Filter element for cigarettes

Abstract

The invention is directed to a filter element for cigarettes, having a tube (1) for receiving filter material, at least one filter cap (2, 2') for closing the tube, and a filter material (3) for filtering cigarette smoke. The tube (1) and / or the at least one filter cap (2, 2') are / is formed from a biodegradable material and the filter material (3) is formed from a biodegradable bulk material.

Description

DESCRIPTION title FILTER ELEMENT FOR CIGARETTES Technical area

[0001] The invention relates to a filter element for cigarettes, comprising a sleeve for receiving filter material, at least one filter lid for closing the sleeve and a filter material for filtering cigarette smoke.

[0002] Even today, improperly disposed cigarette filters still represent a significant littering factor. The term "littering" generally refers to the careless throwing away or abandoning of small items of waste in public spaces.

[0003] In this context, it's worth mentioning that an average of approximately 5.6 trillion cigarettes are consumed worldwide each year. Of these, an estimated 4.5 trillion cigarette filters are improperly disposed of. In the city of Paris alone, this amounts to approximately 350 tons of cigarette butts per year.

[0004] These are particularly classified as highly environmentally hazardous and toxic, as they contain tar, nicotine, arsenic and lead, i.e. toxic substances that enter the environment through improper disposal.

[0005] Conventional cigarette filters are usually made of cellulose acetate, a thermoplastic that is vulnerable but not biodegradable. A cigarette filter consists of approximately 12,000 such thermoplastic fibers.

[0006] There are also filters made of natural fibers (e.g. cellulose) which, under certain circumstances, can exhibit increased degradation behavior. State of the art

[0007] US 2015 / 0374030 A1 describes a biodegradable cigarette filter tow comprising a mixture of at least two or more natural materials. These materials are selected from a group consisting of hemp fibers, flax fibers, abaca fibers or pulp, sisal fibers or pulp, wood pulp, and cotton fibers or cotton flakes. The mixture may also contain regenerated cellulose fibers. The mixture may contain a natural binder or be hydroentangled.

[0008] EP 4 169 394 A1 discloses a mouthpiece or filter element (e.g., for a smoking article such as a cigarette or a heated tobacco product) comprising a longitudinally extending hollow tube made of paper or another biodegradable material, and a layer comprising paper filter material and / or other biodegradable filter material placed around the hollow tube. Finally, the mouthpiece or filter element comprises a wrapper placed around the layer and comprising paper filter material and / or other biodegradable filter material.

[0009] DE 20 2009 006 891 U1 describes a recyclable cigarette filter for cigarette tubes and finished cigarettes, in which the wrapping paper of the cigarette filter has a constant length of 15 mm and a constant diameter of 8 mm, but in which the filling changes.

[0010] However, with these solutions, even after several weeks, the cigarette filters cannot be completely degraded and they cannot provide a sufficiently variable draw resistance.

[0011] It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide a filter element for cigarettes which is accompanied by improved environmental compatibility and with which a draw resistance which is pleasant for the smoker can be adjusted in an efficient manner.

[0012] Description of the invention

[0013] The object is achieved according to the invention by a filter element for cigarettes as defined in independent claim 1. Advantageous Variants of the invention are set out in the dependent claims.

[0014] The essence of the invention is as follows: A filter element for cigarettes, comprising a sleeve for receiving filter material, at least one filter cap for closing the sleeve, and a filter material for filtering cigarette smoke. The sleeve and / or the at least one filter cap are made of a biodegradable material, and the filter material is made of a biodegradable bulk material.

[0015] The term "cigarettes" here includes conventional and electronic cigarettes, as well as cigarette tubes. A cigarette tube generally consists of a pre-rolled cigarette paper with an integrated cigarette filter as a mouthpiece. By inserting tobacco into the empty cigarette tube, a cigarette can be made.

[0016] The sleeve and at least one filter cover are usually separate components of the filter element, but a one-piece design is also conceivable.

[0017] The biodegradable material of the sleeve and / or the at least one filter cover preferably comprises flax, hemp, in particular Manila hemp, jute, sisal, coconut, bamboo, starch, and / or cellulose. These materials for the filter element sleeve have proven particularly suitable in terms of rapid degradability.

[0018] The biodegradable bulk material of the filter material preferably comprises salt, sugar, activated carbon and / or sand. These materials are, on the one hand, extremely rapidly degradable (or essentially environmentally friendly) and, on the other hand, have proven themselves in terms of the variable adjustment of the draw resistance. In particular, these materials (i.e., particularly in combination with the above-mentioned sleeve materials) can utilize the influences that are dictated in everyday reality in a city by the weather and waste disposal (i.e., moisture, mechanical processing and bacteria) in order to achieve the fastest possible decomposition. In other words, the filter elements should be made of readily available and accessible raw materials and should be able to withstand real-life conditions. be truly degradable within a very short time. Ideally, this occurs before final disposal in a landfill.

[0019] The grain size of the bulk material is preferably from about 0.5 mm to about 3.0 mm, preferably from about 1.0 mm to about 2.5 mm and more preferably from about 1.5 mm to about 2.0 mm. In these ranges, a particularly pleasant draw resistance for the smoker can generally be set with the bulk material present. Especially for sea salt, the grain size is preferably between about 2.4 mm and about 2.8 mm. Especially for cane sugar, the grain size is preferably between about 1.8 mm and about 2.0 mm. For conventional table salt, the grain size is preferably between about 0.6 mm and about 0.8 mm.

[0020] Preferably, the bulk material has a density of about 0.8 g / cm 3 up to about 1.6 g / cm 3 , preferably of about 1.0 g / cm 3 up to about 1.4 g / cm 3 and more preferably of about 1.1 g / cm 3 up to about 1.3 g / cm 3This allows, especially in combination with the above values ​​for the grain size, the draw resistance to be kept within a particularly pleasant range for smokers. For a slightly lower draw resistance, as may be desired for light cigarettes, a (slightly coarser) grain size of approximately 0.9 g / cm 3 up to about 1.2 g / cm 3 preferred. For a slightly higher draw resistance, as may be desired for stronger tobacco varieties, a (slightly finer) grain of about 1.2 g / cm 3 up to about 1.5 g / cm 3 preferred.

[0021] A preferred draw resistance of the filter element in the range of e-cigarettes is from about 0.3 ohms to about 1.8 ohms, preferably from about 0.4 ohms to about 1.2 ohms, more preferably from about 0.5 ohms to about 1.0 ohms.

[0022] A preferred draw resistance of the filter element in the range of conventional cigarettes is (due to the stuffing of the tobacco) about 1.0 ohm to about 1.8 ohm, preferably about 1.2 ohm to about 1.6 ohm, more preferably about 1.3 ohm to about 1.5 ohm.

[0023] Preferably, the sleeve and / or at least one filter cap contains flavorings. This can further enhance the smoking experience, for example, by adding menthol or fruit flavors.

[0024] Preferably, the at least one filter cover is glued to the sleeve at one or more adhesive points. This allows for particularly efficient and cost-effective production.

[0025] Preferably, a food-grade adhesive is used to bond the at least one filter cap and the sleeve. This ensures that no undesirable substances are ingested by the consumer. The food-grade adhesive preferably contains water, sugar, starch, and / or other thickeners such as pectin or agar-agar. Overall, this results in fewer toxic substances being released during smoking, and especially during the degradation of the filter element—also considering the biodegradable materials of the sleeve and the at least one filter cap, as well as the filter material.

[0026] Preferably, a proximal filter cap (i.e., positioned toward the consumer's mouth) and a distal filter cap (i.e., positioned away from the consumer's mouth) are provided to close the sleeve. This effectively prevents the filter material from escaping into the consumer's mouth and the tobacco-containing part of the cigarette. The filter caps are, of course, designed to allow air and smoke to pass through.

[0027] Preferably, the proximal filter cap is made of a first material, and the distal filter cap is made of a second material, wherein the first material is different from the second material. This allows for optimal coordination of the tensile resistance across the filter element. However, the same material can also be used for the proximal filter cap and the distal filter cap.

[0028] Preferably, the proximal filter cap has passage openings, and the distal filter cap also has passage openings, wherein the passage openings of the distal filter cap form a larger overall passage area than the passage openings of the proximal filter cap. This allows the adjustment of the tensile resistance to be further improved.

[0029] In particular, the distal filter cap is designed to have a lower tensile resistance than the proximal filter cap. Accordingly, the The proximal filter cap is designed to have a higher tensile resistance than the distal filter cap.

[0030] Preferably, the passage area formed by the passage openings of the distal filter cap is approximately 10%, preferably approximately 25%, and more preferably approximately 50% larger than the passage area of ​​the proximal filter cap. This measure also serves to further optimize the tensile resistance.

[0031] In particular, the tensile resistance of the distal filter is about 10%, preferably about 25%, more preferably about 50% smaller than the tensile resistance of the proximal filter cap.

[0032] Preferably, an overlap / bonding area of ​​the sleeve comprises about 5% to about 30%, preferably about 7.5% to about 25%, more preferably about 10% to about 20% of the cylindrical surface of the bonded sleeve. This can provide the necessary strength for bonding the sleeve seam with the food-grade adhesive. In addition, applying this amount of adhesive is generally sufficient to stabilize or strengthen the entire sleeve in its circumference and to make it moisture-repellent (i.e. through penetration). This in turn has a positive effect on the tensile strength. The sleeve can also be subsequently coated on its outside with food-grade adhesive in order to increase the aforementioned effect if necessary.

[0033] A further aspect of the invention includes a cigarette with a filter element as described above.

[0034] The filter element according to the invention can be used to achieve cost-effective and effective environmental protection, while at the same time, there are no differences in handling, smoking sensation, or draw resistance for the consumer, so that the consumer does not miss the conventional cigarette. Furthermore, the filter element according to the invention can provide particular flexibility (i.e., particularly by adjusting the grain size), allowing it to be used by every type of smoker and every type of tobacco.

[0035] In urban areas, the filters according to the invention can be damaged by moisture and mechanical influences (such as street sweepers, Cleaning vehicles or machines) are decomposed by more than 90% within a few days and therefore usually do not even end up in the disposal cycle. Short description of the drawings

[0036] Further advantageous embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments of the invention with the aid of the schematic drawing. In particular, the filter element according to the invention is described in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments in the accompanying drawings. They show: Fig. 1 : a schematic front and side view of a filter element according to the invention; Fig. 2: a front and side cross-sectional view of a filter element according to the invention with filter material; Fig. 3 is an oblique section through a filter element according to the invention with filter material; Fig. 4: an exemplary sectional pattern of a filter cover of a filter element according to the invention; Fig. 5: a front view of a distal filter cap and a cross-section of a cigarette tube with the distal cap arranged therein; Fig. 6 is a front view of a proximal filter cap and a cross-section of a cigarette tube with the proximal and distal filter caps arranged therein and with filter material; and Fig. 7 is a front view of a rolled sleeve with an overlap / bonding area. Way(s) of carrying out the invention

[0037] Certain terms may be used in the following description for convenience and are not to be construed as limiting. The words "right," "left," "bottom," and "top" indicate directions in the drawing to which Reference is made to the terms "inwardly," "outwardly," "beneath," "above," "left," "right," or similar terms are used to describe the relative arrangement of designated parts, the relative movement of designated parts, and the directions toward or away from the geometric center of the invention and of designated parts thereof as illustrated in the figures. These spatial relative terms also include positions and orientations other than those illustrated in the figures. For example, if a part illustrated in the figures is turned over, elements or features described as "below" will be "above." The terminology includes the words expressly mentioned above, derivatives of the same, and words of similar import.

[0038] To avoid repetitions in the figures and the associated description of the various aspects and embodiments, certain features should be understood as common to different aspects and embodiments. The omission of an aspect in the description or a figure does not imply that this aspect is missing in the associated embodiment. Rather, such omission can serve to increase clarity and prevent repetitions. In this context, the following stipulation applies to the entire further description: If reference symbols are included in a figure for the purpose of graphic clarity but are not mentioned in the immediately associated descriptive text, reference is made to their explanation in preceding figure descriptions.If the descriptive text directly associated with a figure contains reference symbols that are not included in the corresponding figure, reference is made to the preceding and following figures. Similar reference symbols in two or more figures represent similar or identical elements.

[0039] Fig. 1 shows a filter element according to the invention in side and front views, each from the outside, i.e., with the sleeve 1 and the two filter covers 2, 2', which are also surrounded by sleeve material. The filter covers 2, 2' are glued to the sleeve 1.

[0040] This is clearly visible in Fig. 2, where the filter element is shown in cross-sectional view from the front (along the line X - X in Fig. 1) and from the side. The bulk material or filter material 3 is enclosed by the sleeve 1. The filter covers 2, 2' are surrounded by sleeve material, which is bonded to the The outside of the sleeve 1 is glued. Preferably, several adhesive applications or adhesive points 4 with food-grade glue are provided at each end of the sleeve 1. Preferably, one, two, three, four, or five or more adhesive applications 4 can be provided at each end of the sleeve 1. Viewed from the outside inward, the front view shows the sleeve material of the filter cover 2, the adhesive application 4, the sleeve material of the sleeve 1, and finally the bulk material or filter material 3.

[0041] Fig. 3 again shows the bulk material or filter material 3 enclosed by the sleeve 1. The grain size of the bulk material or filter material 3 (i.e., coarse versus fine) is decisive for the draw resistance of the respective cigarette and represents an important criterion for the consumer.

[0042] Fig. 4 schematically shows the proximal filter cap 2 with the pattern of the surrounding biodegradable sleeve material. In this case, an adhesive layer or adhesive point 4 is applied to each of the four trapezoids made of the biodegradable sleeve material. This pattern has proven particularly suitable for bonding to the sleeve 1 of the filter element according to the invention.

[0043] Fig. 5 illustrates the sleeve 1 with a distal filter cap 2', to which a cigarette tube 6 is attached, which can be filled with tobacco. The proximal end of the sleeve 1 is not yet provided with a filter cap. The hatching of the distal filter cap 2' is intended to indicate that it has a draw resistance that is lower than the draw resistance of the proximal filter cap 2 shown in Fig. 6. Accordingly, the passage openings 5' of the distal filter cap 2' are generally larger than the passage openings 5 ​​of the proximal filter cap 2.

[0044] Furthermore, the proximal filter cap 2 and the distal filter cap 2' can be made of the same material or of different materials. However, both filter caps 2, 2' are designed in such a way that no bulk material or filter material can pass through them. By using the two filter caps 2, 2' and the selection of the bulk material or filter material 3, the optimal draw resistance can be adjusted particularly efficiently, while simultaneously providing a particularly environmentally friendly form of cigarette filter element.

[0045] Finally, Fig. 7 shows the overlap / bonding area 7 of a sleeve 1, i.e., the area where the food adhesive is applied. The sleeve 1 is generally rolled once, i.e., not twice or more, as this is detrimental to rapid biodegradation. The overlap / bonding area 7 typically comprises approximately 5% to 30% of the cylindrical surface of the bonded sleeve 1.

[0046] The present disclosure also encompasses embodiments with any combination of features mentioned or shown above or below for various embodiments. It also encompasses individual features in the figures, even if they are shown there in connection with other features and / or are not mentioned above or below. Furthermore, the alternative embodiments described in the figures and the description and individual alternative features thereof may be excluded from the subject matter of the invention or from the disclosed subject matter. The disclosure encompasses embodiments that exclusively comprise the features described in the claims or in the exemplary embodiments, as well as those that comprise additional other features.

[0047] Furthermore, the term "comprising" and derivatives thereof does not exclude other elements or steps. Likewise, the indefinite article "a" or "an" and derivatives thereof does not exclude a plurality. The functions of several features recited in the claims may be fulfilled by a single unit or step. The terms "substantially," "about," "approximately," and the like in connection with a property or value also specifically define the property or value. The terms "about" and "approximately" in connection with a given numerical value or range can refer to a value or range that is within 20%, within 10%, within 5%, or within 2% of the given value or range. List of reference symbols: 1 (filter) sleeve 2 filter caps (proximal) 2' filter cover (distal) 3 filter material 4 adhesive points 5 passage openings of the proximal filter cover 5' distal filter cover openings 6 Cigarette tube 7 Overlap bonding area

Claims

CLAIMS Claim 1: Filter element for cigarettes, with a sleeve (1) for receiving filter material, at least one filter cover (2, 2') for closing the sleeve and a filter material (3) for filtering cigarette smoke, characterized in that the sleeve (1) and / or the at least one filter cover (2, 2') are formed from a biodegradable material and the filter material (3) is formed from a biodegradable bulk material. Claim 2: Filter element according to claim 1, characterized in that the biodegradable material of the sleeve (1) and / or of the at least one filter cover (2, 2') comprises flax, hemp, in particular Manila hemp, jute, sisal, coconut, bamboo, starch and / or cellulose. Claim 3: Filter element according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the biodegradable bulk material of the filter material (3) comprises salt, sugar, activated carbon and / or sand. Claim 4: Filter element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the grain size of the bulk material is from about 0.5 mm to about 3.0 mm, preferably from about 1.0 mm to about 2.5 mm and more preferably from about 1.5 mm to about 2.0 mm. Claim 5: Filter element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bulk material has a density of about 0.8 g / cm 3 up to about 1.6 g / cm 3 , preferably of about 1.0 g / cm 3 up to about 1.4 g / cm 3 and more preferably of about 1.1 g / cm 3 up to about 1.3 g / cm 3 , has. Claim 6: Filter element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sleeve (1) and / or the at least one filter cover (2, 2') comprises flavorings. Claim ?: Filter element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one filter cover (2, 2') is glued to the sleeve (1) at one or more adhesive points (4). Claim 8: Filter element according to claim 7, characterized in that a food adhesive is provided for bonding the at least one filter cover (2, 2') and the sleeve (1). Claim 9: Filter element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a proximal filter cover (2) and a distal filter cover (2') are provided for closing the sleeve (1). Claim 10: Filter element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the proximal filter cover (2) is formed from a first material and the distal filter cover (2') is formed from a second material, wherein the first material is different from the second material. Claim 11: Filter element according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the proximal filter cover (2) has passage openings (5) and the distal filter cover (2') has passage openings (5'), wherein the passage openings (5) of the distal filter cover (2') form an overall larger passage area than the passage openings of the proximal filter cover (2). Claim 12: Filter element according to claim 11, characterized in that the passage area formed by the passage openings (5') of the distal filter cover (5') is more than 10%, preferably more than 25%, more preferably more than 50% larger than the passage area of the proximal filter cover (2). Claim 13: Filter element according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the draw resistance in the range of e-cigarettes is about 0.3 ohms to about 1.8 ohms, preferably about 0.4 ohms to about 1.2 ohms, more preferably about 0.5 ohms to about 1.0 ohms. Claim 14: Filter element according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the draw resistance in the range of conventional cigarettes is about 1.0 ohm to about 1.8 ohm, preferably about 1.2 ohm to about 1.6 ohm, more preferably about 1.3 ohm to about 1.5 ohm. Claim 15: Filter element according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that an overlap / bonding area (7) of the sleeve (1) comprises about 5% to about 30%, preferably about 7.5% to about 25%, more preferably about 10% to about 20% of the cylindrical surface of the bonded sleeve (1). Claim 16: Cigarette with a filter element according to one of the preceding claims.

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