 heats the tobacco-containing section of the non-combustion heated flavored inhaler 1 from the outside, but it can also heat from the inside.

[0135] The heating temperature of the heating device is not particularly limited, but is preferably below 400°C, more preferably above 150°C and below 400°C, and even more preferably above 200°C and below 350°C. It should be noted that the heating temperature refers to the temperature of the heater in the heating device.

[0136] Example

[0137] The following describes specific examples of this embodiment, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0138] [Example 1]

[0139] Tobacco sheets (tobacco leaves) were dry-pulverized using a Hosokawa Micron ACM machine to obtain tobacco powder. The cumulative 90% particle size (D90) of the volumetric particle size distribution of this tobacco powder was determined using a Mastersizer (trade name, manufactured by Malvern Panalytical Division, Spectris Corporation), and the result was 200 μm.

[0140] Tobacco sheets were produced using the aforementioned tobacco powder as the raw material. Specifically, 78 parts by weight of the tobacco raw material, 12 parts by weight of glycerol as an aerosol generating agent, 1 part by weight of carboxymethyl cellulose swollen in water as a first forming agent, 4 parts by weight of powdered carboxymethyl cellulose as a second forming agent, and 5 parts by weight of fibrous pulp as a reinforcing agent were mixed and kneaded using an extrusion molding machine. The mixture was then formed into sheets using two pairs of metal rollers to obtain a calendered product. A rotary cutter was used to cut the calendered product into strips with a width of 0.8 mm, and further cut into strips with a length of 20 mm to obtain a sheet mixture.

[0141] Then, the above-mentioned sheet mixture was rapidly dried using an airflow dryer under conditions of hot air temperature of 160°C, wind speed of 25.4 m / s, and drying time of 5 seconds. The rate of moisture reduction during this drying was 1.6% WB / s. Furthermore, the moisture content of the sheet mixture before drying was 21.3% WB, and the moisture content of the sheet mixture after drying was 13.2% WB. The resulting tobacco sheets had a curled shape.

[0142] The bulkiness of the obtained tobacco sheets was determined. Specifically, after the tobacco sheets were placed in a room conditioned at 22°C and 60% humidity for 48 hours, the bulkiness was measured using DD-60A (trade name, manufactured by Borgward). 15g of tobacco sheets were placed in a cylindrical container with an inner diameter of 60mm, and the volume was determined by compressing it with a 3kg load for 30 seconds. The results are shown in Table 1. It should be noted that in Table 1, the bulkiness is expressed as an increase in bulkiness (%) relative to the bulkiness value of Comparative Example 1 described later, using the bulkiness value as a baseline.

[0143] [Comparative Example 1]

[0144] A sheet mixture was prepared using the same method as in Example 1. It was then dried at 80°C for 240 seconds in a hot air circulating oven (trade name: FG-220, manufactured by ADVANTEC). The rate of moisture reduction during drying was 0.04% WB / s. Furthermore, the moisture content of the sheet mixture before drying was 21.3% WB, and the moisture content of the dried sheet mixture was 12.7% WB. The resulting tobacco sheets did not have a curled shape. The bulkiness of this tobacco sheet was measured in the same manner as in Example 1. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0145] [Table 1]

[0146] Increase in fluffiness Example 1 16 Comparative Example 1 －

[0147] In Example 1, tobacco sheets were manufactured using the method of this embodiment, and the fluffiness was improved compared to the tobacco sheets of Comparative Example 1, which had a moisture reduction rate of less than 0.8% WB / s during drying.

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing a tobacco sheet for a non-combustion heated flavored inhaler, the method comprising: The process of forming a mixture containing tobacco raw materials and aerosol generating agents into a sheet; and The process of drying the above-mentioned mixture that has been formed into sheet form. The rate of moisture reduction during the drying process is greater than 0.8%WB / second, where %WB represents the moisture content on a wet basis. The drying is carried out by airflow drying. In the airflow drying method, the temperature of the hot air blown onto the mixture formed into sheet form is 140~350°C. In the airflow drying method, the velocity of the hot air blown onto the mixture formed into sheet form is 12~50 m / s. The mixture formed into sheets before drying contains 20-50% water (WB), and the mixture formed into sheets after drying contains 8-15% water (WB). The mixture further comprises a molding agent. The molding agent is at least one selected from polysaccharides and proteins.

2. The method for manufacturing tobacco sheets for non-combustion heated flavored inhalers according to claim 1, wherein, The tobacco raw material is tobacco powder selected from at least one of tobacco leaves, leaf veins and stem residues.

3. The method for manufacturing tobacco sheets for non-combustion heated flavored inhalers according to claim 1, wherein, The proportion of the tobacco raw material contained in 100% by mass of the mixture is 45-95% by mass on a dry basis.

4. The method for manufacturing tobacco sheets for non-combustion heated flavored inhalers according to claim 1, wherein, The aerosol generator is at least one selected from glycerol, propylene glycol and 1,3-butanediol.

5. The method for manufacturing tobacco sheets for non-combustion heated flavored inhalers according to claim 1, wherein, The proportion of the aerosol generator contained in 100% by mass of the mixture is 4 to 50% by mass on a dry basis.

6. The method for manufacturing tobacco sheets for non-combustion heated flavored inhalers according to claim 1, wherein, The proportion of the molding agent contained in 100% by mass of the mixture is 0.1 to 15% by mass on a dry basis.

7. The method for manufacturing tobacco sheets for non-combustion heated flavored inhalers according to claim 1, wherein, The mixture further comprises fibrous material as a reinforcing agent.

8. The method for manufacturing tobacco sheets for non-combustion heated flavored inhalers according to claim 7, wherein, The proportion of the fibrous material contained in 100% by mass of the mixture is 5 to 50% by mass on a dry basis.

9. A method for manufacturing a tobacco sheet for a non-combustion heated flavored inhaler, the method comprising: The process of forming a mixture containing tobacco raw materials and aerosol generating agents into a sheet; and The process of drying the above-mentioned mixture that has been formed into sheet form. The rate of moisture reduction during the drying process is greater than 0.8%WB / second, where %WB represents the moisture content on a wet basis. The drying is carried out by airflow drying. In the airflow drying method, the temperature of the hot air blown onto the mixture formed into sheet form is 140~350°C. In the airflow drying method, the velocity of the hot air blown onto the mixture formed into sheet form is 12~50 m / s. The mixture formed into sheets before drying contains 20-50% water (WB), and the mixture formed into sheets after drying contains 8-15% water (WB). The mixture further comprises a molding agent. The molding agent is a synthetic polymer.

10. The method for manufacturing tobacco sheets for a non-combustion heated flavored inhaler according to claim 9, wherein, The tobacco raw material is tobacco powder selected from at least one of tobacco leaves, leaf veins and stem residues.

11. The method for manufacturing tobacco sheets for a non-combustion heated flavored inhaler according to claim 9, wherein, The proportion of the tobacco raw material contained in 100% by mass of the mixture is 45-95% by mass on a dry basis.

12. The method for manufacturing tobacco sheets for a non-combustion heated flavored inhaler according to claim 9, wherein, The aerosol generator is at least one selected from glycerol, propylene glycol and 1,3-butanediol.

13. The method for manufacturing tobacco sheets for a non-combustion heated flavored inhaler according to claim 9, wherein, The proportion of the aerosol generator contained in 100% by mass of the mixture is 4 to 50% by mass on a dry basis.

14. The method for manufacturing tobacco sheets for a non-combustion heated flavored inhaler according to claim 9, wherein, The proportion of the molding agent contained in 100% by mass of the mixture is 0.1 to 15% by mass on a dry basis.

15. The method for manufacturing tobacco sheets for a non-combustion heated flavored inhaler according to claim 9, wherein, The mixture further comprises fibrous material as a reinforcing agent.

16. The method for manufacturing tobacco sheets for a non-combustion heated flavored inhaler according to claim 15, wherein, The proportion of the fibrous material contained in 100% by mass of the mixture is 5 to 50% by mass on a dry basis.

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