Material for smoking articles, smoking article, and smoking system

Abstract

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

Description

Smoking article materials, smoking articles, and smoking systems

[0001] The present invention relates to smoking article materials, smoking articles, and smoking systems.

[0002] Materials for smoking articles contain hydrophobic substances. Simply mixing and dispersing a hydrophobic substance with other components is not easy. Therefore, methods such as dissolving the hydrophobic substance in a hydrophobic solvent and spraying the solution onto the other components are known. Examples of solvents that can be safely used in this case include ethyl alcohol, benzyl alcohol, various fatty acids, triacetin, and medium-chain fatty acid esters. However, when ethanol is used as a solvent, the solubility of the hydrophobic substance may be insufficient. When fatty acids or medium-chain fatty acid esters are used as solvents, the solubility problem is resolved. However, in this case, the solvent itself has low volatility, so the solvent remains, affecting the flavor during inhalation. Furthermore, when a hydrophobic solvent is used, if the water content of the other components is high, a homogeneous mixture cannot be obtained.

[0003] Another method is to disperse a hydrophobic substance in water and spray it on other ingredients. Methods for dispersing a hydrophobic substance in water include: 1) mechanical emulsion formation; 2) emulsion formation using an emulsifier; and 3) inclusion compounds such as cyclodextrin (Patent Document 1, Non-Patent Document 1). Method 1) has limitations in emulsion stability, resulting in frequent problems such as non-uniformity of the molded product and clogging of the fluid nozzle during emulsion spraying. Method 2) affects flavor due to the coexistence of an emulsifier. Method 3) often requires expensive inclusion compounds, and the host molecule may also have an undesirable effect on flavor during smoking.

[0004] Another method is, for example, 4) if the hydrophobic substance is solid, by directly mixing the solid with other solid materials. In this case, it is desirable to obtain a uniform molded product when both the hydrophobic substance and the other solid materials are in powder form, a state commonly referred to as powder mixing. However, powder mixing often poses problems of inconsistent mixing due to differences in the mass ratio of the additive and the additive, as well as differences in particle size distribution and specific gravity of the two. Another method is 5) if the hydrophobic substance is liquid, by directly mixing the liquid with other ingredients. This method is expected to produce a more uniform dispersion than solid-solid mixing, but it can also result in the problem of partial caking of the ingredients. To prevent this, the use of an anti-caking agent can be considered, but this raises safety concerns and the anti-caking agent itself can have an undesirable effect on flavor. To address these issues, 6) is a method in which the hydrophobic substance is formulated into a powder formulation using an excipient, which then facilitates powder mixing and then mixes with other solid materials to obtain a molded product. A specific example of this method is to heat the hydrophobic component above its melting point, melt it, mix it with the excipient, and stir. In this method, the dispersibility of the hydrophobic substance is highly dependent on its physical properties, such as viscosity. This can lead to localized caking, making it difficult to obtain a homogeneous powder formulation. To obtain a homogeneous powder formulation, other methods are known, such as mixing and stirring the hydrophobic substance with a polysaccharide in alcohol and then drying by spray drying, or stirring the mixture in an aqueous solution containing a carbohydrate as a solute until mechanically homogenized, followed by freeze-drying (Patent Document 2). However, problems with the spray-drying method include a small amount of hydrophobic substance supported, the unsuitability of the freeze-drying method for continuous mass production, and the tendency for some of the hydrophobic substance to form clumps due to deliquescence.

[0005] Japanese Patent Publication No. 6-93996 Patent No. 6203702

[0006] Takemoto, Kiichi et al., Clathrate Compounds - From Fundamentals to Future Technology -, Tokyo Kagaku Dojin Co., Ltd., 1989, 175-178

[0007] As described above, it is not easy to uniformly mix a hydrophobic substance with other components. In view of this situation, an object of the present invention is to provide a material for a smoking article in which the hydrophobic substance has good dispersibility.

[0008] The inventors have solved the above problem by using non-pulp fibers. Aspect 1: A material for a smoking article comprising: non-pulp fibers; and a hydrophobic substance. Aspect 2: The material according to Aspect 1, wherein the non-pulp fibers are of plant origin. Aspect 3: The material according to Aspect 1 or 2, wherein the non-pulp fibers comprise monofilamented cellulose. Aspect 4: The material according to any one of Aspects 1 to 3, wherein the non-pulp fibers comprise dietary fiber. Aspect 5: The material according to Aspect 4, wherein the dietary fiber comprises citrus fiber. Aspect 6: The material according to any one of Aspects 1 to 5, wherein the non-pulp fibers have an average fiber diameter of 25 μm or less. Aspect 7: The material according to any one of Aspects 1 to 6, wherein the hydrophobic substance is present in an amount of 0.01 to 10% by weight. Aspect 8: The material according to any one of Aspects 1 to 7, wherein the hydrophobic substance is supported on the non-pulp fibers. Aspect 9: The material according to any one of Aspects 1 to 8, wherein the hydrophobic substance has a melting point of 100° C. or less. Aspect 10: The material according to any one of Aspects 1 to 9, wherein the hydrophobic substance is selected from the group consisting of menthol, vanillin, ethyl vanillin, tobacco extract, and combinations thereof. Aspect 11: The material according to any one of Aspects 1 to 10, in the form of a sheet, powder, or granules. Aspect 12: A method for producing the material according to any one of Aspects 1 to 11, comprising: a mixing step of mixing the non-pulp fibers and the hydrophobic substance to obtain a mixture; and a molding step of crushing, granulating, or forming the mixture into a sheet. Aspect 13: A smoking article comprising the material according to any one of Aspects 1 to 12. Aspect 14: A smoking system comprising the smoking article according to Aspect 13 and a heating device for heating the smoking article.

[0009] The present invention provides a material for a smoking article in which hydrophobic substances have good dispersibility.

[0010] FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of a non-combustion heating type smoking article. FIG. 2 shows an embodiment of a non-combustion heating type smoking system.

[0011] In this disclosure, "X to Y" includes the end values ​​X and Y. Furthermore, in this disclosure, unless otherwise specified, weights are on an bone-dry weight basis (dry basis). 1. Smoking Article Material Smoking article material is a material used for smoking articles. The smoking article material according to this embodiment includes a hydrophobic substance and non-pulp fibers.

[0012] (1) Non-pulp fiber (component A) Non-pulp fiber functions as a filler. Non-pulp fiber (hereinafter also referred to as component A) is a fiber other than pulp fiber. Pulp fiber is an aggregate of cellulose fibers extracted from plants such as wood, and is usually used as a raw material for paper. Examples of pulp fiber include recycled paper pulp, chemical pulp, and mechanical pulp. Pulp fiber also includes ordinary cellulose fiber or crystalline cellulose fiber.

[0013] Non-pulp fibers allow hydrophobic substances to be dispersed well in smoking article materials. The reason for this is presumably, but not limited to, that non-pulp fibers have a high affinity for hydrophobic substances and, in some cases, the ability to support the hydrophobic substances. Non-pulp fibers are preferably derived from plants. Plant-derived fibers are also advantageous in that they are biodegradable and therefore have a low environmental impact.

[0014] Generally, wood pulp is composed of fiber bundles formed by multiple bundles of single fibers with a fiber diameter of 20 μm. The fiber diameter of wood pulp is approximately 100 to 200 μm, and the fiber length is approximately 1000 to 2000 μm. When a tobacco sheet with practical tensile strength is produced using wood pulp, the sheet becomes thick, at 100 to 300 μm, resulting in reduced thermal conductivity. However, non-pulp fibers can be used to form thin sheets with excellent mechanical strength and achieve excellent thermal conductivity. From this perspective, the average fiber diameter of non-pulp fibers is preferably 25 μm or less, more preferably 20 μm or less, and even more preferably 15 μm or less. The lower limit of the average fiber diameter is not limited, but is preferably 2 nm or more, 10 nm or more, 100 nm or more, 1 μm or more, or 5 μm or more.

[0015] The average fiber diameter of non-pulp fibers can be determined by acquiring an image of the fiber, measuring the width (minor axis) of a plurality of fibers, and averaging these values. When the fiber shape is columnar (with a rectangular cross section), the width of the main surface (the longer one) of the width of the main surface and the width of the side surface is taken as the width of the fiber. The number of fibers measured is preferably 100 or more.

[0016] The non-pulp fibers are preferably monofilamented cellulose. Monofilamented cellulose is a thin fiber obtained by subjecting pulp fibers to a process such as defibration. Monofilamented cellulose may be chemically modified by oxidation or the like. The average fiber diameter of monofilamented cellulose is as described above. The average fiber length of monofilamented cellulose is not limited, but its upper limit is preferably 2000 μm or less, more preferably 1500 μm or less. Its lower limit is preferably 100 μm or more, more preferably 500 μm or more.

[0017] Furthermore, the non-pulp fiber is preferably dietary fiber. Dietary fiber is a food component that is not digested by human digestive enzymes. The dietary fiber is more preferably insoluble dietary fiber that does not dissolve in water. The dietary fiber may be porous, i.e., spongy. Porous fiber increases the surface area of ​​the sheet for smoking articles and makes it easier to support hydrophobic substances. From this perspective, the fiber is preferably citrus fiber. Citrus fiber is a fiber made primarily from the albedo of citrus fruits. The average fiber diameter of citrus fiber is as described above. Furthermore, the dietary fiber may be short fibers or columnar particles with a small aspect ratio.

[0018] In one embodiment, the monofilament cellulose and dietary fiber are used in combination. By using both in combination, the strength of the smoking article material is improved. The upper limit of the weight of the monofilament cellulose per 1 part by weight of dietary fiber is preferably 1.5 parts by weight or less, more preferably 1.2 parts by weight or less, and the lower limit is preferably 0.1 parts by weight or more, more preferably 0.3 parts by weight or more.

[0019] The amount of non-pulp fibers in the smoking article material is preferably 1 to 76% by weight, more preferably 5 to 30% by weight. An excessive amount of non-pulp fibers is uneconomical. On the other hand, an insufficient amount of non-pulp fibers may not achieve the desired effect.

[0020] (2) Hydrophobic Substance (Component B) The hydrophobic substance in the smoking article material preferably functions as a flavor source. That is, the hydrophobic substance (hereinafter also referred to as Component B) is a hydrophobic flavoring substance. The amount of the hydrophobic substance is not limited as long as it is an amount that can express the desired flavor, but is preferably 0.01 to 16 wt %, more preferably 0.05 to 6 wt %, of the smoking article material.

[0021] The hydrophobic substance is preferably supported on non-pulp fibers. This configuration allows the hydrophobic substance to be well dispersed in the smoking article material. The blending ratio of the hydrophobic substance (component B) to the non-pulp fibers (component A) is preferably 0.1 to 80 wt %, more preferably 0.1 to 30 wt %, and even more preferably 1 to 25 wt %.

[0022] When the hydrophobic substance has a melting point, the melting point is preferably 100°C or lower. When the hydrophobic substance has such a melting point, delivery during smoking is improved. From this viewpoint, the upper limit of the melting point is preferably 80°C or lower. On the other hand, if the melting point is too low, storage stability decreases. From this viewpoint, the lower limit of the melting point is preferably 35°C or higher, more preferably 40°C or higher. The melting point can be determined by known calorimetric analysis such as DSC.

[0023] The hydrophobic substance is preferably a cyclic monoterpene that serves as a flavor source, or a tobacco extract, or these may be used in combination. The cyclic monoterpene that serves as a flavor source is preferably menthol, vanillin, or ethyl vanillin.

[0024] A tobacco extract is an active ingredient (components other than the medium used in the extraction) contained in an extract obtained by subjecting tobacco raw materials derived from tobacco plants to extraction. Extraction can be carried out using known methods, and examples include the following: 1) a method in which a tobacco raw material is subjected to extraction using a medium to obtain a tobacco extract, 2) a method in which a medium is added to a tobacco raw material and heated, and the generated vapor is collected to obtain a tobacco extract, and 3) a method in which a medium that has been vaporized by heating is passed through a tobacco raw material and the vapor after passing is collected to obtain a tobacco extract. Examples of the medium include water, hydrophilic organic solvents such as alcohol, aprotic solvents, hydrophobic organic solvents such as hexane or petroleum, or combinations of these.

[0025] In method 1), it is desirable to use a hydrophobic organic solvent to extract hydrophobic substances, and from the viewpoint of workability, it is preferable to use a hydrophobic aprotic solvent. In addition, in methods 2) and 3), it is preferable to use an alcohol such as glycerin, propylene glycol, triacetin, 1,3-butanediol, or ethanol as the medium from the viewpoint of work efficiency. An acid or alkali can also be used for extraction as needed. The liquid obtained by extraction, containing the tobacco extract and the medium, is called a tobacco extract.

[0026] As the tobacco raw material, for example, raw materials of the Nicotiana genus such as Nicotiana tabacum and Nicotiana rustica can be used. As Nicotiana tabacum, for example, varieties such as Burley or flue-cured varieties can be used. In addition to these, Oriental varieties and native Burley varieties of the Nicotiana genus may also be used.

[0027] The tobacco raw material may be shredded or powdered tobacco raw material (hereinafter also referred to as "raw material pieces"). In such cases, the particle size of the raw material pieces is preferably 0.5 to 1.18 mm. Such raw material pieces can be obtained, for example, by sieving in accordance with JIS Z 8815 using a stainless steel sieve in accordance with JIS Z 8801. For example, 1) using a stainless steel sieve with 1.18 mm meshes, the raw material pieces are sieved by a dry mechanical shaking method for 20 minutes to obtain raw material pieces that pass through the stainless steel sieve with 1.18 mm meshes. 2) Subsequently, using a stainless steel sieve with 0.50 mm meshes, the raw material pieces are sieved by a dry mechanical shaking method for 20 minutes to remove the raw material pieces that pass through the stainless steel sieve with 0.50 mm meshes. In this way, raw material pieces can be prepared that pass through a stainless steel sieve (mesh opening = 1.18 mm) that defines the upper limit, but do not pass through a stainless steel sieve (mesh opening = 0.50 mm) that defines the lower limit.

[0028] The moisture content of the tobacco raw material subjected to extraction is not limited, but from the viewpoint of efficiently extracting flavor components, the moisture content is preferably approximately 5 to 30% by weight. The moisture content of the tobacco raw material is measured by a known method; for example, a 1-g sample is taken, heated at 105°C, and the weight loss when heated until the weight change rate is 1 mg / min or less is taken as the moisture content. For example, a halogen heating moisture meter (such as the MB45 manufactured by Ohaus Co., Ltd.) can be used for this measurement.

[0029] (3) Binder (Component C) The binder (hereinafter also referred to as Component C) imparts strength to the smoking article material. Known binders can be used, but are preferably selected from the group consisting of cellulose derivatives, xanthan gum, guar gum, carrageenan, locust bean gum, alginic acid, sodium alginate, starch, water-soluble soybean polysaccharides, and combinations thereof. Examples of cellulose derivatives include alkyl cellulose, hydroxyalkyl cellulose, and carboxyalkyl cellulose. More specific examples of cellulose derivatives include methyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl methyl cellulose (HEMC), hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC), hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), and salts thereof. Among these, it is preferable to use hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) in combination.

[0030] The amount of component C in the smoking article material is preferably 1 to 50% by weight, more preferably 3 to 30% by weight. If the amount is less than the lower limit, it is difficult to obtain sufficient strength.

[0031] (4) Aerosol Source (Component D) The aerosol source (hereinafter also referred to as Component D) is a substance that forms an aerosol upon heating. Examples of aerosol sources include polyhydric alcohols such as glycerin or polyethylene glycol. The amount of Component D in the smoking article material is preferably 8 to 50 wt %, more preferably 10 to 30 wt %. If this amount is below the lower limit, the amount of smoke produced during smoking is insufficient. If this amount exceeds the upper limit, the handling of the smoking article material is reduced.

[0032] (5) Fibers other than Component A (Component F) The smoking article material preferably contains fibers other than Component A (hereinafter also referred to as Component F). Examples of fibers include wood fibers, such as pulp, and cellulose fibers. Component F serves to reinforce the smoking article material. From this perspective, in one embodiment, the content of Component F in the smoking article material is 20 to 80 wt %.

[0033] (6) Form The smoking article material has component B well dispersed therein and has excellent moldability. Therefore, the smoking article material is suitable as a filler for smoking articles. The smoking article material may be in the form of shreds, sheets, strands, powder, or granules.

[0034] 2. Manufacturing Method The material for smoking articles may be manufactured by any method, but is preferably manufactured by a method comprising the following steps: a mixing step of mixing non-pulp fibers (component A) with a hydrophobic substance (component B) to obtain a mixture, and a molding step of pulverizing, granulating, or forming the mixture into a sheet.

[0035] (1) Mixing Step By preferentially mixing component A and component B, component B is not unevenly distributed even when other components are mixed, and a well-dispersed state can be obtained in the mixture. The reason for this is not limited, but it is presumed that this is because component B is supported by component A. The mixing ratio is adjusted appropriately depending on the final material for a smoking article, but in one embodiment, preferably component A:component B=100:1-30 (weight ratio), and more preferably component A:component B=100:1-25 (weight ratio).

[0036] (2) Step of Mixing Other Components If necessary, after the mixing step, a step of mixing the mixture of components A and B with the other components (components C to F) described above may be carried out. The mixing ratio is adjusted appropriately depending on the final material for a smoking article.

[0037] (3) Molding Step In this step, the mixture obtained in the previous step is molded. Examples of molding include pulverization, granulation, and sheet formation. Pulverization can be carried out using a known pulverizer. Granulation can be achieved, for example, by adding water to the mixture and kneading it, granulating the resulting kneaded product (into long columns) using a wet extrusion granulator, and then sizing the granules into short columns or spheres.

[0038] The sheeting can be carried out by known methods such as rolling, casting, etc. Details of various sheets produced by such methods are disclosed in "Encyclopedia of Tobacco," Tobacco Research Center, March 31, 2009.

[0039] <Rolling Method> Examples of methods for producing a sheet by rolling include a method comprising the following steps: 1) A step of feeding the mixture containing water into rolling rollers and rolling the mixture; and 2) A step of drying the rolled product in a dryer. When producing a sheet by this method, the surface of the rolling roller may be heated or cooled, and the rotation speed of the rolling roller may be adjusted, depending on the purpose. The spacing between the rolling rollers may also be adjusted. One or more rolling rollers may be used to obtain a sheet with the desired basis weight.

[0040] <Casting Method> For example, a method including the following steps can be mentioned: 1) a step of thinly spreading (casting) the mixture (slurry) containing water, and 2) a step of drying the cast sheet. When producing a sheet by this method, a step of removing some components such as nitrosamines by irradiating the slurry with ultraviolet light or X-rays may be added.

[0041] <Extrusion Method> For example, there can be mentioned a method comprising the following steps: 1) a step of extruding the mixture containing water through a press or die to prepare a wet sheet; 3) a step of drying the wet sheet.

[0042] 3. Smoking Articles As mentioned above, smoking article materials are suitable as fillers for smoking articles. Examples of smoking articles include combustion smoking articles and non-combustion heating smoking articles. Here, a non-combustion heating smoking article will be described as an example. FIG. 1 shows one embodiment of a non-combustion heating smoking article. As shown in the figure, the non-combustion heating smoking article 20 comprises a tobacco segment 20A, a cylindrical cooling section 20B having perforations on its circumference, and a filter section 20C. The non-combustion heating smoking article 20 may also comprise other components. The axial length of the non-combustion heating smoking article 20 is not limited, but is preferably 40 to 90 mm, more preferably 50 to 75 mm, and even more preferably 50 to 60 mm or less. The circumferential length of the non-combustion heating smoking article 20 is preferably 16 to 25 mm, more preferably 20 to 24 mm, and even more preferably 21 to 23 mm. For example, the length of the tobacco segment 20A may be 20 mm, the length of the cooling section 20B may be 20 mm, and the length of the filter section 20C may be 7 mm. The lengths of these individual components may be changed as appropriate depending on manufacturing suitability, required quality, etc. While Fig. 1 shows an embodiment in which the first segment 25 is provided, it is also possible to provide only the second segment 26 downstream of the cooling section 20B without providing the first segment 25.

[0043] 1) Tobacco Segment 20A The tobacco filler 21 in the tobacco segment 20A contains the smoking article material. The method for filling the tobacco filler 21 into the wrapper 22 is not particularly limited, and for example, the tobacco filler 21 may be wrapped in the wrapper 22, or the tobacco filler 21 may be filled into a tubular wrapper 22. When the tobacco filler has a longitudinal direction, such as a rectangular shape, it may be filled so that the longitudinal direction is in an unspecified direction within the wrapper 22, or may be aligned in the axial direction of the tobacco segment 20A or in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction. When the tobacco segment 20A is heated, the tobacco components, aerosol source, and water contained in the tobacco filler 21 vaporize and are available for inhalation.

[0044] 2) Cooling Section 20B The cooling section 20B is preferably configured as a tubular member. The tubular member may be, for example, a cardboard tube 23 formed by processing cardboard into a cylindrical shape. The cooling section 20B may also be formed from a sheet of thin material that is wrinkled and then pleated, gathered, or folded to form a channel. Examples of such a material include sheet materials selected from the group consisting of polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate, polylactic acid, cellulose acetate, and aluminum foil. The total surface area of ​​the cooling section 20B is appropriately adjusted taking cooling efficiency into consideration, but may be, for example, 300 to 1000 mm ２ / mm. The cooling section 20B is preferably provided with perforations 24. The presence of the perforations 24 allows outside air to be introduced into the cooling section 20B during inhalation. As a result, the vaporized aerosol components generated by heating the tobacco segment 20A come into contact with the outside air, their temperature drops, and they liquefy, forming an aerosol. The diameter (distance) of the perforations 24 is not particularly limited, but may be, for example, 0.5 to 1.5 mm. The number of perforations 24 is not particularly limited, and may be one or two or more. For example, a plurality of perforations 24 may be provided around the circumference of the cooling section 20B.

[0045] The cooling portion 20B may be rod-shaped with an axial length of, for example, 7 to 28 mm. For example, the axial length of the cooling portion 20B may be 18 mm. The cooling portion 20B may have a substantially circular axial cross-sectional shape and a diameter of 5 to 10 mm. For example, the diameter of the cooling portion may be approximately 7 mm.

[0046] 3) Filter portion 20C The configuration of the filter portion 20C is not particularly limited, and may be composed of one or more packed layers. The outside of the packed layer may be wrapped with one or more sheets of wrapping paper. The airflow resistance of the filter portion 20C can be appropriately changed depending on the amount, material, etc. of the filter packing filled in the filter portion 20C. For example, when the filter packing is cellulose acetate fiber, the airflow resistance can be increased by increasing the amount of cellulose acetate fiber filled in the filter portion 20C. When the filter packing is cellulose acetate fiber, the packing density of the cellulose acetate fiber is 0.13 to 0.18 g / cm. ３ The airflow resistance is a value measured using an airflow resistance measuring device (product name: SODIMAX, manufactured by SODIM).

[0047] The circumferential length of the filter part 20C is not particularly limited, but is preferably 16 to 25 mm, more preferably 20 to 24 mm, and even more preferably 21 to 23 mm. The length of the filter part 20C in the axial direction (horizontal direction in FIG. 1) can be selected from 4 to 10 mm, and the airflow resistance thereof is selected from 15 to 60 mmH. ２ The axial length of the filter portion 20C is preferably 5 to 9 mm, more preferably 6 to 8 mm. The cross-sectional shape of the filter portion 20C is not particularly limited, but may be, for example, circular, elliptical, polygonal, etc. Furthermore, a destructible capsule containing a fragrance, fragrance beads, or fragrance may be directly added to the filter portion 20C.

[0048] The filter portion 20C may include a center hole portion as the first segment 25. The center hole portion is composed of a first filling layer 25a with one or more hollow portions and an inner plug wrapper (inner wrapping paper) 25b that covers the filling layer. The center hole portion functions to increase the strength of the mouthpiece portion. The center hole portion may not have an inner plug wrapper 25b and its shape may be maintained by thermoforming. The first filling layer 25a may be, for example, a rod with an inner diameter of 5.0 to 1.0 mm, densely packed with cellulose acetate fibers and hardened with 6 to 20% by weight of a plasticizer containing triacetin. Because the first filling layer 25a has a high fiber packing density, during inhalation, air and aerosol flow only through the hollow portion and barely within the first filling layer 25a. Because the first filling layer 25a inside the center hole portion is a fiber-packed layer, the feel from the outside during use is less likely to cause discomfort to the user. The filter portion 20C may also include a second segment 26. The second segment 26 is composed of a second packing layer 26a and an inner plug wrapper (inner wrapping paper) 26b that covers the packing layer.

[0049] The first filling layer 25a and the second filling layer 26a are connected by an outer plug wrapper (outer wrapping paper) 27. The outer plug wrapper 27 can be, for example, a cylindrical piece of paper. The tobacco segment 20A, the cooling section 20B, and the connected first filling layer 25a and second filling layer 26a are connected by a mouthpiece lining paper 28. These connections can be made, for example, by applying a vinyl acetate glue or other adhesive to the inner surface of the mouthpiece lining paper 28 and wrapping the three components. These components may also be connected in multiple layers using multiple lining papers.

[0050] A combination of a non-combustion heated smoking article and a heating device for generating aerosol is also referred to as a non-combustion heated smoking system. An example of such a system is shown in Fig. 2. In the figure, the non-combustion heated smoking system includes a non-combustion heated smoking article 20 and a heating device 10 that heats a tobacco segment 20A from the outside.

[0051] The heating device 10 comprises a body 11, a heater 12, a metal tube 13, a battery unit 14, and a control unit 15. The body 11 has a cylindrical recess 16, and the heater 12 and metal tube 13 are disposed at positions corresponding to the tobacco segment 20A to be inserted therein. The heater 12 may be an electric resistance heater, and is heated by power supplied from the battery unit 14 in response to instructions from a temperature-controlling control unit 15. The heat generated by the heater 12 is transferred to the tobacco segment 20A through the metal tube 13, which has high thermal conductivity. While the figure shows a configuration in which the heating device 10 heats the tobacco segment 20A from the outside, it may also heat from the inside. The heating temperature of the heating device 10 is not particularly limited, but is preferably 400°C or less, more preferably 150 to 400°C, and even more preferably 200 to 350°C. The heating temperature refers to the temperature of the heater in the heating device 10. Alternatively, a susceptor may be disposed within the tobacco segment 20A, and the tobacco segment 20A may be heated by an induction heating method.

[0052] Embodiments are described below. Aspect 1: A material for a smoking article, comprising: non-pulp fibers; and a hydrophobic substance. Aspect 2: The material according to Aspect 1, wherein the non-pulp fibers are of plant origin. Aspect 3: The material according to Aspect 1 or 2, wherein the non-pulp fibers comprise monofilamented cellulose. Aspect 4: The material according to any one of Aspects 1 to 3, wherein the non-pulp fibers comprise dietary fiber. Aspect 5: The material according to Aspect 4, wherein the dietary fiber comprises citrus fiber. Aspect 6: The material according to any one of Aspects 1 to 5, wherein the non-pulp fibers have an average fiber diameter of 25 μm or less. Aspect 7: The material according to any one of Aspects 1 to 6, comprising 0.01 to 10% by weight of the hydrophobic substance. Aspect 8: The material according to any one of Aspects 1 to 7, wherein the hydrophobic substance is supported on the non-pulp fibers. Aspect 9: The material according to any one of Aspects 1 to 8, wherein the hydrophobic substance has a melting point of 100° C. or less. Aspect 10: The material according to any one of Aspects 1 to 9, wherein the hydrophobic substance is selected from the group consisting of menthol, vanillin, ethyl vanillin, tobacco extract, and combinations thereof. Aspect 11: The material according to any one of Aspects 1 to 10, in the form of a sheet, powder, or granules. Aspect 12: A method for producing the material according to any one of Aspects 1 to 11, comprising: a mixing step of mixing the non-pulp fibers and the hydrophobic substance to obtain a mixture; and a molding step of crushing, granulating, or forming the mixture into a sheet. Aspect 13: A smoking article comprising the material according to any one of Aspects 1 to 12. Aspect 14: A smoking system comprising the smoking article according to Aspect 13 and a heating device for heating the smoking article.

[0053] [Example 1, Comparative Example 1] Tobacco raw materials were subjected to extraction using organic solvents according to standard methods. Hexane, ethyl acetate, and acetone were used as solvents, respectively. Each of the resulting organic phases (solutions) was concentrated to dryness under reduced pressure to obtain semi-solid tobacco extracts. After concentrating and drying these extracts, they were not redissolved in ethyl alcohol or water.

[0054] The following were prepared. For convenience, the following materials are referred to as "excipients." Non-pulp fiber (component A): citrus fiber Binder (component C): carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) Fibers other than component A (component F): crystalline cellulose fiber, cellulose fiber

[0055] To 90 g of each excipient, 10 g of the tobacco extract extracted with ethyl acetate was added as a hydrophobic substance. The tobacco extract was preheated to ensure fluidity. The heating temperature was 60°C or higher, and heating to 80°C achieved more desirable fluidity. The mixture of excipient and tobacco extract was stirred and mixed using a stirring blade until the color of the entire powder was uniform.

[0056] Regardless of which excipient was used, the powder could be mixed until the color unevenness of the entire powder disappeared. However, when CMC or HPC was used (Comparative Example), many lumps were generated during the mixing process, which was expected to cause problems in subsequent operability. Furthermore, when cellulose fiber or crystalline cellulose fiber was used (Comparative Example), the generation of lumps was also suppressed, but the operability was insufficient. On the other hand, when citrus fiber was used (Example), a powder with few lumps and high operability was obtained.

[0057] Example 2: Citrus fiber was used as component A, and tobacco extract was prepared as the hydrophobic substance for component B in the same manner as in Example 1. Tobacco extract was added to the citrus fiber in an arbitrary range of 1 to 200% by weight, and the mixture was mixed and stirred. The tobacco extract was preheated to 80°C and added in small amounts. After mixing, the mixture was stirred and mixed using a stirring blade until the color of the entire powder was uniform. When the tobacco extract to citrus fiber ratio was up to 25% by weight, the generation of lumps in the mixed powder was low, suggesting that the mixture would be suitable for subsequent processing. On the other hand, when the tobacco extract to citrus fiber ratio was between 25% and 80% by weight, lumps were observed, although within the acceptable range. When the tobacco extract to citrus fiber ratio exceeded 80%, the generation of lumps became significant, impairing the suitability for subsequent processing. In other words, it was confirmed that the tobacco extract content relative to component A (citrus fiber) is preferably 80% by weight or less, and more preferably 25% by weight or less.

[0058] [Example 3] A molded body was produced as follows. The tobacco extract used below was prepared in the same manner as in Example 1. 1) Molded Body 1 Tobacco extract prepared as component B and citrus fiber as component A were prepared. 1% by weight of tobacco extract was mixed with the citrus fiber to obtain a powder. 10 g of the powder, 30 g of pulp fiber, and 30 g of hydroxypropyl cellulose were mixed. This mixture was mixed in small amounts with 700 mL of water to obtain a slurry. The slurry was spread into a thin layer and dried to obtain a uniform sheet-like molded body. This molded body essentially contained 0.14% by weight of tobacco extract.

[0059] 2) Molded Body 2 The tobacco extract used in Molded Body 1 was prepared as Component B, and citrus fiber was prepared as Component A. 20% by weight of tobacco extract was mixed with the citrus fiber to obtain a powder. 20 g of this powder was mixed with 45 g of cellulose fiber and 1.5 g of carboxymethyl cellulose. 30 mL of water was added to this mixture, and the mixture was mixed and stirred. The mixture was kneaded to prepare a block-shaped solid, which was then rolled into a sheet and dried to obtain a uniform sheet-shaped molded body. This molded body essentially contained 5.0% by weight of tobacco extract.

[0060] 3) Molded Body 3 The tobacco extract used in Molded Body 1 was prepared as Component B, and citrus fiber was prepared as Component A. 10% by weight of tobacco extract was mixed with the citrus fiber to obtain a powder. 10 g of the powder was mixed with 30 g of pulp fiber and 30 g of hydroxypropyl cellulose. This mixture was mixed in small amounts with 700 mL of an aqueous solution containing 30 g of glycerin to obtain a slurry. This slurry was spread into a thin layer and dried to obtain a uniform molded body. This molded body essentially contained 0.91% by weight of tobacco extract.

[0061] 4) Molded Body 4 The tobacco extract used in Molded Body 1 was prepared as Component B, and citrus fiber and menthol were prepared as Component A. 5 wt. % of the tobacco extract and 4 wt. % of the menthol were mixed with the citrus fiber to obtain a powder. 20 g of this powder was mixed with 45 g of cellulose fiber and 1.5 g of carboxymethyl cellulose, and 20 mL of water was added and mixed and stirred. The mixture was kneaded to prepare a block-shaped solid, which was then rolled into a sheet and dried to obtain a uniform sheet-shaped molded body. This molded body essentially contained 1.4 wt. % of the tobacco extract and approximately 1 wt. % of menthol.

[0062] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 10 Heating device 11 Body 12 Heater 13 Metal tube 14 Battery unit 15 Control unit 16 Recess 17 Ventilation hole 20 Non-combustion heating smoking article 20A Tobacco segment 20B Cooling section 20C Filter section 21 Tobacco filler 22 Cigarette paper 23 Paper tube 24 Perforation 25 First segment 25a First filling layer 25b Inner plug wrapper 26 Second segment 26a Second filling layer 26b Inner plug wrapper 27 Outer plug wrapper 28 Lining paper

Claims

1. A material for a smoking article comprising: non-pulp fibers; and a hydrophobic material.

2. The material of claim 1, wherein said non-pulp fibers are of vegetable origin.

3. The material of claim 1 or 2, wherein the non-pulp fibers comprise monofilamentary cellulose.

4. The material of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the non-pulp fiber comprises dietary fiber.

5. The material of claim 4, wherein the dietary fiber comprises citrus fiber.

6. The material according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the non-pulp fibers have an average fiber diameter of 25 μm or less.

7. The material according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising 0.01 to 10% by weight of said hydrophobic substance.

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

9. The material according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the hydrophobic substance has a melting point of 100°C or less.

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

11. The material according to any one of claims 1 to 10, in the form of a sheet, powder or granules.

12. A method for producing the material according to any one of claims 1 to 11, comprising: a mixing step of mixing the non-pulp fibers with the hydrophobic substance to obtain a mixture; and a molding step of pulverizing, granulating, or forming the mixture into a sheet.

13. A smoking article comprising a material according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. A smoking system comprising the smoking article according to claim 13 and a heating device for heating the smoking article.

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