Material for smoking articles, smoking article, and smoking system

Abstract

A material for smoking articles, which comprises non-pulp fibers and a hydrophobic substance. The non-pulp fibers are preferably plant-derived.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a material for smoking articles, a smoking article, and a smoking system.BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Materials for smoking articles comprise a hydrophobic substance. Since it is not easy to simply mix and disperse the hydrophobic substance with other components, methods such as dissolving the hydrophobic substance in a hydrophobic solvent and spraying the solution onto other components are known, for example. Ethyl alcohol, benzyl alcohol, various fatty acids, triacetin, and medium-chain fatty acid esters, etc. may be cited as examples of solvents which can be safely used in this case. When ethanol is used as a solvent, however, it may be the case that the hydrophobic substance is not sufficiently soluble. The problem of solubility is resolved when a fatty acid or medium-chain fatty acid ester is used as the solvent. In this case, however, the solvent itself has low volatility and therefore remains, affecting the flavor during flavor inhalation. Furthermore, when a hydrophobic solvent is used, it is not possible to obtain a homogeneous mixture if the other components have a high water content.

[0003] Another method which may be cited comprises dispersing the hydrophobic substance in water, then spraying the resulting dispersion onto the other components. Methods for dispersing a hydrophobic substance in water include: 1) a method of mechanically forming an emulsion; 2) a method of forming an emulsion using an emulsifier; and 3) a method of using an inclusion compound such as typically cyclodextrin (PTL 1 and NPL 1). With method 1), there is a limit to the stability of the emulsion, which frequently results in problems such as non-homogeneity of the shaped material, and clogging of fluid nozzles when the emulsion is sprayed. With method 2), the emulsifier also being present affects flavor. With method 3), inclusion compounds are often costly, and host molecules may also have an undesirable effect on the flavor during smoking.

[0004] Yet another example of a method which may be cited is: 4) when the hydrophobic substance is a solid, mixing the unmodified solid with another solid material. In this case, the hydrophobic substance and the other solid material are both powdery, which is desirable for obtaining a shaped material having a homogeneous state in what is generally known as "powder mixing". However, there is a frequent problem with powder mixing in that a homogeneous mixture is not produced because of the ratio of amounts of the added material and material being added to, and differences in specific gravity and particle size distribution of the two. A further method which may be cited is: 5) when the hydrophobic substance is a liquid, mixing the unmodified liquid with another component. This method can be expected to achieve a more uniform dispersion than is achieved by mixing solids, but there may be a problem in that some of the components solidify. A method of combining use of an anti-solidifying agent in order to prevent this is also feasible, but there are safety issues and the anti-solidifying agent itself may have an undesirable effect on the flavor. A method which may be cited in order to solve these problems is: 6) powder-formulating the hydrophobic substance using an excipient to facilitate powder mixing, and then mixing another solid material to obtain a shaped material. An example of a specific method involves mixing a molten hydrophobic component, which has been heated at or above its melting point, with the excipient, and stirring the materials. In this method, the dispersibility of the hydrophobic substance is largely dependent on its physical properties such as viscosity. Consequently, there may be a problem of localized solidification, so a uniform powder formulation cannot be obtained. Known methods for obtaining a uniform powder formulation include a method in which a hydrophobic substance is mixed and stirred together with a polysaccharide in an alcohol then dried by means of spray drying, and a method in which the hydrophobic substance is mechanically stirred until uniform in an aqueous solution comprising a dissolved saccharide and then freeze-dried (PTL 2). However, there are problems with the spray-drying production method such as a small amount of the hydrophobic substance being supported, and problems with the freeze-drying method such as unsuitability for continuous mass production and partial clumping due to deliquescency.CITATION LISTPATENT LITERATURE

[0005] PTL 1: JP H6-93996 B2 PTL 2: JP 6203702 B2 NON-PATENT LITERATURE

[0006] NPL 1: TAKEMOTO, Kiichi et al., "Inclusion Compounds - From Basics to Future Technology" [translated title], Tokyo Kagaku Dozin, 1989, 175-178SUMMARY OF INVENTIONTECHNICAL PROBLEM

[0007] As indicated above, it is not easy to homogeneously mix a hydrophobic substance and other components. In light of this situation, the problem addressed by the present invention lies in providing a material for smoking articles which has good dispersibility of a hydrophobic substance.SOLUTION TO PROBLEM

[0008] The inventors solved the problem above by using non-pulp fibers. Aspect 1 A material for smoking articles which comprises: non-pulp fibers; and a hydrophobic substance. Aspect 2 The material as disclosed in aspect 1, wherein the non-pulp fibers are plant-derived. Aspect 3 The material as disclosed in aspect 1 or 2, wherein the non-pulp fibers are individualized cellulose fibers. Aspect 4 The material as disclosed in any of aspects 1 to 3, wherein the non-pulp fibers comprise dietary fiber. Aspect 5 The material as disclosed in aspect 4, wherein the dietary fiber comprises citrus fiber. Aspect 6 The material as disclosed in any of aspects 1 to 5, wherein the average fiber diameter of the non-pulp fibers is 25 µm or less. Aspect 7 The material as disclosed in any of aspects 1 to 6, comprising 0.01-10 wt% of the hydrophobic substance. Aspect 8 The material as disclosed in any of aspects 1 to 7, wherein the hydrophobic substance is supported on the non-pulp fibers. Aspect 9 The material as disclosed in any of aspects 1 to 8, wherein the hydrophobic substance has a boiling point of 100°C or less. Aspect 10 The material as disclosed in any of aspects 1 to 9, wherein the hydrophobic substance is selected from the group consisting of menthol, vanillin, ethyl vanillin, tobacco extract, and combinations thereof. Aspect 11 The material as disclosed in any of aspects 1 to 10, which is in the shape of a sheet, a powder, or granules. Aspect 12 A method for producing the material as disclosed in any of aspects 1 to 11, the method comprising: a mixing step for obtaining a mixture by mixing the non-pulp fibers and the hydrophobic substance; and a shaping step for grinding, granulating, or sheet-forming the mixture. Aspect 13 A smoking article comprising the material as disclosed in any of aspects 1 to 12. Aspect 14 A smoking system comprising the smoking article as disclosed in aspect 13, and a heating device for heating same. ADVANTAGEOUS EFFECTS OF INVENTION

[0009] The present invention makes it possible to provide a material for smoking articles which has good dispersibility of a hydrophobic substance.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0010] Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of a heat-not-burn smoking article. Fig. 2 shows an embodiment of a heat-not-burn smoking system. DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0011] As used in the present disclosure, the range "X-Y" includes X and Y as the end values. Furthermore, weights are given on a dry weight basis (dry basis) in the present disclosure, unless specifically stated otherwise.1. Material for Smoking Articles

[0012] The material for smoking articles is a material which is used in smoking articles. The material for smoking articles according to this embodiment comprises a hydrophobic substance and non-pulp fibers.(1) Non-pulp fibers (component A)

[0013] The non-pulp fibers function as an excipient. The non-pulp fibers (also referred to below as "component A") are fibers other than pulp fibers. Pulp fibers are aggregates of cellulose fibers taken from plants including woody plants, and is normally used as starting material for paper. Examples of pulp fibers that may be cited include waste paper pulp, chemical pulp, and mechanical pulp. Furthermore, pulp fibers include normal cellulose fibers and crystalline cellulose fibers.

[0014] The non-pulp fibers allow advantageous dispersion of a hydrophobic substance in the material for smoking articles. The reason for this, without limitation, is that non-pulp fibers are presumed to have a high affinity with hydrophobic substances, and in some cases to have the ability to support hydrophobic substances. The non-pulp fibers are preferably plant-derived. Plant-derived fibers are biodegradable and therefore also advantageous in terms of a small environmental burden.

[0015] Wood pulp is generally in the form of fiber bundles formed by multiple bundles of single fibers having a fiber diameter of 20 µm, and the wood pulp has a fiber diameter of around 100-200 µm, and a fiber length of around 1000-2000 µm. When a tobacco sheet having a tensile strength suitable for practical use is produced by using wood pulp, the sheet ends up being 100-300 µm thick, which causes a drop in thermal conductivity. However, non-pulp fibers make it possible to form a thin sheet having excellent mechanical strength, and can also achieve excellent thermal conductivity. From this perspective, the average fiber diameter of the non-pulp fibers is preferably 25 µm or less, more preferably 20 µm or less, and even more preferably 15 µm or less. There is no limitation as to the lower limit of the average fiber diameter, but it is 2 nm or greater, 10 nm or greater, 100 nm or greater, 1 µm or greater, or 5 µm or greater.

[0016] The average fiber diameter of non-pulp fibers can be determined by acquiring images of the fibers, measuring the width (short axis) of a plurality of fibers, and averaging the values. When the fiber shape is columnar (rectangular cross section), the fiber width is defined as the width of the main face, which is the longer width of the main face width and the side face width. The number of fibers measured is preferably 100 or more.

[0017] The non-pulp fibers are preferably individualized cellulose fibers. Individualized cellulose fibers are fine fibers obtained by subjecting pulp fibers to a treatment such as fibrillation. The individualized cellulose fibers may undergo chemical modification such as oxidation. The average fiber diameter of the individualized cellulose fibers is as described above. There is no limitation as to the average fiber length of the individualized cellulose fibers, but the upper limit thereof is preferably 2000 µm or less, and more preferably 1500 µm or less. The lower limit thereof is preferably 100 µm or greater, and more preferably 500 µm or greater.

[0018] Furthermore, the non-pulp fibers are preferably dietary fiber. Dietary fiber is a dietary component which is indigestible by human digestive enzymes. The dietary fiber is more preferably an insoluble dietary fiber which does not dissolve in water. The dietary fiber may be porous, i.e. spongy. Porous fibers increase the surface area of a sheet for smoking articles, and readily support the hydrophobic substance. From this perspective, the fibers are preferably citrus fiber. Citrus fiber is a fiber which is primarily composed of the mesocarp of citrus fruits. The average fiber diameter of the citrus fiber is as described above. Furthermore, dietary fiber may also be short fibers or columnar particles having a small aspect ratio.

[0019] In one aspect, the individualized cellulose fibers and dietary fiber are used in combination. Using both fibers in combination enhances the strength of the material for smoking articles. The upper limit of the weight of individualized cellulose fibers with respect to 1 part by weight of dietary fiber is preferably 1.5 parts by weight or less and more preferably 1.2 parts by weight or less, and the lower limit thereof is preferably 0.1 parts by weight or greater and more preferably 0.3 parts by weight or greater.

[0020] The amount of non-pulp fibers in the material for smoking articles is preferably 1-76 wt%, and more preferably 5-30 wt%. An excessively large amount of non-pulp fibers is uneconomical. Furthermore, it is possible that the desired effects will not be demonstrated with an excessively small amount of non-pulp fibers.(2) Hydrophobic substance (component B)

[0021] The hydrophobic substance in the material for smoking articles preferably has the function of a flavor source. That is to say, the hydrophobic substance (also referred to below as "component B") is a hydrophobic flavor substance. There is no limitation as to the amount of hydrophobic substance, provided that such an amount can produce the desired flavor, and the amount is preferably 0.01-16 wt%, and more preferably 0.05-6 wt% of the material for smoking articles.

[0022] The hydrophobic substance is preferably supported on the non-pulp fibers. Adopting such a form improves the state of dispersion of the hydrophobic substance in the material for smoking articles. The blending ratio of hydrophobic substance (component B) to non-pulp fibers (component A) is preferably 0.1-80 wt%, more preferably 0.1-30 wt%, and even more preferably 1-25 wt%.

[0023] If the hydrophobic substance has a melting point, this melting point is preferably 100°C or less. Delivery during smoking is improved when the hydrophobic substance has such a melting point. From this perspective, the upper limit of the melting point is preferably 80°C or less. Meanwhile, there is a reduction in storage stability if the melting point is excessively low. From this perspective, the lower limit value of the melting point is preferably 35°C or greater, and more preferably 40°C or greater. The melting point is determined by means of well-known calorimetric analysis such as DSC.

[0024] The hydrophobic substance is preferably a cyclic monoterpene serving as a flavor source, or a tobacco extract. These materials may be used in combination. The cyclic monoterpene serving as a flavor source is preferably menthol, vanillin, or ethyl vanillin.

[0025] A tobacco extract is an active ingredient (an ingredient other than a medium used for extraction) contained in an extract liquid obtained by extracting a tobacco raw material of tobacco plant origin. The extraction may be carried out in a known manner, and the following methods may be cited by way of example. 1) A method in which a tobacco raw material is extracted using a medium to obtain a tobacco extract; 2) a method in which a medium is added to a tobacco raw material, the mixture is heated, and the vapor that is generated is collected to obtain a tobacco extract; and 3) a method in which a heat-vaporized medium is allowed to pass through a tobacco raw material, and the vapor that has passed through is collected to obtain a tobacco extract. Media which may be cited include water, hydrophilic organic solvents such as alcohols, aprotic solvents, hydrophobic organic solvents such as hexane and petroleum-based solvents, or combinations thereof.

[0026] The method of 1) preferably employs a hydrophobic organic solvent in order to extract the hydrophobic substance, and a hydrophobic aprotic solvent is preferably used from the perspective of ease of working, etc. Furthermore, in the methods of 2) and 3), glycerol, propylene glycol, triacetin, 1,3-butanediol, or an alcohol such as ethanol is preferably used as the medium in the interests of work efficiency. Acids or alkalis can also be used, as required, for extraction. The liquid containing the tobacco extract and the medium that is obtained by the extraction is called the tobacco extract liquid.

[0027] Raw materials of the Nicotiana genus, such as Nicotiana tabacum and Nicotiana rustica, can be used as the tobacco raw material, for example. Examples of Nicotiana tabacum that can be used include varieties such as Burley tobacco and flue-cured tobacco. Oriental tobacco or Burley tobacco which is an indigenous species of the Nicotiana genus may also be used.

[0028] The tobacco raw material may be a cut or powdered tobacco raw material (also referred to below as "raw material pieces"). In such cases, the particle size of the raw material pieces is preferably 0.5-1.18 mm. Such raw material pieces are obtained via sifting in accordance with JIS Z 8815 using a stainless steel sieve conforming to JIS Z 8801, for example. For example, 1) raw material pieces are sifted over a 20-minute period by means of dry mechanical shaking using a stainless steel sieve having 1.18 mm openings to obtain raw material pieces that pass through the stainless sieve having 1.18 mm openings. 2) Raw material pieces are then sifted over a 20-minute period by means of dry mechanical shaking using a stainless steel sieve having 0.50 mm openings to remove raw material pieces that pass through the stainless sieve having 0.50 mm openings. It is thus possible to prepare raw material pieces that pass through a stainless steel sieve of a specified upper limit (1.18 mm openings) and that do not pass through a stainless steel sieve of a specified lower limit (0.50 mm openings).

[0029] The moisture content of the tobacco raw material which is extracted is not limited, but is preferably around 5-30 wt% in the interests of efficient flavor component extraction. The moisture content of the tobacco raw material can be determined by a known method; for example, the moisture content can be defined as the amount of weight reduction at the point in time when a 1 g sample has been collected and heated at 105°C and is heated until the rate of change in weight is no greater than 1 mg / min. This can be determined, for example, using a moisture analyzer having a halogen heat source (such as MB45, manufactured by OHAUS CORPORATION).(3) Binder (component C)

[0030] The binder (also referred to below as "component C") strengthens the material for smoking articles. A well-known binder may be used, but it is preferably selected from the group consisting of: cellulose derivatives, xanthan gum, guar gum, carrageenan, locust bean gum, alginic acid, sodium alginate, starch, soluble soybean polysaccharide, and combinations thereof. Cellulose derivatives which may be cited include alkyl cellulose, hydroxyalkyl cellulose, and carboxyalkyl cellulose. Cellulose derivatives which may be cited more specifically include: methylcellulose, hydroxyethyl methylcellulose (HEMC), hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), and salts thereof. Among these, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) are preferably used in combination.

[0031] The amount of component C in the material for smoking articles is preferably 1-50 wt%, and more preferably 3-30 wt%. An amount below this lower limit value will make it difficult to achieve adequate strength.(4) Aerosol source (component D)

[0032] The aerosol source (also referred to below as "component D") is a substance which forms an aerosol as a result of being heated. Aerosol sources which may be cited include polyhydric alcohols such as glycerol or polyethylene glycol. The amount of component D in the material for smoking articles is preferably 8-50 wt%, and more preferably 10-30 wt%. An amount below the lower limit value will result in an inadequate amount of smoke during smoking. An amount above the upper limit value will result in a drop in the ease of handling of the material for smoking articles.(5) Fibers other than component A (component F)

[0033] The material for smoking articles preferably comprises fibers other than component A (such fibers will also be referred to below as "component F"). Wood fibers and cellulose fibers, typically pulp, may be cited as examples of the fibers. The component F has the function of reinforcing the material for smoking articles. From this perspective, the content of component F in the material for smoking articles is 20-80 wt% in one aspect.(6) Forms

[0034] The material for smoking articles allows advantageous dispersion of component B therein, and also has excellent formability. The material for smoking articles is therefore suitable as a filler material for smoking articles. The material for smoking articles may be in the form of cuttings, a sheet, strands, a powder, or granules.2. Production Method

[0035] The material for smoking articles may be produced by any method, but is preferably produced by a method comprising the following steps.

[0036] A mixing step for obtaining a mixture by mixing the non-pulp fibers (component A) and the hydrophobic substance (component B).

[0037] A shaping step for grinding, granulating, or sheet-forming the mixture.(1) Mixing step

[0038] Preferentially mixing component A and component B makes it possible to achieve a favorable state of dispersion of component B in the mixture, without any unevenness, even if other components are mixed. The reason for this, without limitation, is that component B is presumed to be supported on component A. The mixing ratio is suitably adjusted according to the final material for smoking articles, but in one aspect the mixing ratio is preferably component A:component B = 100:1-30 (weight ratio), and more preferably component A:component B = 100:1-25 (weight ratio).(2) Step of mixing other components

[0039] A step of mixing the other components (components C-F) may be provided after the abovementioned mixing step, as required. The mixing ratio is suitably adjusted according to the final material for smoking articles.(3) Shaping step

[0040] The mixture obtained in the previous step is shaped in this step. Shaping which may be cited includes grinding, granulating, or sheet-forming. Grinding may be carried out using a well-known grinder. Granules may be obtained, for example, by kneading the mixture with the addition of water, granulating the resulting kneaded material (forming the resulting kneaded material into long columnar shapes) in a wet extrusion granulator, and then sizing the granulated material into short columnar shapes or spherical shapes.

[0041] Sheet-forming may be carried out by a well-known method such as rolling or casting, for example. Details on various types of sheets produced by such methods are disclosed in "Encyclopedia of Tobacco, Tobacco Academic Studies Center, March 31, 2009".Rolling

[0042] A method comprising the following steps, for example, may be cited as a method for producing a sheet by means of rolling. 1) A step of introducing the water-containing mixture to a rolling roller and performing rolling. 2) A step of drying the rolled shaped article in a dryer.

[0043] When a sheet is produced by this method, the surface of the rolling roller may be heated or cooled, and the speed of rotation of the rolling roller may be adjusted, depending on the objective. Furthermore, the spacing of the rolling roller may be adjusted. One or more rolling rollers may be used in order to obtain a sheet with the desired basis weight.Casting

[0044] A method comprising the following steps may be cited, for example. 1) A step of thinly spreading (casting) the water-containing mixture (slurry). 2) A step of drying the cast sheet.

[0045] When a sheet is produced by this method, a step may be added where the slurry is exposed to ultraviolet or X-ray radiation to remove some components such as nitrosamine.Extrusion

[0046] A method comprising the following steps may be cited, for example. 1) A step of preparing a wet sheet by pressing the water-containing mixture flat, or extruding it from a die. 33) A step of drying the wet sheet. 3. Smoking Article

[0047] As described above, the material for smoking articles is suitable as a filler for smoking articles. Smoking articles which may be cited include combusted smoking articles and heat-not-burn smoking articles. The example of a heat-not-burn smoking article will be described here. Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of a heat-not-burn smoking article. As shown in the drawing, a heat-not-burn smoking article 20 comprises: a tobacco segment 20A, a cylindrical cooling portion 20B having a circumferential perforation, and a filter portion 20C. The heat-not-burn smoking article 20 may comprise members other than these. There is no limitation as to the axial length of the heat-not-burn smoking article 20, but it is preferably 40-90 mm, more preferably 50-75 mm, and even more preferably 50-60 mm. Furthermore, the circumferential length of the heat-not-burn smoking article 20 is preferably 16-25 mm, more preferably 20-24 mm, and even more preferably 21-23 mm. In an exemplary mode that may be cited, the length of the tobacco segment 20A is 20 mm, the length of the cooling portion 20B is 20 mm, and the length of the filter portion 20C is 7 mm. The lengths of the individual members can be modified as appropriate, depending on manufacturability and required quality, etc. Fig. 1 shows a mode in which a first segment 25 is provided, but this need not be provided and only a second segment 26 may be disposed on the downstream side of the cooling portion 20B.1) Tobacco segment 20A

[0048] A tobacco filling material 21 in the tobacco segment 20A comprises the material for smoking articles. There is no particular limitation as to the method for packing the tobacco filling material 21 inside a wrapper 22, but the tobacco filling material 21 may be enclosed in the wrapper 22, or the tobacco filling material 21 may be packed inside a cylindrical wrapper 22, for example. When the tobacco filling material has a shape with a longitudinal direction, such as a rectangular shape, the tobacco filling material may be packed so that the longitudinal direction of each rectangular shape is randomly oriented inside the wrapper 22, or may be packed so that the longitudinal direction is aligned with the axial direction of the tobacco segment 20A or aligned with a direction orthogonal thereto. The tobacco segment 20A is heated to thereby vaporize the tobacco component, aerosol source and water contained in the tobacco filling material 21, and these components are then ready to be inhaled.2) Cooling portion 20B

[0049] The cooling portion 20B is preferably formed by a cylindrical member. The cylindrical member may be a paper tube 23 obtained by processing cardboard into a cylindrical shape, for example. Furthermore, the cooling portion 20B may also be formed by a sheet of a thin material that is creased and then pleated, gathered, or folded to form channels. Examples of such materials that can be used include sheet materials selected from the group consisting of polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate, polylactic acid, cellulose acetate, and aluminum foil. The total surface area of the cooling portion 20B is suitably prepared to take account of cooling efficiency, and may be 300-1000 mm 2< / mm, for example. The cooling portion 20B is preferably provided with a perforation 24. The perforation 24 allows external air to be introduced into the cooling portion 20B during drawing. As a result, the aerosol vaporized component generated by heating of the tobacco segment 20A is liquefied because it comes into contact with the external air so that the temperature thereof decreases, and an aerosol is formed. There is no particular limitation as to the diameter (length across) of the perforation 24, and it may be 0.5-1.5 mm, for example. There is no particular limitation as to the number of perforations 24 and there may be one, or two or more. For example, multiple perforations 24 may be provided on the circumference of the cooling portion 20B.

[0050] The cooling portion 20B may be formed into a rod shape having an axial length of 7-28 mm, for example. The axial length of the cooling portion 20B may be 18 mm, for example. The cooling portion 20B may have a substantially circular axial cross-sectional shape with a diameter of 5-10 mm. The diameter of the cooling portion may be approximately 7 mm, for example.3) Filter portion 20C

[0051] There is no particular limitation as to the configuration of the filter portion 20C, but it may be formed from a single filling layer or multiple filling layers. The outer side of the filling layer may be wrapped with a single or multiple wrapping papers. The airflow resistance of the filter portion 20C may be modified, as appropriate, by the amount and material, etc. of the filter filling material with which the filter portion 20C is filled, for example. For example, when the filter filling material is cellulose acetate fibers, an increase in the amount of cellulose acetate fibers with which the filter portion 20C is filled can cause increased airflow resistance. When the filter filling material is cellulose acetate fibers, the packing density of the cellulose acetate fibers may be 0.13-0.18 g / cm 3< . The airflow resistance is a value measured by means of an airflow resistance meter (tradename: SODIMAX, manufactured by SODIM).

[0052] There is no particular limitation as to the circumferential length of the filter portion 20C, but it is preferably 16-25 mm, more preferably 20-24 mm, and even more preferably 21-23 mm. The axial length (horizontal direction in fig. 1) of the filter portion 20C may be selected at 4-10 mm, and this length is selected to achieve an airflow resistance of 15-60 mmH 2 O per segment. The axial length of the filter portion 20C is preferably 5-9 mm, and more preferably 6-8 mm. There is no particular limitation as to the cross-sectional shape of the filter portion 20C, and it may be circular, elliptical, or polygonal, etc., for example. Furthermore, a breakable capsule containing a flavoring material, flavor beads, or a flavoring material may be directly added to the filter portion 20C.

[0053] The filter portion 20C may comprise a center hole portion as the first segment 25. The center hole portion may comprise a first filling layer 25a having one or more hollow portions, and an inner plug wrapper (inside wrapping paper) 25b that covers said filling layer. The center hole portion has the function of strengthening a mouthpiece portion. The shape of the center hole portion may be retained by means of thermoforming, without the inner plug wrapper 25b being provided. The first filling layer 25a may be formed, for example, as a rod having an inner diameter of φ5.0 mm-φ1.0 mm packed with a high density of cellulose acetate fibers, a plasticizer comprising triacetin being added thereto in an amount of 6-20 wt% in relation to the weight of cellulose acetate, and the plasticizer being cured. The first filling layer 25a has a high packing density of fibers, so the air and aerosol flow only through the hollow portion during drawing, with virtually none flowing through the first filling layer 25a. The first filling layer 25a inside the center hole portion is a fiber filled layer, and the user will therefore have little sense of incongruity when touching the outside during use. The filter portion 20C may comprise a second segment 26. The second segment 26 comprises a second filling layer 26a and an inner plug wrapper (inside wrapping paper) 26b which covers the second filling layer 26a.

[0054] The first filling layer 25a and the second filling layer 26a are connected by an outer plug wrapper (outside wrapping paper) 27. The outer plug wrapper 27 may be paper in a cylindrical shape, for example. Furthermore, the tobacco segment 20A, the cooling portion 20B, and the connected first filling layer 25a and second filling layer 26a are connected by means of a mouthpiece lining paper 28. These connections may be formed, for example, by coating an inside surface of the mouthpiece lining paper 28 with a glue such as a vinyl acetatebased glue, and wrapping the abovementioned three members. These members may also be connected by multiple separate connections with multiple lining papers.

[0055] A combination of a heat-not-burn smoking article and a heating device for generating an aerosol also refers especially to a heat-not-burn smoking system. Fig. 2 shows an example of this system. The heat-not-burn smoking system in the drawing comprises the heat-not-burn smoking article 20 and a heating device 10 for heating the tobacco segment 20A from the outside.

[0056] The heating device 10 comprises: a body 11, a heater 12, a metal tube 13, a battery unit 14, and a control unit 15. The body 11 has a cylindrical recess 16, where the heater 12 and metal tube 13 are disposed at positions facing the smoking segment 20A which is inserted into the recess 16. The heater 12 may be a heater employing electrical resistance, with electrical power being supplied by the battery unit 14 in accordance with a command from the control unit 15 which controls the temperature, such that heating is effected by the heater 12. Heat emitted from the heater 12 is transferred to the tobacco segment 20A through the highly thermally conductive metal tube 13. The drawing shows a mode in which the heating device 10 heats the tobacco segment 20A from the outside, but it may equally be heated from the inside. There is no particular limitation as to the heating temperature produced by the heating device 10, and it is preferably 400°C or less, more preferably 150-400°C, and even more preferably 200-350°C. The heating temperature refers to the temperature of the heater in the heating device 10. Furthermore, a susceptor may also be disposed inside the tobacco segment 20A in order to heat the tobacco segment 20A by an IH method.

[0057] Embodiments are disclosed below. Aspect 1 A material for smoking articles which comprises: non-pulp fibers; and a hydrophobic substance. Aspect 2 The material as disclosed in aspect 1, wherein the non-pulp fibers are of plant origin. Aspect 3 The material as disclosed in aspect 1 or 2, wherein the non-pulp fibers are individualized cellulose fibers. Aspect 4 The material as disclosed in any of aspects 1 to 3, wherein the non-pulp fibers comprise dietary fiber. Aspect 5 The material as disclosed in aspect 4, wherein the dietary fiber comprises citrus fiber. Aspect 6 The material as disclosed in any of aspects 1 to 5, wherein the average fiber diameter of the non-pulp fibers is 25 µm or less. Aspect 7 The material as disclosed in any of aspects 1 to 6, comprising 0.01-10 wt% of the hydrophobic substance. Aspect 8 The material as disclosed in any of aspects 1 to 7, wherein the hydrophobic substance is supported on the non-pulp fibers. Aspect 9 The material as disclosed in any of aspects 1 to 8, wherein the hydrophobic substance has a boiling point of 100°C or less. Aspect 10 The material as disclosed in any of aspects 1 to 9, wherein the hydrophobic substance is selected from the group consisting of menthol, vanillin, ethyl vanillin, tobacco extract, and combinations thereof. Aspect 11 The material as disclosed in any of aspects 1 to 10, which is in the shape of a sheet, a powder, or granules. Aspect 12 A method for producing the material as disclosed in any of aspects 1 to 11, the method comprising: a mixing step for obtaining a mixture by mixing the non-pulp fibers and the hydrophobic substance; and a shaping step for grinding, granulating, or sheet-forming the mixture. Aspect 13 A smoking article comprising the material as disclosed in any of aspects 1 to 12. Aspect 14 A smoking system comprising the smoking article as disclosed in aspect 13, and a heating device for heating same. EXAMPLESExample 1 and Comparative Example 1

[0058] A tobacco raw material was provided for extraction using an organic solvent in accordance with a conventional method. Hexane, ethyl acetate, and acetone were each used as the solvent. The resulting organic phases (solutions) were concentrated to dryness under reduced pressure, and semi-solid tobacco extracts were obtained. These extracts were concentrated to dryness and then once again dissolved in ethyl alcohol or water.

[0059] The following were prepared. The following materials are referred to as "excipients" for convenience. Non-pulp fibers (component A): citrus fiber Binder (component C): carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) Fibers other than component A (component F): crystalline cellulose fibers, cellulose fibers

[0060] 10 g of tobacco extract extracted with the ethyl acetate were added to 90 g of each excipient as a hydrophobic substance. The tobacco extract was preheated to ensure flowability. The heating temperature was 60°C or greater, and better flowability was achieved with heating up to 80°C. A mixture of the excipient and the tobacco extract was stirred and mixed using a stirring blade until there was no longer any unevenness in the coloring of the powder as a whole.

[0061] Whichever excipient was used, mixing was possible until there was no color unevenness in the powder as a whole. However, considerable clumping occurred in the mixing process when CMC or HPC was used (Comparative Example), and problems in subsequent usability were expected. Furthermore, usability was also inadequate when cellulose fibers or crystalline cellulose fibers were used (comparative example), although clumping was inhibited. Meanwhile, a powder with little clumping and high usability was obtained when citrus fiber was used (Example).EXAMPLE 2

[0062] Citrus fiber was used as component A, and a tobacco extract produced by the same method as in Example 1 was prepared as the hydrophobic substance for component B. The tobacco extract was added to the citrus fiber in any range between 1 and 200 wt%, and the materials were mixed and stirred. The tobacco extract was preheated at 80°C and introduced in small quantities. After the mixing, the materials were stirred and mixed using a stirring blade until there was no longer any unevenness in the coloring of the powder as a whole. There was little clumping of the mixed powder, and suitable usability for subsequent steps was expected with a mixing ratio of tobacco extract to the weight of citrus fiber of up to 25 wt%. Meanwhile, a mixing ratio of tobacco extract to the weight of citrus fiber from 25 wt% up to 80 wt% was in a permissible range, but clumping was confirmed. There was marked clumping which compromised suitability for subsequent processes when the mixing ratio of tobacco extract to the weight of citrus fiber was greater than 80%. That is to say, it was confirmed that a tobacco extract content of 80 wt% or less with respect to component A (citrus fiber) is desirable, and a content of 25 wt% or less is more preferable.EXAMPLE 3

[0063] A shaped material was produced in the following manner. The tobacco extract used below was prepared by the same method as in Example 1.1) Shaped material 1

[0064] A tobacco extract was prepared as component B, and citrus fiber was prepared as component A. A powder was obtained by mixing 1 wt% of the tobacco extract with the citrus fiber. 10 g of the powder, 30 g of pulp fibers, and 30 g of hydroxypropyl cellulose were mixed. The mixture was mixed in small quantities with 700 mL of water to obtain a slurry. The slurry was spread in a thin layer and dried, after which a uniform sheet-like shaped material was obtained. The shaped material essentially contained 0.14 wt% of the tobacco extract.2) Shaped material 2

[0065] The tobacco extract used in shaped material 1 was prepared as component B, and citrus fiber was prepared as component A. A powder was obtained by mixing 20 wt% of the tobacco extract with the citrus fiber. 20 g of the powder, 45 g of cellulose fibers, and 1.5 g of carboxymethyl cellulose were mixed. 30 mL of water were further added to the mixture, and the materials were mixed and stirred. The mixture was kneaded to prepare a block-like solid which was rolled into the form of a sheet and then dried to obtain a uniform sheet-like shaped material. The shaped material essentially contained 5.0 wt% of the tobacco extract.3) Shaped material 3

[0066] The tobacco extract used in shaped material 1 was prepared as component B, and citrus fiber was prepared as component A. A powder was obtained by mixing 10 wt% of the tobacco extract with the citrus fiber. 10 g of the powder, 30 g of pulp fibers, and 30 g of hydroxypropyl cellulose were mixed. The mixture was mixed in small quantities with 700 mL of an aqueous solution containing 30 g of glycerol to obtain a slurry. The slurry was spread in a thin layer and dried, after which a uniform shaped material was obtained. The shaped material essentially contained 0.91 wt% of the tobacco extract.4) Shaped material 4

[0067] The tobacco extract used in shaped material 1 was prepared as component B, citrus fiber was prepared as component A, and menthol was also prepared. A powder was obtained by mixing 5 wt% of the tobacco extract and 4 wt% of menthol with the citrus fiber. 20 g of the powder, 45 g of cellulose fibers, and 1.5 g of carboxymethyl cellulose were mixed, 20 mL of water were further added, and the materials were mixed and stirred. The mixture was kneaded to prepare a block-like solid which was rolled into the form of a sheet and then dried to obtain a uniform sheet-like shaped material. The shaped material essentially contained 1.4 wt% of the tobacco extract and approximately 1 wt% of menthol.REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

[0068] 10 Heating device 11 Body 12 Heater 13 Metal tube 14 Battery unit 15 Control unit 16 Recess 17 Ventilation hole 20 Heat-not-burn smoking article 20A Tobacco segment 20B Cooling portion 20C Filter portion 21 Tobacco filling material 22 Wrapping paper 23 Paper tube 24 Perforation 25 First segment 25a First filling layer 25b Inner plug wrapper 26 Second segment 26a Second filling layer 26b Inner plug wrapper 27 Outer plug wrapper 28 Lining paper

Claims

1. A material for smoking articles which comprises: non-pulp fibers; and a hydrophobic substance.

2. The material as claimed in claim 1, wherein the non-pulp fibers are plant-derived.

3. The material as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the non-pulp fibers are individualized cellulose fibers.

4. The material as claimed in any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the non-pulp fibers comprise dietary fiber.

5. The material as claimed in claim 4, wherein the dietary fiber comprises citrus fiber.

6. The material as claimed in any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the average fiber diameter of the non-pulp fibers is 25 µm or less.

7. The material as claimed in any of claims 1 to 6, comprising 0.01-10 wt% of the hydrophobic substance.

8. The material as claimed in any of claims 1 to 7, wherein the hydrophobic substance is supported on the non-pulp fibers.

9. The material as claimed in any of claims 1 to 8, wherein the hydrophobic substance has a boiling point of 100°C or less.

10. The material as claimed in any of claims 1 to 9, wherein the hydrophobic substance is selected from the group consisting of menthol, vanillin, ethyl vanillin, tobacco extract, and combinations thereof.

11. The material as claimed in any of claims 1 to 10, which is in the shape of a sheet, a powder, or granules.

12. A method for producing the material as claimed in any of claims 1 to 11, the method comprising: a mixing step for obtaining a mixture by mixing the non-pulp fibers and the hydrophobic substance; and a shaping step for grinding, granulating, or sheet-forming the mixture.

13. A smoking article comprising the material as claimed in any of claims 1 to 12.

14. A smoking system comprising the smoking article as claimed in claim 13, and a heating device for heating same.

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