Filter element for cigarettes

Abstract

The invention relates to a filter element for a cigarette, comprising a cartridge (1) for receiving a filter material, at least one filter cover (2, 2 ') for closing the cartridge, and a filter material (3) for filtering cigarette smoke. In this case, the bobbin (1) and / or the at least one filter cover (2, 2 ') is formed from a biodegradable material, and the filter material (3) is formed from a biodegradable bulk material.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a filter element for cigarettes, the filter element having a tube for containing filter material, at least one filter cap for sealing the tube, and filter material for filtering cigarette smoke. Background Technology

[0002] Even today, carelessly discarded cigarette filters remain a serious littering problem. The term "littering" generally refers to small pieces of trash that are carelessly discarded or left behind in public places.

[0003] In this regard, it is worth noting that approximately 5.6 trillion cigarettes are consumed globally each year. It is estimated that about 4.5 trillion cigarette filters are carelessly discarded. In Paris alone, approximately 350 tons of cigarette butts are carelessly discarded annually.

[0004] They are also classified in particular as extremely harmful to the environment or toxic because they contain tar, nicotine, arsenic and lead, i.e., toxic substances that can enter the environment if not disposed of properly.

[0005] Traditional cigarette filters are typically made of cellulose acetate, a thermoplastic that, while biodegradable, is not biodegradable. A single cigarette filter consists of approximately 12,000 such thermoplastic fibers.

[0006] In addition, there are filters made of natural fibers (such as cellulose), which can be more biodegradable under certain conditions.

[0007] Document 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 the group consisting of: flax fibers, abaca fibers or abaca cellulose, sisal fibers or sisal cellulose, wood pulp, and cotton fibers or cotton wadding. The mixture may also contain regenerated cellulose fibers. The mixture may contain natural binders or be hydroentangled.

[0008] Cigarette mouthpieces or filters (for example, used in tobacco products such as cigarettes or tobacco heating products) are known from document EP 4 169 394 A1. These have a hollow tube extending longitudinally and made of paper or other biodegradable material, and a layer comprising a paper filter material and / or other biodegradable filter material surrounding the hollow tube. Finally, the mouthpiece or filter also has a covering portion surrounding the layer and comprising the 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, wherein the filter's covering paper has a constant length of 15 mm and a constant diameter of 8 mm, but the filler is variable.

[0010] However, none of these solutions provide sufficiently variable draw resistance, even after several weeks, as complete degradation of the cigarette filter cannot be observed. Summary of the Invention

[0011] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a filter for cigarettes that is more environmentally friendly and can effectively adjust the comfort of the smoker's inhalation.

[0012] According to the invention, this objective is achieved by a filter for cigarettes as defined in independent claim 1. Advantageous variations of the invention are correspondingly derived in the dependent claims.

[0013] The core of this invention is a filter element for cigarettes, comprising a tube for containing filter material, at least one filter cap for sealing the tube, and filter material for filtering cigarette smoke. Here, the tube and / or at least one filter cap are formed of a biodegradable material, and the filter material is formed of a biodegradable bulk material.

[0014] Here, the term "cigarette" includes traditional cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, and cigarette tubes. A cigarette tube typically consists of pre-rolled cigarette paper and an integrated cigarette filter that serves as the mouthpiece. Thus, a cigarette is made by placing tobacco into an empty cigarette tube.

[0015] The tube and at least one filter cap are typically separate components of the filter element, but an integrated implementation is also possible.

[0016] Preferably, the biodegradable material of the tube and / or at least one filter cap comprises flax, jute, sisal, coconut fiber, bamboo, starch, and / or cellulose pulp. The material used for the filter element-tube has proven particularly suitable for rapid biodegradation.

[0017] Preferably, the biodegradable bulk material of the filter material comprises salt, sugar, activated carbon, and / or sand. These materials degrade very quickly (or are environmentally friendly in principle) and have proven very effective in regulating suction resistance. Utilizing these materials (i.e., especially in combination with the aforementioned tube material), the effects of weather and waste disposal in daily urban life (i.e., humidity, mechanical processing, and bacteria) can be taken advantage of to achieve the fastest possible decomposition. In other words, the filter element should be constructed from readily available raw materials and should indeed be able to degrade in a very short time under real-world conditions. Ideally, degradation should be completed before final disposal in a landfill.

[0018] Preferably, the particle size of the bulk material is from about 0.5 mm to about 3.0 mm, more preferably from about 1.0 mm to about 2.5 mm, and even more preferably from about 1.5 mm to about 2.0 mm. Within this range, the use of the above-mentioned bulk material generally creates a particularly comfortable draw resistance for smokers. Specifically, the particle size of sea salt is preferably between about 2.4 mm and about 2.8 mm. Specifically, the particle size of sucrose is preferably between about 1.8 mm and about 2.0 mm. The particle size of ordinary table salt is preferably between about 0.6 mm and about 0.8 mm.

[0019] Preferably, the density of the bulk material is from about 0.8 g / cm³ to about 1.6 g / cm³, more preferably from about 1.0 g / cm³ to about 1.4 g / cm³, and even more preferably from about 1.1 g / cm³ to about 1.3 g / cm³. Therefore, especially in conjunction with the above-mentioned particle size values, the draw resistance can be maintained within a range particularly comfortable for the smoker. For example, for mild cigarettes where a slightly lower draw resistance is desired, a particle size of about 0.9 g / cm³ to about 1.2 g / cm³ (slightly larger particles) is preferred. For example, for stronger tobacco varieties where a slightly higher draw resistance is desired, a particle size of about 1.2 g / cm³ to about 1.5 g / cm³ (slightly finer particles) is preferred.

[0020] In the case of electronic cigarettes, the preferred draw resistance of the filter is about 0.3 ohms to about 1.8 ohms, more preferably about 0.4 ohms to about 1.2 ohms, and even more preferably about 0.5 ohms to about 1.0 ohms.

[0021] In the case of conventional cigarettes, the preferred draw resistance (due to the tobacco packing) of the filter is about 1.0 ohm to about 1.8 ohms, more preferably about 1.2 ohms to about 1.6 ohms, and even more preferably about 1.3 ohms to about 1.5 ohms.

[0022] Preferably, the tube and / or at least one filter cap contains flavoring. This can further enhance the smoking experience, for example, by adding menthol or fruit flavorings.

[0023] Preferably, at least one filter cap is bonded to the tube at one or more bonding points. This allows for particularly efficient and cost-effective manufacturing.

[0024] Preferably, a food-grade adhesive is provided to bond at least one filter cap and the tube. This ensures that the consumer does not ingest any unwanted substances. The food-grade adhesive preferably contains water, sugar, starch, and / or other thickeners, such as pectin or agar. Therefore, overall, considering the tube, at least one filter cap, and the biodegradable material of the filter material, fewer toxic substances are produced during smoking, and especially fewer toxic substances are produced during filter degradation.

[0025] Preferably, to seal the tube, a near-end filter cap (i.e., positioned close to the consumer's mouth) and a far-end filter cap (i.e., positioned away from the consumer's mouth) are provided. This effectively prevents filter material from entering the consumer's mouth and the tobacco-containing portion of the cigarette. However, the filter cap is, of course, permeable to air and smoke.

[0026] Preferably, the near-end filter cover is formed of a first material, while the far-end filter cover is formed of a second material, wherein the first material and the second material are different. This allows for optimized adjustment of the overall suction resistance of the filter element. However, the near-end and far-end filter covers may also be made of the same material.

[0027] Preferably, the near-end filter cover has a through-hole, and the far-end filter cover has its own through-hole, with the total passage area formed by the through-hole of the far-end filter cover being larger than that formed by the through-hole of the near-end filter cover. This further improves the adjustment of suction resistance.

[0028] In particular, the far-end filter cap is designed to have lower suction resistance than the near-end filter cap. Conversely, the near-end filter cap is designed to have higher suction resistance than the far-end filter cap.

[0029] Preferably, the passage area formed by the through-holes of the distal filter cover is about 10% larger than that of the proximal filter cover, more preferably about 25% larger, and even more preferably about 50% larger. This measure also helps to further optimize the suction resistance.

[0030] In particular, the suction resistance of the far end of the filter tip is about 10% less than that of the near end of the filter cover, preferably about 25% less, and even more preferably about 50% less.

[0031] Preferably, the overlap / bonding area of ​​the tubing accounts for about 5% to about 30% of the cylindrical surface area of ​​the bonded tubing, more preferably about 7.5% to about 25%, and more preferably about 10% to about 20%. This provides the necessary strength for bonding the tubing joint with food-grade adhesive. Furthermore, applying adhesive within this area is generally sufficient to stabilize or reinforce the entire tubing in its circumferential direction and to make it moisture-proof (i.e., through penetration). This, in turn, has a positive effect on suction resistance. The tubing may also be subsequently coated with food-grade adhesive on its outer surface to enhance the above effects, if appropriate.

[0032] Another aspect of the invention includes cigarettes having a filter as described above.

[0033] The filter element according to the invention enables cost-effective and efficient environmental protection while ensuring that consumers perceive no difference in use, smoking experience, or draw resistance, thus preventing dependence on traditional cigarettes. Furthermore, the filter element according to the invention offers exceptional flexibility (i.e., particularly through particle size adjustment), making it suitable for all types of smokers and all types of tobacco.

[0034] In large urban areas, the filters according to the invention can decompose by more than 90% within a few days due to moisture and mechanical action (e.g., street sweepers, cleaning vehicles, or cleaning machinery), and therefore usually do not even enter the waste disposal process. Attached Figure Description

[0035] Other advantageous designs of the invention are revealed by the following description of embodiments of the invention with the aid of illustrative drawings. In particular, the filter according to the invention is described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. Wherein: Figure 1 A schematic front view and side view of the filter element according to the present invention are shown; Figure 2 A front cross-sectional view and a side cross-sectional view of a filter element with filter material according to the present invention are shown; Figure 3 An oblique sectional view of a filter element with filter material according to the present invention is shown; Figure 4 An exemplary cut pattern of the filter cover of the filter element according to the present invention is shown; Figure 5 A front view of the distal filter cap and a cross-sectional view of the cigarette tube with the distal cap arranged on it are shown. Figure 6 A front view of the proximal filter cap and a cross-sectional view of the cigarette tube with the proximal and distal filter caps and filter material arranged thereon; and Figure 7A front view of a wound bobbin with overlapping / bonded areas is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0036] In the following description, certain expressions are used for practical reasons when necessary and should not be interpreted restrictively. The words “right,” “left,” “down,” and “up” indicate directions in the referenced figures. The expressions “inward,” “outward,” “down,” “up,” “left,” “right,” etc., are used to describe the arrangement of specified components relative to each other, the movement of specified components relative to each other, and directions toward or away from the geometric center shown in the figures of the invention and the components mentioned therein. These spatial relative expressions also include positions and directions other than those shown in the figures. For example, if the components shown in the figures are flipped, an element or feature described as “down” becomes “up.” These terms include the words explicitly mentioned above, their derivatives, and words with similar meanings.

[0037] To avoid repetition in the related descriptions of various aspects of the drawings and embodiments, certain features should be understood as features common to different aspects and embodiments. The omission of an aspect in the specification or drawings does not imply the absence of that aspect in the related embodiments. On the contrary, such omission helps to clarify the meaning and avoid repetition. In this regard, the following provisions apply to the entire following description: To ensure clarity of the figures, if a figure contains reference numerals that are not mentioned in the directly related descriptive text, reference should be made to their explanation in the preceding description of the figures. Furthermore, if a reference numeral not included in the related figures is mentioned in the directly related descriptive text, reference should be made to the preceding and following figures. Similar reference numerals in two or more figures denote similar or identical elements.

[0038] Figure 1 The filter element according to the invention is shown in the side and front views from the outside, respectively. That is, the tube 1 and two filter covers 2, 2', which are also surrounded by the tube material, can be seen. Here, the filter covers 2, 2' are bonded to the tube 1.

[0039] This is Figure 2 It can be clearly seen here that the front view section (along) Figure 1 The filter element is shown in the front view (line XX) and side view. Bulk material or filter material 3 is wrapped by a tube 1. Filter covers 2 and 2' are surrounded by tube material, which is bonded to the outside of the tube 1 via adhesive coating portions 4. Preferably, each end of the tube 1 has multiple adhesive coating portions or bonding portions 4 with food-grade adhesive. Preferably, each end of the tube 1 may have one, two, three, four, five, or more adhesive coating portions 4. Thus, viewed from the outside in, the front view shows the tube material of the filter cover 2, the adhesive coating portions 4, the tube material of the tube 1, and finally the bulk material or filter material 3.

[0040] exist Figure 3 The image again shows the bulk material or filter material 3 enclosed in the tube 1. The particle size (i.e., coarse and fine particles) of the bulk material or filter material 3 is crucial to the draw resistance of the corresponding cigarette and is an important factor for consumers.

[0041] exist Figure 4 The diagram schematically illustrates a cut pattern of the near-end filter cap 2 and the surrounding biodegradable tubing material. Here, an adhesive coating or bonding portion 4 is applied to each of the four trapezoidal portions made of the biodegradable tubing material. This cut pattern has proven particularly suitable for bonding to the tubing 1 of the filter element according to the invention.

[0042] exist Figure 5 The image shows the tube 1 and the distal filter cap 2', connected to which is the cigarette tube 6, which can be filled with tobacco. The proximal end of the tube 1 does not yet have a filter cap. The shaded area of ​​the distal filter cap 2' here should indicate that it has a lower draw resistance than the one shown in the image. Figure 6 The suction resistance of the proximal filter cover 2 is shown in the figure. Correspondingly, the through hole 5' of the distal filter cover 2' is generally larger than the through hole 5 of the proximal filter cover 2.

[0043] Furthermore, the near-end filter cap 2 and the far-end filter cap 2' can be formed from the same material or different materials. However, in any case, both filter caps 2, 2' are designed so that bulk material or filter material cannot pass through them. By using these two filter caps 2, 2' and by selecting bulk material or filter material 3, it is possible to set an optimal draw resistance in a particularly effective manner, while providing a specially protected environment for the cigarette filter.

[0044] at last, Figure 7 The diagram also shows the overlap / bonding area 7 of the tube 1, i.e., the area coated with food-grade adhesive. The tube 1 is typically wound once, i.e., not twice or more, as this is not conducive to rapid biodegradation. The overlap / bonding area 7 typically occupies approximately 5% to 30% of the cylindrical surface area of ​​the bonded tube 1.

[0045] This disclosure also includes embodiments having any combination of features mentioned or shown for different implementations above or below. This disclosure also includes various features in the drawings, even if they are shown herein in combination with other features and / or not mentioned above or below. Alternatives to the embodiments and features described in the drawings and specification may also be excluded from the inventive subject matter or the disclosed subject matter. This disclosure includes embodiments with features described only in the claims or embodiments, as well as embodiments with additional features.

[0046] Furthermore, the expression "comprising" and its derivatives do not exclude other elements or steps. Similarly, the indefinite article "a" and its derivatives do not exclude multiple. The function of several features listed in the claims can be implemented by a single unit or a single step. The terms "substantially," "about," "approximately," etc., combined with a particular characteristic or value, further define that characteristic or value with particular precision. The terms "about" and "approximately," etc., combined with a given numerical value or range of values, can refer to a value or range within 20%, 10%, 5%, or 2% of that given value or range.

[0047] List of reference numerals

[0048] 1 (Filter tip) tube

[0049] 2. Filter cap (near end)

[0050] 2' Filter Cap (Remote)

[0051] 3. Filter material

[0052] 4. Adhesive parts

[0053] 5. Through holes in the near-end filter cap

[0054] 5' Through-hole of the filter cap at the far end

[0055] 6. Cigarette tube

[0056] 7. Overlapping / bonding area.

Claims

1. A filter element for cigarettes, the filter element having a tube (1) for containing filter material, at least one filter cap (2, 2') for closing the tube, and filter material (3) for filtering cigarette smoke, characterized in that, The tube (1) and / or the at least one filter cover (2, 2') are formed of a biodegradable material, and the filter material (3) is formed of a biodegradable bulk material.

2. The filter element according to claim 1, characterized in that, The biodegradable material of the tube (1) and / or the at least one filter cover (2, 2') includes flax, jute, sisal, coconut fiber, bamboo, starch and / or cellulose pulp.

3. The filter element according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The biodegradable bulk material of the filter material (3) includes salt, sugar, activated carbon and / or sand.

4. The filter element according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The particle 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.

5. The filter element according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The density of the bulk material is approximately 0.8 g / cm³. 3 Approximately 1.6 g / cm³ 3 Preferably, it is about 1.0 g / cm³. 3 Approximately 1.4 g / cm³ 3 More preferably, it is about 1.1 g / cm³. 3 Approximately 1.3 g / cm³ 3 .

6. The filter element according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The tube (1) and / or the at least one filter cap (2, 2') contain fragrance.

7. The filter element according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The at least one filter cover (2, 2') is bonded to the tube (1) at one or more adhesive sites (4).

8. The 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 tube (1).

9. The filter element according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, To seal the tube (1), a filter cover (2) is provided at the near end and a filter cover (2') at the far end.

10. The filter element according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The proximal filter cover (2) is formed of a first material, and the distal filter cover (2') is formed of a second material, wherein the first material and the second material are different.

11. The filter element according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that, The proximal filter cover (2) has a through hole (5), and the distal filter cover (2') has a through hole (5'), wherein the through hole (5) of the distal filter cover (2') has a larger total pass-through area than the through hole of the proximal filter cover (2).

12. The filter element according to claim 11, characterized in that, The passage area formed by the through hole (5') of the distal filter cover (5') is 10% or more larger than the passage area of ​​the proximal filter cover (2), preferably 25% or more larger, and even more preferably 50% or more larger.

13. The filter element according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, In the case of electronic cigarettes, the draw resistance is about 0.3 ohms to about 1.8 ohms, preferably about 0.4 ohms to about 1.2 ohms, and more preferably about 0.5 ohms to about 1.0 ohms.

14. The filter element according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that, In the case of conventional smoking, the draw resistance is about 1.0 ohm to about 1.8 ohms, preferably about 1.2 ohms to about 1.6 ohms, and more preferably about 1.3 ohms to about 1.5 ohms.

15. The filter element according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that, The overlap / bonding area (7) of the tube (1) accounts for about 5% to about 30% of the cylindrical surface area of ​​the bonded tube (1), preferably about 7.5% to about 25%, and more preferably about 10% to about 20%.

16. A cigarette having a filter element according to any one of the preceding claims.

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