Cannabis packaging materials for smoking articles

Abstract

The packaging material for smoking articles is formed from a web combining extracted cannabis fragments and web-building fibers. The web has a basis weight of about 20 gsm to about 80 gsm and a permeability of about 10 Coresta to about 100 Coresta. The packaging material has a natural cannabis aroma and flavor. The packaging material is tobacco- and nicotine-free and can be used as a carrier for flavorings or aerosol delivery compositions.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] (Related Applications) This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 803,849, filed February 11, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0002] Cannabis, or the cannabis plant, can refer to both marijuana, which is typically used for recreational purposes, and hemp, which is typically used for industrial purposes. Cannabis is a green and / or brown mixture of the finely chopped leaves, stems, seeds, and flowers of the dried plant, and can refer to the leaves, stems, seeds, and flowers of the cannabis plant, including varieties of Cannabis sativa or Cannabis indica. Hemp (especially industrial hemp varieties) have a very similar appearance to marijuana, but unlike the varieties of the cannabis plant called marijuana, hemp generally contains only small amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), while both hemp and marijuana can contain large amounts of cannabidiol (CBD). For example, hemp, especially industrial hemp, can contain less than about 0.3% THC, while cannabis varieties that refer to marijuana can contain 5% to 30% THC. Both cannabis, marijuana and hemp, are known painkillers, but due to its low THC content, generally only hemp, i.e. industrial hemp, is used for food, paper, clothing, fabrics, and CBD extracts. Recently, over 25 states in the United States have legalized the use of cannabis for at least medical purposes. Additionally, Canada has now legalized the use of cannabis for medical and recreational purposes. Given these recent developments, the commercialization of cannabis is increasing dramatically.

[0003] For example, cannabis is becoming a popular painkiller in the public in place of traditional painkillers such as opioids, and more and more people in the medical community are beginning to see cannabis as a legal alternative to the use of opioids for pain relief. For example, cannabis contains two different drugs that help relieve pain, nausea, and other symptoms. Cannabis, for example, contains tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC acts on certain receptors in the brain, resulting in a euphoric and relaxed state. The highest concentrations of THC in cannabis are found in the dried flowers or buds. Cannabis is generally regulated based on the amount of THC contained in the material. In addition to THC, cannabis can contain cannabidiol (CBD). Although CBD interacts with pain receptors in the brain, CBD does not produce the same euphoric feeling as that caused by THC. However, CBD relieves pain and exerts anti-inflammatory effects. Cannabinoids, especially CBD, do not have the same addictive effects as many opioids. As such, cannabis has become much more accepted for medical and recreational use, leading to its legalization in many areas.

[0004] Inhaling combusted cannabis is the most common, effective, and cheapest way to get THC and CBD into the body, but while other methods are popular, inhaling combusted cannabis typically involves using cannabis packaged in a paper wrapper to burn and inhale the cannabis by smoking.

[0005] It has long been recognized in the industry that packaging materials for smoking articles have a significant impact on the smoking characteristics of smoking articles. In this regard, attempts have been made to change or modify the packaging materials of smoking articles to produce packaging materials that improve the overall smoking experience of smoking articles. Packaging materials for smoking articles are generally produced by combining pulp fibers, such as wood or flax fibers, with filler particles. However, such packaging materials are often considered unpleasant by users and have a "papery" taste that changes the natural aroma of cannabis.

[0006] Furthermore, pulp fibers are mainly composed of delignified fibers from hardwoods and softwoods, and the sustainability of packaging materials formed mainly from pulp fibers is a concern due to the high reliance on felled trees. Specifically, 2-3 tons of wood are required to produce 1 ton of traditional paper. Furthermore, since 1950, the world's consumption of paper has increased significantly. This increase in consumption will affect the Earth's forests, with 80% of the Earth's forests disappearing as a result of human activities.

[0007] On the other hand, homogenized tobacco material packaging is generally made from more than 50% processed tobacco by-products, and therefore such packaging materials also usually contain significant amounts of nicotine and produce a characteristic tobacco aroma that is not compatible with the sensory perception of inhaled and combusted cannabis.

[0008] Additionally, some homogenized packaging materials produced with cannabis material, typically produced by a technique known as "slurry," typically have low tensile strength (<1,000cN / 15mm) and are unable to form suitable packaging materials. Such materials are therefore not suitable for mass production of cannabis smoking articles such as booklets (used in hand-rolling), tubes, cones, or cigarettes, which require higher tensile strength.

[0009] In view of the above, there is currently a need for a packaging material for smoking articles with a more neutral or natural cannabis odor and / or taste, with sufficient tensile strength to allow for mass production, for example, for use with legal cannabis products or other aerosol-emitting articles. Similarly, there is a need to provide a packaging material for smoking articles that has suitable burning characteristics in addition to having a pleasant or natural cannabis taste. It would also be beneficial to provide a packaging material for smoking articles that has improved smoking characteristics and does not contain nicotine. Furthermore, it would be beneficial to provide a smoking article that has improved smoking characteristics and can also function as a carrier for one or more aerosol delivery compositions. Furthermore, it would also be advantageous to provide a packaging material that is at least partially formed from a sustainable source. Finally, it would also be advantageous to create a packaging material that does not itself contain tobacco and / or nicotine, but can function as a carrier for aerosol delivery compositions. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] In general, the present disclosure relates to a packaging material for smoking articles comprising a web. The web comprises a combination of extracted cannabis fibers, including cannabis leaves, cannabis stems (also called huds), cannabis buds, cannabis flowers, residues from cannabis extracts, or mixtures thereof, and web-constructing fibers. The web has a basis weight of about 20 gsm to about 80 gsm and a permeability of about 10 Coresta to about 100 Coresta.

[0011] In one embodiment, the web-building fibers comprise delignified cellulose fibers. In a further embodiment, the extracted cannabis fibers comprise extracted cannabis in an amount of about 10% to about 100% by weight, extracted cannabis buds and / or flowers in an amount of about 10% to about 100% by weight, and the web comprises web-building fibers in an amount of about 1% to about 70% by weight. Additionally or alternatively, the web-building fibers are included in the web in an amount of about 1% to about 50% by weight. In yet another embodiment, the web is formed from cannabis plant material containing less than 0.3% by weight of tetrahydrocannabinol. Additionally or alternatively, the extracted cannabis fibers further comprise cannabis stalks.

[0012] In additional embodiments, the web comprises a filler material combined with the extracted hemp fibers and the web-constructing fibers. Further, in one embodiment, the filler material is included in the web in an amount of about 5% to about 40% by weight, such as about 8% to about 20% by weight. In one embodiment, the filler material includes calcium carbonate particles, titanium dioxide particles, kaolin particles, talc particles, barium sulfate particles, bentonite particles, zeolite particles, silicate particles, or combinations thereof. Further, in one embodiment, the filler included in the packaging material has an average particle size of about 0.1 μm to about 10 μm.

[0013] In one embodiment, the web has a permeability of about 30 Coresta to about 80 Coresta, such as about 40 Coresta to about 60 Coresta. In a further embodiment, the web has a basis weight of about 30 gsm to about 50 gsm. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the web comprises a sufficient amount of web construction fibers such that the web has a tensile strength of greater than about 1000 cN / 15 mm, such as greater than about 1250 cN / 15 mm, such as greater than about 1500 cN / 15 mm, and less than 4000 cN / 15 mm, when tested according to ASTM test D828-97.

[0014] In one embodiment, a web according to the present disclosure is calendered.

[0015] In another embodiment, the packaging material comprises an aerosol delivery composition applied to the web, the aerosol delivery composition containing an aerosol delivery agent. In one embodiment, the aerosol delivery agent comprises a drug or a flavoring. In yet another embodiment, the aerosol delivery composition comprises an oil or a solid. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the aerosol delivery agent comprises nicotine, a cannabinoid, tetrahydrocannabinol, or cannabidiol. In yet another embodiment, the aerosol delivery agent comprises sugar, licorice extract, honey, coffee extract, maple syrup, tea, a plant extract, a herbaceous extract, a tobacco extract, or a fruit extract. In one aspect, the aerosol delivery agent can comprise one or more terpenes. A terpene or blend of terpenes can be added to the packaging material to impart a unique aroma indicative of a high-quality cannabis product. Terpenes that may be added to the packaging material include pinene, humulene, b-caryophyllene, isopulegol, guaiol, neryl acetate, neomenthyl acetate, limonene, menthone, dihydrojasmone, terpinolene, menthol, phellandrene, terpinene, geranyl acetate, ocimene, myrcene, 1,4-cineole, 3-carene, linalool, menthofuran, perillyl alcohol, pinane, neomenthyl acetyl, and the like.

[0016] Additionally or alternatively, the aerosol delivery composition is present in the web in an amount greater than about 1 weight percent, such as greater than about 3 weight percent, for example greater than about 5 weight percent, such as greater than about 10 weight percent, for example greater than about 15 weight percent, such as greater than about 20 weight percent, for example greater than about 25 weight percent, such as greater than about 30 weight percent, for example greater than about 35 weight percent, such as greater than about 40 weight percent, and less than about 50 weight percent.

[0017] In a further embodiment, the water soluble cannabis component is present in the web in an amount of less than about 40% by weight.

[0018] Additionally or alternatively, in one embodiment, the web constructing fibers include softwood fibers. In a further embodiment, the web constructing fibers include flax fibers, hemp fibers, abaca fibers, wood pulp fibers, bamboo fibers, coconut fibers, ramie fibers, jute fibers, or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the web constructing fibers are present in the web in an amount greater than about 50% by weight, such as greater than about 10% by weight, such as greater than about 20% by weight, and less than about 40% by weight.

[0019] In a further embodiment, the packaging material does not contain tobacco.

[0020] In yet another embodiment, the web is treated with a burn control agent, hi a further embodiment, the burn control agent comprises a salt of a carboxylic acid, such as a citrate or succinate, and the burn control agent is present in the web in an amount of about 0.3% to about 3% by weight, such as about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0021] Further, in one embodiment, the web is treated with a humectant, hi an additional embodiment, the humectant comprises glycerol, propylene glycol, or a combination thereof.

[0022] Additionally or alternatively, in one embodiment, the web is treated with a gum. In one embodiment, the gum comprises guar gum, alginate, cellulose, cellulose derivatives such as carboxymethylcellulose, gum arabic, or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the gum comprises about 0.1% to about 2% by weight of the web.

[0023] In a further embodiment, the packaging material includes a plurality of discrete reduced fire spread regions spaced apart along a first direction of the packaging material, the reduced fire spread regions having a diffusivity of less than 0.5 cm / s at 23° C. In one embodiment, the plurality of reduced fire spread regions are formed by applying the reduced fire spread regions to a web.

[0024] In general, the present disclosure also generally relates to a wrapping material according to the present disclosure incorporated into a smoking article, wherein at least 75% of the smoking article self-extinguishes when the smoking article is tested according to ASTM test E2187-09.

[0025] In general, the present disclosure also relates to smoking articles that include a smokable rod packaged with the packaging material of the present disclosure.

[0026] Other features and aspects of the present disclosure are discussed and explained in more detail below. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0027] Other features and aspects of the present disclosure are discussed and explained in more detail below.

[0028] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a smoking article incorporating the wrapping material of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] 2 is an exploded view of the smoking article shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 3A] FIG. 1 illustrates an article according to the present disclosure. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B shows a single piece of the article of FIG. 3A.

[0029] Repeat use of reference characters in the present specification and drawings is intended to represent same or analogous features or elements of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0030] definition

[0031] As used herein, "cannabis" refers to any type of cannabis plant, such as, for example, Cannabis sativa or Cannabis indica. More specifically, in this disclosure, the leaves, stems, seeds, flowers, or any other part of the cannabis plant are referred to as cannabis. Nevertheless, cannabis as referred to herein includes marijuana containing average or high levels of THC and / or CBD, hemp containing low or very low levels of THC, industrial hemp containing less than 0.3% THC, or any combination thereof.

[0032] As used herein, "reconstituted plant material" refers to a material formed by a process of extracting a plant material, such as a raw plant material from a cannabis plant, with a solvent to extract a soluble, such as a water-soluble extract, and an insoluble portion or residue, including a fiber material. The extracted insoluble fiber material is then formed into a sheet or web by any suitable process, and the soluble extract can be discarded or reapplied to the formed sheet. The soluble extract may be subjected to various processes to concentrate the extract or, optionally, to remove or add various components, before being reapplied to the fiber material. In the present disclosure, the reconstituted plant material is formed by combining the extracted cannabis fiber, optionally with a web-building fiber, such as cellulose fiber. The soluble extract obtained from the cannabis fiber is optionally reapplied to a sheet.

[0033] As used herein, "aerosol-generating material" is meant to include both combustible materials that are combusted in smoking articles and aerosol-generating materials that are heated but not combusted to generate an inhalable aerosol. Combustible smoking articles include cigarettes, cigarillos and cigars, pre-rolled cones, and the like. In cigarettes, the aerosol-generating material is wrapped by a wrapping material to form a smokable rod, but may also be contained in the wrapping material itself. Aerosol-generating devices for generating aerosol include, for example, devices that generate aerosol by heating the aerosol-generating material without burning it, for example, by electrical heating or by transfer of heat from a combustible fuel element or heat source, thereby releasing volatile compounds from the material. The volatile compounds released from the aerosol-generating material condense into an aerosol when cooled, which is inhaled by the smoker.

[0034] As used herein, "extracted hemp fiber" refers to hemp fiber that has undergone an extraction process in which the cannabis is contacted with an aqueous solution to remove greater than 75% of the water soluble components contained in the cannabis. This extraction process is distinct from the delignification and bleaching processes.

[0035] As used herein, "extracted by-product" refers to cannabis biomass that has undergone an extraction process to remove selected components, such as cannabinoids, without removing significant amounts of water-soluble components. Extracted by-products are referred to as biomass resulting from an extraction process in which the extractant is a solvent, such as ethanol, a supercritical fluid, such as carbon dioxide, a lipid, such as vegetable oil, or the like. Extracted by-products according to the present disclosure can be subjected to a second extraction process to remove water-soluble components during the process of producing reconstituted cannabis material. Extracted by-products well suited for use in the present disclosure include extracted by-products that contain water-soluble components in an amount greater than about 8% by weight, such as greater than about 8% by weight, such as greater than about 12% by weight, such as greater than about 18% by weight, such as greater than about 24% by weight.

[0036] As used herein, "delignified" cellulose fibers refer to fibers that have undergone a pulping or delignification process in which the cellulose fibers are separated from the plant material by chemical, mechanical, or a combination of chemical and mechanical means.

[0037] As used herein, the term "refining" is used to mean that the plant material has been subjected to a mechanical treatment that modifies the fibers of the plant material so that it is suitable for forming a fibrous sheet or substrate. Refining can be done using a cone refiner, a disc refiner, or a valley beater. This mechanical process grinds or beats the plant material and defibrillates the plant material. Refining is a process that is distinct from delignification and pulping.

[0038] As used herein, the "amount of water-soluble extract" contained in the substrate or reconstituted plant material or aerosol-generating material is determined by placing a 5-gram sample in boiling distilled water for 10 minutes to obtain an extract containing water-soluble components. The dry weight of the solvent-soluble extract is calculated from the difference between the dry weight of the original sample and the dry weight of the sample after extraction. The difference in dry weight is then used to determine the proportion of water-soluble extract in the sample.

[0039] Detailed Description

[0040] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that this disclosure is merely a description of exemplary embodiments and is not intended to limit the broader aspects of the disclosure.

[0041] The present disclosure generally relates to a packaging material for smoking articles formed from a web comprising cannabis and optionally web-building fibers. In this way, the web for packaging material according to the present disclosure is formed at least partially, or even entirely, from sustainable materials. Furthermore, it has been unexpectedly found that a web formed from extracted cannabis has a pleasant natural cannabis taste and functions as an excellent carrier, even when combined with web-building fibers that may include pulp fibers. Furthermore, it has been found that a packaging material at least partially formed from cannabis has unexpectedly good burning properties in addition to the pleasant natural cannabis taste and good carrier properties.

[0042] Because the reconstituted cannabis material has a natural cannabis taste when smoked and is nicotine-free, the packaging material can be used to produce nicotine-free smoking articles that complement and / or mimic the smell and taste of cannabis. For example, a packaging material formed from cannabis may add to or enhance the taste and / or smell of a smoking article that contains cannabis, or mimic the taste and / or smell of cannabis when it is not desired to consume cannabis but the taste of cannabis is desired. Thus, packaging materials according to the present disclosure provide an alternative to paper packaging materials for use with cannabis or cannabis in smokable articles, or when it is desired to mimic the taste and / or smell of cannabis or cannabis in smokable articles, and may provide a better sensory experience.

[0043] In addition, the packaging material is very suitable for combining with other fibers and / or topical additives with aerosol delivery function (collectively referred to as aerosol delivery agents, which will be described in more detail below).For example, due to its good carrier properties, the packaging material may be combined with aerosol delivery agents, or the aerosol delivery agents may be applied to the packaging material.When combined with tobacco or cannabis materials, the packaging material of the present disclosure, due to its natural odor and taste characteristics, does not impair the taste of the aerosol delivery agents at all, and can actually improve the smoking experience by diluting and reducing the amount of stimulants.

[0044] However, as will be discussed in more detail below, a further advantage of the packaging material according to the present disclosure is that, when used, the aerosol delivery composition can be applied after the formation of the packaging material of a measured amount.Therefore, the properties of the aerosol delivery composition (e.g., nicotine, THC, or CBD) are not simply the inherent properties of the material used to form the packaging material, but instead, the amount of the aerosol delivery composition can be carefully controlled and metered when applied to the packaging material.Therefore, the amount of the aerosol delivery composition on the packaging material can be measured, differentiated, and evenly distributed compared to the natural form of the aerosol delivery composition.

[0045] As mentioned above, the packaging material of the present disclosure is generally formed by combining extracted cannabis with optional web-building fibers. The cannabis material for use in the present disclosure is obtained from the cannabis plant and may therefore be referred to as cannabis. The cannabis material for use in the present disclosure may include all parts of the plant, such as husks, fibers, buds, flowers, leaves, seeds, and optionally stalk portions, or may include residues from cannabis extracts. Furthermore, as discussed herein, some or all of the THC, CBD, or other soluble components may be extracted from cannabis during the formation of the reconstituted cannabis material, and the soluble portion, including, for example, THC or CBD, is optionally reapplied to the web. Thus, the packaging material of the present disclosure in one embodiment is formed from cannabis stalks or husks, fibers, leaves, seeds, flowers and buds, as well as residues from cannabis extracts, and thus may generally include all parts of the plant material obtained from cannabis.

[0046] In one embodiment, the cannabis component is obtained from a cannabis plant having a relatively low THC content. For example, THC is contained in the cannabis component in an amount of less than about 1% by weight, such as less than about 0.3% by weight, such as less than about 0.2% by weight, such as less than about 0.1% by weight. Using a cannabis component obtained from a low-THC plant can provide various advantages and benefits. For example, producing a reconstituted cannabis material with less THC can provide better control over the delivery of THC when it is applied topically to the material. Furthermore, reconstituted materials can be produced that do not contain detectable amounts of THC so that the reconstituted material can deliver other active agents such as CBD, flavorings, nicotine, etc., however, it should be understood that in other embodiments, the reconstituted cannabis material can be made from a THC-containing plant, such as the Cannabis indica species.

[0047] Additionally or alternatively, the reconstituted cannabis material of the present disclosure can be made from various parts of the cannabis plant, including stems or hurds, fiber, leaves, seeds, flowers and buds. These various parts of the plant can be combined in various ratios and amounts depending on the particular application and desired results. The reconstituted cannabis material can be made only from cannabis leaves and stalks, or only from cannabis buds and flowers, but in one embodiment, the reconstituted cannabis material is made from a combination of leaves and hurds and buds and / or flowers. For example, in one embodiment, the weight ratio of leaves and husks:buds and / or flowers ranges from about 1:8 to about 8:1, such as from about 1:5 to about 5:1, such as from about 1:4 to about 4:1, such as from about 2:1 to about 1:2. In one embodiment, the weight ratio can be about 1:1.

[0048] In one embodiment, cannabis leaves and huds may be included in the reconstituted cannabis material in an amount of more than about 10% by weight, such as more than about 20% by weight, such as more than about 30% by weight, and generally up to 100% by weight. Similarly, buds and / or flowers may be included in the reconstituted cannabis material in an amount of more than about 10% by weight, such as more than about 20% by weight, such as more than about 30% by weight, such as more than about 40% by weight, such as more than about 50% by weight, such as more than about 60% by weight, and generally up to 100% by weight.

[0049] In one aspect, at least a portion of the cannabis components collected to produce the reconstituted cannabis material are cannabis extraction by-products. Cannabis extraction by-products include cannabis biomass that has already been subjected to an initial extraction process to remove components of interest from the plant, but without removing a significant amount of water-soluble components. For example, cannabis extraction by-products can be biomass remaining after one or more cannabinoids have been extracted from cannabis plant material, such as THC and / or CBD. A variety of solvents and supercritical fluids can be used in these types of extraction processes. For example, in one embodiment, the extracted by-product is obtained from a cannabis extraction process in which cannabis material is ground and combined with a solvent. The solvent can be, for example, an alcohol, such as ethanol, an organic ester, a petroleum-derived hydrocarbon, such as toluene or trimethylpentane, or a lipid, such as a vegetable oil. Examples of vegetable oils include safflower oil, coconut oil, and the like. In an alternative embodiment, the cannabis plant material can be contacted with a supercritical fluid, such as carbon dioxide, during the extraction process. In general, the extraction process involves grinding or cutting the plant material to a desired size, and then contacting the plant material with an extractant, such as a solvent or supercritical fluid. The plant material can be heated during contact with the solvent. When contacted with the supercritical fluid, for example, the temperature can be from about 31° C. to about 80° C. and the pressure can be from about 75 bar to about 500 bar.

[0050] The use of extracted by-products as part of the cannabis ingredient can provide various advantages. For example, cannabis extraction by-products can produce a milder aerosol and be in a form that is easier to handle than raw plant material. To produce reconstituted cannabis material, the cannabis extraction by-products can undergo a second extraction process to remove water-soluble components. For example, cannabis extraction by-products can include water-soluble components in an amount greater than about 8% by weight, such as greater than about 12% by weight, such as greater than about 18% by weight, such as greater than about 24% by weight, such as greater than about 28% by weight, and generally less than about 60% by weight, such as less than about 50% by weight.

[0051] In particular, the present disclosure has found that by selectively forming a web in accordance with the present disclosure, fibers or fragments of cannabis derived plant material can be combined with cellulosic web construction fibers to form a packaging material that exhibits a good and natural cannabis taste and good tensile strength and burn characteristics.

[0052] In one embodiment, the cannabis is optionally cut or ground and then subjected to an extraction process to remove water-soluble components. The extracted cannabis is then optionally combined with web-building fibers and formed into a substrate such as a reconstituted sheet or web. The substrate may optionally be treated with an extract obtained from the cannabis. Alternatively, the extract obtained from the cannabis may be discarded without being recombined with water-insoluble fibers or other materials. The reconstituted material is then dried and formed into a web and / or packaging material. The web and / or packaging material may optionally be combined with various other components. For example, the packaging material may be treated with various aerosol delivery agents and / or may itself be formed from a combination of cannabis fiber and at least one additional aerosol delivery compound by combining with various other aerosol delivery compounds, such as tobacco materials or other herbal fillers, during or after the initial refining process. Alternatively, the packaging material may simply be used to package or contain the aerosol delivery agent and compound, or in one embodiment, may be treated with an aerosol delivery compound and package the aerosol delivery compound.

[0053] In forming the packaging material of the present disclosure, the cannabis material (e.g., stems or hurds, fibers, leaves, seeds, flowers, and buds) is first collected and optionally reduced in size. For example, in one embodiment, the cannabis material can be subjected to a grinding, milling, or beating operation to reduce the size of the cannabis material or reduce the cannabis material to individual fibers. For example, in one embodiment, the cannabis material can be fed into a hammer mill to beat the cannabis material against a screen to produce a fibrous material.

[0054] Nevertheless, the cannabis is then subjected to a gentle extraction process to remove water-soluble components. In particular, compounds naturally contained in solvent-extracted cannabis may cause some problems, such as binding to the drying cylinder, difficulty in draining, or fermentation problems in the tank. In one embodiment, the extraction process simply involves placing the cannabis material in water and allowing the water-soluble parts to be extracted into the water. In an alternative embodiment, various solvents with water miscibility, such as alcohol (e.g., ethanol) and / or suitable oils and fats, can be combined with water to form an aqueous solvent. For example, the suitable oils and fats can be oils in which THC and / or CBD are soluble, in order to extract THC and / or CBD from the plant fibers during the extraction stage. The water content of the aqueous solvent can be, in some instances, more than 50% by weight of the solvent, especially more than 90% by weight. Deionized water, distilled water, or tap water may be used. The amount of solvent in the suspension can vary widely, but generally can be added in an amount of about 50% to about 99% by weight of the suspension, in some embodiments about 60% to about 95% by weight, and in some embodiments about 75% to about 90% by weight. However, the amount of solvent can vary depending on the nature of the solvent, the temperature at which the extraction is performed. In one embodiment, the solvent may be heated. Of course, a variety of solutions may be used, but the extraction solution should also be selected to be effective for removing soluble compounds while leaving the hemp fiber intact. In one embodiment, for example, the extraction solution is a hot aqueous solution that may include water.

[0055] The cannabis material in the solvent is optionally agitated using stirring, shaking, or other mixing methods to increase the rate of solubilization. Typically, the process is carried out for about 10 minutes to about 6 hours. The process temperature can range from about 10°C to about 100°C, such as from about 40°C to about 80°C.

[0056] After the cannabis material has been soaked and optionally agitated, the insoluble portion of the cannabis material is mechanically separated from the soluble portion of the cannabis material using a press or centrifuge, or separated from the solvent containing the soluble portion of the cannabis material. After the soluble portion is separated from the insoluble portion, the soluble portion is discarded or subjected to processing, such as concentration. The soluble fraction can be concentrated using known types of concentrators, such as vacuum evaporators. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the soluble fraction can be highly concentrated. In one embodiment, for example, the cocoa soluble fraction is evaporated to have a final Brix of about 10% to about 60%, such as about 20% to about 40%, such as about 25% to about 35%.

[0057] Although the extraction process removes soluble compounds to facilitate processing of the packaging material, the extraction process can also be used to remove other undesirable compounds. For example, pesticides and other compounds are removed from the soluble portion of cannabis by the extraction process, and then further removed from the soluble portion prior to optional concentration of the soluble portion. Although the process is described with respect to pesticides, it should be understood that the extraction process is used to remove undesirable compounds, such as tobacco, nicotine, caffeine, and other compounds, from other plants used in web construction fibers. Furthermore, the present disclosure also contemplates that undesirable compounds, such as caffeine or nicotine, may be minimized or reduced instead of eliminated by purifying or concentrating the soluble portion as discussed herein.

[0058] The resulting concentrated soluble fraction may be discarded, used in another process, or may later be applied to the packaging materials of the present disclosure, as described in more detail below.

[0059] The resulting insoluble cannabis fraction is generally in an unrefined state. The cannabis material may include particles and fibers. In one embodiment, the extracted insoluble cannabis fraction is subjected to a refining process. For example, the extracted cannabis material can be fed into any suitable refining device, such as a cone refiner or a disc refiner. Other refining equipment that can be used includes beaters, such as a valley beater. Refining can be performed while the cannabis material is wet or after mixing the cannabis material with water. For example, in one embodiment, the cannabis material is refined when its consistency is less than about 10%, such as less than about 5%, such as less than about 3%.

[0060] According to the present disclosure, the extracted cannabis material is optionally combined with web-building fibers in forming a fibrous substrate. For example, the extracted cannabis can be combined with water or an aqueous solution to form a slurry. Web-building fibers, such as delignified cellulose fibers, can be combined with the cannabis material in forming the slurry. The fiber slurry is then used to form a continuous reconstituted sheet or web. For example, in one embodiment, the fiber slurry is subjected to a papermaking process, which may include forming wires, gravity drains, suction drains, felt presses, and dryers (such as Yankee dryers or drum dryers). Similarly, in one embodiment, the fiber slurry is formed into a continuous sheet on a Fourdrinier table.

[0061] In one embodiment, the fiber slurry is placed on a porous forming surface and formed into a sheet. Excess water is removed by gravity drain and / or suction drain. In addition, various presses can be used to facilitate water removal. The formed sheet can be dried before further processing.

[0062] Optionally, the formed packaging material may be treated with a cannabis soluble portion, such as a concentrated cannabis soluble portion separated from the insoluble portion. The cannabis soluble portion may be applied to the web using various application methods, such as using a size press, coating, etc. The amount of water-soluble cannabis extract applied to the reconstituted material depends on various factors and the expected end use. For example, the water-soluble cannabis extract may be applied to the packaging material in an amount that does not adversely affect the inherent taste of the underlying material. For example, in one embodiment, the water-soluble cannabis extract is applied to the reconstituted material such that the reconstituted material comprises up to about 10% by weight, such as less than about 8% by weight, such as less than about 6% by weight, such as less than about 4% by weight, such as less than about 2% by weight, or such as less than about 1% by weight, and generally more than about 0.5% by weight. However, in another embodiment of the invention, the water soluble cannabis extract is re-applied to the reconstituted material in an amount greater than about 10% by weight, such as greater than about 15% by weight, such as greater than about 20% by weight, such as greater than about 25% by weight, for example up to about 30% by weight, to provide a cannabis aroma to the final smoking article.

[0063] Although the formation of the packaging material has been described above as first extracting and refining the cannabis material and then mixing with the refined pulp fibers, it should be understood that one or more types of plant fibers may be mixed with the cannabis material during the extraction stage, such that the cannabis and optional web-building fibers are simultaneously extracted and refined. Of course, as noted above, cannabis may be extracted separately and then mixed with the web-building fibers during the pulping process.

[0064] Regardless of the method used to form the web or sheet, the web-building fibers may be fibers obtained from any plant having one or more properties desired to be included in the web or sheet, but in one embodiment, the web-building fibers may be fibers of a plant that has been extracted in a solvent to produce, for example, a pulp. The web-building fibers may be obtained from any type of plant, but in one embodiment, the web-building fibers are delignified cellulose fibers. For example, the web-building fibers may preferably comprise hemp pulp fibers. Hemp pulp fibers may have an average fiber length that is generally greater than about 0.5 mm, such as greater than about 1 mm, for example greater than about 1.5 mm, for example greater than about 1.8 mm, and generally less than about 4 mm, such as less than about 3 mm, for example less than about 2.5 mm, for example less than about 2.35 mm.

[0065] Other cellulosic fibers that can be used include flax, hemp, abaca, bamboo, coconut, cotton, kapok, ramie, jute, or any combination thereof. In one particular embodiment, the reconstituted plant material comprises hemp pulp fibers alone or in combination with other fibers, such as softwood or flax fibers.

[0066] Regardless of the fibers selected to form the web building fibers, the hemp material is included in the web or packaging material in an amount of about 1 to about 100% by weight, such as about 20 to about 95% by weight, such as about 30 to about 90% by weight, such as about 40 to about 80% by weight, or any range therebetween.

[0067] Further, the web construction fibers are included in the web or packaging material in an amount of from about 0 to about 99 weight percent, such as from about 5 to about 80 weight percent, such as from about 10 to about 50 weight percent, such as from about 15 to about 30 weight percent, or any range therebetween.

[0068] In one embodiment, the web-building fibers incorporated in the reconstituted plant material include a combination of long and short fibers. The long fibers generally have a length greater than about 2 mm. Meanwhile, the short fibers generally have a length less than about 1.5 mm. The long fibers can be used to improve strength and integrity. Meanwhile, the short fibers can better retain the hemp fibers and other components in the fiber substrate. In one embodiment, for example, the short fibers can be included in the reconstituted plant material in an amount greater than about 5% by weight, such as greater than about 10% by weight, and generally less than about 20% by weight. Meanwhile, the long fibers can be included in the reconstituted web material in an amount greater than about 10% by weight, such as greater than about 20% by weight, and generally less than about 50% by weight, such as less than about 40% by weight. In one embodiment, the short fibers include hardwood fibers, and the long fibers include hemp pulp fibers, flax fibers, or softwood fibers.

[0069] In particular, the inventors have found that by forming a packaging material according to the present disclosure, the cannabis can be used to form a web or sheet with good strength, smoothness, basis weight, and adjustable permeability.Therefore, the packaging material according to the present disclosure can withstand the mechanical stresses of the papermaking process and mass production of smoking articles, and also have good sensory and burning properties.In addition, as will be discussed in more detail below, the packaging material has also been found to function well as a carrier for other flavor or aerosol delivery compositions.

[0070] For example, the packaging material made according to the present disclosure has excellent mechanical properties and has a highly desirable and aesthetic appearance.Generally, the packaging material has a basis weight of more than about 20 gsm, such as more than about 30 gsm, such as more than about 40 gsm, such as more than about 50 gsm, such as more than about 60 gsm, such as more than about 70 gsm, such as more than about 80 gsm, such as more than about 85 gsm.Generally, the packaging material has a basis weight of less than about 100 gsm, such as less than about 90 gsm, such as less than about 80 gsm, such as less than about 70 gsm, such as less than about 60 gsm, such as less than about 50 gsm, or any range therebetween.Within the above basis weight range, the packaging material can be very strong and exhibit a tensile strength of more than about 1,500 cN / 15 mm, such as more than about 1,000 cN / 15 mm, and generally less than about 4000 cN / 15 mm.Tensile strength can be measured using ASTM test D828-97.

[0071] Packaging materials according to the present disclosure may also have a permeability that promotes suitable smoking characteristics, such as good mainstream smoke control or good smoking comfort. For example, packaging materials according to the present disclosure may have a permeability measured in Coresta units of about 0 to about 100 Coresta, such as about 20 to about 90 Coresta, such as about 30 to about 80 Coresta, such as about 35 to about 60 Coresta, or any range therebetween.

[0072] Although packaging materials according to the present disclosure may naturally or inherently have the desired permeability, in one embodiment it may be desirable to perforate the packaging material after it has been formed. Perforation may be performed as known in the art, and the number and size of the perforations may be selected as necessary for the desired application.

[0073] In addition to the physical properties described above, packaging materials made according to the present disclosure can exhibit a characteristic natural appearance with natural speckles from one or more hemp fibers or particles. If desired, the packaging material can be formulated with pigments (natural or synthetic) to adjust its final coloration.

[0074] Furthermore, in addition to having a natural appearance, the packaging material according to the present disclosure may also have a pleasant texture: the packaging material may be provided with a relatively rough surface to accentuate its natural appearance, or may be further calendered to provide a smoother feel.

[0075] The packaging material of the present disclosure can also be used to produce smoking articles with better taste and sensory properties.For example, the packaging material of the present disclosure tastes less papery than traditional cigarette paper.Instead, a pleasant neutral or unique natural cannabis taste was observed even when cellulose web-building fibers were included in the packaging material.The packaging material according to the present disclosure may have a greater or lesser weight of web-building fibers, but it was surprising that the pleasant natural cannabis taste was maintained even when a portion of the packaging material was formed of cellulose web-building fibers.

[0076] Additionally, the packaging material produces a cohesive ash that has a similar or improved ash appearance to conventional packaging materials.

[0077] As mentioned above, the packaging material may have suitable taste and burn characteristics, but surprisingly, it has been found that the packaging material is an excellent carrier for other aerosol delivery agents, such as aerosol-generating fill materials and topical additives, which may include flavors, active ingredients, oils, and extracts. For example, as mentioned above, one example of a topical additive is the soluble portion of extracted cannabis material, which may be optionally concentrated and reapplied to the packaging material after formation of the web to impart additional taste and smoke characteristics. On the other hand, the aerosol-generating fill material may be fibers derived from fibrous plants or herbs that are incorporated into the reconstituted web to add flavors or ingredients. Thus, as used herein, aerosol delivery agents may be used to refer to both aerosol-generating fill materials and / or topical additives.

[0078] In particular, when the reconstituted plant material is formed into a fibrous substrate, such as a packaging material, as described above, the reconstituted plant material can be used as a packaging material for use with any suitable smoking article. The packaging material of the present disclosure produces aerosol or smoke with a pleasant taste. Particularly advantageously, the packaging material of the present disclosure does not contain nicotine, and therefore can be used to produce nicotine-free smoking articles or nicotine-free aerosol-generating products, or can be used to control nicotine delivery in the above products.

[0079] In one embodiment of the present invention, the hemp fiber used to produce the packaging material of the present disclosure can be optionally blended with tobacco materials in addition to the web construction fibers to produce an aerosol-generating material with reduced nicotine delivery and desirable taste and odor. Tobacco materials blended with the hemp fiber of the present disclosure can include, for example, cut leaf tobacco, stems, scraps, dust, or any other by-products from the tobacco plant.

[0080] For example, the packaging material of the present disclosure can be combined with tobacco during the manufacturing of the packaging material, or can be used to package tobacco material to form an aerosol-generating material that generates an aerosol or smoke with a controlled amount of nicotine compared to the aerosol generated by the tobacco material itself. For example, the packaging material of the present disclosure can be combined with or package any suitable tobacco material in an amount sufficient to generate an aerosol with a controlled amount of nicotine or tobacco flavor. For example, in one embodiment, the packaging material contains a low amount of nicotine, particularly compared to natural tobacco products, and the nicotine may be present in the packaging material in an amount of about 0.5% by weight or less. Alternatively, a packaging material with a "high" nicotine content may be formed, such that the nicotine is present in the packaging material in an amount greater than about 0.5% by weight, compared to the above-mentioned embodiments with a low nicotine content.

[0081] In yet another embodiment, the packaging material of the present disclosure may be treated with an aerosol delivery composition comprising nicotine, instead of or in addition to combining with or wrapping the tobacco material. For example, the aerosol delivery composition may be topically applied to the packaging material to incorporate a controlled amount of nicotine into the material. Applying nicotine to the packaging material may provide many advantages and benefits. For example, applying nicotine to the packaging material may deliver a precise amount of nicotine when the packaging material is converted into an aerosol and inhaled. Furthermore, nicotine may be applied to the packaging material such that the amount of nicotine contained in the aerosol generated by the material is uniform and consistent from smoke to smoke. As a result, in one embodiment, the packaging material of the present disclosure may be used to produce a neutral and pleasant tasting aerosol-generating material while delivering a controlled amount of nicotine, such as a small amount of nicotine.

[0082] For example, in one embodiment, the aerosol delivery composition applied to the packaging material may contain a small amount of nicotine, particularly compared to natural tobacco products, and the nicotine may be included in the packaging material in an amount of about 0.5% by weight. Alternatively, a packaging material may be formed with a "high" nicotine content, compared to the above-mentioned embodiment with a low nicotine content, such that the nicotine is included in the packaging material in an amount greater than about 0.5% by weight. Additionally or alternatively, tobacco materials from which all or part of the nicotine can be extracted may be used to produce the tobacco taste and odor, and the nicotine may be applied separately to the packaging material in the form of an aerosol delivery composition to provide better control over the nicotine level. In this embodiment, the tobacco material may be included in the aerosol-generating material in an amount less than about 50% by weight, such as less than about 40% by weight, such as less than about 30% by weight, such as less than about 20% by weight, such as less than about 10% by weight, and generally greater than about 2% by weight.

[0083] In addition to being combined with tobacco materials, it should be understood that the wrapping materials of the present disclosure can be combined with any suitable aerosol-generating fibers or can package any suitable aerosol-generating filler material. For example, the reconstituted plant materials of the present disclosure can also be combined with aerosol-generating filler materials made from other plant materials, such as herbs, plants, and trees (including herbs, plants, and trees that can be used to form smokable fibers), or with herbal smokable articles (e.g., cacao trees, coffee trees, or coffee beans, tea trees or leaves, vines, ginger, ginkgo, chamomile, tomatoes, ivy, mat, rooibos, cucumber, mint, grains (such as wheat, barley, or rye), hardwoods, or other trees, such as resinous trees, or combinations thereof.

[0084] In addition to nicotine, the packaging material of the present disclosure is very suitable for receiving other aerosol delivery agents.For example, the packaging material is highly absorbent and can contain topical additives in an amount of up to 40% by weight.In this regard, the packaging material of the present disclosure is also very suitable for acting as a carrier for a variety of different aerosol delivery compositions.For example, each aerosol delivery composition can contain one or more aerosol delivery agents.

[0085] Aerosol delivery compositions that can be applied to the packaging materials of the present disclosure include solutions, suspensions, oils, etc. For example, a solution or suspension can be applied to the packaging material and then dried, leaving a solid residue within the fibrous substrate.

[0086] In one embodiment, the aerosol delivery composition can be obtained by extracting plant material from a plant for application to a packaging material. Additionally or alternatively, the present disclosure may include isolating at least one compound from the plant material, concentrating the plant material, or purifying or removing compounds from the plant material to obtain a modified plant material to be applied to a packaging material. Optionally, such a process can convert the original raw plant material into a modified plant material, whether in the form of a dry extract, liquid extract, liquid, or isolated material, based on the desired final properties of the plant material to be applied to the packaging material. Of course, the plant material may be the original plant material or the modified plant material, but in one embodiment, the plant material is applied to the packaging material without further processing after extraction. Additionally, although the aerosol delivery composition is described as being extracted from a plant, it should be understood that synthetic or naturally derived aerosol delivery compositions (i.e., not required to be extracted) may also be used.

[0087] Examples of aerosol delivery agents that may be included in the aerosol delivery composition (in addition to nicotine) include sugar, licorice extract, menthol, honey, coffee extract, maple syrup, tobacco extract, herbaceous extract, plant extract, tea, fruit extract, flavor (such as clove, anise, cinnamon, sandalwood, geranium, rose oil, vanilla, caramel, cocoa, lemon oil, cassia, spearmint, fennel, ginger), flavors and aromas (such as cocoa, vanilla, caramel), medicinal plants, vegetables, spices, roots, berries, burdock, sheek, essential oils and extracts thereof (such as anise oil, clove oil, carvone), artificial flavors and flavors (such as vanillin), or any combination thereof. The extracts applied to the packaging material may be water-soluble or oil-soluble. Thus, a variety of carrier liquids may be used to apply the aerosol delivery agent to the packaging material.

[0088] In one embodiment, the packaging material of the present disclosure can be used as a carrier for ingredients derived from cannabis. For example, cannabis has recently been legalized in many states in the United States for both medical and recreational use. In addition, various chemicals and compounds found in cannabis are becoming increasingly popular as painkillers to replace traditional painkillers such as opioids. For example, cannabis contains various cannabinoids that can be used to relieve pain. Inhaling an aerosol generated from cannabis is the most common and least expensive way to deliver the drugs found in cannabis to the user. Unfortunately, however, simply inhaling an aerosol generated from dried cannabis buds or leaves can deliver uneven concentrations of the painkillers found in the plant. For example, the delivery of cannabinoids can vary dramatically depending on the particular plant or the particular plant part used to generate the aerosol. Furthermore, the delivery of cannabinoids can vary dramatically depending on other factors such as the packing density of the material, the particular type of aerosol generating device or smoking article used to generate the aerosol. In addition, aerosols generated from cannabis plants contain irritants, producing relatively harsh aerosols and smoke. For example, the aerosol generated from the packaging material of the present disclosure has a non-irritating, neutral taste. Cannabinoids that can be incorporated into the packaging material of the present disclosure include cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC, which is found in cannabis, acts on certain receptors in the brain to produce a euphoric and relaxed state. Meanwhile, CBD also acts on pain receptors in the brain, but does not produce the euphoric sensation produced by THC. According to the present disclosure, in one embodiment, THC can be applied to the packaging material of the present disclosure, CBD can be applied to the packaging material, or both THC and CBD can be applied to the packaging material.

[0089] In addition to THC and CBD, various other cannabinoids can also be incorporated into aerosol delivery compositions and applied to packaging materials according to the present disclosure.For example, the cannabinoids found in cannabis include cannabichromene, cannabinol, cannabigerol, tetrahydrocannabivarin, cannabidivarin, cannabidiolic acid, other cannabidiol derivatives, and other tetrahydrocannabinol derivatives.The above cannabinoids can be used alone or in any combination and applied to packaging materials.

[0090] The cannabinoids can be applied to the packaging material using a variety of methods. For example, in one embodiment, the cannabinoids, such as CBD, can be formulated in a water-soluble form or powder that can be applied to the packaging material as a solution or aqueous suspension. Alternatively, a cannabis oil extract can be obtained from a raw cannabis plant. The oil extract can include THC alone, CBD alone, or a combination of THC and CBD. The oil extract can be applied to the packaging material such that the aerosol generated from the packaging material contains a controlled amount of the cannabinoid. The packaging material can also be configured to provide a uniform delivery of the cannabinoid in the aerosol generated from the packaging material in addition to containing a controlled amount of the cannabinoid.

[0091] Other ingredients that can be added to the reconstituted cannabis material are various flavorings, particularly terpenes. For example, a terpene or blend of terpenes can be used to produce a desirable aroma and indicate the quality of the product to the user. Also, one or more terpenes can improve the sensory response when inhaling the aerosol produced from the reconstituted cannabis material.

[0092] Various terpenes can be applied to the reconstituted plant material, including, but not limited to, pinene, humulene, b-caryophyllene, isopulegol, guaiol, neryl acetate, neomenthyl acetate, limonene, menthone, dihydrojasmone, terpinolene, menthol, phellandrene, terpinene, geranyl acetate, ocimene, myrcene, 1,4-cineole, 3-carene, linalool, menthofuran, perillyl alcohol, pinane, neomenthyl acetyl, α-bisabolol, borneol, camphene, camphor, caryophyllene oxide, α-cedrene, β-eudesmol, fenchol, geraniol, isoborneol, nerol, sabinene, α-terpineol, or any combination thereof.

[0093] In one embodiment, various types of terpenes can be blended to mimic the ratio of terpenes found in natural cannabis plants. For example, about 2 to about 12 types of terpenes can be blended and applied to the packaging material. Each terpene can be applied to the reconstituted plant material in an amount greater than about 0.001% by weight and generally less than about 2% by weight. For example, each terpene can be applied in an amount of about 0.01% to about 1.5% by weight. Alternatively, for example, each terpene can be applied in an amount of about 0.1% to about 1.1% by weight.

[0094] Exemplary blends of terpenes include α-pinene, β-caryophyllene, and β-pinene; α-humulene, α-pinene, β-caryophyllene, β-pinene, and guaiol; β-caryophyllene, β-pinene, and d-limonene; β-caryophyllene, β-pinene, and nerolidol; β-caryophyllene, β-pinene, d-limonene, and terpinolene; α-bisabolol, α-pinene, β-caryophyllene, β-myrcene, β-pinena, and d-limonene. β-caryophyllene, β-pinena, and p-cymene; α-humulene, β-caryophyllene, β-pinene, d-limonene, linalool, and nerolidol; β-caryophyllene and β-pinene; β-caryophyllene, β-myrcene, and terpinolene; α-pinene, β-caryophyllene, β-pinene, and d-limonene; α-humulene, α-pinene, β-caryophyllene, β-myrcene, β-pinena, d-limonene, and guaiol.

[0095] Regardless of the aerosol delivery composition and drug selected, the packaging material according to the present disclosure can be used as a carrier for the aerosol delivery composition and drug. The packaging material has a pleasant natural cannabis taste and odor, so that the packaging material can exhibit the taste and odor imparted by the aerosol delivery composition and drug. The aerosol delivery composition and drug can be included in the packaging material in an amount of at least about 1% by weight, such as at least about 5% by weight or more, such as at least about 10% by weight or more, such as at least about 15% by weight or more, such as at least about 20% by weight or more, such as at least about 25% by weight or more, such as at least about 30% by weight or more, such as at least about 35% by weight or more, such as 40% by weight or less. Of course, in one embodiment, the soluble portion of the cannabis material can be reapplied to the packaging material. The soluble portion may be applied in any amount as described above with respect to the aerosol delivery agent, however, the soluble portion of the cannabis material may be included in the packaging material in an amount of more than about 0.1 wt%, such as at least about 1 wt% or more, such as at least about 5 wt% or more, such as at least about 10 wt% or more, such as at least about 15 wt% or more, such as at least about 20 wt% or more, such as at least about 25 wt% or more, such as at least about 30 wt% or more, such as at least about 35 wt% or more, such as up to 40 wt%.

[0096] The wrapping material made according to the present disclosure can be incorporated into any of a variety of smoking articles and aerosol-generating materials. For purposes of illustration only, one such smoking article is shown in Figures 1 and 2. As shown, the smoking article 10 includes a smokable column 12. The smoking article 10 also includes a wrapping material 100 that, when wrapped around the smokable column 12, defines an outer circumferential surface 16. The smoking article 10 also includes a filter 26 that is wrapped with tipping paper, although depending on the smokable column material, the filter is optional or may be omitted.

[0097] The smoking articles shown in Figures 1 and 2 generally include cannabis cigarettes. However, in other embodiments, the packaging materials of the present disclosure can be used to produce other cannabis and cannabis products, as well as herbal cigarettes, cigarillos, and small cigars, or pre-rolled cones or traditional tobacco smoking articles. Although not shown, for example, cigarillos can include plastic tips.

[0098] Notwithstanding the articles in which packaging material 100 according to the present disclosure may be utilized, FIG. 3A illustrates an embodiment of the present disclosure in which packaging material 100 is configured as a booklet of individual packaging materials 100 affixed to one or more adjacent packaging materials 100 by a natural, or at least smokable or edible, adhesive 104. As shown in FIG. 3B, in one embodiment, adhesive 104 is disposed on only a portion of packaging material 100, such as an end 106 of packaging material 100. Additionally or alternatively, adhesive is disposed on only a first surface 108, which is opposite a second surface 110. In such an embodiment, first surface 108 of first packaging material 100 has adhesive 104 disposed thereon and is disposed to contact second surface 110 of an adjacent piece of adjacent packaging material 100. Thus, each piece of packaging material 100 has adhesive on one side for adhering to an immediately adjacent piece of packaging material 100 or backing 112. However, it should be understood that in alternative embodiments, the adhesive 104 may be disposed on both surfaces 108, 110, or on one or more portions of either surface 108, 110.

[0099] Regardless of the method of application of the adhesive, the adhesive is selected to be "resealable" and serve to releasably adhere one piece of packaging material 100 to an adjacent piece of packaging material until a user desires to remove the one piece of packaging material 100 from the adjacent piece of packaging material. In such regard, the adhesive 104 retains its adhesive properties and serves to adhere to the portion of the packaging material 100 to which the adhesive 104 has been applied, for example, referring to FIG. 2, the adhesive 104 adheres the first end 114 of the packaging material 100, or an area of ​​the packaging material adjacent the first end 114, to the second end 116, or an area of ​​the packaging material adjacent the second end 116, when forming a smoking article. Of course, the adhesive 104 may be used to adhere the packaging material 100 to the second piece of packaging material 100, or any portion of either side of the packaging material 100 to which the adhesive 104 has been applied. For example, an embodiment in which the adhesive 104 is utilized or desired is for a hand-rolled smoking article.

[0100] Notwithstanding the above, the resealable material, such as a seal or adhesive, may be applied by many different processes, but in one embodiment, the sealable material or adhesive is applied by an offline process or an online sizing process. Either method or another method may be used to apply the adhesive 104 to at least one portion (e.g., at least two portions, at least three portions, or more portions of the packaging material), and in one embodiment, the adhesive 104 may be applied to all or a majority of at least one side of the packaging material. Notwithstanding the above, when applying the adhesive 104 using an offline gum, the adhesive 104 may be applied by a variety of techniques, including coating, spraying, and printing. Conversely, online sizing may include adding one or more adhesives 104 to a size press during the production of the packaging material.

[0101] Regardless of how the adhesive 104 is applied to the packaging material 100, in one embodiment, the adhesive may include alginate, gum arabic, guar gum, pectin, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl acetate, cellulose derivatives (such as ethyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, and carboxymethyl cellulose), starch, starch derivatives, and the like.

[0102] In one particular embodiment, the adhesive may include gum arabic, cellulose, and / or cellulose derivatives. In one embodiment, the cellulose derivatives include carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), methylcellulose (MC), and hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC). Of course, it should be understood that other adhesive materials may be used as known in the art.

[0103] Regardless of the adhesive used, the adhesive may be included in the packaging material or web in an amount of from about 0.1 to about 15% by weight, such as from about 2 to about 5% by weight. In one embodiment, the adhesive may be applied by spraying, such as by microspraying, or may be applied by other methods to form a thin coating over the desired area.

[0104] In one embodiment, the smoking article manufactured according to the present disclosure has low flame spread. For example, the wrapping material of the smoking article includes a plurality of separate low flame spread areas spaced apart along the axial direction of the smoking article. For example, in one embodiment, the separate low flame spread areas can be in the form of a circular band. The circular band can have a width such that, when the smoking article is left in a static burning state, oxygen is restricted to the burning coal for a length or period of time sufficient for oxygen to extinguish the coal. For example, the circular band can have a width of more than about 3 mm, such as more than about 4 mm, such as more than about 5 mm, and generally less than about 10 mm, such as less than about 7 mm, such as less than about 8 mm.

[0105] The spacing between the low flame spread areas can vary depending on a variety of factors. The spacing should not be so large that the cigarette burns for a sufficient length of time to ignite the substrate before the coal burns into the low flame spread area. The spacing also affects the thermal inertia of the coal during burning, i.e., the ability of the coal to burn through the low flame spread area without self-extinguishing. In general, the spacing between the annular zones should be greater than about 5 mm, such as greater than about 10 mm, such as greater than about 15 mm, and generally less than about 50 mm, such as less than about 40 mm, or such as less than about 30 mm. Each smoking article can include about 1 to about 3 annular zones.

[0106] Generally, any suitable flame retardant composition can be applied to the packaging material of the smoking article.In one embodiment, for example, the flame retardant composition comprises a film-forming material.For example, the film-forming material that can be used according to the present invention includes alginate, guar gum, pectin, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl acetate, cellulose derivatives (e.g., ethyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose), starch, starch derivatives, etc.

[0107] In a particular embodiment, the film-forming material may comprise alginate alone or in combination with starch.Generally, alginate is a derivative of an acidic polysaccharide or gum that exists in brown seaweed as an insoluble mixed salt of calcium, sodium, potassium and magnesium.Generally speaking, these derivatives are calcium, sodium, potassium and / or magnesium salts of high molecular weight polysaccharides composed of various proportions of D-mannuronic acid and L-guluronic acid.Examples of salts or derivatives of alginic acid include ammonium alginate, potassium alginate, sodium alginate, propylene glycol alginate, or any combination thereof.

[0108] In one embodiment, an alginate having a relatively low molecular weight may be used. For example, the alginate has a viscosity of less than about 500 cP when contained in a 3 wt% aqueous solution at 25°C. More specifically, the alginate may have a viscosity of less than 250 cP, particularly less than 100 cP, and in one embodiment, a viscosity of about 20 to 60 cP, under the above conditions. As used herein, viscosity is measured by a Brookfield LVF viscometer equipped with an appropriate spindle depending on the viscosity. At the above low viscosity levels, the alginate composition has a high solids content, but can still be formed with a solution viscosity low enough to apply the composition to paper packaging materials using conventional techniques. For example, the solids content of the alginate solution prepared according to the present invention may be greater than about 6 wt%, particularly greater than about 10 wt%, and more specifically, in the range of about 10 wt% to about 20 wt%.

[0109] At the above solids content, the alginate composition used according to the present invention can have a solution viscosity of more than about 250 cP, particularly more than about 500 cP, especially more than about 800 cP, and in one embodiment, a viscosity of more than about 1,000 cP at 25°C. In general, the solution viscosity of the alginate film-forming composition can be adjusted according to the method of applying the film-forming composition to the packaging material. For example, the solution viscosity of the film-forming composition can be adjusted according to whether the composition is sprayed or printed on the packaging material.

[0110] It should also be appreciated that in other embodiments, alginates having a relatively high molecular weight may be used depending on the application. For example, the alginate may have a viscosity of greater than about 500 cP when contained in a 3 wt % aqueous solution at 25° C.

[0111] In addition to the film-forming material, the low flame spread composition applied to the packaging material may include a variety of other ingredients.

[0112] For example, in one embodiment, the low fire spread composition may include a filler material, such as calcium carbonate, calcium chloride, calcium lactate, calcium gluconate, etc. In addition to calcium compounds, magnesium compounds, such as magnesium oxide, and various other particles, such as clay particles, may also be used.

[0113] The low-flame-spread composition may be aqueous in one embodiment. In particular, the low-flame-spread composition may comprise an aqueous dispersion or an aqueous solution. Alternatively, the low-flame-spread composition may comprise a non-aqueous solution or dispersion before being applied to the paper packaging material. In this embodiment, for example, the low-flame-spread composition may comprise an alcohol for application to the packaging material.

[0114] Also, unlike the film-forming composition, the low flame spread composition may include a cellulose slurry (a type of dispersion). As used herein, a slurry containing paper-making materials is not a film-forming composition. The cellulose slurry applied to the paper substrate may include fibrous cellulose, one or more filler materials, and / or cellulose particles. As used herein, cellulose fibers and cellulose particles should be distinguished from derivatized cellulose, such as carboxymethyl cellulose. For example, cellulose fibers and cellulose particles are not water-soluble. In one embodiment, the cellulose slurry applied to the packaging material may include microcrystalline cellulose.

[0115] The formed low-flame spread composition is applied to a discrete area of ​​the packaging material. There are various methods for applying the low-flame spread composition to the packaging material. For example, the low-flame spread composition is sprayed, brushed, applied with a movable orifice, or printed onto the packaging material. To form the treated area, the low-flame spread composition can be applied in a single pass or multiple pass operation. For example, the low-flame spread composition can be applied to the packaging material in successive steps to form a low-flame spread area on the packaging material having low flame spread properties. Generally, in a multiple pass process, the treated area can be formed by applying the low-flame spread composition in about 2 to about 8 passes.

[0116] The amount of the low flame spread composition applied to the packaging material can vary. For example, the low flame spread composition is applied to the packaging material in an amount of less than about 15% by weight, such as less than about 10% by weight, or such as less than about 8% by weight. Generally, the low flame spread composition is applied in an amount of more than 1% by weight based on the weight of the low flame spread composition contained in the low flame spread region.

[0117] As used herein, the weight percentages above are based on the area treated with the chemical components. In other words, the weight percentages above for the low flame spread composition are the amount applied within the treated area, not the total amount applied to the entire surface of the packaging material.

[0118] The methods of the present disclosure can produce low flame spread regions that have a relatively high permeability and a relatively low diffusivity. For example, the low flame spread regions can produce smoking articles that have a permeability greater than 10 CORESTA, but still pass the ASTM E2187-09 test at least 75% of the time.

[0119] Generally, the low flame spread region has a relatively low diffusivity. The diffusivity is measured at room temperature (23°C). Generally, the diffusivity of the low flame spread region at 23°C may be less than about 0.5 cm / s, such as less than 0.4 cm / s, or such as less than 0.3 cm / s. In an embodiment, the low flame spread region may have a diffusivity of more than about 0.05 cm / s, such as more than about 0.15 cm / s, such as more than 0.16 cm / s, or such as more than 0.17 cm / s, while still having the desired low flame spread. The diffusivity is measured using a Sodim CO2 diffusivity tester.

[0120] Since the packaging material according to the present disclosure has good manufacturing properties (e.g., tensile strength) and sensory properties by itself, additives are not necessary in the packaging material, but in general, the packaging material according to the present disclosure may include one or more additives. Additives can be used to manufacture the packaging material to create or impart new properties to the packaging material, such as chemical, optical, sensory or mechanical properties, such as tear strength or fold resistance. In one embodiment, the additive can be a humectant, a burn control additive, a gum, a wet strength agent, an oil barrier and a fat barrier agent, an antiblocking agent, a dry strength agent, a softener, a wetting agent or a lattice.

[0121] In one embodiment, the reconstituted web material may further comprise a humectant. The humectant may be incorporated into the packaging material for a variety of reasons to provide various benefits and advantages. For example, in one embodiment, the humectant may be incorporated into the packaging material to improve the processability and handling of the resulting fibrous substrate.

[0122] A variety of humectants can be incorporated into the packaging material of the present disclosure, however, the humectant may include a polyol, a non-polyol, or a combination thereof. In general, the polyol generating agent may be sorbitol, glycerol, propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, or a combination thereof. In general, the non-polyol generating agent may be lactic acid, glyceryl diacetate, glyceryl triacetate, triethyl citrate, or isopropyl myristate, or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, the humectant is glycerol, propylene glycol, or a combination of glycerol and propylene glycol, with glycerol being the preferred glycerol, propylene glycol, or a combination thereof. Regardless of the humectant selected, the humectant is included in the packaging material in an amount of 0.1% to about 20% by weight, such as about 1% to about 10% by weight, such as about 2% to about 8% by weight, or any range therebetween.

[0123] The packaging material of the present disclosure may also optionally include a filler material. The filler material may include particles incorporated into the reconstituted web material for any desired purpose, such as to facilitate the formation of the packaging material and / or to affect the appearance or strength of the packaging material. The filler material may include kaolin clay, magnesium oxide, titanium dioxide, calcium carbonate, talc, barium sulfate, bentonite, zeolite, silicate, mica, or any combination thereof. Furthermore, since the packaging material according to the present disclosure has a natural color and appearance, it is not necessary to select a white filler material. Therefore, additional filler materials may be used as known in the art. The addition of this filler material may modify some of the mechanical properties of the packaging material, especially the properties that allow printing or writing on the packaging material. This filler material may also impart certain organoleptic properties to the packaging material.

[0124] The filling material in the packaging material according to the present invention is contained in the packaging material in an amount of 0 to 40% by weight, preferably 5 to 20% by weight, and more preferably 10 to 20% by weight.

[0125] Further, in one embodiment, the particle size of the filler material is carefully controlled such that the average particle size of the filler material is about 10 μm or less, such as about 7.5 μm or less, such as about 5 μm or less, and about 0.1 μm or more. Of course, in alternative embodiments, the particle size may further vary based on the desired properties to be obtained from the filler material.

[0126] The burn control agent may include, for example, a salt of a carboxylic acid. For example, the burn control agent may include an alkali metal salt of a carboxylic acid, an alkaline earth metal salt of a carboxylic acid, or any combination thereof. Examples of burn control agents that can be used include salts of acetic acid, citric acid, malic acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid, carbonic acid, formic acid, propionic acid, glycolic acid, fumaric acid, oxalic acid, malonic acid, succinic acid, nitric acid, phosphoric acid, or any combination thereof. Specific burn control agents that can be used include potassium citrate, sodium citrate, potassium succinate, sodium succinate, or any combination thereof. When present, the burn control agent can be applied to the packaging material in an amount generally greater than about 0.1% by weight, such as greater than about 0.5% by weight, or such as greater than about 1% by weight, and generally less than about 5% by weight, such as less than about 4% by weight, such as less than about 3% by weight, or such as less than about 2% by weight.

[0127] The gums may include alginates, guar gum, pectin, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl acetate, cellulose derivatives (e.g., ethyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose), starch, starch derivatives, and the like. In one particular embodiment, the gums may include alginates alone or in combination with starch. Generally, alginates are acidic polysaccharides or gum derivatives present in brown seaweed as insoluble mixed salts of calcium, sodium, potassium, and magnesium. Generally speaking, these derivatives are calcium, sodium, potassium, and / or magnesium salts of high molecular weight polysaccharides consisting of various proportions of D-mannuronic acid and L-guluronic acid. Examples of alginic acid salts or derivatives include ammonium alginate, potassium alginate, sodium alginate, propylene glycol alginate, and / or combinations thereof. Gums may be used in addition to the adhesive, or in one embodiment, the gums function as adhesives and are provided as part of the web instead of being applied to the exterior of the packaging material as described above.

[0128] The wet strength agent may reduce the possibility of deterioration of the packaging material when the packaging material is placed in contact with a liquid such as water. Typically, the wet strength agent may be selected from polyamides such as epichlorohydrin resins, polyamine-epichlorohydrin resins, poly(aminoamide)-epichlorohydrin resins, urea-formaldehyde resins, melamine-formaldehyde resins, alkyl ketene dimers, alkyl succinic anhydrides, polyvinylamines, and oxidized polysaccharides. Typically, the wet strength agent is included in the packaging material in an amount of 0.1% to 30% by weight, preferably 1% to 15% by weight, and more preferably 5% to 10% by weight.

[0129] Oil and fat barrier agents may reduce the absorption of grease by the paper. Typically, the oil and fat barrier agents may be selected from carboxymethylcellulose, polyacrylamide, acrylic esters and latex.

[0130] Antiblocking agents can limit the adhesion of the material to the paper. Typically, antiblocking agents can be selected from carboxymethyl cellulose, polyacrylamides, acrylic esters, silicones and latexes.

[0131] Dry strength agents can increase the resistance of the packaging material when it is subjected to high mechanical stress. Dry strength agents can be selected from starches and modified gums, cellulose polymers, synthetic polymers such as carboxymethylcellulose and polyacrylamides. Generally, the dry strength agents are present in the packaging material in an amount of 0.1% to 15% by weight, preferably 1% to 10% by weight, more preferably 1% to 5% by weight of the dry weight.

[0132] The softener can improve the softness of the packaging material. In general, the softener is a fatty acid, a siloxane compound, a silicone compound, an aminosilicone compound, an aloe vera extract, a sweet almond extract, a chamomile extract, or a quaternary ammonium compound. In general, the softener is contained in the packaging material in an amount of 0.1% to 30% by weight, preferably 1% to 15% by weight, and more preferably 5% to 10% by weight, based on the dry weight.

[0133] The finished web or packaging material is dried and wound into a roll. For example, in one embodiment, the dried sheet is wound onto a bobbin having a width of about 15 mm to about 54 mm, such as about 19 mm to about 28 mm. Prior to winding the web onto the bobbin, the web can be calendered to enhance the smoothness and runnability of the material. In one embodiment, for example, a multi-nip calendering device can be used.

[0134] Packaging materials made according to the present disclosure have excellent mechanical properties and a highly desirable aesthetic appearance that can be further enhanced by the addition of dyes (synthetic and / or natural) and filigree techniques.

[0135] The present disclosure may be better understood with reference to the following examples.

[0136] Working Example

[0137] Example 1

[0138] A cannabis packaging material according to the present invention utilizing cannabis fibres was produced according to the following method: cannabis hurd was ground into particles of 250μm to 500μm in size. The ground cannabis material was then pulped in water at 70°C for 30 minutes at a cannabis:water ratio of 1:20. The mixture was then processed in a centrifuge to separate the soluble portion (soluble cannabis) from the insoluble portion (insoluble hemp fibre residue). The insoluble portion was mixed with bleached hemp pulp used as web building fibre derived from hemp at a ratio of 3:1 insoluble portion:hemp pulp (dry weight:dry weight) and the mixed slurry was then refined using a disc refiner. After refining, a base sheet was formed from the refined slurry. The water soluble portion derived from the cannabis plant (also referred to herein as water soluble cannabis) was then mixed with various additives including aerosol generating agents and / or colours. The resulting reconstituted hemp material was finally dried into a web and formed into a cannabis packaging material.

[0139] - Sample A: Coating with 6% by weight glycerol and about 2% by weight dye diluted with extracted cannabis solubles.

[0140] - Sample B: A coating of 6% by weight glycerol diluted with extracted cannabis solubles, about 2% by weight dye, and about 0.5% by weight flavor (commonly referred to as harshness reducing flavor).

[0141] - Sample C: A coating of 6% by weight glycerol diluted with extracted cannabis solubles, approximately 2% by weight dye, and 0.5% by weight herbal flavoring.

[0142] - Samples A, B, and C were manually formed into smoking articles. Empty tubes were filled individually with each sample and smoked by a team of three experts.

[0143] Evaluation: All samples exhibited a homogenous appearance with a cannabis-like color. When compared to the reference paper made with 100% hemp pulp, Sample A exhibited a slightly bland smoke and a bland aftertaste. The aroma was neutral to slightly papery.

[0144] Compared to sample A, sample B exhibited lower harshness.

[0145] Compared to sample A, sample C exhibited a subtle and pleasant herbal aroma.

[0146] Example 2

[0147] Hemp packaging materials were prepared according to the conditions described in Example 1, except that they were prepared with different types and levels of pigments. The color of the samples was measured according to the CIE Hunter L*a*b scale. The Hunter Lab color scale was created by Richard S. Hunter in 1948 and described in "The Measurement of Appearance, 2nd Addition, John Wiley and Sons, New York, New York, 1987". The color scale describes all colors visible to the human eye and was created to serve as a device-independent model to be used as a reference.

[0148] The three coordinates of the Hunter lab scale represent the brightness of the color (L=0 produces black, L=100 indicates diffuse white, specular white is higher), the location of the color between red / magenta and green (a, negative values ​​indicate green, positive values ​​indicate magenta), and the location of the color between yellow and blue (b, negative values ​​indicate blue, positive values ​​indicate yellow).

[0149] The results are shown below.

[0150] [Table 1]

[0151] The results show that a wide range of colors can be achieved with cannabis packaging materials, and furthermore, that the shade can be tailored to the desired target using specific combinations of pigments.

[0152] Example 3

[0153] A cannabis packaging material according to the present invention utilizing cannabis fibre was produced according to the following method: cannabis leaves: cannabis flowers were mixed in a 1:1 ratio and then ground to 10mm size particles. The ground cannabis blend was then pulped in water at 70°C for 30 minutes to a hemp:water ratio of 1:20. The mixture was then processed in a centrifuge to separate the soluble portion (soluble cannabis) from the insoluble portion (insoluble cannabis fibre residue). The insoluble fibre portion was mixed with bleached hemp pulp used as web building fibre obtained from hemp in a ratio of 4:1 (dry weight:dry weight) insoluble fibre portion:hemp pulp, and the mixed slurry was then refined using a disc refiner. After refining, a web or sheet was formed from the refined slurry. The soluble portion derived from the cannabis plant (also referred to herein as soluble cannabis) was mixed with a solution of glycerol and methylcellulose. The final solution was coated onto a web or sheet such that the final amount of methylcellulose in the dried web or sheet was 2.5% by weight in the final product. The resulting material was finally dried.

[0154] After drying, the samples were tested for seal strength. One side of the cannabis packaging material was licked or wetted with an aqueous solution and the wetted portion was adhered to the non-wetted portion of the cannabis packaging material to simulate hand-rolling a conventional smoking article. It was unexpectedly discovered that a highly efficient seal was produced between the wetted and non-wetted portions of the cannabis packaging produced according to this example. Thus, the seal formed between the wetted and non-wetted portions of the cannabis packaging material exhibited the necessary properties for an alternative packaging material or hand-rolled smoking article.

[0155] Example 4

[0156] A cannabis packaging material according to the present invention utilizing cannabis fibre was produced according to the following method: cannabis leaves: cannabis flowers were mixed in a 1:1 ratio and then ground to 10mm size particles. The ground cannabis blend was then pulped in water at 70°C for 30 minutes to a hemp:water ratio of 1:20. The mixture was then processed in a centrifuge to separate the soluble portion (soluble cannabis) from the insoluble portion (insoluble cannabis fibre residue). The insoluble fibre portion was mixed with bleached hemp pulp used as web building fibre obtained from hemp in a ratio of 4:1 (dry weight:dry weight) insoluble fibre portion:hemp pulp, and the mixed slurry was then refined using a disc refiner. After refining, a web or sheet was formed from the refined slurry. The water soluble portion obtained from the cannabis plant (also referred to herein as water soluble cannabis) was further concentrated in an evaporator to reach a Brix of about 35% and then mixed with glycerol to form a solution. The final solution was then coated onto a web or sheet to reach a solubles level upon drying of approximately 30% by weight (including 6% glycerol), based on the dry weight of the final product.

[0157] Evaluation: The web or sheet before coating with the solution exhibited a pleasant green color with obvious mottle, thereby exhibiting a very natural appearance. The web or sheet before coating with the solution unexpectedly exhibited very good burning characteristics and a slightly noticeable cannabis odor.

[0158] After coating the web or sheet with the solution, the final material had a similar natural appearance to the web or sheet before coating, but with a more yellowish color and a glossy appearance. It was observed that it burned quite slowly, but was not self-extinguishing, and exhibited a very pleasant cannabis odor when burned.

[0159] Example 5

[0160] A cannabis packaging material according to the present invention utilizing cannabis fibre was produced according to the following method: A blend of cannabis fibre and cannabis leaves was ground to particles of 0.5 mm size. The ground cannabis blend was then pulped in water at 70°C for 30 minutes at a husk:water ratio of 1:10. The mixture was then processed in a centrifuge to separate the soluble portion (soluble cannabis) from the insoluble fibre portion (insoluble cannabis fibre residue). The insoluble fibre portion was mixed with bleached hemp pulp used as web building fibre obtained from hemp at a ratio of 4:1 (dry weight:dry weight) of insoluble fibre portion:hemp pulp, and the mixed slurry was then refined using a disc refiner. After refining, a web or sheet was formed from the refined slurry. The water soluble portion obtained from the cannabis plant (also referred to herein as water soluble cannabis) was further concentrated in an evaporator to reach a Brix of about 30% and then mixed with glycerol to form a solution. The final solution was then coated onto a web or sheet to reach a solubles level of approximately 30% by weight upon drying, based on the dry weight of the final product (by comparison, Sample A contained 3% glycerol and Sample B contained 8% glycerol, respectively).

[0161] Evaluation: Before coating the web or sheet with the solution, the web or sheet exhibited a light yellow color with a very uniform distribution of hemp particles. Surprisingly, it had good burning properties and a pleasant, slightly sweet odor.

[0162] After coating the web or sheet with the solution, the final material had a similar appearance to the web or sheet before coating, but a deeper, more lustrous yellow hue was observed. It was observed that the burn rate was fairly slow, but not self-extinguishing, and the sample exhibited a mild, pleasant cannabis odor upon burning. Without wishing to be bound by any theory, the inventors believe that the application of the higher glycerol level in Sample B provided a softer product texture.

[0163] Various packaging materials can be made according to the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the packaging material comprises a web comprising a combination of extracted hemp fibers and web-building fibers. The web can have a basis weight of about 20 gsm to about 80 gsm and a permeability of about 10 Coresta to about 100 Coresta.

[0164] In any of the above embodiments, the web-constructing fibers combined with the extracted hemp fibers can vary. In one embodiment, the web-constructing fibers include pulp fibers, such as softwood fibers, hardwood fibers, or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, the web-constructing fibers include softwood fibers and hardwood fibers in a ratio of 1:2 to 2:1. In one embodiment, the web-constructing fibers include flax fibers. In one embodiment, the web-constructing fibers are abaca fibers. In one embodiment, the web-constructing fibers are bamboo fibers. In one embodiment, the web-constructing fibers are coconut fibers. In one embodiment, the web-constructing fibers are ramie fibers. In one embodiment, the web-constructing fibers are jute fibers. In one embodiment, the web-constructing fibers are hemp pulp fibers. Hemp pulp fibers may be used alone or in combination with wood pulp fibers (e.g., softwood fibers, hardwood fibers, or a combination thereof). In one embodiment, the web-constructing fibers are included in the packaging material in an amount greater than about 3% by weight. In one embodiment, the web constructing fibers are present in the packaging material in an amount greater than about 5% by weight. In one embodiment, the web constructing fibers are present in the packaging material in an amount greater than about 8% by weight. In one embodiment, the web constructing fibers are present in the packaging material in an amount greater than about 12% by weight. In one embodiment, the web constructing fibers are present in the packaging material in an amount greater than about 18% by weight. In one embodiment, the web constructing fibers are present in the packaging material in an amount less than about 50% by weight, for example less than about 40% by weight.

[0165] The extracted cannabis fibres combined with the web building fibres can be obtained from different sources. In one embodiment, the extracted cannabis fibres comprise cannabis leaves. In one embodiment, the extracted cannabis fibres comprise cannabis stalks. In one embodiment, the cannabis fibres comprise cannabis buds. In one embodiment, the cannabis fibres comprise cannabis flowers. In one embodiment, the extracted cannabis fibres comprise cannabis buds and / or cannabis flowers combined with cannabis leaves and / or cannabis stalks.

[0166] In one embodiment, the extracted cannabis fiber can be obtained from raw materials. In one embodiment, the extracted cannabis fiber can be obtained from a cannabis extraction by-product, where the by-product is subjected to an additional aqueous extraction to form the extracted cannabis fiber. In one embodiment, the extracted cannabis fiber can be obtained from a combination of raw cannabis material and cannabis extraction by-product.

[0167] In any of the above embodiments, the packaging material can include a filler material. The filler material is combined with the extracted hemp fibers and the web-building fibers. The filler material can be included in an amount of about 1% to about 40% by weight. The filler material can include calcium carbonate particles. In one embodiment, the filler material is magnesium oxide particles. In one embodiment, the filler material is a combination of calcium carbonate particles and magnesium oxide particles.

[0168] In one embodiment, the web can be treated with a gum.In one embodiment, the web can be treated with a gum and a moisturizer.

[0169] In any of the embodiments described above, the packaging material may include a plurality of discrete low-flame-spread regions spaced apart along a first direction of the packaging material. The low-flame-spread regions may have a diffusivity of less than about 0.5 cm / s at 23° C. In one embodiment, the plurality of low-flame-spread regions may be formed by applying a low-flame-spread composition to the web.

[0170] These and other modifications and variations to the present invention may be implemented by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as set forth in the appended claims. In addition, it should be understood that aspects of the various embodiments may be interchanged in whole or in part. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the detailed description and examples set forth above are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit in any way the scope of the present invention as set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method for producing a packaging material for smoking articles comprising the steps of: (1) providing extracted cannabis fiber that has been subjected to an extraction process in which cannabis is contacted with an aqueous solution to remove water-soluble components contained in cannabis; (1) combining the extracted hemp fibers with (2) web-building fibers to form a web; The extracted cannabis fiber comprises cannabis leaves, cannabis hard, cannabis buds, cannabis flowers, or combinations thereof; the web constructing fibers include delignified cellulose fibers; The method of claim 1, wherein the web has a basis weight of from 20 gsm to 80 gsm and a permeability of from 10 Coresta to 100 Coresta.

2. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the extracted cannabis fibre comprises extracted cannabis leaves or huds in an amount of 10% to 100% by weight, extracted cannabis buds and / or flowers in an amount of 10% to 100% by weight, and the web comprises the web building fibres in an amount of 1% to 70% by weight.

3. 3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein the web is formed from cannabis plant material containing less than 0.3% tetrahydrocannabinol by weight.

4. The web further comprises a filler material in combination with the extracted hemp fibers and the web-building fibers; 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the filler material comprises calcium carbonate particles, titanium dioxide particles, kaolin particles, talc particles, barium sulfate particles, magnesium oxide particles, bentonite particles, zeolite particles, silicate particles, or combinations thereof.

5. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the filler material is included in the web in an amount of from 1 to 40% by weight, or from 5 to 20% by weight.

6. The method of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the web is calendered.

7. 7. The method of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the extracted cannabis fibre comprises a cannabis extraction by-product that has been subjected to an additional aqueous extraction.

8. and further comprising an aerosol delivery composition applied to the web, the aerosol delivery composition comprising an aerosol delivery agent; 8. The method of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the aerosol delivery agent comprises nicotine, a cannabinoid, tetrahydrocannabinol, or cannabidiol.

9. 10. The method of claim 8, wherein the aerosol delivery composition is present in the web in an amount of greater than 1%, greater than 3%, greater than 5%, greater than 10%, greater than 15%, greater than 20%, greater than 25%, greater than 30%, greater than 35%, or greater than 40% by weight and less than 50% by weight.

10. 10. The method of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the web comprises water soluble cannabis components in an amount of less than 40% by weight.

11. 11. The method of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the web construction fibers comprise flax fibers, abaca fibers, wood pulp fibers, bamboo fibers, coconut fibers, ramie fibers, jute fibers, or combinations thereof.

12. 12. The method of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the web construction fibers comprise hemp pulp fibers.

13. The method of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the web is treated with a burn retardant agent.

14. the web is treated with a moisturizing agent; The method of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the humectant comprises glycerol, propylene glycol, or a combination thereof.

15. A method for producing a smoking article comprising: a smokable rod and a packaging material for packaging the rod, comprising: Providing a wrapping material for smoking articles manufactured by the method according to any one of claims 1 to 14; and wrapping the smokable rod in said wrapping material to form a smoking article.

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