Tobacco pellets and their production methods, tobacco sticks, tobacco refill packs, and non-combustion heated flavor inhalers

Abstract

A tobacco granule is provided that enables a significant release of flavor components during use even with a reduced filling amount. The tobacco granule comprises tobacco raw material and a binder, wherein the average particle size (D50) is 600 µm or less, and the nicotine content is 3.8% by mass or greater.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to tobacco pellets and methods for producing them, and also to a tobacco stick, a tobacco refill pack, and a heated, non-burning flavor inhaler. Background Technology

[0002] Known tobacco products include heated non-burning flavor inhalers, in which the tobacco filling material is heated rather than burned to deliver flavor to the user. Heated non-burning flavor inhalers consist of a tobacco filling material and an aerosol source, and heating causes moisture in the aerosol source and the tobacco filling material to vaporize, while flavor components migrate from the tobacco filling material into the vapor, thus producing an aerosol (mainstream smoke). Simultaneously, the flavor components are not easily released from the tobacco filling material during use because the tobacco filling material is not burned in heated non-burning flavor inhalers. Examples of tobacco filling materials include, for instance, tobacco particles disclosed in PTL 1-3. Citation List

[0003] Patent documents

[0004] PTL 1: WO 2023 / 276069 A1

[0005] PTL 2: WO 2021 / 201265 A1

[0006] PTL 3: WO 2021 / 085532 A1 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The problem to be solved by the present invention

[0008] In heated non-burning flavor inhalers filled with tobacco granules, it is necessary to reduce the amount of tobacco granules used to reduce costs while maintaining the amount of flavor components released during use. Therefore, it is desirable to develop tobacco granules that can meet these requirements.

[0009] The object of the present invention is to provide tobacco particles that can achieve a large release of flavor components during use even with a reduced amount of tobacco particles, and to provide tobacco sticks, tobacco refill packs and heated non-burning flavor inhalers containing these tobacco particles.

[0010] Solution to the problem

[0011] The present invention includes the following embodiments.

[0012] [1] A tobacco pellet comprising tobacco raw material and a binder, wherein,

[0013] The average particle size (D50) is 600 µm or smaller, and the nicotine content is 3.8% by mass or greater.

[0014] [2] A tobacco pellet comprising tobacco raw material and a binder, wherein the tobacco raw material contains 40-60% by weight of burley tobacco leaves, wherein,

[0015] The average particle size (D50) is 600 µm or smaller, and the nicotine content is 2.6% by mass or greater.

[0016] [3] A tobacco pellet comprising tobacco raw material and a binder, wherein the tobacco raw material contains 60-80% by weight of burley tobacco leaves, wherein,

[0017] The average particle size (D50) is 600 µm or smaller, and the nicotine content is 2.9% by mass or greater.

[0018] [4] The tobacco particles disclosed in any of [1]-[3], wherein the binder is at least one binder selected from the group consisting of hydroxypropyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, sodium salt of carboxymethyl cellulose, guar gum and xanthan gum.

[0019] [5] The tobacco particles disclosed in any of [1]-[4] further contain flavoring agents.

[0020] [6] A tobacco stick or tobacco refill containing tobacco particles as disclosed in any of [1]-[5].

[0021] [7] A heated nonburning flavor inhaler comprising tobacco particles as disclosed in any of [1]-[5].

[0022] [8] A method for producing tobacco pellets, the method comprising:

[0023] The steps for preparing a tobacco composition comprising tobacco raw materials, binder and water;

[0024] The step of extruding the tobacco composition from an extrusion orifice with a diameter of 1.0-1.8 mm to obtain the shaped material;

[0025] The molding material is granulated by passing it through a sieve with a mesh diameter of 1.0-2.5 mm and simultaneously crushing it with a first rotating blade, thereby performing granulation and obtaining granulated material.

[0026] The step of drying the granulated material; and

[0027] The following steps are performed: the dried and granulated material is passed through an upper sieve with a mesh diameter of 0.657-0.84 mm, while the dried and granulated material is pulverized by a second rotating blade, and then a lower sieve is used to further remove fine particles to obtain tobacco particles.

[0028] [9] The method disclosed in [8] wherein the average particle size (D50) of these tobacco particles is 600 µm or less.

[0029]

[10] The method disclosed in [8] or [9], wherein the nicotine content of these tobacco particles is 3.8% by mass or greater.

[0030]

[11] The method disclosed in any of [8]-

[10] , wherein the moisture content of the tobacco composition is 22-27 by mass.

[0031]

[12] The method disclosed in any of [8]-

[11] , wherein the rotational speed of the first rotating blade is 3800-4600 rpm.

[0032]

[13] The method disclosed in any of [8]-

[12] , wherein the rotational speed of the second rotating blade is 3000-3600 rpm.

[0033]

[14] The method disclosed in any of [8]-

[13] , wherein the drying temperature in the step of drying the granulated material is 57-84°C.

[0034]

[15] The method disclosed in any of [8]-

[14] , wherein the mesh diameter of the lower sieve is 0.263-0.312 mm.

[0035]

[16] The method disclosed in any of [8]-

[15] further includes the step of adding a flavoring agent.

[0036] Advantages of the present invention

[0037] This invention enables the provision of tobacco particles that release a large amount of flavor components during use even with a reduced filling amount, and provides tobacco sticks, tobacco refill packs, and heated non-burning flavor inhalers containing these tobacco particles. Attached Figure Description

[0038] [ Figure 1 [This is a perspective view showing an example of a heated, non-burning flavor inhaler according to an embodiment.]

[0039] [ Figure 2 ]yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the power supply unit of a heated, non-burning flavor inhaler.

[0040] [ Figure 3 ]yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a heated, non-burning flavor inhaler.

[0041] [ Figure 4 ] is shown Figure 1 A block diagram of the main components of the power supply unit of a heated, non-burning flavor inhaler. Embodiments of the present invention

[0042] [Tobacco pellets]

[0043] (First embodiment)

[0044] The tobacco particles according to this embodiment comprise tobacco raw materials and a binder. Here, the average particle size (D50) of the tobacco particles is 600 µm or less, and the nicotine content of the tobacco particles is 3.8% by mass or greater. The average particle size (D50) of the tobacco particles according to this embodiment is 600 µm or less, thus the tobacco particles have a large surface area and release a large amount of flavor components, such as nicotine, during heating. Furthermore, the nicotine content of the tobacco particles is 3.8% by mass or greater, therefore the tobacco particles release a large amount of flavor components during heating. This means that when a heated non-burning flavor inhaler is filled with tobacco particles according to this embodiment, even if the heated non-burning flavor inhaler is filled with a small amount of tobacco particles, a large amount of flavor component release can be achieved during use.

[0045] The tobacco raw material is preferably tobacco microparticles. In this case, multiple tobacco microparticles are bound together by a binder to form tobacco pellets. The tobacco microparticles can be ground, aged tobacco leaves. Aged tobacco leaves can be obtained by subjecting the leaves of cultivated and harvested tobacco plants to a drying process on a farm, followed by a long-term aging process of one or more years in a raw material factory, and various subsequent processes (such as blending and cutting) in a production plant. Grinding can be carried out using well-known grinding machines and can be dry grinding or wet grinding.

[0046] Examples of tobacco varieties that can be listed include flue-cured tobacco, Burley tobacco, Oriental tobacco, or local tobacco, as well as other red-flowered and yellow-flowered tobacco varieties. These can be used alone or in combination of two or more. Among these, Burley tobacco is preferred from the perspective of higher content of flavor components (such as nicotine).

[0047] The average particle size (D50) of tobacco particles is preferably 200-300 µm, more preferably 250-300 µm. The average particle size (D50) of tobacco particles represents the average particle size (D50) based on a volume-based particle size distribution measured by a laser diffraction / scattering particle size distribution measurement method. The average particle size can be measured according to JIS Z8825:2013 (Particle size analysis—Laser diffraction / scattering method). The average particle size (D50) can be measured, for example, using a laser diffraction particle size distribution measurement device (e.g., the LA-950 available from HORIBA Ltd.).

[0048] The amount of tobacco raw material contained in 100% by mass tobacco pellets can be 50-90% by mass, preferably 60-80% by mass, more preferably 65-75% by mass, and even more preferably 70-75% by mass.

[0049] Binders serve to bind tobacco raw materials together. From the perspective of binding strength and flavor of tobacco raw materials, hydroxypropyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, sodium salts of carboxymethyl cellulose, guar gum, or xanthan gum are preferred as binders. These binders can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0050] The amount of binder contained in 100% by mass tobacco particles can be 3-20% by mass, preferably 5-10% by mass, and more preferably 5-8% by mass.

[0051] In addition to tobacco raw materials and binders, the tobacco particles according to this embodiment may also include, for example, flavor development aids, aerosol bases, and flavoring agents.

[0052] Flavor development aids promote the release of flavor components from tobacco particles by adjusting the pH of the tobacco particles to alkaline levels, thereby producing a flavor that satisfies the user. There are no particular limitations on flavor development aids, as long as they can adjust the pH of the tobacco particles to alkaline levels; examples include potassium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, or mixtures thereof. The pH of the tobacco particles is typically 8.5-11.0, and preferably 9.0-10.0 from the perspective of achieving a pleasant flavor.

[0053] When tobacco pellets contain flavor development aids, the amount of flavor development aids contained in 100% by mass of tobacco pellets can be 5-30% by mass, preferably 5-20% by mass, more preferably 5-10% by mass, or even more preferably 7-9% by mass.

[0054] Aerosol substrates are materials used to generate aerosol smoke by heating. There are no particular limitations on the type of aerosol substrate, and various types of natural extracts and / or their components can be selected depending on the intended use. Specific examples of aerosol substrates include: polyols such as glycerol, propylene glycol, sorbitol, xylitol, and erythritol; as well as triacetin; 1,3-butanediol; and mixtures thereof.

[0055] When tobacco particles contain an aerosol matrix, the amount of aerosol matrix contained in 100% by mass of tobacco particles is preferably 0-30% by mass.

[0056] There are no particular restrictions on the type of flavoring agent, but examples include flavor materials and taste materials. The properties of the flavoring agent are not critical, and examples include solid and liquid flavoring agents. Furthermore, a single component or a combination of multiple components can be used.

[0057] Suitable flavoring agents can be listed individually or in combination from the following: sugar-containing and sugar-based flavoring agents, licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), cocoa, chocolate, fruit juices and fruits, seasonings, alcoholic beverages, herbs, vanilla, and flower-based flavoring agents, etc.

[0058] Flavoring materials can employ a wide range of flavor components, as disclosed in, for example, the following documents: “Published Collection of Well-Known Prior Arts (Flavor and Fragrance)” (March 14, 2007, JPO); “Saishin Koryo noJiten [Encyclopedia of Scents – Latest Edition] (popular edition)” (February 25, 2012, edited by Soichi ARAI, Akio KOBAYASHI, Izumi YAJIMA, and Michiaki KAWASAKI, Asakura Publishing Co., Ltd.); and “Tobacco Flavoring for Smoking Products” (June 1972, RJ REYNOLDS TOBACCO COMPANY).

[0059] Suitable flavoring agents can be selected individually or in combination from the following: isothiocyanates, indoles and their derivatives, ethers, esters, ketones, fatty acids, aliphatic higher alcohols, aliphatic higher aldehydes, aliphatic higher hydrocarbons, thioethers, thiols, terpenes, phenolic ethers, phenols, furfural and its derivatives, aromatic alcohols, aromatic aldehydes, and lactones. Flavoring agents can also be components that produce a cooling / warming sensation.

[0060] More specifically, the flavoring ingredients that can be listed include: acetyl anethole, acetophenone, acetylpyrazine, 2-acetylthiazole, alfalfa extract, pentanol, amyl butyrate, trans-anetinoside, star anise oil, apple juice, Peru balsam oil, beeswax absolute, benzaldehyde, benzoin resin, benzyl alcohol, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenylacetate, benzyl propionate, 2,3-butanedione, 2-butanol, butyl butyrate, butyric acid, caramel, cardamom oil, carob absolute, beta-carotene, carrot juice, L-caraway. Ketones, β-caryophyllene, cinnamon bark oil, cedarwood oil, celery seed oil, chamomile oil, cinnamaldehyde, cinnamic acid, cinnamyl alcohol, cinnamyl cinnamate, citronellol, DL-citronellol, sage extract, coffee, cognac oil, coriander oil, cuminaldehyde, artemisia oil, δ-decanolide, γ-decanolide, decanoic acid, dill oil, 3,4-dimethyl-1,2-cyclopentanedione, 4,5-dimethyl-3-hydroxy-2,5-dihydrofuran-2-one, 3,7-dimethyl-6-octene Acid, 2,3-dimethylpyrazine, 2,5-dimethylpyrazine, 2,6-dimethylpyrazine, ethyl 2-methylbutyrate, ethyl acetate, ethyl butyrate, ethyl hexanoate, ethyl isovalerate, ethyl lactate, ethyl laurate, ethyl acetopropionate, ethyl maltol, ethyl octanoate, ethyl oleate, ethyl palmitate, ethyl phenylacetate, ethyl propionate, ethyl stearate, ethyl valerate, ethyl vanillin, ethyl vanillin glucoside, 2-ethyl-3,(5 or 6)-dimethylpyrazine, 5-ethyl 3-hydroxy-4-methyl-2(5H)-furanone, 2-ethyl-3-methylpyrazine, eucalyptol, fenugreek oil, broom oil, gentian root extract, geraniol, geraniol acetate, grape juice, guaiacol, guava extract, γ-heptanol, γ-caprolactone, hexanoic acid, cis-3-hexen-1-ol, hexyl acetate, hexanol, hexyl phenylacetate, honey, 4-hydroxy-3-pentenoic acid lactone, 4-hydroxy-4-(3-hydroxy-1-butenyl)-3,5,5-Trimethyl-2-cyclohexen-1-one, 4-(p-hydroxyphenyl)-2-butanone, sodium 4-hydroxyundecanoate, immortelle absolute oil, β-ionone, isoamyl acetate, isoamyl butyrate, isoamyl phenylacetate, isobutyl acetate, isobutyl phenylacetate, jasmine absolute oil, kola nut extract, labdanum oil, terpene-free lemon oil, licorice extract, linalool, linalyl acetate, Angelica sinensis root oil, maple syrup, menthol, menthone, L-menthol acetate, p-methoxybenzaldehyde, methyl-2-pyrrolidone, methyl anisyl acetate, methyl salicylate, 4'-methylacetophenone, methylcyclopentenolone, 3-methylvaleric acid, mimosa absolute oil, molasses, myristic acid, nerol, nerolidol, γ-nonanolide, and more. Cardamom oil, δ-octanolactone, octanal, caprylic acid, neroli oil, sweet orange oil, orris root oil, palmitic acid, ω-pentadecanolactone, peppermint oil, Paraguayan orange leaf oil, phenethyl alcohol, phenylethyl acetate, phenylacetic acid, jasmine aldehyde, plum extract, propenyl ethyl guaiacol, propyl acetate, 3-propylphthalide, prune juice, pyruvic acid, raisin extract, rose oil, rum, sage oil, sandalwood oil, spearmint oil, styrax absolute, marigold oil, tea distillate, α-terpineol, terpineyl acetate, 5,6,7,8-tetrahydroquinoxaline, 1,5,5,9-tetramethyl-13-oxehera (8.3.0.0(4.9))tridecane, 2,3,5,6-tetramethylpyrazine, thyme oil, tomato extract, 2-Trigecapone, Triethyl Citrate, 4-(2,6,6-Trimethyl-1-cyclohexenyl)-2-buten-4-one, 2,6,6-Trimethyl-2-cyclohexen-1,4-dione, 4-(2,6,6-Trimethyl-1,3-cyclohexadienyl)-2-buten-4-one, 2,3,5-Trimethylpyrazine, γ-Undecylactone, γ-Valuronate, Vanilla Extract, Vanillin, Veratral, Violet Leaf Absolute Oil, Citral, Mandarin Orange Oil, 4-(Acetoxymethyl)Toluene, 2-Methyl-1-Butanol, Ethyl 10-Undecenoate, Isoamyl Hexanoate, 1-Phenylethyl Acetate, Lauric Acid, 8-Mercaptomenthone, Hexyl Butyrate, Plant Powders (Herbal Powders, Flower Powders, Seasonings) Powder, tea powder, cocoa powder, carob powder, coriander powder, licorice powder, orange peel powder, rosehip kernel powder, chamomile powder, lemon verbena powder, peppermint powder, leaf powder, spearmint powder, black tea powder, etc.), camphor, isoprene alcohol, eucalyptol, peppermint oil, eucalyptus oil, 2-1-menthoxyethanol (COOLACT (registered trademark) 5), 3-1-menthoxy-1,2-propanediol (COOLACT (registered trademark) 10), 1-menthyl-3-hydroxybutyrate (COOLACT (registered trademark) 20), p-menthane-3,8-diol (COOLACT (registered trademark) 38D), N-(2-hydroxy-2-phenylethyl)-2-isopropyl-5,5-Dimethylcyclohexane-1-carboxamide (COOLACT (registered trademark) 370), N-(4-(cyanomethyl)phenyl)-2-isopropyl-5,5-dimethylcyclohexanecarboxamide (COOLACT (registered trademark) 400), N-(3-hydroxy-4-methoxyphenyl)-2-isopropyl-5,5-dimethylcyclohexanecarboxamide, N-ethyl-p-menthane-3-carboxamide (WS-3), ethyl-2-(p- Menthane-3-carbamoyl)acetate (WS-5), N-(4-methoxyphenyl)-p-menthaneformamide (WS-12), 2-isopropyl-N,2,3-trimethylbutyramide (WS-23), 3-1-menthoxy-2-methylpropane-1,2-diol, 2-1-menthoxyethane-1-ol, 3-1-menthoxypropane-1-ol, 4-1-menthoxybutane-1-ol, menthyl lactate (FEMA) Menthone glycerol acetal (Frescolat MGA, FEMA 3807, FEMA 3808), 2-(2-1-menthoxyethyl)ethanol, menthyl glyoxylate, menthyl 2-pyrrolidone-5-carboxylic acid, menthyl succinate (FEMA 3810), N-(2-(pyridin-2-yl)ethyl)-3-p-menthaneformamide (FEMA 4549), N-(ethoxycarbonylmethyl)-p-menthane-3-carboxamide, N-(4-cyanomethylphenyl)-p-menthaneformamide, and N-(4-carbamoylphenyl)-p-menthaneformamide, etc.

[0061] Components exhibiting sweetness, sourness, saltiness, umami, bitterness, astringency, and fullness can be listed as examples of taste materials. Sugars, sugar alcohols, and sweeteners can be listed as examples of components exhibiting sweetness. Monosaccharides, disaccharides, oligosaccharides, and polysaccharides can be listed as examples of sugars. Natural and synthetic sweeteners can be listed as examples of sweeteners. Organic acids (and their sodium salts) can be listed as examples of components exhibiting sourness. Acetic acid, adipic acid, citric acid, lactic acid, malic acid, succinic acid, and tartaric acid can be listed as examples of organic acids. Caffeine (extract), naringin, and wormwood extract can be listed as examples of components exhibiting bitterness. Sodium chloride, potassium chloride, sodium citrate, potassium citrate, sodium acetate, and potassium acetate can be listed as examples of components exhibiting saltiness. Monosodium glutamate, sodium inosinate, and sodium guanylate can be listed as examples of components exhibiting umami. Tannins and persimmon phenols can be cited as examples of components that exhibit astringency.

[0062] When tobacco pellets contain flavoring agents, the amount of flavoring agents contained in 100% by mass of tobacco pellets can be 5-20% by mass, preferably 9-13% by mass.

[0063] The tobacco particles according to this embodiment can be substantially spherical. The average particle size (D50) of the tobacco particles can be 600 µm or smaller, preferably 550 µm or smaller, and can be 400 µm or larger. If this value is greater than the upper limit, this may result in a decrease in nicotine delivery. If this value is less than the lower limit, this may result in a greater intensity of flavor component stimulation. The average particle size (D50) of the tobacco particles represents the average particle size (D50) based on the volume-based particle size distribution measured by a laser diffraction / scattering particle size distribution measurement method. The average particle size can be measured by the laser diffraction / scattering particle size distribution measurement method according to JIS Z8825:2013 (Particle size analysis - laser diffraction / scattering method). The average particle size (D50) can be measured, for example, by using a laser diffraction particle size distribution measurement device (e.g., the LA-950 available from HORIBA Ltd.).

[0064] The tobacco particles according to this embodiment preferably have a nicotine content of 3.8% to 6.0% by mass. Since the nicotine content of the tobacco particles is 3.8% by mass or greater, a sufficient amount of flavor components is released during heating. If the nicotine content of the tobacco particles exceeds 6.0% by mass, this may result in a greater intensity of nicotine stimulation.

[0065] (Second Embodiment)

[0066] The tobacco particles according to this embodiment comprise tobacco raw materials and a binder, the tobacco raw materials containing 40-60% by mass of Burley tobacco leaves. Here, the average particle size (D50) of the tobacco particles is 600 µm or less, and the nicotine content of the tobacco particles is 2.6% by mass or greater. Similarly, in this embodiment, as in the first embodiment, when the heated non-burning flavor inhaler is filled with the tobacco particles according to this embodiment, a large amount of flavor component release can be achieved during use even if the heated non-burning flavor inhaler is filled with a small amount of tobacco particles.

[0067] This embodiment can use the same materials and blending amounts as the first embodiment, except that the tobacco raw material contains 40-60% by mass of Burley tobacco leaves. Furthermore, the tobacco particles according to this embodiment can have the same shape and average particle size (D50) as in the first embodiment.

[0068] The tobacco particles according to this embodiment preferably have a nicotine content of 2.6% to 4.0% by mass. Since the nicotine content of the tobacco particles is 2.6% by mass or greater, a sufficient amount of flavor components are released during heating.

[0069] (Third embodiment)

[0070] The tobacco particles according to this embodiment comprise tobacco raw materials and a binder, wherein the tobacco raw materials contain 60-80% by mass of Burley tobacco leaves. Here, the average particle size (D50) of the tobacco particles is 600 µm or less, and the nicotine content of the tobacco particles is 2.9% by mass or greater. Similarly, in this embodiment, as in the first and second embodiments, when the heated non-burning flavor inhaler is filled with the tobacco particles according to this embodiment, a large amount of flavor component release can be achieved during use even if the heated non-burning flavor inhaler is filled with a small amount of tobacco particles.

[0071] This embodiment can use the same materials and blending amounts as the first embodiment, except that the tobacco raw material contains 60-80% by mass of Burley tobacco leaves. Furthermore, the tobacco particles according to this embodiment can have the same shape and average particle size (D50) as in the first embodiment.

[0072] The tobacco particles according to this embodiment preferably have a nicotine content of 2.9% to 5.0% by mass. Since the nicotine content of the tobacco particles is 2.9% by mass or greater, a sufficient amount of flavor components are released during heating.

[0073] There are no particular limitations on the methods for producing tobacco pellets according to the first, second, and third embodiments. However, the method for producing tobacco pellets described below is preferred because it enables the reduction of the moisture content of the tobacco composition constituting the raw material, while also reducing the particle size of the tobacco pellets, thereby increasing the nicotine content of the resulting tobacco pellets.

[0074] [Methods for producing tobacco pellets]

[0075] The method for producing tobacco pellets according to this embodiment includes the following steps: a step of preparing a tobacco composition comprising tobacco raw material, a binder, and water (hereinafter also referred to as the "tobacco composition preparation step"); a step of extruding the tobacco composition from an extrusion orifice with a diameter of 1.0-1.8 mm to obtain a shaped material (hereinafter also referred to as the "extrusion step"); a step of granulating the shaped material by passing it through a sieve with a mesh diameter of 1.0-2.5 mm while simultaneously crushing the shaped material with a first rotating blade, to perform granulation and obtain granulated material (hereinafter also referred to as the "granulation step"); a step of drying the granulated material (hereinafter also referred to as the "drying step"); and the following step: passing the dried granulated material through an upper sieve with a mesh diameter of 0.657-0.84 mm while simultaneously crushing the dried granulated material with a second rotating blade, and then further removing fine particles using a lower sieve to obtain tobacco pellets (hereinafter also referred to as the "tobacco pellet production step"). The method for producing tobacco pellets according to this embodiment makes it easy and efficient to produce tobacco pellets according to the above embodiment.

[0076] The method for producing tobacco pellets according to this embodiment may also include other steps besides those described above. For example, the step of adding a flavoring agent (hereinafter also referred to as the "flavoring agent addition step") can be listed as another step.

[0077] (Preparation steps of the tobacco composition)

[0078] In this step, a tobacco composition comprising tobacco raw material, binder, and water is prepared. The types of tobacco raw material and binder, and their blending amounts, are the same as those of the tobacco particles according to the above embodiments. The tobacco composition is extruded through small extrusion orifices and granulated in a granulation step described later; therefore, the tobacco composition contains water from the perspective of maintaining the flowability of the tobacco composition. However, if the tobacco composition contains a large amount of water, thorough heating will be required in the drying step (described later), and thus flavor components will be lost during drying, thereby reducing the content of flavor components in the resulting tobacco particles. For this reason, the tobacco composition preferably has a suitable moisture content. Specifically, the moisture content of the tobacco composition is preferably 22-27% by mass, more preferably 23-26% by mass.

[0079] In addition to tobacco raw materials, binders, and water, tobacco compositions may also include flavor development aids and aerosol bases. Tobacco compositions can be prepared, for example, by mixing starting materials comprising tobacco raw materials, binders, and water in a kneader.

[0080] (Extrusion step)

[0081] In this step, the tobacco composition obtained in the tobacco composition preparation step is extruded through extrusion orifices with a diameter of 1.0-1.8 mm to obtain a shaped material. For example, a wet extruder is used, through a plate (screen) with numerous extrusion orifices having a diameter of 1.0-1.8 mm, to extrude the tobacco composition into a cylindrical shape (elongated cylindrical shape). During extrusion, the tobacco composition is preferably extruded at ambient temperature and at a pressure of 2 kN or greater. For example, an extrusion mixer (Extrudomix) (trade name, manufactured by Hosokawa Micron) can be used as a wet extruder.

[0082] (Particle separation step)

[0083] In this step, the shaped material obtained in the extrusion step is passed through a sieve with a mesh diameter of 1.0-2.5 mm, while simultaneously being pulverized by the first rotating blades of a first pelletizer to granulate and obtain granulated material. For example, the shaped material is introduced into a pelletizer comprising first rotating blades and a sieve with a mesh diameter of 1.0-2.5 mm. The shaped material is pulverized by the rotation of the first rotating blades, causing some particles with reduced particle size to exit through openings in the sieve with a mesh diameter of 1.0-2.5 mm, thus obtaining granulated material.

[0084] The rotational speed of the first rotating blade is preferably 3800-4600 rpm, more preferably 3800-4200 rpm. Setting the rotational speed of the first rotating blade within the above range further promotes the crushing of the shaped material, enabling the efficient production of small, granulated material. Furthermore, in the method according to this embodiment, the mesh diameter of the sieve (screen) is 1.0-2.5 mm. By setting the mesh diameter within the above range, small, granulated material can be obtained. For example, a feather mill (trade name, manufactured by Hosokawa Micron) can be used as the first granulator in this step.

[0085] (Drying step)

[0086] In this step, the granulated material obtained in the granulation step is dried. The drying temperature is preferably 57-84°C. The granulated material can be thoroughly dried at a drying temperature of 57°C or higher. Furthermore, a drying temperature of 84°C or lower allows for the suppression of flavor component loss caused by drying. The moisture content of the dried granulated material can be, for example, 10-19% by mass.

[0087] (Tobacco pellet production steps)

[0088] In this step, the granulated material from the drying step is passed through an upper sieve with a mesh diameter of 0.657-0.84 mm, while simultaneously being pulverized by the second rotating blades of a second pelletizer. Then, a lower sieve is used to further remove fine particles to obtain tobacco pellets. For example, the dried, granulated material is introduced into a tobacco pellet production line, which includes: a second rotating blade; an upper / lower vibrating screen having an upper sieve with a mesh diameter of 0.657-0.84 mm and a lower sieve with a smaller mesh diameter (e.g., a lower sieve with a mesh diameter of 0.263-0.312 mm); and a device for removing fine particles. The pulverization of the dried, granulated material by the second rotating blades causes some particles with reduced particle size to pass through the upper sieve with a mesh diameter of 0.657-0.84 mm. Particles that have passed through the upper sieve are separated by a lower sieve with a mesh diameter of 0.263-0.312 mm, and fine particles that have passed through the lower sieve are removed by a removal device. At the same time, the remaining particles that have not passed through the lower sieve are discharged for use as tobacco pellets.

[0089] The rotational speed of the second rotating blade is preferably 3000-3600 rpm. Setting the rotational speed of the second rotating blade within this range further promotes the crushing of the granulated material, enabling the efficient production of small tobacco particles. Furthermore, in the method according to this embodiment, the mesh diameter of the upper sieve is 0.657-0.84 mm. Smaller tobacco particles can be obtained by setting the mesh diameter within the aforementioned range. The mesh diameter of the lower sieve is preferably 0.263-0.312 mm. For example, a disintegrator (trade name, manufactured by Hosokawa Micron) can be used as the second granulator in this step.

[0090] (Flavor additive steps)

[0091] In this step, a flavoring agent is added as needed. For example, the flavoring agent is added to the tobacco pellets obtained in the tobacco pellet production step. The flavoring agent used can be the same as the flavoring agent used as tobacco pellets according to the above embodiment. The flavoring agent can be added while the tobacco pellets are being stirred using a batch mixer having, for example, a two-ribbon screw that rotates / returns along the inner wall surface of the casing.

[0092] [Tobacco sticks, tobacco refill packs, and heated non-burning flavor inhalers]

[0093] The tobacco stick or tobacco refill pack according to this embodiment includes tobacco particles according to this embodiment. Furthermore, the heated non-burning flavor inhaler according to this embodiment includes tobacco particles according to this embodiment. The tobacco stick, tobacco refill pack, and heated non-burning flavor inhaler according to this embodiment all include tobacco particles according to this embodiment, and therefore a large amount of flavor component release can be achieved during use.

[0094] A heated non-burning flavor inhaler is a flavor inhaler in which the tobacco filling material is heated rather than burned to deliver flavor to the user. Tobacco particles according to embodiments may be incorporated into the body of the heated non-burning flavor inhaler, or may be incorporated into a filled tobacco product forming part of the heated non-burning flavor inhaler. As a specific example of the latter, tobacco particles may be incorporated into a tobacco stick prepared by wrapping tobacco particles in wrapping paper, or tobacco particles may be incorporated into a tobacco refill pack prepared by containing tobacco particles in a refill container. That is, another aspect provides a tobacco stick comprising tobacco particles according to embodiments. Furthermore, another aspect provides a tobacco refill pack comprising tobacco particles according to embodiments. For example, a tobacco refill pack may include tobacco particles according to embodiments and a heat-resistant container for containing the tobacco particles.

[0095] The following will refer to Figures 1 to 4 An example of a heated, non-burning flavor inhaler according to this embodiment is described. Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing an example of a heated, non-burning flavor inhaler. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the power supply unit of a heated, non-burning flavor inhaler. Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a heated, non-burning flavor inhaler. Figure 4 It shows Figure 1 A block diagram of the main components of the power supply unit of a heated, non-burning flavor inhaler.

[0096] like Figures 1 to 4 The heated, non-burning flavor inhaler 100 shown has a rod shape extending in a predetermined direction (hereinafter referred to as "longitudinal direction A"). Figure 1 As shown, the heated non-burning flavor inhaler 100 is arranged along the longitudinal direction A with a power supply unit 10, a first tobacco cartridge 20, and a second tobacco cartridge 30. The first tobacco cartridge 20 is detachable from the power supply unit 10, and the second tobacco cartridge 30 is detachable from the first tobacco cartridge 20. In other words, the first tobacco cartridge 20 and the second tobacco cartridge 30 are each replaceable.

[0097] (Power supply unit)

[0098] like Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the power supply unit 10 houses a power supply 12, a charger 13, a control unit 50, and various types of sensors within a cylindrical power supply unit housing 11. The power supply 12 is a rechargeable secondary battery, and preferably a lithium-ion secondary battery.

[0099] A discharge terminal 41 is disposed on a top portion 11a, which is located on one end side (first cartridge 20 side) of the power supply unit housing 11 in the longitudinal direction A. The discharge terminal 41 is configured to protrude from the top of the top portion 11a toward the first cartridge 20 and is configured to be electrically connected to a load 21 in the first cartridge 20.

[0100] Furthermore, an air supply section 42 for supplying air to the load 21 in the first smoke cartridge 20 is provided on the top portion 11a, near the discharge terminal 41.

[0101] A charging terminal (not shown) that can be electrically connected to an external power source capable of charging the power source 12 is provided on the bottom portion 11b, which is located on the other end side of the power supply unit housing 11 in the longitudinal direction A (the side opposite to the first cartridge 20).

[0102] Furthermore, a user-operable control unit 14 is provided on the side of the top portion 11a of the power supply unit housing 11. The control unit 14 is composed of a button switch or a touch panel, etc., and is used to enable / disable the control unit 50 and various types of sensors to reflect the user's intentions.

[0103] like Figure 4 As shown, in the heated non-burning flavor inhaler 100, a control unit 50 performing various types of controls is connected to a charger 13, an operating section 14, various types of sensor devices, and a memory 18. These sensor devices include an inhalation sensor 15 for detecting inhalation actions, a voltage sensor 16 for measuring the voltage of the power supply 12, and a temperature sensor 17 for detecting temperature. The memory stores information such as the number of inhalation actions or the number of times the load 21 is energized. The inhalation sensor 15 may be composed of a capacitive microphone or a pressure sensor, etc. The control unit 50 is specifically a processor (MCU: microcontroller unit). More specifically, the processor is a circuit incorporating circuit elements such as semiconductor components.

[0104] (First smoke bomb)

[0105] like Figure 3As shown, the first cartridge 20 includes, inside the cylindrical cartridge shell 27: a reservoir 23 for storing an aerosol substrate 22; an electrical load 21 for atomizing the aerosol substrate 22; a wicking member 24 for drawing the aerosol substrate from the reservoir 23 to the load 21; an aerosol flow path 25 through which the aerosol generated by the atomization of the aerosol substrate 22 flows to the second cartridge 30; and an end cap 26 for accommodating a portion of the second cartridge 30.

[0106] The reservoir 23 is partitioned around the periphery of the aerosol flow path 25 and stores the aerosol substrate 22. The reservoir 23 may contain a porous body, such as a resin mesh or cotton, which may be impregnated with the aerosol substrate 22. The reservoir 23 may also store only the aerosol substrate 22 without containing the porous body, such as a resin mesh or cotton. The aerosol substrate 22 may include a liquid, such as glycerol, propylene glycol, or water.

[0107] The wicking member 24 is a liquid holding member that uses capillary action to draw the aerosol substrate 22 from the reservoir 23 to the load 21, and is formed of glass fiber or porous ceramic or the like.

[0108] The load 21 atomizes the aerosol substrate 22 using power supplied from the power source 12 via the discharge terminal 41 without associated burning. The load 21 is composed of a heating wire (coil) wound at a predetermined pitch. It should be noted that the load 21 should be an element capable of generating aerosol by atomizing the aerosol substrate 22, and is, for example, a heating element or an ultrasonic generator. Heating elements that may be cited include heating resistors, ceramic heaters, and dielectric heaters, etc.

[0109] The aerosol flow path 25 is located downstream of the load 21, on the center line L of the power supply unit 10.

[0110] The end cap 26 includes: a cartridge receiving portion 26a that receives a portion of the second cartridge 30; and a communication path 26b that provides communication between the aerosol flow path 25 and the cartridge receiving portion 26a.

[0111] (Second smoke cartridge)

[0112] like Figure 3 As shown, the second cartridge 30 stores the flavor source 31 constituting the tobacco particles according to the embodiment. The second cartridge 30 is detachably housed in a cartridge receiving portion 26a provided in the end cap 26 of the first cartridge 20. A mouthpiece 32 for user use is formed at the end portion of the second cartridge 30 on the side opposite to the first cartridge 20. It should be noted that the mouthpiece 32 is not limited to a non-separable structure integrated with the second cartridge 30, but can also be detachable from the second cartridge 30. Configuring the mouthpiece 32 as a separate element from the power supply unit 10 and the first cartridge 20 allows the mouthpiece 32 to remain hygienic.

[0113] The second cartridge 30 adds flavor to the aerosol by passing the aerosol generated by atomizing the aerosol substrate 22 from the load 21 through the flavor source 31.

[0114] In the heated non-burning flavor inhaler 100, flavored aerosols can be generated using an aerosol substrate 22, a flavor source 31, and a load 21. That is, the aerosol substrate 22 and the flavor source 31 can be considered as aerosol generation sources for generating aerosols.

[0115] The heated non-burning flavor inhaler 100 has a configuration in which the aerosol base 22 and the flavor source 31 are separate elements, but the heated non-burning flavor inhaler can also have a configuration in which the aerosol base 22 and the flavor source 31 are formed into a single element.

[0116] In the heated non-burning flavor inhaler 100 configured as described above, air flowing in from the air inlet (not shown) provided in the power supply unit housing 11 passes through the air supply section 42 near the load 21 in the first tobacco cartridge 20, such as... Figure 3 As indicated by arrow B in the diagram. Load 21 atomizes the aerosol substrate 22 drawn from or moved from the reservoir 23 by means of the wick 24. The atomized aerosol flows along with air flowing in from the air inlet through the aerosol flow path 25 and is supplied to the second cartridge 30 via the connecting path 26b. The aerosol supplied to the second cartridge 30 is flavored by passing through the flavor source 31 and is supplied to the mouthpiece 32.

[0117] The heated non-burning flavor inhaler 100 also includes a notification unit 45 for disseminating various types of information. The notification unit 45 may be composed of a light-emitting element, a vibrating element, or a sound output element. Furthermore, the notification unit 45 may be a combination of two or more of these elements. The notification unit 45 may be located in either the power supply unit 10, the first cartridge 20, or the second cartridge 30, but is preferably located in the power supply unit 10 to shorten the wiring from the power source 12. For example, the notification unit 45 may be positioned around the operating portion 14, where the area is translucent, and the notification unit 45 emits light using a light-emitting element such as an LED. Example

[0118] Specific examples of the embodiments will be described below, but the invention is not limited thereto.

[0119] [Example 1]

[0120] (Preparation of tobacco pellets)

[0121] Tobacco leaves containing 55% by mass of Burley tobacco leaves were prepared as tobacco raw material. A tobacco composition was prepared by mixing 63% by mass of the tobacco raw material, 5% by mass of carboxymethyl cellulose as a binder, 24% by mass of water, and potassium carbonate (the remainder) as a pH adjuster in a kneader. The tobacco composition was then extruded into a cylindrical shape (elongated cylindrical shape) using a wet extruder (trade name: Extrudomix, manufactured by Hosokawa Micron) through a plate (sieve) with numerous extrusion orifices having a diameter of 1.0-1.8 mm to obtain a shaped material. The temperature during the extrusion of the tobacco composition was 65°C. The shaped material was then introduced into a pelletizer (trade name: Feather Mill, manufactured by Hosokawa Micron), which included a first rotating blade and a sieve forming a mesh with an aperture diameter of 1.0-2.5 mm. The first rotating blade rotated at a speed of 3800-4600 rpm to pulverize the shaped material. Some of the pulverized forming material is discharged through openings in a sieve with a mesh diameter of 1.0-2.5 mm, resulting in granulated material. The granulated material is then dried at 75°C to obtain granulated material with a moisture content of 12.5% ​​by mass. The dried granulated material is then fed into a second granulator (trade name: Disintegrator, manufactured by Hosokawa Micron), which includes: a second rotating blade, an upper / lower stage vibrating screen with an upper sieve having a mesh diameter of 0.657-0.84 mm and a lower sieve having a mesh diameter of 0.263-0.312 mm, and a device for removing fine particles. The second rotating blade rotates at a speed of 3000-3600 rpm to pulverize the granulated material. Some of the pulverized and granulated material is passed through an upper sieve with a mesh diameter of 0.657-0.84 mm and then separated by a lower sieve with a mesh diameter of 0.263-0.312 mm. Fine particles passing through the lower sieve are removed by a removal device. Simultaneously, the remaining particles that did not pass through the lower sieve are discharged, yielding tobacco granules. Flavoring agents are then added to the tobacco granules. The tobacco granules in this example were produced using the method described above. The average particle size (D50) of the tobacco granules is 473 µm, and the nicotine content is 2.70% by mass.

[0122] (Evaluation of tobacco particles)

[0123] Figures 1 to 4The second cartridge 30 of the heated non-burning flavor inhaler 100 shown is filled with 260 mg of the obtained tobacco particles. The amount of nicotine contained in the smoke was measured using the heated non-burning flavor inhaler 100. Specifically, the heated non-burning flavor inhaler 100 was inhaled using a smoking machine (55 cc, 2-second rectangular wave, 50 puffs), and the smoke was captured by a Cambridge filter. The nicotine captured by the Cambridge filter was quantitatively analyzed using gas chromatography (using FID as a detector). The results are shown in Table 1.

[0124] [Example 2]

[0125] Tobacco pellets were prepared in the same manner as in Example 1. The tobacco pellets were evaluated in the same manner as in Example 1, except that the filling weight of the tobacco pellets was changed to 290 mg. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0126] [Example 3]

[0127] Tobacco pellets were prepared in the same manner as in Example 1. The tobacco pellets were evaluated in the same manner as in Example 1, except that the filling weight of the tobacco pellets was changed to 310 mg. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0128] [Comparison Example 1]

[0129] (Preparation of tobacco pellets)

[0130] Tobacco leaves containing 55% by mass of Burley tobacco leaves were prepared as tobacco raw material. A tobacco composition was prepared by mixing 63% by mass of the tobacco raw material, 5% by mass of carboxymethyl cellulose as a binder, 25% by mass of water, and potassium carbonate (the remainder) as a pH adjuster in a kneader. The tobacco composition was then extruded into a cylindrical shape (elongated cylindrical shape) using a wet extruder (trade name: Extrudomix, manufactured by Hosokawa Micron) through a plate (sieve) with numerous extrusion orifices of 0.9 mm in diameter to obtain a shaped material. The temperature during the extrusion of the tobacco composition was 75°C. The shaped material was then introduced into a pelletizer (trade name: Feather Mill, manufactured by Hosokawa Micron), which included a first rotating blade and a sieve forming a mesh with an aperture diameter of 3.0 mm. The first rotating blade rotated at a speed of 3800-4600 rpm to pulverize the shaped material. Some of the pulverized forming material is discharged through an opening in a sieve with a mesh diameter of 3.0 mm, resulting in granulated material. The granulated material is then dried at 100°C to obtain granulated material with a moisture content of 12.5% ​​by mass. The dried granulated material is then fed into a second granulator (trade name: Disintegrator, manufactured by Hosokawa Micron), which includes: a second rotating blade, an upper / lower stage vibrating screen with an upper sieve having a mesh diameter of 0.657-0.840 mm and a lower sieve having a mesh diameter of 0.263-0.312 mm, and a device for removing fine particles. The second rotating blade rotates at a speed of 3000-3600 rpm to pulverize the granulated material. Some of the pulverized and granulated material is passed through an upper sieve with a mesh diameter of 0.657-0.840 mm and then separated by a lower sieve with a mesh diameter of 0.263-0.312 mm. Fine particles passing through the lower sieve are removed by a removal device. Simultaneously, the remaining particles that did not pass through the lower sieve are discharged, yielding tobacco granules. Flavoring agents are then added to the tobacco granules. The tobacco granules in this comparative example were produced using the method described above. The average particle size (D50) of the tobacco granules was 750 µm, and the nicotine content was 2.47% by mass.

[0131] (Evaluation of tobacco particles)

[0132] The tobacco particles were evaluated in the same manner as in Example 1, except that the filling amount of the tobacco particles was changed to 350 mg. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0133] [Comparative Example 2]

[0134] (Preparation of tobacco pellets)

[0135] Granulated material was prepared using a mixing granulator (trade name: Vertical Granulator, manufactured by Powrex). Specifically, a tobacco composition with the same composition as in Example 1 was prepared, except that the amount of water used in the blend was changed to 37.5% by mass, and this tobacco composition was processed in the aforementioned mixing granulator to obtain granulated material. The resulting granulated material was dried at 85°C to obtain granulated material with a moisture content of 12.5% ​​by mass. The dried granulated material was then introduced into a second granulator (trade name: Disintegrator, manufactured by Hosokawa Micron), which included: a second rotating blade, an upper / lower vibrating screen having an upper sieve with a mesh diameter of 0.657-0.840 mm and a lower sieve with a mesh diameter of 0.263-0.312 mm, and a device for removing fine particles. The second rotating blade rotated at a speed of 3000-3600 rpm to pulverize the granulated material. Some of the pulverized and granulated material is passed through an upper sieve with a mesh diameter of 0.657-0.840 mm and then separated by a lower sieve with a mesh diameter of 0.263-0.312 mm. Fine particles passing through the lower sieve are removed by a removal device. Simultaneously, the remaining particles that did not pass through the lower sieve are discharged, yielding tobacco granules. Flavoring agents are then added to the tobacco granules. The tobacco granules in this comparative example were produced using the method described above. The average particle size (D50) of the tobacco granules was 498 µm, and the nicotine content was 2.19% by mass.

[0136] (Evaluation of tobacco particles)

[0137] The tobacco particles were evaluated in the same manner as in Example 1, except that the filling amount of the tobacco particles was changed to 290 mg. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0138] [Example 4]

[0139] (Preparation of tobacco pellets)

[0140] Tobacco pellets were prepared in the same manner as in Example 1, except that tobacco leaves containing 65% by mass of Burley tobacco leaves were used as the tobacco raw material. The average particle size (D50) of the tobacco pellets was 480 µm, and the nicotine content was 2.95% by mass.

[0141] (Evaluation of tobacco particles)

[0142] The tobacco particles were evaluated in the same manner as in Example 1. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0143] [Example 5]

[0144] Tobacco pellets were prepared in the same manner as in Example 4. The tobacco pellets were evaluated in the same manner as in Example 4, except that the filling weight of the tobacco pellets was changed to 290 mg. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0145] [Example 6]

[0146] Tobacco pellets were prepared in the same manner as in Example 4. The tobacco pellets were evaluated in the same manner as in Example 4, except that the filling weight of the tobacco pellets was changed to 310 mg. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0147] [Comparative Example 3]

[0148] (Preparation of tobacco pellets)

[0149] Tobacco pellets were prepared in the same manner as in Comparative Example 1, except that tobacco leaves containing 65% by mass of Burley tobacco leaves were used as the tobacco raw material. The average particle size (D50) of the tobacco pellets was 750 µm, and the nicotine content was 2.79% by mass.

[0150] (Evaluation of tobacco particles)

[0151] The tobacco particles were evaluated in the same manner as in Comparative Example 1. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0152] [Comparative Example 4]

[0153] (Preparation of tobacco pellets)

[0154] Tobacco pellets were prepared in the same manner as in Comparative Example 2, except that tobacco leaves containing 65% by mass of Burley tobacco leaves were used as the tobacco raw material. The average particle size (D50) of the tobacco pellets was 490 µm.

[0155] (Evaluation of tobacco particles)

[0156] The tobacco particles were evaluated in the same manner as in Comparative Example 2. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0157] [Example 7]

[0158] (Preparation of tobacco pellets)

[0159] Tobacco leaves containing 100% by mass of Burley tobacco leaves were prepared as tobacco raw material. A tobacco composition was prepared by mixing 63% by mass of the tobacco raw material, 5% by mass of carboxymethyl cellulose as a binder, 25% by mass of water, and potassium carbonate (the remainder) as a pH adjuster in a kneader. Tobacco pellets were prepared in the same manner as in Example 1, except that the above-described tobacco composition was used. The average particle size (D50) of the tobacco pellets was 488 µm, and the nicotine content was 3.91% by mass.

[0160] (Evaluation of tobacco particles)

[0161] The tobacco particles were evaluated in the same manner as in Example 1. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0162] [Example 8]

[0163] Tobacco pellets were prepared in the same manner as in Example 7. The tobacco pellets were evaluated in the same manner as in Example 7, except that the filling weight of the tobacco pellets was changed to 290 mg. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0164] [Example 9]

[0165] Tobacco pellets were prepared in the same manner as in Example 7. The tobacco pellets were evaluated in the same manner as in Example 7, except that the filling weight of the tobacco pellets was changed to 310 mg. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0166] [Comparative Example 5]

[0167] (Preparation of tobacco pellets)

[0168] Tobacco leaves containing 100% by mass of Burley tobacco leaves were prepared as tobacco raw material. A tobacco composition was prepared by mixing 60% by mass of the tobacco raw material, 5% by mass of carboxymethyl cellulose as a binder, 28% by mass of water, and potassium carbonate (the remainder) as a pH adjuster in a kneader. Tobacco pellets were prepared in the same manner as in Comparative Example 1, except that the above-described tobacco composition was used. The average particle size (D50) of the tobacco pellets was 750 µm, and the nicotine content was 3.57% by mass.

[0169] (Evaluation of tobacco particles)

[0170] The tobacco particles were evaluated in the same manner as in Comparative Example 1. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0171] [Comparative Example 6]

[0172] (Preparation of tobacco pellets)

[0173] Tobacco leaves containing 100% by mass of Burley tobacco leaves were prepared as tobacco raw material. A tobacco composition was prepared by mixing 52% by mass of the tobacco raw material, 4% by mass of carboxymethyl cellulose as a binder, 37.5% by mass of water, and potassium carbonate (the remainder) as a pH adjuster in a kneader. Tobacco pellets were prepared in the same manner as in Comparative Example 2, except that the above-described tobacco composition was used. The average particle size (D50) of the tobacco pellets was 495 µm, and the nicotine content was 3.19% by mass.

[0174] (Evaluation of tobacco particles)

[0175] The tobacco particles were evaluated in the same manner as in Comparative Example 2. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0176] [Example 10]

[0177] (Preparation of tobacco pellets)

[0178] Tobacco leaves containing 100% by mass of Burley tobacco leaves were prepared as tobacco raw material. A tobacco composition was prepared by mixing 63% by mass of the tobacco raw material, 5% by mass of carboxymethyl cellulose as a binder, 25% by mass of water, and potassium carbonate (the remainder) as a pH adjuster in a kneader. Tobacco pellets were prepared in the same manner as in Example 1, except that the above-described tobacco composition was used. The average particle size (D50) of the tobacco pellets was 473 µm, and the nicotine content was 3.81% by mass.

[0179] (Evaluation of tobacco particles)

[0180] The tobacco particles were evaluated in the same manner as in Example 1. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0181] [Example 11]

[0182] Tobacco pellets were prepared in the same manner as in Example 10. The tobacco pellets were evaluated in the same manner as in Example 10, except that the filling weight of the tobacco pellets was changed to 290 mg. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0183] [Example 12]

[0184] Tobacco pellets were prepared in the same manner as in Example 10. The tobacco pellets were evaluated in the same manner as in Example 10, except that the filling weight of the tobacco pellets was changed to 310 mg. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0185] [Comparative Example 7]

[0186] (Preparation of tobacco pellets)

[0187] Tobacco leaves containing 100% by mass of Burley tobacco leaves were prepared as tobacco raw material. A tobacco composition was prepared by mixing 60% by mass of the tobacco raw material, 5% by mass of carboxymethyl cellulose as a binder, 28% by mass of water, and potassium carbonate (the remainder) as a pH adjuster in a kneader. Tobacco pellets were prepared in the same manner as in Comparative Example 1, except that the above-described tobacco composition was used. The average particle size (D50) of the tobacco pellets was 750 µm, and the nicotine content was 3.72% by mass.

[0188] (Evaluation of tobacco particles)

[0189] The tobacco particles were evaluated in the same manner as in Comparative Example 1. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0190] [Comparative Example 8]

[0191] (Preparation of tobacco pellets)

[0192] Tobacco leaves containing 100% by mass of Burley tobacco leaves were prepared as tobacco raw material. A tobacco composition was prepared by mixing 52% by mass of the tobacco raw material, 4% by mass of carboxymethyl cellulose as a binder, 37.5% by mass of water, and potassium carbonate (the remainder) as a pH adjuster in a kneader. Tobacco pellets were prepared in the same manner as in Comparative Example 2, except that the above-described tobacco composition was used. The average particle size (D50) of the tobacco pellets was 480 µm, and the nicotine content was 3.17% by mass.

[0193] (Evaluation of tobacco particles)

[0194] The tobacco particles were evaluated in the same manner as in Comparative Example 2. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0195] [Table 1]

[0196]

[0197] As shown in Table 1, when the burley tobacco content is the same, comparing the tobacco particles of Examples 1-12 according to the embodiments with the tobacco particles of Comparative Examples 1-8, it can be seen that even with a reduction in the amount of tobacco particles, the smoke from the tobacco particles of Examples 1-12 still contains a larger amount of nicotine.

[0198] [Reference Example 1]

[0199] (Preparation of tobacco pellets)

[0200] Tobacco leaves containing 65% by weight of Burley tobacco leaves were prepared as tobacco raw material. A tobacco composition was prepared by mixing 65% by weight of the tobacco raw material, 5% by weight of carboxymethyl cellulose as a binder, 22% by weight of water, and potassium carbonate (the remainder) as a pH adjuster in a kneader. Tobacco pellets were prepared in the same manner as in Example 1, except that the above tobacco composition was used and no flavoring agent was added. The average particle size (D50) of the tobacco pellets was 432 µm.

[0201] (Evaluation of tobacco particles)

[0202] The tobacco particles were evaluated in the same manner as in Example 2, except that the second tobacco cartridge 30 filled with tobacco particles was heated at 60°C during the evaluation, and the number of puffs was changed to 30. The results are shown in Table 2.

[0203] [Reference Example 2]

[0204] (Preparation of tobacco pellets)

[0205] Tobacco leaves containing 65% by weight of Burley tobacco leaves were prepared as tobacco raw material. A tobacco composition was prepared by mixing 65% by weight of the tobacco raw material, 5% by weight of carboxymethyl cellulose as a binder, 22% by weight of water, and potassium carbonate (the remainder) as a pH adjuster in a kneader. Tobacco pellets were prepared in the same manner as in Example 1, except that the above tobacco composition was used and no flavoring agent was added. The average particle size (D50) of the tobacco pellets was 523 µm.

[0206] (Evaluation of tobacco particles)

[0207] The tobacco particles were evaluated in the same manner as in Example 2, except that the second tobacco cartridge 30 filled with tobacco particles was heated at 60°C during the evaluation, and the number of puffs was changed to 30. The results are shown in Table 2.

[0208] [Reference Example 3]

[0209] (Preparation of tobacco pellets)

[0210] Tobacco leaves containing 100% by weight of Burley tobacco leaves were prepared as tobacco raw material. A tobacco composition was prepared by mixing 63% by weight of the tobacco raw material, 5% by weight of carboxymethyl cellulose as a binder, 25% by weight of water, and potassium carbonate (the remainder) as a pH adjuster in a kneader. Tobacco pellets were prepared in the same manner as in Example 1, except that the above-described tobacco composition was used and no flavoring agent was added. The average particle size (D50) of the tobacco pellets was 499 µm.

[0211] (Evaluation of tobacco particles)

[0212] The tobacco particles were evaluated in the same manner as in Example 2, except that the second tobacco cartridge 30 filled with tobacco particles was heated at 60°C during the evaluation, and the number of puffs was changed to 30. The results are shown in Table 2.

[0213] [Reference Example 4]

[0214] (Preparation of tobacco pellets)

[0215] Tobacco leaves containing 100% by weight of Burley tobacco leaves were prepared as tobacco raw material. A tobacco composition was prepared by mixing 63% by weight of the tobacco raw material, 5% by weight of carboxymethyl cellulose as a binder, 25% by weight of water, and potassium carbonate (the remainder) as a pH adjuster in a kneader. Tobacco pellets were prepared in the same manner as in Example 1, except that the above tobacco composition was used and no flavoring agent was added. The average particle size (D50) of the tobacco pellets was 559 µm.

[0216] (Evaluation of tobacco particles)

[0217] The tobacco particles were evaluated in the same manner as in Example 2, except that the second tobacco cartridge 30 filled with tobacco particles was heated at 60°C during the evaluation, and the number of puffs was changed to 30. The results are shown in Table 2.

[0218] [Table 2]

[0219]

[0220] As shown in Table 2, it can be seen that when the moisture content of the tobacco composition is the same, the smaller the average particle size (D50) of the tobacco particles, the greater the amount of nicotine contained in the smoke.

[0221] The embodiments include the following aspects.

[0222] [1] A tobacco pellet comprising tobacco raw material and a binder, wherein,

[0223] The average particle size (D50) is 600 µm or smaller, and the nicotine content is 3.8% by mass or greater.

[0224] [2] A tobacco pellet comprising tobacco raw material and a binder, wherein the tobacco raw material contains 40-60% by weight of burley tobacco leaves, wherein,

[0225] The average particle size (D50) is 600 µm or smaller, and the nicotine content is 2.6% by mass or greater.

[0226] [3] A tobacco pellet comprising tobacco raw material and a binder, wherein the tobacco raw material contains 60-80% by weight of burley tobacco leaves, wherein,

[0227] The average particle size (D50) is 600 µm or smaller, and the nicotine content is 2.9% by mass or greater.

[0228] [4] The tobacco particles disclosed in any of [1]-[3], wherein the binder is at least one binder selected from the group consisting of hydroxypropyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, sodium salt of carboxymethyl cellulose, guar gum and xanthan gum.

[0229] [5] The tobacco particles disclosed in any of [1]-[4] further contain flavoring agents.

[0230] [6] A tobacco stick or tobacco refill containing tobacco particles as disclosed in any of [1]-[5].

[0231] [7] A heated nonburning flavor inhaler comprising tobacco particles as disclosed in any of [1]-[5].

[0232] [8] A method for producing tobacco pellets, the method comprising:

[0233] The steps for preparing a tobacco composition comprising tobacco raw materials, binder and water;

[0234] The step of extruding the tobacco composition from an extrusion orifice with a diameter of 1.0-1.8 mm to obtain the shaped material;

[0235] The molding material is granulated by passing it through a sieve with a mesh diameter of 1.0-2.5 mm and simultaneously crushing it with a first rotating blade, thereby performing granulation and obtaining granulated material.

[0236] The step of drying the granulated material; and

[0237] The following steps are performed: the dried and granulated material is passed through an upper sieve with a mesh diameter of 0.657-0.84 mm, while the dried and granulated material is pulverized by a second rotating blade, and then a lower sieve is used to further remove fine particles to obtain tobacco particles.

[0238] [9] The method disclosed in [8] wherein the average particle size (D50) of these tobacco particles is 600 µm or less.

[0239]

[10] The method disclosed in [8] or [9], wherein the nicotine content of these tobacco particles is 3.8% by mass or greater.

[0240]

[11] The method disclosed in any of [8]-

[10] , wherein the moisture content of the tobacco composition is 22-27 by mass.

[0241]

[12] The method disclosed in any of [8]-

[11] , wherein the rotational speed of the first rotating blade is 3800-4600 rpm.

[0242]

[13] The method disclosed in any of [8]-

[12] , wherein the rotational speed of the second rotating blade is 3000-3600 rpm.

[0243]

[14] The method disclosed in any of [8]-

[13] , wherein the drying temperature in the step of drying the granulated material is 57-84°C.

[0244]

[15] The method disclosed in any of [8]-

[14] , wherein the mesh diameter of the lower sieve is 0.263-0.312 mm.

[0245]

[16] The method disclosed in any of [8]-

[15] further includes the step of adding a flavoring agent.

[0246] List of reference numerals

[0247] .

Claims

1. A tobacco pellet comprising tobacco raw material and a binder, wherein, The average particle size (D50) is 600 µm or smaller, and the nicotine content is 3.8% by mass or greater.

2. A tobacco pellet comprising tobacco raw material and a binder, wherein the tobacco raw material contains 40-60% by weight of burley tobacco leaves, wherein... The average particle size (D50) is 600 µm or smaller, and the nicotine content is 2.6% by mass or greater.

3. A tobacco pellet comprising tobacco raw material and a binder, wherein the tobacco raw material contains 60-80% by weight of burley tobacco leaves, wherein... The average particle size (D50) is 600 µm or smaller, and the nicotine content is 2.9% by mass or greater.

4. The tobacco pellets as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The adhesive is at least one selected from the group consisting of hydroxypropyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, sodium salt of carboxymethyl cellulose, guar gum, and xanthan gum.

5. The tobacco pellets as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a flavoring agent.

6. A tobacco stick or tobacco refill pack comprising tobacco particles as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. A heated, non-burning flavor inhaler comprising tobacco particles as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5.

8. A method for producing tobacco pellets, the method comprising: The steps for preparing a tobacco composition comprising tobacco raw materials, binder and water; The step of extruding the tobacco composition from an extrusion orifice with a diameter of 1.0-1.8 mm to obtain the shaped material; The molding material is granulated by passing it through a sieve with a mesh diameter of 1.0-2.5 mm and simultaneously crushing it with a first rotating blade, thereby performing granulation and obtaining granulated material. The step of drying the granulated material; as well as The following steps are performed: the dried and granulated material is passed through an upper sieve with a mesh diameter of 0.657-0.84 mm, while the dried and granulated material is pulverized by a second rotating blade, and then a lower sieve is used to further remove fine particles to obtain tobacco particles.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein, The average particle size (D50) of these tobacco particles is 600 µm or smaller.

10. The method of claim 8 or 9, wherein, These tobacco particles contain 3.8% by mass or more of nicotine.

11. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein, The moisture content of this tobacco composition is 22-27% by mass.

12. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein, The first rotating blade rotates at a speed of 3800-4600 rpm.

13. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein, The second rotating blade rotates at a speed of 3000-3600 rpm.

14. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 13, wherein, The drying temperature in the step of drying the granulated material is 57-84°C.

15. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 14, wherein, The mesh diameter of this lower-level screen is 0.263-0.312 mm.

16. The method of any one of claims 8 to 15, further comprising the step of adding a flavoring agent.

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