Tobacco sheet for non-combustion heating type flavor inhaler, non-combustion heating type flavor inhaler, and non-combustion heating type flavor inhalation system

Abstract

A tobacco sheet for a non-combustion heating flavor inhaler has an equilibrium moisture content of 14% by mass or less after conditioning at 22 DEG C and 60% relative humidity for 48 hours.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a tobacco sheet for a heat-not-burn flavor inhaler, a heat-not-burn flavor inhaler, and a heat-not-burn flavor inhalation system. Background Art

[0002] The flavor of a combustion-type flavor inhaler (cigarette) is experienced by burning a tobacco filler material containing tobacco leaves. Heat-not-burn flavor inhalers have been proposed as an alternative to combustion-type flavor inhalers. Heat-not-burn flavor inhalers experience flavor by heating, rather than burning, the flavor source (e.g., tobacco leaves). The heating temperature of heat-not-burn flavor inhalers (e.g., approximately 400°C or lower) is lower than the burning temperature of combustion-type flavor inhalers. Because heat-not-burn flavor inhalers operate at a lower temperature, an aerosol generator can be added to the flavor source in heat-not-burn flavor inhalers to increase smoke production. The aerosol generator vaporizes upon heating to produce an aerosol. This aerosol, along with a flavor component (e.g., a tobacco component), is supplied to the user, allowing the user to experience a richer flavor.

[0003] Heat-not-burn flavor inhalers can include, for example, a tobacco-containing section filled with tobacco sheets, a cooling section, and a filter section. In heat-not-burn flavor inhalers, the tobacco-containing section is shorter than the tobacco-containing section of conventional combustion-type flavor inhalers relative to the axial length of the heater. Therefore, the shorter tobacco-containing section compartment of the heat-not-burn flavor inhaler is filled with a large amount of tobacco sheets, for example, to ensure that enough aerosols are produced when heated. For example, bulkiness is usually less, particularly high-density tobacco sheets, in heat-not-burn flavor inhalers, so as to allow shorter sections to be filled with a large amount of tobacco sheets. Bulkiness refers to the value indicating the volume of a crushed tobacco sheet of a predetermined mass when compressed under constant pressure for a given period of time. For example, PTL 1 and PTL 2 disclose the tobacco sheets used in heat-not-burn flavor inhalers.

[0004] Citation List

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] [PTL 1] JP 5969923 B2

[0007] [PTL 2] WO 2020 / 058814 A1 Summary of the Invention

[0008] Technical issues

[0009] However, when considering the heating method or heater heat capacity and aerosol generation, the inventors discovered that, depending on the heating method or heater heat capacity, the tobacco sheet used to fill the tobacco-containing segments may not sufficiently promote aerosol generation due to the increased total heat capacity of the tobacco-containing segments. This can affect delivery, particularly in the early stages of flavor inhalation. Reducing the total heat capacity of the tobacco-containing segments is considered to address this issue.

[0010] To reduce the total heat capacity of the tobacco-containing segment, the inventors investigated (1) reducing the specific heat of the tobacco raw material contained in the tobacco sheet and (2) using a tobacco sheet with a higher bulk (lower density). The inventors then considered reducing the total heat capacity of the tobacco-containing segment by adjusting the moisture content of the tobacco sheet to an appropriate range.

[0011] The present invention aims to provide: a tobacco sheet for a heat-not-burn flavor inhaler that will ensure good delivery in the early stages of flavor inhalation; a heat-not-burn flavor inhaler comprising the tobacco sheet; and a heat-not-burn flavor inhalation system.

[0012] Solution to the problem

[0013] The above problems are solved as follows.

[0014] Aspect 1

[0015] A tobacco sheet for a heat-not-burn flavor inhaler, wherein the equilibrium moisture content is 14% by mass or less after conditioning at 22°C and 60% relative humidity for 48 hours.

[0016] Aspect 2

[0017] The sheet according to aspect 1, wherein the sheet is a rolled sheet or a cast sheet.

[0018] Aspect 3

[0019] The sheet material according to aspect 1 or 2, wherein the sheet material comprises a powder of at least one tobacco raw material selected from the group consisting of tobacco leaves, leaf midribs, and spent leaf stems.

[0020] Aspect 4

[0021] The sheet material according to aspect 3, wherein the content ratio of the powder is 45% to 95% by mass based on 100% by mass of the tobacco sheet material.

[0022] Aspect 5

[0023] The sheet material according to any one of aspects 1 to 4, wherein the tobacco sheet material further comprises an aerosol generating agent.

[0024] Aspect 6

[0025] The sheet according to aspect 5, wherein the aerosol generator is at least one selected from the group consisting of glycerin, propylene glycol, and 1,3-butylene glycol.

[0026] Aspect 7

[0027] The sheet material according to aspect 5 or 6, wherein the content ratio of the aerosol generating agent is 4 to 50% by mass based on 100% by mass of the tobacco sheet material.

[0028] Aspect 8

[0029] The sheet material according to any one of aspects 1 to 7, wherein the tobacco sheet material further comprises a binder.

[0030] Aspect 9

[0031] The sheet according to aspect 8, wherein the binder is at least one selected from the group consisting of polysaccharides, proteins, and synthetic polymers.

[0032] Aspect 10

[0033] The sheet according to aspect 8 or 9, wherein the content ratio of the binder is 0.1 to 15% by mass based on 100% by mass of the tobacco sheet.

[0034] Aspect 11

[0035] The sheet according to any one of aspects 3 to 10, comprising tobacco powder having a cumulative 90% particle size (D90) of 200 μm or greater in a volume-based particle size distribution as determined by dry laser diffraction.

[0036] Aspect 12

[0037] A heat-not-burn flavored inhaler equipped with a tobacco-containing segment comprising the sheet material according to any one of aspects 1 to 11.

[0038] Aspect 13

[0039] A heat-not-burn flavor inhalation system comprising:

[0040] The heat-not-burn flavor inhaler of aspect 12; and

[0041] A heating device is provided for heating the tobacco-containing segment.

[0042] Aspect 14

[0043] A method for manufacturing the sheet material according to aspect 11, the method comprising:

[0044] (1) a step of preparing a composition for a sheet comprising tobacco powder S having a D90 of less than 200 μm and manufacturing the sheet S;

[0045] (2) preparing a plurality of tobacco powders T1 to Tn (n is a number 2 or greater) having different D90 values, preparing a composition for a sheet comprising these tobacco powders, and manufacturing the sheets T1 to Tn, wherein D90 is equal to or greater than 200 μm;

[0046] (3) a step of determining the equilibrium moisture content of the sheet S or the chopped pieces of the sheet S and the sheets T1 to Tn or the chopped pieces thereof after conditioning for 48 hours at 22°C and 60% relative humidity;

[0047] (4) a step of determining tobacco powder A, which is a tobacco powder selected from tobacco powders T1 to Tn and has a moisture reduction rate of -3% or less to be formed into a sheet;

[0048] Moisture reduction rate (%) = (Wt-Ws) / Ws

[0049] Wt: Equilibrium moisture content of sheets T1 to Tn or their chopped pieces

[0050] Ws: equilibrium moisture content of the sheet S or its chopped pieces; and

[0051] (5) A step of producing a sheet from the tobacco powder A.

[0052] Advantageous Effects of the Invention

[0053] The present invention provides: a tobacco sheet for a heat-not-burn flavor inhaler, which will ensure good delivery in the early stages of flavor inhalation; a heat-not-burn flavor inhaler comprising the tobacco sheet; and a heat-not-burn flavor inhalation system. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0054] Figure 1 : is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the heat-not-burn flavor inhaler according to the present embodiment.

[0055] Figure 2 1 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of a heat-not-burn flavor inhaler system according to the present embodiment, (a) showing a state before the heat-not-burn flavor inhaler is inserted into a heating device, and (b) showing a state after the heat-not-burn flavor inhaler has been inserted into the heating device and is being heated. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0056] Tobacco sheets for heat-not-burn flavored inhalers

[0057] In one embodiment, the tobacco sheet material (hereinafter also referred to as "tobacco sheet material") that is used for heat-not-burn flavor inhaler has an equilibrium moisture content of 14% by mass or less after conditioning for 48 hours at 22 ℃ and 60% relative humidity. The equilibrium moisture content within this scope will allow to effectively use available heat to produce aerosol, thereby allows to realize good delivery in the early stages of flavor inhalation. In this respect, the equilibrium moisture content is preferably 7.5% to 10% by weight. The equilibrium moisture content can be determined using a heat drying moisture analyzer (such as, heat drying moisture analyzer MX-50, manufactured by A&D Company, Ltd.).

[0058] (Tobacco powder)

[0059] The tobacco sheet according to this embodiment preferably comprises tobacco raw material, and more preferably comprises a powder of said raw material (hereinafter also referred to as "tobacco powder"). The cumulative 90% particle size (D90) of the tobacco powder in a volume-based particle size distribution, as determined by dry laser diffraction, is preferably 200 μm or greater. In this case, large voids exist between the tobacco powder particles in the tobacco sheet, and these voids may contribute to increasing the bulk of the tobacco sheet. The large voids between the tobacco powder particles also facilitate moisture release, thereby reducing the heat capacity of the heated portion. The tobacco sheet according to this embodiment further preferably comprises an aerosol generator or a binder; ensuring that these materials are mixed within a predetermined ratio will further increase the bulk of the tobacco sheet.

[0060] Examples of tobacco powder contained in the tobacco sheet according to this embodiment include tobacco leaves, leaf midribs, and spent leaf stems. One type can be used, or two or more types can be used in combination. These materials can be cut into a predetermined size and used in the form of tobacco powder. In terms of the size of the tobacco powder, as determined by dry laser diffraction, under a volume-based particle size distribution, the cumulative 90% particle size (D90) is equal to or greater than 200 μm, preferably equal to or greater than 350 μm, and further preferably equal to or greater than 500 μm. The upper limit of D90 is not particularly limited, but can be, for example, equal to or less than 2000 μm.

[0061] Regarding the size of the tobacco powder, as determined by dry laser diffraction, the cumulative 50% particle size (D50) is also equal to or greater than 40 μm, preferably equal to or greater than 100 μm, and more preferably equal to or greater than 200 μm under a volume-based particle size distribution, in order to further increase the bulkiness of the tobacco sheet. The upper limit of D50 is not particularly limited, but can be, for example, equal to or less than 1000 μm. In this embodiment, D90 and D50 can be determined by dry laser diffraction using, for example, a Mastersizer (trade name, manufactured by Spectris Inc., Malvern Panalytical, a Spectris plc company).

[0062] Based on 100% tobacco sheet by mass, the content ratio of tobacco raw material (preferably tobacco powder) is 45% to 95% by mass. Ensure that the ratio of tobacco raw material is 45% by mass or more will allow to produce enough tobacco flavors when heating. And, ensure that the ratio of tobacco raw material is no more than 95% by mass will ensure to comprise enough aerosol generating agents or adhesives. The ratio of tobacco raw material is more preferably 50% to 93% by mass, further preferably 55% to 90% by mass and particularly preferably 60% to 88% by mass.

[0063] (Aerosol Generator)

[0064] The tobacco sheet according to this embodiment preferably further includes an aerosol generator to obtain a greater amount of smoke when heated. Examples of aerosol generators include glycerol, propylene glycol, and 1,3-butylene glycol. One or more aerosol generators can be used, or two or more can be used in combination.

[0065] When an aerosol generating agent is included in the tobacco sheet, the proportion of the aerosol generating agent is preferably 4% to 50% by mass based on 100% by mass of the tobacco sheet. Ensuring that the proportion of the aerosol generating agent is 4% by mass or more will allow sufficient aerosol to be generated during heating from a quantitative perspective. Furthermore, ensuring that the proportion of the aerosol generating agent does not exceed 50% by mass will allow sufficient aerosol to be generated during heating from a thermal capacity perspective. The proportion of the aerosol generating agent is more preferably 6% to 40% by mass, further preferably 8% to 30% by mass, and particularly preferably 10% to 20% by mass.

[0066] (Adhesive)

[0067] The tobacco sheet according to the present embodiment preferably further comprises a binder to maintain its shape. Examples of binders include polysaccharides, proteins, and synthetic polymers. One type can be used, or two or more types can be used in combination. Examples of polysaccharides include cellulose derivatives and naturally derived polysaccharides.

[0068] Examples of cellulose derivatives include cellulose ethers such as methyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxymethylethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, benzyl cellulose, trityl cellulose, cyanoethyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, carboxyethyl cellulose, and aminoethyl cellulose; organic acid esters such as cellulose acetate, cellulose formate, cellulose propionate, cellulose butyrate, cellulose benzoate, cellulose phthalate, and tosyl cellulose; and inorganic acid esters such as cellulose nitrate, cellulose sulfate, cellulose phosphate, and cellulose xanthate.

[0069] Examples of naturally derived polysaccharides include plant-derived polysaccharides such as guar gum, tara gum, roasted bean gum, tamarind seed gum, pectin, gum arabic, tragacanth gum, karaya gum, ghatti gum, arabic galactan, linseed gum, cassia seed gum, psyllium seed gum, and artemisia seed gum; algae-derived polysaccharides such as carrageenan, agar, alginic acid, propylene glycol alginate, furcellan, and Colpomenia sinuosa extract; microbial-derived polysaccharides such as xanthan gum, gellan gum, curdlan gum, pullulan, Agrobacterium succinoglycan, welan gum, macrophomops gum, and rhamnose gum; crustacean-derived polysaccharides such as chitin, chitosan, and glucosamine; and starches such as starch, sodium carboxymethyl starch, pregelatinized starch, and dextrin.

[0070] Examples of proteins include cereal proteins such as wheat gluten and rye gluten.Examples of synthetic polymers include polyphosphoric acid, sodium polyacrylate, and polyvinyl pyrrolidone.

[0071] When comprising adhesive in the tobacco sheet, based on 100% tobacco sheet by mass, the ratio of adhesive is preferably 0.1% to 15% by mass.Use adhesive in the ratio of 0.1% or more by mass to allow the mixture of raw materials to form sheet material.And, use adhesive in the ratio of being no more than 15% by mass to allow the use of enough other components, so as to guarantee the required function of the tobacco-containing segment of the heat-not-burn flavor inhaler.The ratio of adhesive is more preferably 0.2% to 13% by mass, further preferably 0.5% to 12% by mass and particularly preferably 1% to 10% by mass.

[0072] (enhancer)

[0073] The tobacco sheet according to this embodiment may further include a reinforcing agent to further improve physical properties. Examples of reinforcing agents include: fibrous materials such as fiber pulp, insoluble fibers, and fiber-synthetic cellulose; and liquid materials with film-forming surface coating functions, such as aqueous pectin suspensions. One or more reinforcing agents may be used alone, or two or more may be used in combination.

[0074] When a enhancer is included in the tobacco sheet, the proportion of the enhancer is preferably 4% to 60% by mass based on 100% by mass of the tobacco sheet. Maintaining the proportion within this range allows for the use of sufficient other ingredients to ensure the desired functionality of the tobacco-containing segment of the heat-not-burn flavor inhaler. The proportion of the enhancer is more preferably 4.5% to 55% by mass, and further preferably 5% to 50% by mass.

[0075] (Additives)

[0076] The tobacco sheet according to this embodiment can further include an auxiliary agent to ensure quality. The example of an auxiliary agent includes sugar alcohol, such as sorbitol, erythritol, xylitol, maltitol, lactitol, mannitol and reduced maltose syrup. One or more auxiliary agents may be used in combination.

[0077] When an adjuvant is included in the tobacco sheet, the proportion of the adjuvant is preferably 1% to 15% by mass based on 100% by mass of the tobacco sheet. Maintaining the proportion within this range allows for the use of sufficient other ingredients to ensure the desired functionality of the tobacco-containing segment of the heat-not-burn flavor inhaler. The proportion of the adjuvant is more preferably 2% to 12% by mass, and further preferably 3% to 10% by mass.

[0078] (Other ingredients)

[0079] In addition to the above-mentioned tobacco raw materials, aerosol generating agents, binders, enhancers and adjuvants, the tobacco sheet according to this embodiment may further include: flavoring agents such as spices and flavoring substances; coloring agents; preservatives; and diluents such as inorganic substances.

[0080] (bulkyness)

[0081] The bulkiness according to the tobacco sheet material of the present embodiment is preferably 190 cc / 100 g or higher.190 cc / 100 g or larger bulkiness will allow fully to reduce the total thermal capacity of the tobacco section containing the heat-not-burn flavor inhaler, thereby allows to be used to fill the tobacco sheet material containing the tobacco section and promote the generation of aerosol more.Bulkyness is more preferably 210 cc / 100 g or larger and further preferably 230 cc / 100 g.The upper limit of the bulkiness scope is not particularly limited, but can be for example 800 cc / 100 g or less.Bulkyness is the value that uses DD-60A (trade name, manufactured by Borgwaldt) to determine after the tobacco sheet material cut into 0.8 mm × 9.5 mm size is stored in the conditioning chamber that is set at 22 ℃ and 60% humidity for 48 hours. This value is determined by introducing 15 g of the cut tobacco sheet into a cylindrical container having an inner diameter of 60 mm and determining the volume compressed under a load of 3 kg for 30 seconds.

[0082] (Tobacco Sheet Structure)

[0083] In this embodiment, "tobacco sheet" refers to an object whose components (e.g., tobacco powder) are formed into a sheet shape. As used herein, "sheet" refers to a shape having a pair of substantially parallel main surfaces and side surfaces. The length and width of the tobacco sheet are not particularly limited and can be adjusted depending on how the sheet is used to fill the segment. The thickness of the tobacco sheet is not particularly limited, but to achieve a balance between heat transfer efficiency and strength, it is preferably 100 μm to 1000 μm, and more preferably 150 μm to 600 μm.

[0084] (Method for manufacturing tobacco sheets)

[0085] The tobacco sheet according to this embodiment can be manufactured using known methods, such as a rolling method or a casting method. Details of various types of tobacco sheets manufactured using such methods are disclosed in "Dictionary of Tobacco," Tobacco Academic Studies Center, March 31, 2009. An example of a method using tobacco powder as the tobacco raw material is described below as a preferred aspect.

[0086] Roller pressing method

[0087] As an example of a method for producing a tobacco sheet (rolled sheet) by means of a roll pressing method, a method comprising the following steps can be given:

[0088] (1) a step of mixing water, tobacco powder, an aerosol generating agent, a binder, and a reinforcing agent to obtain a mixture;

[0089] (2) rolling the mixture between calendering rolls;

[0090] (3) A step of drying the product formed by roller pressing in a dryer.

[0091] When making tobacco sheets by this method, the surfaces of the calendering rollers can be heated or cooled, and the rotational speed of the calendering rollers can be adjusted according to the desired purpose. The gap between the calendering rollers can also be adjusted. One or more calendering rollers can be used to obtain a tobacco sheet of a desired basis weight.

[0092] Casting method

[0093] As an example of a method for producing a tobacco sheet (cast sheet) by means of a casting method, a method comprising the following steps can be given:

[0094] (1) a step of mixing water, tobacco powder, an aerosol generating agent, a binder, and paper pulp to obtain a mixture; and

[0095] (2) The step of spreading (casting) the mixture thinly and drying it to form a tobacco sheet.

[0096] When tobacco sheets are manufactured by this method, a step may be added in which a slurry obtained by mixing water, tobacco powder, an aerosol generating agent, a binder, and pulp is exposed to ultraviolet or X-ray radiation to remove some components such as nitrosamines.

[0097] (Water reduction rate)

[0098] The tobacco sheet according to the present embodiment preferably has a moisture reduction rate of -3% or less by mass. The moisture reduction rate is an indicator of how low the equilibrium moisture content of the target sheet is compared to the equilibrium moisture content of the standard sheet. As mentioned above, the equilibrium moisture content is the moisture content after conditioning for 48 hours at 22°C and 60% relative humidity. The lower the moisture reduction rate, the lower the equilibrium moisture content of the target sheet. Specifically, the moisture reduction rate is defined as (Wt-Ws) / Ws, where Wt is the equilibrium moisture content of the sheet obtained from the tobacco powder T according to the present embodiment, and Ws is the equilibrium moisture content of the standard sheet obtained from the tobacco powder S with D90<200 μm. Tobacco sheets that meet this moisture reduction rate will have a low moisture content, thereby allowing the heat capacity of the heating part to be reduced. The upper limit of the moisture reduction rate is preferably equal to or less than -4% by mass, or equal to or less than -5% by mass. The lower limit of the moisture reduction rate is preferably equal to or greater than -20% by mass.

[0099] Specifically, the tobacco sheet according to this embodiment is preferably manufactured by a method comprising the following steps:

[0100] (1) a step of preparing a composition for a sheet comprising tobacco powder S having a D90 of less than 200 μm and manufacturing the sheet S;

[0101] (2) preparing a plurality of tobacco powders T1 to Tn (n is a number 2 or greater) having different D90 values, preparing a composition for a sheet comprising these tobacco powders, and manufacturing the sheets T1 to Tn, wherein D90 is equal to or greater than 200 μm;

[0102] (3) a step of determining the equilibrium moisture content of the sheet S or the chopped pieces of the sheet S and the sheets T1 to Tn or the chopped pieces thereof after conditioning for 48 hours at 22°C and 60% relative humidity;

[0103] (4) A step of determining a sheet-forming tobacco powder A having a moisture reduction rate of -3% or less as defined below, wherein the tobacco powder A is selected from tobacco powders T1 to Tn:

[0104] Moisture reduction rate (%) = (Wt-Ws) / Ws

[0105] Wt: Equilibrium moisture content of sheets T1 to Tn or their chopped pieces

[0106] Ws: equilibrium moisture content of the sheet S or its chopped pieces, and

[0107] (5) A step of producing a sheet from the tobacco powder A.

[0108] For example, the method for making the sheet in step (1) has been indicated above. However, the sheet making method should be standardized in all steps. For example, if a cast sheet is selected in step (1), a cast sheet should also be prepared in the subsequent steps. The D90 of the standard tobacco powder S is not limited as long as it is less than 200 μm, but is preferably between 80 μm and 90 μm. The objects used to determine Ws and Wt should have the same shape. For example, when Ws is the equilibrium moisture content of the sheet, Wt should also be the equilibrium moisture content of the sheet.

[0109] Heat-not-burn flavor inhalers

[0110] The heat-not-burn flavored inhaler according to this embodiment includes a tobacco-containing segment, which includes, for example, the tobacco sheet according to this embodiment. The heat-not-burn flavored inhaler according to this embodiment includes a tobacco-containing segment filled with, for example, a high-loft tobacco sheet according to this embodiment. This allows the total heat capacity of the tobacco-containing segment to be substantially reduced, allowing the tobacco sheet used to fill the tobacco-containing segment to further promote aerosol generation.

[0111] Figure 1 An example of a heat-not-burn flavor inhaler according to the present embodiment is shown. Figure 1 The heat-not-burn flavor inhaler 1 shown includes: a tobacco-containing segment 2 filled with tobacco sheets or the like according to this embodiment; a cylindrical cooling segment 3 having perforations 8 around its periphery; a central hole segment 4; and a filter segment 5. In addition to the tobacco-containing segment, cooling segment, central hole segment, and filter segment, the heat-not-burn flavor inhaler according to this embodiment may also have other segments.

[0112] The axial length according to the heat-not-burn flavor inhaler of the present embodiment is not particularly limited, but is preferably 40 mm to 90 mm, more preferably 50 mm to 75 mm and further preferably 50 mm to 60 mm. The circumferential length of the heat-not-burn flavor inhaler is preferably 16 mm to 25 mm, more preferably 20 mm to 24 mm and further preferably 21 mm to 23 mm. In the exemplary aspect that can be quoted, the length containing the tobacco segment is that the length of 20 mm, the length of the cooling section is 20 mm, the length of the center hole section is 8 mm and the length of the filter section is 7 mm. The length of the filter section can be selected within the scope of 4 mm to 10 mm. Length can also be selected to make the ventilation resistance of the filter section at least 15 mmH under this length O every section and be no more than 60 mmH O every section. For example, according to manufacturability and required quality, the length of these independent sections can be suitably revised. In addition, even when the filter section is arranged on the downstream of the cooling section and not using the center hole section, the heat-not-burn flavor inhaler can still work.

[0113] (Including tobacco segment)

[0114] The tobacco-containing segment 2 is formed by enclosing tobacco sheets, etc., according to this embodiment, within a wrapping paper (hereinafter also referred to as a wrapper). The method for enclosing the tobacco sheets, etc. within the wrapping paper (hereinafter also referred to as a wrapper) is not particularly limited; for example, the tobacco sheets, etc. may be enclosed within the wrapper, or they may be enclosed within a cylindrical wrapper. The tobacco sheets, which are shaped into a rectangular shape in the longitudinal direction, may be randomly oriented in any direction within the wrapper, or they may be directionally loaded in the axial direction of the tobacco-containing segment 2 or in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction.

[0115] (Cooling section)

[0116] In one embodiment, Figure 1 As shown, the cooling section 3 may be composed of a cylindrical member 7. The cylindrical member 7 may be, for example, a paper tube obtained by processing paperboard into a cylindrical shape.

[0117] The cylindrical member 7 and the mouthpiece liner 12 (described below) are provided with perforations 8 extending therethrough. The perforations 8 allow outside air to be introduced into the cooling section 3 during inhalation. As a result, the vaporized components of the aerosol produced when the tobacco-containing section 2 is heated will come into contact with the outside air and cool, and will thus liquefy to form an aerosol. The diameter of the perforations 8 (the length of the perforations) is not particularly limited, but may be, for example, 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm. The number of perforations 8 is not particularly limited and may be one or more. For example, a plurality of perforations 8 may be provided around the circumference of the cooling section 3.

[0118] The amount of outside air introduced through the perforations 8 relative to the total volume of gas inhaled by the user is preferably 85% or less by volume, and more preferably 80% or less by volume. A ratio of up to 85% by volume of outside air will adequately control flavor loss caused by dilution due to outside air. This is also referred to as the ventilation ratio. For cooling properties, the lower limit of the ventilation ratio range is preferably 55% or more by volume, and more preferably 60% or more by volume.

[0119] The cooling section may also comprise a sheet of a suitable composition material that is wrinkled, pleated, gathered, or folded. The cross-sectional profile of such an element may exhibit randomly oriented channels. The cooling section may also comprise a bundle of longitudinally extending tubes. Such a cooling section may be formed, for example, by wrapping the pleated, gathered, or folded sheet material in a web.

[0120] The axial length of the cooling section may be, for example, 7 mm to 28 mm, for example, 18 mm. The cooling section may also be substantially circular in axial cross-sectional shape, with a diameter of, for example, 5 mm to 10 mm, for example, 7 mm.

[0121] (Center hole section)

[0122] The central hole section may be composed of a filling layer having one or more hollow portions and an inner rod wrap (inner winding paper) covering the filling layer. Figure 1As shown, for example, the central bore section 4 can be composed of a second filling layer 9 having a hollow portion and a second inner rod wrap 10 covering the second filling layer 9. The central bore section 4 serves to increase the strength of the mouthpiece section 6. The second filling layer 9 can be formed, for example, as a rod having an inner diameter of 1.0 mm to 5.0 mm, filled with high-density cellulose acetate fibers. A plasticizer containing triacetin is added to the rod in an amount of 6% to 20% by mass relative to the mass of the cellulose acetate, and the plasticizer is solidified. The second filling layer 9 has a high fiber packing density, so air and aerosols flow only through the hollow portion during inhalation, with virtually no air or aerosol flowing through the second filling layer 9. Because the second filling layer 9 within the central bore section 4 is a fiber-filled layer, the user experiences little discomfort when touching the exterior during use. The shape of the central bore section 4 can also be maintained through thermoforming, eliminating the need for the second inner rod wrap 10.

[0123] (Filter section)

[0124] The configuration of the filter segment 5 is not particularly limited, but it can be composed of one or more filling layers. The outside of the filling layer can be wrapped with one or more sheets of tissue paper. The ventilation resistance of each section of the filter segment 5 can be appropriately modified according to, for example, the amount and material of the filler filling the filter segment 5. For example, when the filler is cellulose acetate fiber, the ventilation resistance can be increased by increasing the amount of cellulose acetate fiber filling the filter segment 5. When the filler is cellulose acetate fiber, the packing density of the cellulose acetate fiber can be 0.13 g / cm 3 Up to 0.18 g / cm 3 The ventilation resistance is a value determined using a ventilation resistance analyzer (trade name: SODIMAX, manufactured by SODIM Corporation).

[0125] The circumferential length of the filter section 5 is not particularly limited, but is preferably 16 mm to 25 mm, more preferably 20 mm to 24 mm, and further preferably 21 mm to 23 mm. The filter section 5 can have an axial length of 4 mm to 10 mm, which can be selected so that the ventilation resistance of each section is 15 mmH2O to 60 mmH2O. The axial length of the filter section 5 is preferably 5 mm to 9 mm, and more preferably 6 mm to 8 mm. The cross-sectional shape of the filter section 5 is not particularly limited, but can be, for example, circular, elliptical or polygonal. Destructible capsules, spice beads and spices containing spices can also be directly added to the filter section 5.

[0126] like Figure 1As shown, the central hole segment 4 and the filter segment 5 can be connected by means of an outer rod wrapper (outer wrapper) 11. For example, the outer rod wrapper 11 can be a cylindrical paper. The tobacco-containing segment 2, the cooling segment 3, and the connected central hole segment 4 and filter segment 5 can be connected by means of a suction mouth lining paper 12. These connections can be formed, for example, by coating the inner surface of the suction mouth lining paper 12 with glue (such as vinyl acetate-based glue), inserting the three segments, and then wrapping these segments with the suction mouth lining paper 12. These segments can also be connected using multiple lining papers through multiple separate connections.

[0127] (Heating without burning flavor inhalation system)

[0128] The heat-not-burn flavor inhaler system according to this embodiment includes: the heat-not-burn flavor inhaler according to this embodiment; and a heating device for heating the tobacco-containing segment of the heat-not-burn flavor inhaler. The heat-not-burn flavor inhaler system according to this embodiment may have a configuration other than the heat-not-burn flavor inhaler and the heating device according to this embodiment.

[0129] Figure 2 An example of a heat-not-burn flavor inhalation system according to this embodiment is shown. Figure 2 The heat-not-burn flavor inhalation system shown includes: the heat-not-burn flavor inhaler 1 according to this embodiment; and a heating device 13 for externally heating the tobacco-containing section of the heat-not-burn flavor inhaler 1 .

[0130] Figure 2 (a) shows the heat-not-burn flavor inhaler 1 before insertion into the heating device 13, and Figure 2 (b) shows the heat-not-burn flavor inhaler 1 after being inserted into the heating device 13 and then heated. Figure 2 The illustrated heating device 13 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, and the heater 15 and metal tube 16 are positioned on the inner side of the recess 19, facing the tobacco-containing segment of the heat-not-burn flavor inhaler 1 inserted into the recess 19. The heater 15 may be a heater using an electrical resistor, and the battery unit 17 supplies power to the heater 15 in response to commands from a temperature-control control unit 18, causing the heater 15 to provide heating. Heat emitted from the heater 15 is transferred to the tobacco-containing segment of the heat-not-burn flavor inhaler 1 via the highly thermally conductive metal tube 16.

[0131] Figure 2(b) is a schematic diagram showing a gap between the outer circumference of the heat-not-burn flavor inhaler 1 and the inner circumference of the metal tube 16. However, for the purpose of efficient heat transfer, it is actually preferable that there is no gap between the outer circumference of the heat-not-burn flavor inhaler 1 and the inner circumference of the metal tube 16. Furthermore, the tobacco-containing section of the heat-not-burn flavor inhaler 1 is heated from the outside by the heating device 13, but may be heated from the inside.

[0132] The heating temperature of the heating device is not particularly limited, but is preferably 400° C. or lower, more preferably 150° C. to 400° C., and further preferably 200° C. to 350° C. The heating temperature refers to the temperature of the heater of the heating device.

[0133] Examples

[0134] Specific examples of this embodiment will be described below, but the present invention is not limited to these examples.

[0135] Example 1

[0136] Tobacco leaves (tobacco leaves) were dry-ground using a Hosokawa Micron ACM machine. Dry laser diffraction analysis of the tobacco powder using a Mastersizer (trade name, manufactured by Spectris Inc., Malvern Panalytical, a Spectris plc) revealed a volume-based particle size distribution with a cumulative 50% (D50) and 90% (D90) values ​​of 57 μm and 216 μm, respectively.

[0137] Tobacco sheets are produced using tobacco powder through roller compaction. Specifically, 87 parts by mass of tobacco powder, 12 parts by mass of glycerin (as an aerosol generator), and 1 part by mass of carboxymethyl cellulose (as a binder) are mixed and kneaded using an extruder. The kneaded mixture is molded into a sheet using two pairs of metal rollers and dried in an 80°C circulating hot air oven to obtain the tobacco sheet. The tobacco sheet is then cut into 0.8 mm x 9.5 mm pieces using a shredder.

[0138] The bulk of the cut tobacco sheets was determined. Specifically, the cut tobacco sheets were allowed to stand in a conditioning chamber at 22°C and 60% relative humidity for 48 hours, and then the bulk was determined using a DD-60A (trade name, manufactured by Borgwaldt). This was determined by placing 15 g of the cut tobacco sheets into a cylindrical container with an inner diameter of 60 mm and measuring the volume obtained after compression under a load of 3 kg for 30 seconds. The results are shown in Table 1. In Table 1, the bulk is shown as the percentage increase in bulk relative to the standard value based on the bulk value in Comparative Example 1 described below.

[0139] Example 2

[0140] Tobacco sheets were produced and evaluated in the same manner as in Example 1, except that tobacco powder was used: as determined by dry laser diffraction, with a volume-based particle size distribution having a cumulative 50% particle size (D50) and a cumulative 90% particle size (D90) of 121 μm and 389 μm, respectively. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0141] Example 3

[0142] Tobacco sheets were produced and evaluated in the same manner as in Example 1, except that tobacco powder was used: as determined by dry laser diffraction, with a volume-based particle size distribution having a cumulative 50% particle size (D50) and a cumulative 90% particle size (D90) of 225 μm and 623 μm, respectively. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0143] Comparative Example 1

[0144] Tobacco sheets were produced and evaluated in the same manner as in Example 1, except that tobacco powder was used: as determined by dry laser diffraction, with a cumulative 50% particle size (D50) and a cumulative 90% particle size (D90) of 32 μm and 84 μm, respectively, in a volume-based particle size distribution. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0145]

[0146] Table 1 shows that the tobacco sheets of Examples 1 to 3 (tobacco sheets according to the present embodiment) have increased bulk compared to the tobacco sheet of Comparative Example 1 (D90 less than 200 μm as determined by dry laser diffraction). In Examples 1 to 3, the tobacco sheets were manufactured by a roll-pressing method, but when the tobacco sheets were similarly manufactured by a casting method, the bulk was also increased.

[0147] Example A and Comparative Example A

[0148] (1) Tobacco leaves (tobacco leaves) were dry-ground using a Hosokawa Micron ACM machine to obtain tobacco powder. The tobacco powder particle size used was the cumulative 90th percentile size (D90) of the volume-based particle size distribution determined by dry laser diffraction using a Mastersizer (trade name, manufactured by Spectris Inc., Malvern Panalytical, a Spectris plc).

[0149] (2) Tobacco sheets were produced using the above tobacco powder by a roller-pressing method. Specifically, tobacco powder, glycerin (as an aerosol generator), and carboxymethyl cellulose (as a binder) were mixed in the proportions shown in Table 2 below and kneaded using an extruder. The kneaded mixture was molded into a sheet using a pair of metal rollers, and the sheet was dried in an 80°C circulating hot air oven to obtain a tobacco sheet. The tobacco sheet was cut into a size of 0.8 mm × 9.5 mm using a pulverizer.

[0150] (3) Determine the moisture content of the cut tobacco sheet. Specifically, the cut tobacco sheet was allowed to stand in a conditioning room at 22°C and 60% relative humidity for 48 hours, and then the moisture content, specifically the equilibrium moisture content, was determined using an A&D Company, Ltd. thermal drying moisture analyzer MX-50.

[0151] (4) The moisture reduction rate was determined based on the following formula, where Ws is the equilibrium moisture content Ws of the sheet obtained in Comparative Example A1, and Wt is the equilibrium moisture content of the sheet obtained in Example A.

[0152] Moisture reduction rate (%) = (Wt-Ws) / Ws

[0153] The results are shown in Table 2.

[0154] Table 2

[0155]

[0156] Various aspects of the embodiments are listed below.

[0157] Aspect 1

[0158] A tobacco sheet for a heat-not-burn flavor inhaler, wherein the equilibrium moisture content is 14% by mass or less after conditioning at 22°C and 60% relative humidity for 48 hours.

[0159] Aspect 2

[0160] The sheet according to aspect 1, wherein the sheet is a rolled sheet or a cast sheet.

[0161] Aspect 3

[0162] The sheet material according to aspect 1 or 2, wherein the sheet material comprises a powder of at least one tobacco raw material selected from the group consisting of tobacco leaves, leaf midribs, and spent leaf stems.

[0163] Aspect 4

[0164] The sheet material according to aspect 3, wherein the content ratio of the powder is 45% to 95% by mass based on 100% by mass of the tobacco sheet material.

[0165] Aspect 5

[0166] The sheet material according to any one of aspects 1 to 4, wherein the tobacco sheet material further comprises an aerosol generating agent.

[0167] Aspect 6

[0168] The sheet according to aspect 5, wherein the aerosol generator is at least one selected from the group consisting of glycerin, propylene glycol, and 1,3-butylene glycol.

[0169] Aspect 7

[0170] The sheet material according to aspect 5 or 6, wherein the content ratio of the aerosol generating agent is 4 to 50% by mass based on 100% by mass of the tobacco sheet material.

[0171] Aspect 8

[0172] The sheet material according to any one of aspects 1 to 7, wherein the tobacco sheet material further comprises a binder.

[0173] Aspect 9

[0174] The sheet according to aspect 8, wherein the binder is at least one selected from the group consisting of polysaccharides, proteins, and synthetic polymers.

[0175] Aspect 10

[0176] The sheet according to aspect 8 or 9, wherein the content ratio of the binder is 0.1 to 15% by mass based on 100% by mass of the tobacco sheet.

[0177] Aspect 11

[0178] The sheet according to any one of aspects 3 to 10, comprising tobacco powder having a cumulative 90% particle size (D90) of 200 μm or greater in a volume-based particle size distribution as determined by dry laser diffraction.

[0179] Aspect 12

[0180] A heat-not-burn flavored inhaler equipped with a tobacco-containing segment comprising the sheet material according to any one of aspects 1 to 11.

[0181] Aspect 13

[0182] A heat-not-burn flavor inhalation system comprising:

[0183] The heat-not-burn flavor inhaler of aspect 12; and

[0184] A heating device is provided for heating the tobacco-containing segment.

[0185] Aspect 14

[0186] A method for manufacturing the sheet material according to aspect 11, the method comprising:

[0187] (1) a step of preparing a composition for a sheet comprising tobacco powder S having a D90 of less than 200 μm and manufacturing the sheet S;

[0188] (2) preparing a plurality of tobacco powders T1 to Tn (n is a number 2 or greater) having different D90 values, preparing a composition for a sheet comprising these tobacco powders, and manufacturing the sheets T1 to Tn, wherein D90 is equal to or greater than 200 μm;

[0189] (3) a step of determining the equilibrium moisture content of the sheet S or the chopped pieces of the sheet S and the sheets T1 to Tn or the chopped pieces thereof after conditioning for 48 hours at 22°C and 60% relative humidity;

[0190] (4) a step of determining tobacco powder A, which is a tobacco powder selected from tobacco powders T1 to Tn and has a moisture reduction rate of -3% or less to be formed into a sheet;

[0191] Moisture reduction rate (%) = (Wt-Ws) / Ws

[0192] Wt: Equilibrium moisture content of sheets T1 to Tn or their chopped pieces

[0193] Ws: equilibrium moisture content of the sheet S or its chopped pieces, and

[0194] (5) A step of producing a sheet from the tobacco powder A.

[0195] List of Reference Numerals

[0196] 1 heat-not-burn flavor inhaler

[0197] 2 containing tobacco segments

[0198] 3 Cooling section

[0199] 4 center hole segments

[0200] 5 Filter sections

[0201] 6 nozzle segments

[0202] 7Cylindrical components

[0203] 8 perforations

[0204] 9 Second filling layer

[0205] 10 Second inner rod wrapping

[0206] 11 Outer rod wrapping

[0207] 12 nozzle lining paper

[0208] 13 Heating device

[0209] 14 body

[0210] 15 heaters

[0211] 16 metal tubes

[0212] 17 battery cells

[0213] 18 control unit

[0214] 19 recesses

Claims

1. A tobacco sheet for a heat-not-burn flavor inhaler, wherein: After conditioning at 22°C and 60% relative humidity for 48 hours, the equilibrium moisture content is 14% by mass or less.

2. The sheet according to claim 1, which is a rolled sheet or a cast sheet.

3. The sheet material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The sheet material comprises a powder of at least one tobacco raw material selected from the group consisting of tobacco leaves, leaf midribs, and spent stems.

4. The sheet material according to claim 3, wherein The content ratio of the powder is 45 to 95% by mass based on 100% by mass of the tobacco sheet.

5. The sheet material according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein The tobacco sheet further comprises an aerosol generating agent.

6. The sheet material according to claim 5, wherein The aerosol generator is at least one selected from the group consisting of glycerin, propylene glycol, and 1,3-butylene glycol.

7. The sheet material according to claim 5 or 6, wherein The content ratio of the aerosol generating agent is 4 to 50% by mass based on 100% by mass of the tobacco sheet.

8. The sheet material according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein The tobacco sheet further includes a binder.

9. The sheet material according to claim 8, wherein The binder is at least one selected from the group consisting of polysaccharides, proteins and synthetic polymers.

10. The sheet material according to claim 8 or 9, wherein The content ratio of the binder is 0.1 to 15% by mass based on 100% by mass of the tobacco sheet.

11. The sheet material according to any one of claims 3 to 10, wherein The tobacco raw material powder has a cumulative 90% particle size (D90) of 200 μm or greater in a volume-based particle size distribution as determined by dry laser diffraction.

12. A heat-not-burn flavored inhaler provided with a tobacco-containing segment comprising the sheet material according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. A heat-not-burn flavor inhalation system, comprising: The heat-not-burn flavor inhaler according to claim 12; as well as A heating device is provided for heating the tobacco-containing segment.

14. A method for producing the sheet material according to claim 11, the method comprising: (1) a step of preparing a composition for a sheet comprising tobacco powder S having a D90 of less than 200 μm and manufacturing the sheet S; (2) preparing a plurality of tobacco powders T1 to Tn (n is a number 2 or greater) having different D90 values, preparing a composition for a sheet comprising these tobacco powders, and manufacturing the sheets T1 to Tn, wherein D90 is equal to or greater than 200 μm; (3) a step of determining the equilibrium moisture content of the sheet S or the chopped pieces of the sheet S, and the sheets T1 to Tn or the chopped pieces thereof after conditioning for 48 hours at 22°C and 60% relative humidity; (4) a step of determining tobacco powder A, which is a tobacco powder selected from tobacco powders T1 to Tn and has a moisture reduction rate of -3% or less to be formed into a sheet; Moisture reduction rate (%) = (Wt-Ws) / Ws Wt: Equilibrium moisture content of sheets T1 to Tn or their chopped pieces Ws: equilibrium moisture content of the sheet S or its chopped pieces; and (5) A step of producing a sheet from the tobacco powder A.

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