A fragrance-carrying component for a flavor-generating article and its manufacturing method, a flavor-generating article, and a coating liquid and its manufacturing method.

Abstract

The fragrance-carrying constituent member of a flavor-generating article includes a constituent member of the flavor-generating article and a fragrance composition that is carried on the constituent member and contains particles containing menthol and hydroxypropyl cellulose, the viscosity of a 2 mass% aqueous solution of which at 20°C is 100 mPa∙s or less, and glycerin as a dispersion medium.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a fragrance-carrying component of a fragrance-generating article, a method for manufacturing the same, a fragrance-generating article, a coating liquid, and a method for manufacturing the same.

Background Art

[0002] As fragrance-generating articles containing fragrance sources such as tobacco fragrance sources, there are known fragrance inhalers in which users taste the fragrance by inhalation, and smokeless tobacco in which users taste the tobacco fragrance by directly inhaling the product into the nasal cavity or oral cavity. Fragrance inhalers can be broadly classified into combustion-type fragrance inhalers represented by conventional cigarettes, non-combustion heating-type fragrance inhalers known as heated tobacco products, and non-heating-type fragrance inhalers in which users inhale the fragrance without burning or heating the fragrance source.

[0003] These fragrance-generating articles are required to provide users with a stable fragrance over the period of use. However, in these fragrance-generating articles, when a fragrance component having volatility such as menthol is added to the fragrance source in a solution state, there is a problem that the fragrance component dissipates during long-term storage, and the fragrance effect does not persist. Various reports have been made so far to solve the problem of dissipation of the fragrance component that occurs during storage.

[0004] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses that when a coating liquid containing a fragrance and a fragrance holding agent is sprayed and carried on a component of a fragrance-generating article, the fragrance can be incorporated into the fragrance-generating article while suppressing volatilization.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] The inventors of this invention have focused on the problem that increasing the viscosity of a coating solution containing a fragrance and a fragrance retainer makes it difficult for the fragrance to volatilize, but makes it difficult to apply the coating solution to the components of a flavor-generating article. On the other hand, decreasing the viscosity of the coating solution makes it easier to apply the coating solution to the components of a flavor-generating article, but makes the fragrance more volatile. The present invention aims to solve the above problem, that is, to achieve both ease of application of the coating solution to the components of a flavor-generating article and storage stability of the fragrance. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to the first aspect, Components of an aroma-generating article, A fragrance composition comprising particles containing hydroxypropyl cellulose and menthol, supported on the aforementioned component, the 2% by mass aqueous solution having a viscosity of 100 mPa·s or less at 20°C, and glycerin as a dispersion medium. A fragrance-carrying component for a flavor-generating article is provided, including the above.

[0008] According to the second aspect, a flavor-generating article is provided that includes a flavor-carrying component related to the first aspect.

[0009] According to the third aspect, A mixture is prepared by mixing hydroxypropyl cellulose, whose viscosity as a 2% by mass aqueous solution at 20°C is 100 mPa·s or less, and menthol at a temperature above the melting point of menthol. Mixing the aforementioned mixture with glycerin A method for producing a coating liquid for coating components of an article that generates flavor is provided.

[0010] According to the fourth aspect, To manufacture a coating liquid in accordance with the method relating to the third aspect, The coating liquid is applied to the constituent members of the flavor-generating article. A method for manufacturing a fragrance-carrying component of a flavor-generating article is provided.

[0011] According to the fifth aspect, there is provided a coating liquid for coating a component of a flavor-generating article, the coating liquid including particles containing hydroxypropyl cellulose and menthol, having a viscosity of 100 mPa·s or less at 20°C in a 2 mass% aqueous solution, and glycerin as a dispersion medium.

Advantages of the Invention

[0012] According to the present invention, it is possible to achieve both ease of coating the coating liquid on a component of a flavor-generating article and storage stability of a fragrance.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0013] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of a fragrance-carrying component. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing a preparation process of the coating liquid. [Figure 3A] FIG. 3A is a schematic front view showing an example of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B is a schematic top view of the aerosol generating device shown in FIG. 3A. [Figure 3C] FIG. 3C is a schematic bottom view of the aerosol generating device shown in FIG. 3A. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic side cross-sectional view showing an example of a tobacco stick. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III of the aerosol generating device shown in FIG. 3B. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a graph showing the viscosity of the coating liquid. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a graph showing the viscosity of the coating liquid. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a graph showing the menthol fragrance retention of the coating liquid. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a graph showing the menthol fragrance retention of the coating liquid. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a graph showing the relationship between viscosity and menthol fragrance retention. [Figure 11]Figure 11 is a graph showing the relationship between viscosity and menthol fragrance retention. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a graph showing the transmission spectrum of the coating liquid. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a graph showing the relationship between viscosity and menthol fragrance retention. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a graph showing the relationship between puff number and menthol amount. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a graph showing the relationship between puff number and glycerin amount.

Embodiments for Carrying out the Invention

[0014] The inventors of the present invention newly found that when a coating liquid containing low-viscosity hydroxypropyl cellulose, menthol, and glycerin is prepared by a specific process shown in FIG. 2, a coating liquid with high storage stability of fragrance can be prepared despite its low viscosity, and thus the present invention was completed.

[0015] <1>Fragrance-carrying Component The fragrance-carrying component of the fragrance-generating article (hereinafter, also simply referred to as "fragrance-carrying component") is a component of the fragrance-generating article, particles containing hydroxypropyl cellulose having a viscosity of 100 mPa·s or less at 20°C in a 2% by mass aqueous solution, menthol, and glycerin as a dispersion medium, which are carried on the above component, and a fragrance composition containing glycerin.

[0016] [[ID=X36]](Fragrance-generating Article) The fragrance-generating articles include a fragrance inhaler for a user to taste a fragrance (e.g., a tobacco fragrance) by inhalation, and a smokeless tobacco for a user to taste a tobacco fragrance by directly inhaling the product into the nasal cavity or oral cavity.

[0017] A flavor inhaler is any inhaler that contains a flavor source and allows the user to taste the flavor derived from the flavor source by inhaling. The flavor source included in the flavor inhaler is preferably a tobacco flavor source. Specifically, flavor inhalers include a combustion-type flavor inhaler that provides flavor to the user by burning the flavor source; a non-combustion heating-type flavor inhaler (also called a heated tobacco stick) that provides flavor to the user by heating the flavor source without burning it; and a non-heating-type flavor inhaler that provides flavor to the user without burning or heating the flavor source.

[0018] Smokeless tobacco is a product that contains flavorings, and the user enjoys the flavor derived from these flavorings by directly placing the product in their nasal cavity or mouth. The flavorings contained in smokeless tobacco are preferably tobacco flavorings. Snuff and chewing tobacco are known examples of smokeless tobacco.

[0019] (Components of flavor-generating articles) The "components of the flavor-generating article" are base members for supporting the flavor composition. Therefore, in the following explanation, the components of the flavor-generating article will also be referred to as "base members."

[0020] The base component is, for example, a tobacco filler. The tobacco filler is a tobacco material that functions as a tobacco flavor source in a flavor-generating article. The tobacco filler is, for example, cut tobacco, tobacco molded bodies (e.g., sheet tobacco, tobacco granules), or a combination thereof. Cut tobacco refers to cut pieces of tobacco leaves (dried tobacco leaves) that are ready to be incorporated into a flavor-generating article. Sheet tobacco refers to a tobacco molded body or cut pieces made by forming tobacco materials such as tobacco scraps and cut tobacco, which are generated at raw material factories and manufacturing plants, into a sheet shape. Tobacco granules refer to a tobacco molded body made by forming tobacco materials such as tobacco scraps and cut tobacco, which are generated at raw material factories and manufacturing plants, into a granular shape.

[0021] In this specification, when the base member is a tobacco filler, the flavor-carrying component is referred to as the "flavor-carrying tobacco filler." Specifically, when the base member is a tobacco molded body, the flavor-carrying component is referred to as the "flavor-carrying tobacco molded body." Similarly, when the base member is a sheet cigarette, the flavor-carrying component is referred to as the "flavor-carrying sheet cigarette."

[0022] Figure 1 shows an example of a fragrance-carrying component when a sheet cigarette is used as the base material. Figure 1 shows a fragrance-carrying sheet cigarette 1, on which a fragrance composition 1b is formed. Since the sheet cigarette 1a has voids, in Figure 1, the fragrance composition 1b is contained within the voids of the sheet cigarette 1a.

[0023] Alternatively, the base component may be cigarette rolling paper. Cigarette rolling paper is rolling paper used to wrap tobacco filling material in a flavor inhaler.

[0024] Alternatively, the base member may be a filter. Specifically, the base member may be a filter material (for example, cellulose acetate fiber, paper, or film) that constitutes the filter, or a plug wrapper wrapped around the filter material. When the base member is a filter material that constitutes the filter, the fragrance-carrying component is called the "fragrance-carrying filter material".

[0025] (Fragrance composition) The "fragrance composition" is supported on a base material and contains the following components: Hydroxypropyl cellulose having a viscosity of 100 mPa·s or less at 20°C in a 2% by mass aqueous solution. Menthol, and Glycerin. In the following explanation, "hydroxypropyl cellulose with a viscosity of 100 mPa·s or less at 20°C in a 2% by mass aqueous solution" is also referred to as "low-viscosity hydroxypropyl cellulose."

[0026] A fragrance composition can be formed by coating a base member with a coating solution containing low viscosity hydroxypropyl cellulose, menthol, and glycerin, and then drying the base member coated with the coating solution. Drying can be performed, for example, by leaving the base member coated with the coating solution at room temperature (e.g., 15-25°C). Drying should be continued until the coating solution is visibly solid. The fragrance composition may be present in a layer on the surface of the constituent members of the flavor-generating article, or it may be present only in the recesses if there are irregularities on the surface of the constituent members of the flavor-generating article.

[0027] The "low-viscosity hydroxypropyl cellulose" used in the present invention has a viscosity of 100 mPa·s or less at 20°C in a 2% by mass aqueous solution. The hydroxypropyl cellulose used in the present invention has a viscosity of preferably 50 mPa·s or less, more preferably 30 mPa·s or less, and even more preferably 10 mPa·s or less in a 2% by mass aqueous solution at 20°C. The lower limit of this viscosity is not particularly limited, but for example, it is 1.0 mPa·s.

[0028] In this specification, the viscosity of a 2% by mass aqueous solution at 20°C refers to the viscosity measured using a B-type viscometer at 20°C and 60 rpm (JIS Z8803:2011).

[0029] Low-viscosity hydroxypropyl cellulose is commercially available and includes, for example, Cerny SSL (viscosity of 2% by mass aqueous solution at 20°C: 2.0-2.9 mPa·s) (Nippon Soda Co., Ltd.), Cerny SL (viscosity of 2% by mass aqueous solution at 20°C: 3.0-5.9 mPa·s) (Nippon Soda Co., Ltd.), and Cerny L (viscosity of 2% by mass aqueous solution at 20°C: 6.0-10.0 mPa·s) (Nippon Soda Co., Ltd.).

[0030] Low-viscosity hydroxypropyl cellulose is included in the fragrance composition in an amount of preferably 20 to 70 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of menthol. More preferably, low-viscosity hydroxypropyl cellulose is included in the fragrance composition in an amount of preferably 30 to 70 parts by mass, and even more preferably 40 to 60 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of menthol.

[0031] Glycerin is preferably included in the fragrance composition in an amount of 40 to 120 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of menthol. More preferably, glycerin is included in the fragrance composition in an amount of 60 to 110 parts by mass, and even more preferably, 80 to 100 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of menthol.

[0032] <2> Method for manufacturing fragrance-carrying components The above-mentioned fragrance-carrying component can be manufactured by the method described below. In other words, A mixture is prepared by mixing hydroxypropyl cellulose, whose viscosity as a 2% by mass aqueous solution at 20°C is 100 mPa·s or less, and menthol at a temperature above the melting point of menthol. The aforementioned mixture is mixed with glycerin to prepare a coating solution. The coating liquid is applied to the constituent members of the flavor-generating article. A method for manufacturing a fragrance-carrying component is provided, including the above.

[0033] The following describes the preparation process of the coating solution and the subsequent application process of the coating solution in order.

[0034] <2-1> Preparation process of coating solution The process for preparing the coating solution is shown in Figure 2. As shown in Figure 2, first, low-viscosity hydroxypropyl cellulose and menthol are mixed at a temperature above the melting point of menthol (S1), and then the resulting mixture is mixed with glycerin (S2) to prepare the coating solution.

[0035] The melting point of menthol is approximately 43°C. Therefore, "a temperature above the melting point of menthol" refers to a temperature of 43°C or higher. Accordingly, the mixing step (S1) of low-viscosity hydroxypropyl cellulose and menthol can be carried out at a temperature within the range of, for example, 45 to 100°C, preferably 50 to 100°C, and more preferably 60 to 100°C. The mixing step (S2) of the mixture with glycerin can be carried out at any temperature, but preferably at the same temperature as the mixing step (S1).

[0036] The preferred composition of the coating solution is the same as the preferred composition of the fragrance composition. Specifically, low-viscosity hydroxypropyl cellulose is preferably included in the coating solution in an amount of 20 to 70 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of menthol. More preferably, low-viscosity hydroxypropyl cellulose is included in the coating solution in an amount of 30 to 70 parts by mass, and even more preferably, 40 to 60 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of menthol. Glycerin is preferably included in the coating solution in an amount of 40 to 120 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of menthol. More preferably, glycerin is included in the coating solution in an amount of 60 to 110 parts by mass, and even more preferably, 80 to 100 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of menthol.

[0037] By preparing the coating solution using the two-step mixing process shown in Figure 2, a "low viscosity, cloudy coating solution" can be obtained (see Examples 1 and 4 below).

[0038] The inventors consider the following to be the reason why a "low viscosity, cloudy coating solution" is obtained. In the first mixing step (S1), hydroxypropyl cellulose dissolves in menthol. When glycerin is mixed in the subsequent mixing step (S2), a state is created in which the hydroxypropyl cellulose and menthol mixture phase and the glycerin phase coexist. When this is stirred, it is thought that the hydroxypropyl cellulose and menthol mixture disperses in droplet form in the glycerin. Here, it is thought that the hydroxypropyl cellulose interacts with glycerin at the droplet interface, and the menthol exists in the droplet of the hydroxypropyl cellulose and menthol mixture in a protected state due to the interaction between hydroxypropyl cellulose and glycerin. In other words, it is thought that the "low viscosity, cloudy coating solution" is due to particles containing hydroxypropyl cellulose and menthol being colloidally dispersed in glycerin.

[0039] On the other hand, when a coating solution is prepared by simultaneously mixing low-viscosity hydroxypropyl cellulose, menthol, and glycerol, it is not possible to obtain a "low-viscosity, cloudy coating solution," and solid matter is formed (see Example 1 below). This solid matter is thought to be a reaction product of glycerin and hydroxypropyl cellulose.

[0040] <2-2> Coating process of coating liquid A flavor-carrying component can be manufactured by applying the above-mentioned coating liquid to the components of a flavor-generating article. The coating can be carried out by any method as long as the coating liquid is applied to the surface of the components of the flavor-generating article. For example, the coating may be carried out by extruding and adding the coating liquid to the surface of the components of the flavor-generating article using a slit feeder, or by applying the coating liquid to the surface of the components of the flavor-generating article using a film applicator or the like.

[0041] As described above, the coating liquid is applied to the components of the flavor-generating article, and then dried and solidified. Once solidified, the coating liquid is called a "flavor composition."

[0042] <2-3> Effects The "low viscosity, cloudy coating liquid" is advantageous in that its low viscosity makes it easy to apply to the components of flavor-generating articles. Furthermore, the "low viscosity, cloudy coating liquid" is advantageous in that it provides high menthol storage stability after application to the components of flavor-generating articles. In addition, the flavor-carrying components manufactured using the "low viscosity, cloudy coating liquid" are advantageous in that they can stably release menthol throughout the puffing period of a flavor inhaler. These effects are demonstrated in coating liquids 1E and 2E of Examples 1-3; coating liquids 10A and 10B of Example 4; and Examples 5 and 6, described below.

[0043] <3> Coating liquid and method for manufacturing the same The above-mentioned coating liquid and method for manufacturing the same are also aspects of the present invention. That is, according to yet another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a coating liquid for coating a component of a flavor-generating article, A mixture is prepared by mixing hydroxypropyl cellulose, whose viscosity as a 2% by mass aqueous solution at 20°C is 100 mPa·s or less, and menthol at a temperature above the melting point of menthol. Mixing the aforementioned mixture with glycerin A method including this is provided.

[0044] The method for manufacturing the coating solution can be carried out as described in section "<2-1> Preparation Process of Coating Solution".

[0045] From yet another perspective, a coating liquid is provided that is manufactured by the "method for manufacturing a coating liquid" described above. As described above, this coating liquid is thought to consist of particles containing hydroxypropyl cellulose and menthol colloidally dispersed in glycerin. Therefore, from yet another perspective, a coating liquid is provided for coating components of a flavor-generating article, comprising particles containing hydroxypropyl cellulose and menthol, the viscosity of a 2% by mass aqueous solution at 20°C being 100 mPa·s or less, and glycerin as a dispersion medium.

[0046] The above-described coating solution is characterized by having a transmittance of 10% or less across the entire wavelength range of 500 to 700 nm when its transmission spectrum is obtained using a spectrophotometer (see Example 4 below). In other words, the above-described coating solution is characterized by being cloudy. Furthermore, as already mentioned, the above-described coating solution is characterized by having low viscosity.

[0047] As described above, using such a coating liquid to manufacture a fragrance-carrying component makes it possible to achieve both ease of application of the coating liquid to the components of the flavor-generating article and stability of the fragrance storage in the fragrance-carrying component.

[0048] <4> Flavor-generating items The aforementioned "fragrance-carrying component" can be incorporated into any flavor-generating article. In other words, a flavor-generating article containing the aforementioned "fragrance-carrying component" is provided.

[0049] The flavor generating article of the present invention has the same configuration as a normal flavor generating article, except that the components of a normal flavor generating article are replaced with the "flavor-carrying components" described above. In the flavor generating article of the present invention, several components of a normal flavor generating article (for example, tobacco filler and filter) may be replaced with the "flavor-carrying components" described above, or one component of a normal flavor generating article (for example, tobacco filler) may be replaced with the "flavor-carrying components" described above. Furthermore, when replacing the tobacco filler with the "flavor-carrying tobacco filler" described above, the entire tobacco filler may be replaced with the "flavor-carrying tobacco filler" described above, or a part of the tobacco filler may be replaced with the "flavor-carrying tobacco filler" described above.

[0050] As mentioned above, examples of flavor-generating devices include combustion-type flavor inhalers, non-combustion heating-type flavor inhalers, non-heating-type flavor inhalers, and smokeless tobacco.

[0051] A "combustion-type flavor inhaler" is a flavor inhaler that provides flavor to the user by burning a flavor source such as tobacco filler (e.g., tobacco flakes or tobacco molded bodies). Examples of combustion-type flavor inhalers include cigarettes, pipes, kiseru (Japanese pipes), cigars, or cigarillos.

[0052] A "non-combustion heating type flavor inhaler" is a flavor inhaler that provides flavor to the user by heating flavor sources such as tobacco filler without combustion. As an example of a heating type flavor inhaler, A carbon-source type flavor inhaler that heats the tobacco filler material using the combustion heat of a carbon heat source (see, for example, WO2006 / 073065); An electrically heated flavor inhaler comprising a tobacco stick containing tobacco filler and a heating device for electrically heating the tobacco stick (see, for example, WO2010 / 110226); or A liquid atomizing flavor inhaler (see, for example, WO2015 / 046385) generates an aerosol by heating a liquid aerosol source with a heater, and inhales the flavor derived from the tobacco filler along with the aerosol. These are some examples.

[0053] A "non-heating flavor inhaler" is a flavor inhaler that provides flavor to the user without burning or heating flavor sources such as tobacco fillers. An example of a non-heating flavor inhaler is a non-heating tobacco flavor inhaler that includes an inhaler body equipped with an air passage for circulating air by suction, and tobacco granules placed in the air passage (see, for example, WO2012 / 023515).

[0054] "Smokeless tobacco" refers to products in which users directly inhale the tobacco flavor into their nasal cavity or oral cavity. The former are called nasal tobacco products, and the latter are called oral tobacco products. Snuff is an example of the former, and chewing tobacco is an example of the latter.

[0055] In a preferred embodiment, the above-mentioned "fragrance-carrying component" can be incorporated into a flavor inhaler. The flavor inhaler is more preferably a non-combustion heating type flavor inhaler.

[0056] According to a preferred embodiment, A tobacco stick comprising a flavor source containing the aforementioned "flavor-carrying tobacco filler" (e.g., a flavor-carrying tobacco molded body), and a rolling paper wrapped around the flavor source, A heater for heating the flavor source contained in the tobacco stick A non-combustion heating type flavor inhaler is provided. The tobacco stick may further include a filter downstream of the flavor source (i.e., on the mouthpiece side).

[0057] According to another preferred embodiment, A tobacco stick comprising a flavor source containing tobacco filler, a tip plug positioned upstream of the flavor source (i.e., opposite the mouthpiece) and containing the aforementioned "flavor-carrying filter material", and a rolling paper wrapped around the flavor source and the tip plug, A heater for heating the flavor source contained in the tobacco stick and the tip plug. A non-combustion heating type flavor inhaler equipped with [a specific feature] is provided.

[0058] [Example of a non-combustion heating type flavor inhaler] An example of a non-combustion heating type flavor inhaler is described below with reference to Figures 3A, 3B, 3C, 4, and 5. In this example, the non-combustion heating type flavor inhaler consists of an aerosol generator 100 and a tobacco stick 200. Figure 3A is a schematic front view of an example of an aerosol generator. Figure 3B is a schematic top view of the aerosol generator shown in Figure 3A. Figure 3C is a schematic bottom view of the aerosol generator shown in Figure 3A. Figure 4 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of an example of a tobacco stick. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generator shown in Figure 3B along line III-III.

[0059] The drawings may include an XYZ Cartesian coordinate system for ease of explanation. In this coordinate system, the Z axis points vertically upward, the XY plane is positioned to cut the aerosol generator 100 horizontally, and the Y axis extends from the front to the back of the aerosol generator 100. The Z axis can also be described as the insertion direction of the tobacco stick housed in the chamber 150 of the atomizing unit 130, or the axial direction of the chamber 150. The X axis is perpendicular to the Y and Z axes, and the X and Y axes can also be described as the radial direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the chamber 150, or the radial direction of the chamber 150.

[0060] The aerosol generating device 100 is configured to generate an aerosol containing flavor by heating a tobacco stick having a flavor source containing the "flavor-carrying tobacco filler" described above.

[0061] As shown in Figures 3A to 3C, the aerosol generator 100 includes an outer housing 101 (corresponding to an example of a housing), a slide cover 102, and a switch unit 103. The outer housing 101 constitutes the outermost housing of the aerosol generator 100 and is sized to fit in the user's hand. When the user uses the flavor inhaler, they can hold the aerosol generator 100 in their hand and inhale the aerosol. The outer housing 101 may be constructed by assembling multiple components. The outer housing 101 may be made of resin, for example, and in particular may be made of polycarbonate (PC), ABS (Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene) resin, PEEK (polyetheretherketone), or a polymer alloy containing multiple types of polymers, or a metal such as aluminum.

[0062] The outer housing 101 has an opening (not shown) for receiving a tobacco stick, and a slide cover 102 is slidably mounted on the outer housing 101 to close this opening. Specifically, the slide cover 102 is configured to move along the outer surface of the outer housing 101 between a closed position (shown in Figures 3A and 3B) that closes the opening of the outer housing 101 and an open position (shown in Figure 5) that opens the opening. For example, a user can move the slide cover 102 between the closed and open positions by manually operating it. This allows or restricts access of tobacco sticks to the inside of the aerosol generator 100.

[0063] The switch unit 103 is used to switch the operation of the aerosol generator 100 on and off. For example, by operating the switch unit 103 with a tobacco stick inserted into the aerosol generator 100, power is supplied from the power source (see reference numeral 121 in Figure 5) to the heater (see reference numeral 140 in Figure 5), allowing the tobacco stick to be heated without combustion. The switch unit 103 may be a switch located outside the outer housing 101, or it may be a switch located inside the outer housing 101. If the switch is located inside the outer housing 101, the switch is indirectly pressed by pressing the switch unit 103 on the surface of the outer housing 101. In this example, an example in which the switch of the switch unit 103 is located inside the outer housing 101 is described.

[0064] The aerosol generator 100 may also have terminals (not shown). These terminals may be interfaces for connecting the aerosol generator 100 to, for example, an external power source. If the power source of the aerosol generator 100 is a rechargeable battery, connecting an external power source to the terminals will allow the external power source to supply current to the power source and charge it. Alternatively, by connecting a data transmission cable to the terminals, data related to the operation of the aerosol generator 100 may be transmitted to an external device.

[0065] Next, the tobacco stick used in the aerosol generating device 100 will be described. Figure 4 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of an example of a tobacco stick 200. In this example, the aerosol generating device 100 and the tobacco stick 200 constitute a flavor inhaler. As shown in Figure 4, the tobacco stick 200 has a smokeable portion 201, a cylindrical member 204, a hollow filter portion 206, and a filter portion 205.

[0066] The smokeable object 201 is wrapped in a first rolling paper 202. The cylindrical member 204, the hollow filter section 206, and the filter section 205 are wrapped in a second rolling paper 203, which is different from the first rolling paper 202. The second rolling paper 203 also wraps a portion of the first rolling paper 202 that wraps the smokeable object 201. This connects the cylindrical member 204, the hollow filter section 206, and the filter section 205 to the smokeable object 201. However, the second rolling paper 203 may be omitted, and the cylindrical member 204, the hollow filter section 206, and the filter section 205 to the smokeable object 201 may be connected using the first rolling paper 202. A lip-release agent 207 is applied to the outer surface near the end of the second rolling paper 203 on the filter section 205 side to make it easier for the user's lips to separate from the second rolling paper 203. The part of the tobacco stick 200 to which the lip release agent 207 is applied functions as the mouthpiece of the tobacco stick 200.

[0067] The smokeable material 201 contains the above-mentioned "flavor-carrying tobacco filler" as a flavor source. As described above, the "flavor-carrying tobacco filler" may be used alone as a flavor source for a heated flavor inhaler, or it may be used as a flavor source in combination with tobacco filler normally used in heated flavor inhalers. The flavor-carrying tobacco filler is, for example, a flavor-carrying tobacco molded body. The flavor-carrying tobacco molded body is, for example, a flavor-carrying tobacco sheet.

[0068] Furthermore, the first rolling paper 202 that wraps the smokeable material 201 may be a breathable sheet material. The cylindrical member 204 may be a paper tube or a hollow filter. In this example, the tobacco stick 200 comprises the smokeable material 201, the cylindrical member 204, the hollow filter section 206, and the filter section 205, but the configuration of the tobacco stick 200 is not limited to this. For example, the hollow filter section 206 may be omitted, and the cylindrical member 204 and the filter section 205 may be arranged adjacent to each other.

[0069] Next, the internal structure of the aerosol generator 100 will be described. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generator 100 shown in Figure 3B along line III-III. As shown in Figure 5, an inner housing 110 (corresponding to an example of a housing) is provided inside the outer housing 101 of the aerosol generator 100. The inner housing 110 is made of resin, for example, and can be formed from polycarbonate (PC), ABS (Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene) resin, PEEK (polyetheretherketone), or a polymer alloy containing multiple types of polymers, or from a metal such as aluminum. From the viewpoint of heat resistance and strength, it is preferable that the inner housing 110 be made of PEEK. A power supply unit 120 and an atomizing unit 130 are provided in the internal space of the inner housing 110.

[0070] The power supply unit 120 has a power source 121. The power source 121 may be, for example, a rechargeable battery or a non-rechargeable battery. The power source 121 is electrically connected to the atomizing unit 130. This allows the power source 121 to supply power to the atomizing unit 130 so as to properly heat the tobacco stick 200.

[0071] As shown in Figure 5, the atomizing unit 130 includes a metal chamber 150 (corresponding to an example of a cylindrical part) extending in the insertion direction (Z-axis direction) of the tobacco stick 200, a heater 140 covering a part of the chamber 150, a heat insulating part 132, and a substantially cylindrical insertion guide member 134 (corresponding to an example of a guide part) that abuts against the opening of the chamber 150. The chamber 150 is configured to surround the tobacco stick 200. The heater 140 is configured to include a heating part that contacts the outer circumferential surface of the chamber 150 and heats the tobacco stick 200 inserted into the chamber 150.

[0072] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 5, a bottom member 136 (corresponding to an example of a contact portion) is provided at the bottom of the chamber 150. The bottom member 136 contacts the tobacco stick 200 inserted into the chamber 150 in the insertion direction of the tobacco stick 200 and can function as a stopper to position the tobacco stick 200. Here, the chamber 150 and the bottom member 136 constitute a housing portion that accommodates at least a part of the tobacco stick 200. The bottom member 136 may be formed from, for example, a resin material. The bottom member 136 has irregularities on the surface that the tobacco stick 200 contacts and can define a first air passage that can supply air to the air intake of the tobacco stick 200 (i.e., communicate with the tobacco stick 200 housed in the housing portion). The bottom member 136 is made of, for example, resin, and in particular, can be made of polycarbonate (PC), ABS (Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene) resin, PEEK (polyetheretherketone), or a polymer alloy containing multiple types of polymers, or a metal such as aluminum. It is preferable that the bottom member 136 be made of a material with low thermal conductivity in order to suppress the transfer of heat to the heat insulating part 132, etc.

[0073] The heat insulating section 132 is generally cylindrical and is positioned to cover the chamber 150. The heat insulating section 132 may include, for example, an aerogel sheet. The insertion guide member 134 is provided between the slide cover 102 in the closed position and the chamber 150. The insertion guide member 134 is made of, for example, resin, and can be formed from polycarbonate (PC), ABS (Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene) resin, PEEK (polyetheretherketone), or a polymer alloy containing multiple types of polymers. The insertion guide member 134 may also be made of metal, glass, ceramic, etc. Furthermore, from the viewpoint of heat resistance, the insertion guide member 134 is preferably made of PEEK. When the slide cover 102 is in the open position, the insertion guide member 134 communicates with the outside of the aerosol generator 100 and guides the insertion of the tobacco stick 200 into the chamber 150 by inserting the tobacco stick 200 into the insertion guide member 134. By providing the insertion guide member 134, the tobacco stick 200 can be easily inserted into the chamber 150.

[0074] The aerosol generator 100 further includes a first holding part 137 and a second holding part 138, which hold both ends of the chamber 150 and the heat insulating part 132. The first holding part 137 is positioned to hold the ends of the chamber 150 and the heat insulating part 132 on the negative Z-axis side. The second holding part 138 is positioned to hold the ends of the chamber 150 and the heat insulating part 132 on the slide cover 102 side (positive Z-axis side).

[0075] <5> Preferred Embodiment The following summarizes preferred embodiments.

[0076] [A1] Components of the flavor-generating article, A fragrance composition comprising particles containing hydroxypropyl cellulose and menthol, supported on the aforementioned component, the 2% by mass aqueous solution having a viscosity of 100 mPa·s or less at 20°C, and glycerin as a dispersion medium. A fragrance-carrying component for a flavor-generating article, including the above. [A2] The fragrance-carrying component according to [A1], wherein the viscosity of the hydroxypropyl cellulose is 50 mPa·s or less, preferably 30 mPa·s or less, more preferably 10 mPa·s or less, and even more preferably 6 mPa·s or less. [A3] The fragrance-carrying component according to [A1], wherein the viscosity of the hydroxypropyl cellulose is 1 to 100 mPa·s, preferably 1 to 50 mPa·s, more preferably 1 to 30 mPa·s, even more preferably 1 to 10 mPa·s, even more preferably 2 to 10 mPa·s, and even more preferably 2 to 6 mPa·s.

[0077] [A4] The fragrance-carrying component according to any one of [A1] to [A3], wherein the hydroxypropyl cellulose is contained in the fragrance composition in an amount of 20 to 70 parts by mass, preferably 30 to 70 parts by mass, more preferably 40 to 60 parts by mass, per 100 parts by mass of menthol. [A5] The fragrance-carrying component according to any one of [A1] to [A4], wherein the glycerin is contained in the fragrance composition in an amount of 40 to 120 parts by mass, preferably 60 to 110 parts by mass, more preferably 80 to 100 parts by mass, per 100 parts by mass of menthol. [A6] The flavor-generating article is a flavor suction device, preferably a non-combustion heating type flavor suction device, according to any one of [A1] to [A5].

[0078] [A7] The flavor-carrying component according to any one of [A1] to [A6], wherein the component of the flavor-generating article is a tobacco filler, a filter, or a tobacco rolling paper. [A8] The flavor-carrying component according to any one of [A1] to [A7], wherein the component of the flavor-generating article is a tobacco molded body, a filter, or tobacco rolling paper. [A9] The flavor-carrying component according to any one of [A1] to [A8], wherein the component of the flavor-generating article is a tobacco filler, preferably a tobacco molded body, and more preferably a sheet tobacco.

[0079] A flavor-generating article containing a fragrance-carrying component described in any one of [B1] [A1] to [A9]. [B2] The flavor generating article according to [B1], wherein the flavor generating article is a flavor suction device, preferably a non-combustion heating type flavor suction device.

[0080] [C1] A mixture is prepared by mixing hydroxypropyl cellulose, whose viscosity at 20°C is 100 mPa·s or less in a 2% by mass aqueous solution, and menthol at a temperature above the melting point of menthol. Mixing the aforementioned mixture with glycerin A method for producing a coating liquid for coating components of an article that generates flavor, including [specific components]. [C2] The method according to [C1], wherein the coating solution has a transmittance of 10% or less over the entire wavelength range of 500 to 700 nm.

[0081] [C3] The method according to [C1] or [C2], wherein the viscosity of the hydroxypropyl cellulose is 50 mPa·s or less, preferably 30 mPa·s or less, more preferably 10 mPa·s or less, and even more preferably 6 mPa·s or less. [C4] The method according to [C1] or [C2], wherein the viscosity of the hydroxypropyl cellulose is 1 to 100 mPa·s, preferably 1 to 50 mPa·s, more preferably 1 to 30 mPa·s, even more preferably 1 to 10 mPa·s, even more preferably 2 to 10 mPa·s, and even more preferably 2 to 6 mPa·s.

[0082] [C5] The method according to any one of [C1] to [C4], wherein the hydroxypropyl cellulose is mixed with the menthol in an amount of 20 to 70 parts by mass, preferably 30 to 70 parts by mass, more preferably 40 to 60 parts by mass, per 100 parts by mass of the menthol. [C6] The method according to any one of [C1] to [C5], wherein the glycerin is mixed with the mixture in an amount of 40 to 120 parts by mass, preferably 60 to 110 parts by mass, more preferably 80 to 100 parts by mass, per 100 parts by mass of the menthol. [C7] The method according to any one of [C1] to [C6], wherein the temperature above the melting point of menthol is 43°C or higher, preferably 45 to 100°C, more preferably 50 to 100°C, and even more preferably 60 to 100°C.

[0083] The coating liquid is manufactured according to the method described in any one of [D1] [C1]~[C7], The coating liquid is applied to the constituent members of the flavor-generating article. A method for manufacturing a fragrance-carrying component of a flavor-generating article, including the method described above. [D2] The method according to [D1], wherein the flavor generating article is a flavor suction device, preferably a non-combustion heating type flavor suction device.

[0084] [D3] The method according to [D1] or [D2], wherein the constituent members of the flavor-generating article are tobacco filler, a filter, or tobacco paper. [D4] The method according to any one of [D1] to [D3], wherein the constituent member of the flavor generating article is a tobacco molded body, a filter, or a tobacco rolling paper. [D5] The method according to any one of [D1] to [D4], wherein the constituent members of the flavor generating article are tobacco filler, preferably a tobacco molded body, and more preferably a sheet tobacco.

[0085] [E1] A coating solution for coating components of a flavor-generating article, comprising particles containing hydroxypropyl cellulose and menthol, the viscosity of a 2% by mass aqueous solution at 20°C being 100 mPa·s or less, and glycerin as a dispersion medium. [E2] The coating solution according to [E1], having a transmittance of 10% or less over the entire wavelength range of 500 to 700 nm.

[0086] [E3] The coating liquid according to [E1] or [E2], wherein the viscosity of the hydroxypropyl cellulose is 50 mPa·s or less, preferably 30 mPa·s or less, more preferably 10 mPa·s or less, and even more preferably 6 mPa·s or less. [E4] The coating liquid according to [E1] or [E2], wherein the viscosity of the hydroxypropyl cellulose is 1 to 100 mPa·s, preferably 1 to 50 mPa·s, more preferably 1 to 30 mPa·s, even more preferably 1 to 10 mPa·s, even more preferably 2 to 10 mPa·s, and even more preferably 2 to 6 mPa·s.

[0087] [E5] The coating solution according to any one of [E1] to [E4], wherein the hydroxypropyl cellulose is mixed with menthol in an amount of 20 to 70 parts by mass, preferably 30 to 70 parts by mass, more preferably 40 to 60 parts by mass, per 100 parts by mass of menthol. [E6] The coating solution according to any one of [E1] to [E5], wherein the glycerin is mixed with the mixture in an amount of 40 to 120 parts by mass, preferably 60 to 110 parts by mass, more preferably 80 to 100 parts by mass, per 100 parts by mass of the menthol. A coating liquid manufactured by any one of the methods described in [E7] [C1]~[C7]. [Examples]

[0088] [Example 1] Viscosity of coating solution [1-1] Preparation of coating solution (Coating liquid 1A~1E) Coating solutions 1A to 1E were prepared according to the process shown in Figure 2, with the following compositions (mass ratios). Coating solution 1A HPC:Menthol:Glycerin = 2:5:0 Coating solution 1B HPC:Menthol:Glycerin = 2:5:1 Coating solution 1C HPC:Menthol:Glycerin = 2:5:2 Coating solution 1D HPC:Menthol:Glycerin = 2:5:3 Coating solution 1E HPC:Menthol:Glycerin = 2:5:4

[0089] As a low-viscosity hydroxypropyl cellulose (hereinafter referred to as HPC), Celney SSL (viscosity of a 2% by mass aqueous solution at 20°C: 2.0-2.9 mPa·s) (Nippon Soda Co., Ltd.) was used. First, HPC and menthol (manufactured by Takasago International Corporation) were placed in a beaker in a mass ratio of 2:5 and mixed by stirring in an 80°C water bath. This dissolved the HPC in the menthol. Then, glycerin (reagent grade from Wako Pure Chemical Industries, Ltd.) was added to the resulting mixture and mixed by stirring in an 80°C water bath. Coating solutions 1A to 1E were prepared in this manner.

[0090] (Coating liquid 2A~2E) Coating solutions 2A to 2E were prepared using the same procedure as coating solutions 1A to 1E, except that the composition (mass ratio) of the coating solution was changed as follows. Coating solution 2A HPC:Menthol:Glycerin = 3:5:0 Coating solution 2B HPC:Menthol:Glycerin = 3:5:1 Coating solution 2C HPC:Menthol:Glycerin = 3:5:2 Coating solution 2D HPC:Menthol:Glycerin = 3:5:3 Coating solution 2E HPC:Menthol:Glycerin = 3:5:4

[0091] (Coating liquid 3A~3E) Coating solutions 3A to 3E were prepared using the same procedure as coating solutions 1A to 1E, except that a high-viscosity HPC, namely Cerny H (viscosity of a 2% by mass aqueous solution at 20°C: 1000-4000 mPa·s) (Nippon Soda Co., Ltd.), was used as the HPC. Since Cerny H has a higher viscosity than Cerny SSL, the amount used was reduced to 1 / 10.

[0092] The composition (mass ratio) of coating solutions 3A to 3E is shown below. Coating solution 3A HPC:Menthol:Glycerin = 0.2:5:0 Coating solution 3B HPC:Menthol:Glycerin = 0.2:5:1 Coating solution 3C HPC:Menthol:Glycerin = 0.2:5:2 Coating solution 3D HPC:Menthol:Glycerin = 0.2:5:3 Coating solution 3E HPC:Menthol:Glycerin = 0.2:5:4

[0093] (Coating liquid 4A~4D) Coating solutions 4A to 4D were prepared using the same procedure as coating solutions 3A to 3E, except that the composition (mass ratio) of the coating solution was changed as follows. Coating solution 4A HPC:Menthol:Glycerin = 0.3:5:0 Coating solution 4B HPC:Menthol:Glycerin = 0.3:5:1 Coating solution 4C HPC:Menthol:Glycerin = 0.3:5:2 Coating solution 4D HPC:Menthol:Glycerin = 0.3:5:3

[0094] (Coating liquid 5A~5B) Low-viscosity HPC (Cellney SSL), menthol, and glycerin were placed in a beaker in a mass ratio of 2:5:4 and simultaneously mixed by stirring in an 80°C water bath to prepare coating solution 5A. Furthermore, low-viscosity HPC (Cellney SSL), menthol, and glycerin were placed in a beaker in a mass ratio of 3:5:4 and simultaneously mixed by stirring in an 80°C water bath to prepare coating solution 5B.

[0095] Solid matter was formed in coating solutions 5A and 5B. This solid matter is thought to be a reaction product of glycerin and HPC. Therefore, viscosity measurements could not be performed on coating solutions 5A and 5B.

[0096] [1-2] Viscosity measurement The viscosity (complex viscosity measured by elastic modulus) of coating solutions 1A-1E, 2A-2E, 3A-3E, and 4A-4D was measured using a rheometer. A RheoStress1 rheometer (manufactured by Thermo Scientific HAAKE) was used. Viscosity was measured at 60°C.

[0097] [1-3]Result The viscosities of coating solutions 1A-1E and 2A-2E are shown in Figure 6. The viscosities of coating solutions 3A-3E and 4A-4D are shown in Figure 7. In Figures 6 and 7, the horizontal axis represents the mass ratio of glycerin content when the menthol content is set to 5.

[0098] When using low-viscosity HPC, the viscosity of the coating solution tended to decrease when the amount of glycerin exceeded a predetermined value (mass ratio: 2) (Figure 6). On the other hand, when using high-viscosity HPC, increasing the amount of glycerin did not tend to decrease the viscosity of the coating solution (Figure 7).

[0099] [Example 2] Menthol fragrance retention of coating solution [2-1] Preparation of coating solution Coating solutions 1A-1E, 2A-2E, 3A-3E, and 4A-4D were prepared as described above.

[0100] [2-2] Evaluation of menthol aroma retention The coating solution was applied to filter paper pieces (1 x 2 mm) and stored in an open system at room temperature for two weeks. After two weeks of storage, menthol was extracted from the filter paper pieces using methanol as the extraction solvent. The extract was analyzed using a GC-FID (Gas Chromatography-Flame Ionization Detector) to determine the amount of menthol (M1). A 6890 Series GC-FID (DB-1 60m x 320μm x 1μm (No. 123-1063)) (manufactured by Agilent) was used as the GC-FID.

[0101] Similarly, immediately after applying the coating solution to a piece of filter paper, menthol was extracted from the paper piece, and the amount of menthol (M0) was determined by GC-FID analysis.

[0102] The storage stability of menthol (hereinafter also referred to as "menthol aroma retention") was calculated using the following formula. Menthol flavor retention [%] = (M1 / M0) × 100

[0103] [2-3]Result Figure 8 shows the menthol flavor retention of coating solutions 1A-1E and 2A-2E. Figure 9 shows the menthol flavor retention of coating solutions 3A-3E and 4A-4D. In Figures 8 and 9, the horizontal axis represents the mass ratio of glycerin content when the menthol content is set to 5.

[0104] When using low-viscosity HPC, increasing the amount of glycerin did not significantly reduce menthol flavor retention (Figure 8). On the other hand, when using high-viscosity HPC, in coating solutions with a low HPC content (coating solutions 3A-3E), menthol flavor retention decreased significantly with increasing glycerin content (Figure 9). Furthermore, when using high-viscosity HPC, in coating solutions with a high HPC content (coating solutions 4A-4D), menthol flavor retention did not decrease significantly with increasing glycerin content (Figure 9). However, this coating solution had the problem of being difficult to apply to the components of flavor-generating articles due to its high viscosity (see Figure 7).

[0105] [Example 3] Relationship between viscosity and menthol aroma retention Based on the viscosity results in Example 1 and the menthol aroma retention results in Example 2, the relationship between viscosity and menthol aroma retention is shown in the graph. Figure 10 shows the relationship between viscosity and menthol aroma retention when using low-viscosity HPC. Figure 11 shows the relationship between viscosity and menthol aroma retention when using high-viscosity HPC.

[0106] These results revealed coating solutions that exhibit high menthol flavor retention despite low viscosity. The data for coating solutions exhibiting high menthol flavor retention despite low viscosity are the two data points circled in Figure 10. The composition (mass ratio) of these coating solutions, in order from the lowest viscosity, was as follows: Celney SSL:Menthol:Glycerin = 3:5:4 (Coating Solution 2E) Celney SSL:Menthol:Glycerin = 2:5:4 (Coating Solution 1E)

[0107] Generally, as the viscosity of the coating solution increases, the menthol fragrance retention improves, making it difficult to achieve both ease of application and storage stability of the fragrance. However, the above-mentioned coating solution is particularly excellent in that it can achieve both ease of application and storage stability of the fragrance.

[0108] Furthermore, the viscosity of the coating solution and the menthol flavor retention of the coating solution were investigated using propylene glycol instead of glycerin, following the same procedure as in Examples 1 and 2. However, when propylene glycol was used instead of glycerin, the menthol flavor retention of the coating solution decreased as its viscosity decreased. In other words, it was not possible to prepare a coating solution with low viscosity and high menthol flavor retention when propylene glycol was used instead of glycerin.

[0109] [Example 4] Viscosity of hydroxypropyl cellulose From the results of Example 1, it was observed that when low-viscosity HPC (Cellney SSL) was used, the viscosity of the coating solution tended to decrease when the amount of glycerin exceeded a predetermined value (mass ratio: 2) (Figure 6). Furthermore, the coating solution with such reduced viscosity was characterized by its cloudy appearance. The cloudy coating solution is thought to be due to the colloidal dispersion of particles containing HPC and menthol in the glycerin. Therefore, in Example 4, coating solutions were prepared using HPC of various viscosities, and it was investigated whether the above-mentioned clouding occurred.

[0110] [4-1] Preparation of coating solution The following HPCs, sold by Nippon Soda Co., Ltd., were used. The viscosity shown in parentheses represents the viscosity of a 2% by mass aqueous solution at 20°C. Cellny SSL (2.0~2.9 mPa·s) Cellny SL (3.0~5.9 mPa·s) Cellny L (6.0~10.0 mPa·s) Cellny M (150-400 mPa·s) Cerny H (1000-4000 mPa·s)

[0111] Using the above HPC, coating solutions with the following compositions (mass ratios) were prepared. The preparation of the coating solutions was carried out using the same procedure as the preparation of coating solutions 1A to 1E in Example 1. Coating solution 10A Cellny SSL:Menthol:Glycerin = 2:5:4 (Coating liquid 10A is the same as coating liquid 1E in Example 1) Coating solution 10B Cellny SSL:Menthol:Glycerin = 3:5:4 (Coating liquid 10B is the same as coating liquid 2E in Example 1) Coating solution 10C Cellny SL:Menthol:Glycerin = 1:5:3 Coating solution 10D Cellny L: Menthol: Glycerin = 1:5:3 Coating solution 10E Cellny M:Menthol:Glycerin = 0.5:5:3 Coating solution 10F Cellny H:Menthol:Glycerin = 0.2:5:2 (Coating liquid 10F is the same as coating liquid 3C in Example 1)

[0112] Furthermore, as a conventional coating solution, coating solution 10G was prepared as follows. Low-viscosity HPC (Cellney SSL), menthol, ethanol, propylene glycol, and glycerin were placed in a beaker in a mass ratio of 0.15:5:2.9:0.18:0.18, and simultaneously mixed by stirring in an 80°C water bath to prepare 10g of coating solution.

[0113] Furthermore, coating solutions 10H and 10I were prepared using the same procedure as for coating solutions 5A and 5B in Example 1. Specifically, coating solution 10H was prepared by placing low-viscosity HPC (Cellney SSL), menthol, and glycerin in a beaker in a mass ratio of 2:5:4 and simultaneously mixing them by stirring in an 80°C water bath. Similarly, coating solution 10I was prepared by placing low-viscosity HPC (Cellney SSL), menthol, and glycerin in a beaker in a mass ratio of 3:5:4 and simultaneously mixing them by stirring in an 80°C water bath.

[0114] [4-2] Measurement of transmittance The transmittance of each coating solution was measured over a wavelength range of 500 to 700 nm using a UV-1800 UV spectrophotometer (manufactured by Shimadzu Corporation). As a blank, the transmittance of tap water was measured over the same wavelength range.

[0115] [4-3]Result The measurement results are shown in Figure 12. As shown in Figure 12, the transmittance of each coating solution and tap water (blank) showed a constant value throughout the wavelength range of 500 to 700 nm, as shown below. In addition, each coating solution and tap water (blank) were observed with the naked eye, and whether the liquid was cloudy or transparent is indicated in parentheses.

[0116] Coating solution 10A: Approximately 6% (cloudy) Coating liquid 10B: Approximately 5% (cloudy) Coating liquid 10C: Approximately 2% (cloudy) Coating liquid 10D: Approximately 2% (cloudy) Coating liquid 10E: Approximately 38% (almost transparent) Coating liquid 10F: Approximately 49% (almost transparent) Coating liquid 10g: Approximately 100% (completely transparent) Coating solution 10H: Unmeasurable Coating solution 10I: Unmeasurable Tap water (blank): Approximately 100% (completely clear)

[0117] Solid matter was formed in coating solutions 10H and 10I. This solid matter is thought to be a reaction product of glycerin and HPC. Therefore, transmittance measurements could not be performed for coating solutions 10H and 10I.

[0118] The above results show that when Cellney SSL (2.0-2.9 mPa·s), Cellney SL (3.0-5.9 mPa·s), and Cellney L (6.0-10.0 mPa·s) are used as HPC, the coating solution becomes cloudy. From these results, it is considered that when an HPC with a viscosity of, for example, 100 mPa·s or less, preferably 50 mPa·s or less, more preferably 30 mPa·s or less, and even more preferably 10 mPa·s or less is used as HPC, the coating solution becomes cloudy.

[0119] [Example 5] Relationship between viscosity and menthol aroma retention In Example 4, it was shown that Cerny SSL (2.0-2.9 mPa·s), Cerny SL (3.0-5.9 mPa·s), and Cerny L (6.0-10.0 mPa·s) could be used as HPCs. Therefore, in Example 5, coating solutions of various compositions were prepared using these three types of HPCs, and the relationship between the viscosity of the coating solution and the menthol aroma retention was investigated.

[0120] The viscosity of the coating solution and the evaluation of menthol flavor retention were performed using the same procedure as in Examples 1 and 2. The relationship between the viscosity of the coating solution and menthol flavor retention was graphed, as in Example 3. The results are shown in Figure 13. Figure 13 also shows the results from Example 3 (i.e., the results from Figure 10).

[0121] The results in Figure 13 reveal coating solutions that exhibit high menthol flavor retention despite low viscosity. The data for coating solutions that exhibit high menthol flavor retention despite low viscosity are the five data points circled in Figure 13. The composition (mass ratio) of these coating solutions, in order from the lowest viscosity, was as follows: Celny SSL:Menthol:Glycerin = 3:5:5 Celny SSL:Menthol:Glycerin=3:5:4 Celny SSL:Menthol:Glycerin = 2:5:5 Celny SSL:Menthol:Glycerin = 2:5:4 Cellny SL: Menthol:Glycerin = 2:5:5

[0122] Generally, as the viscosity of the coating solution increases, the menthol fragrance retention improves, making it difficult to achieve both ease of application and storage stability of the fragrance. However, the above-mentioned coating solution is particularly excellent in that it can achieve both ease of application and storage stability of the fragrance.

[0123] [Example 6] Evaluation of suction using a heated flavor suction device In Example 6, a coating solution was applied to a sheet cigarette to produce a flavor-supported sheet cigarette. The produced flavor-supported sheet cigarette was then incorporated into a tobacco stick, and an inhalation evaluation was performed.

[0124] [6-1] Making tobacco sticks (Example of the present invention) Tobacco filler (sheet tobacco) was extracted from commercially available tobacco sticks (see Figure 4), and 10 mg of a coating solution with the following composition (mass ratio) was applied to the sheet tobacco and allowed to cool. This produced flavor-supported sheet tobacco 20A. Coating solution Cellny SSL:Menthol:Glycerin = 2:5:4 This coating solution has the same composition as coating solution 1E in Example 1. The flavor-supported tobacco sheet 20A was returned to its original tobacco stick form to produce tobacco stick 20A.

[0125] (Comparative example) In the comparative example, a 100% menthol solution obtained by melting solid menthol was used as the coating solution. Similarly, 10 mg of this coating solution was applied to a sheet cigarette and allowed to cool. This produced a flavor-supported sheet cigarette 20B. The flavor-supported sheet cigarette 20B was then returned to its original tobacco stick form to produce a tobacco stick 20B.

[0126] [6-2] Evaluation of menthol and glycerin content Tobacco sticks 20A and 20B were heated in the aerosol generator shown in Figures 3A-3C and 5, and inhaled using an automatic smoker (Borgwaldt RM-300). Smoke was collected after each puff. Smoke collection was performed after each puff using an impinger containing 10 mL of methanol cooled with dry ice.

[0127] The amounts of menthol and glycerin in the collected smoke were evaluated by GC measurement (Agilent 6890 Series GC-FID).

[0128] [6-3]Result Figure 14 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of menthol. Figure 15 shows the relationship between the number of puffs and the amount of glycerin.

[0129] Regarding the amount of menthol in the smoke, in the example of the present invention, a larger amount of menthol was released in the later puffs compared to the comparative example (when a 100% menthol solution was applied). Furthermore, it was confirmed that a sufficient amount of glycerin could be released throughout the entire puffing period up to the 10th puff.

[0130] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be modified in various ways during implementation without departing from its essence. Furthermore, each embodiment may be combined as appropriate, and in that case, the combined effects can be obtained. Moreover, the above embodiments include various inventions, and various inventions can be extracted by selecting combinations from the multiple constituent elements disclosed. For example, if the problem can be solved and effects obtained even if some constituent elements are deleted from all the constituent elements shown in the embodiment, then the configuration with these deleted constituent elements can be extracted as an invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0131] 1...Flavor-carrying sheet tobacco, 1a...Sheet tobacco, 1b...Flavor composition, 100...Aerosol generator, 101...Outer housing, 102...Slide cover, 103...Switch unit, 110...Inner housing, 120...Power supply unit, 121...Power supply, 130...Atomization unit, 132...Insulation unit, 134...Insertion guide member, 136...Bottom member, 137...First holding unit, 138...Second holding unit, 140...Heater, 150...Chamber, 200...Tobacco stick, 201...Smoking material, 202...First rolling paper, 203...Second rolling paper, 204...Cylindrical member, 205...Filter unit, 206...Hollow filter unit, 207...Lip release agent.

Claims

1. Components of an aroma-generating article, A fragrance composition comprising particles containing hydroxypropyl cellulose and menthol, supported on the aforementioned component, wherein the viscosity of a 2% by mass aqueous solution at 20°C is 100 mPa·s or less, and glycerin as a dispersion medium. A fragrance-carrying component for a flavor-generating article, including the above.

2. The fragrance-carrying component according to claim 1, wherein the hydroxypropyl cellulose is contained in the fragrance composition in an amount of 20 to 70 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of menthol.

3. The fragrance-carrying component according to claim 1, wherein the glycerin is contained in the fragrance composition in an amount of 40 to 120 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of menthol.

4. The flavor-carrying component according to claim 1, wherein the component of the flavor-generating article is a tobacco molded body, a filter, or tobacco rolling paper.

5. A flavor-generating article comprising a flavor-carrying component as described in any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. A mixture is prepared by mixing hydroxypropyl cellulose, whose viscosity at 20°C is 100 mPa·s or less in a 2% by mass aqueous solution, and menthol at a temperature above the melting point of menthol. Mixing the aforementioned mixture with glycerin A method for producing a coating liquid for coating components of an article that generates flavor, including [specific components].

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein the coating liquid has a transmittance of 10% or less over the entire wavelength range of 500 to 700 nm.

8. A coating liquid is manufactured according to the method described in claim 6 or 7, The coating liquid is applied to the constituent members of the flavor-generating article. A method for manufacturing a fragrance-carrying component of a flavor-generating article, including the method described above.

9. A coating solution for coating components of a flavor-generating article, comprising particles containing hydroxypropyl cellulose and menthol, the hydroxypropyl cellulose having a viscosity of 100 mPa·s or less at 20°C in a 2% by mass aqueous solution, and glycerin as a dispersion medium.

10. The coating liquid according to claim 9, having a transmittance of 10% or less over the entire wavelength range of 500 to 700 nm.

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