JP7749203B2 - Heated aroma-generating substrate, heated aroma cartridge, and method for manufacturing heated aroma-generating substrate - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a heated aroma-emitting substrate capable of generating an aerosol when heated, a heated aroma cartridge, and a method for manufacturing the heated aroma-emitting substrate.

The cartridge of a heated smoking device contains a heated aroma-generating substrate that contains an aroma source material, such as a tobacco plant or a non-tobacco plant, that generates an aroma when heated, and an aerosol former (aerosol-forming agent) that generates an aerosol when heated. This cartridge is typically heated to 200°C or higher by the heated smoking device during use. After the heated smoking device has completed this heating process, the user inhales the aerosol generated from the cartridge.

The diffusion rate of aroma, which is a volatile component of aroma source materials, is greater in the liquid phase than in the solid phase. For this reason, heat-fusible substances such as wax are added to the heated aroma-generating base material to promote the migration of volatile components from within the heated aroma-generating base material to its surface when the heated aroma-generating base material is heated.

As an example of a heated aroma-generating substrate to which wax has been added, Patent Document 1 discloses a heated aerosol-generating article that includes an aerosol-forming substrate, which is a homogenized tobacco material containing tobacco and wax having a melting point of 50°C to 150°C, and the wax is uniformly distributed within the homogenized tobacco material.

Patent No. 6433626

However, in Patent Document 1, the heated aroma-generating substrate is formed in a state in which wax is impregnated into an aroma source material such as a tobacco plant or a non-tobacco plant. In other words, the wax penetrates into the fibrous tissue of the aroma source material. When the wax is impregnated into the fibrous tissue, most of the wax moves toward the interior of the substrate (toward the fibrous tissue). Therefore, most of the wax is present on the inner side of the substrate rather than on the surface side. In this state, even if the wax melts upon heating, it tends not to elute to the surface of the heated aroma-generating substrate. Furthermore, because the wax elute with volatile components (aroma components), the amount of volatile components that migrate from the interior of the heated aroma-generating substrate to its surface is also reduced.

As a result, the aerosol's content of volatile aromatic components decreases early in the heating process from ambient or room temperature to the heated smoking device's target temperature. As a result, the aerosol immediately after the heating process by the heated smoking device is complete does not contain sufficient aromatic components, resulting in the problem that users find it difficult to detect the scent immediately after the heating process is complete.

The present invention was made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide a heated aroma-generating substrate, a heated aroma cartridge, and a method for manufacturing a heated aroma cartridge that are capable of retaining sufficient aroma in the aerosol immediately after the heating process in a heated smoking device has finished.

The heated aroma-generating substrate of the present invention contains an aroma source material that generates an aroma when heated, an aerosol former that generates an aerosol when heated, and a heat-melting substance that melts when heated. This heated aroma-generating substrate is used to inhale an aerosol containing an aroma component, and is characterized in that the heat-melting substance has a melting point in the range of 50 to 100°C and is dispersed in the heated aroma-generating substrate in an island-sea structure.

In the heated aroma-generating substrate of the present invention, the thermally fusible substance is dispersed throughout the heated aroma-generating substrate in a sea-island structure. That is, in this sea-island structure, the sea is composed of components other than the thermally fusible substance, and the islands are composed of the thermally fusible substance. The melting point of the thermally fusible substance is in the range of 50 to 100°C. Therefore, the thermally fusible substance melts early during the heating process of the heated aroma-generating substrate. The aroma components generated from the aroma source material, etc., dissolve into the molten thermally fusible substance. By dispersing the thermally fusible substance throughout the heated aroma-generating substrate and forming islands in the sea-island structure on at least the surface of the heated aroma-generating substrate, the thermally fusible substance flows more easily upon melting than when the thermally fusible substance is impregnated into an aroma source material, such as a tobacco plant or a non-tobacco plant. Accordingly, the amount of the thermally fusible substance that migrates to the surface of the heated aroma-generating substrate together with the aroma components upon melting also increases, increasing the amount of aroma components in the aerosol. This makes it possible to generate an aerosol containing many aromatic components in the early stages of the heating process of the aroma-generating substrate to be heated. This allows the user to enjoy a rich aroma immediately after the heating process is complete. Furthermore, if the melting point of the heat-fusible substance is below 50°C, the heat-fusible substance may melt during hot periods such as summer, causing stickiness. Furthermore, if the melting point of the heat-fusible substance is above 100°C, the heat-fusible substance may not melt sufficiently in the early stages of the heating process of the aroma-generating substrate to be heated, and the aerosol may lack fragrance immediately after the heating process is complete.

In the heated aroma-generating substrate of the present invention, the melting point of the heat-meltable substance is preferably in the range of 50 to 80°C.

When the melting point of the heat-melting substance is between 50 and 80°C, it melts more easily in the early stages of the heating process of the aroma-generating substrate to be heated, allowing for a stronger aroma immediately after the heating process is complete.

In the heated aroma-generating substrate of the present invention, the heat-melting substance is preferably selected from beeswax, carnauba wax, petrolatum, and paraffin wax, and is most preferably beeswax.

If the heat-melting substance is selected from beeswax, carnauba wax, petrolatum, or paraffin wax, the heat-melting substance will melt more easily in the early stages of the heating process of the aroma-generating substrate to be heated, further enhancing the aroma immediately after the heating process is complete. Furthermore, if the heat-melting substance is beeswax, the aromatic components contained in the beeswax itself will also volatilize, allowing for a more pleasant aroma to be enjoyed.

In the heated aroma-generating substrate of the present invention, the thermally fusible substance preferably contains an aromatic agent.

The heated aroma-emitting substrate of the present invention preferably contains a sorbent capable of retaining the aroma.

By including a sorbent capable of retaining the aroma, the concentration of the aroma components of the aroma contained in the aerosol can be maintained at a high level even just before the heating of the heated aroma-generating substrate is finished, i.e., just before the end of the period during which smoking or aerosol inhalation is possible. In particular, the heat-melting substance melts more easily in the early stages of the heating process, which further enhances the aroma immediately after the heating process ends, and the sorbent can maintain a high concentration of the aroma components of the aroma, allowing the user to enjoy a rich aroma throughout the entire period during which smoking or aerosol inhalation is possible.

When the heat-meltable substance contains a fragrance, the heat-meltable substance dissolves in the early stages of the heating process of the heated aroma-emitting substrate, making it easier for the fragrance to volatilize and flow out with the aerosol. This makes it possible to further enhance the fragrance immediately after the heating process is completed.

The heated aroma-generating substrate of the present invention preferably contains 2 to 20% by mass of the heat-melting substance.

By having the heat-melting substance content be 2 to 20% by mass, it becomes easier for the aromatic components to be generated when the heat-melting substance melts.

In the heated aroma-generating substrate of the present invention, the aroma source material is preferably derived from a plant other than tobacco.

When aroma source materials are derived from non-tobacco plants, they do not contain nicotine, and users tend to seek stronger aromas and a more stimulating sensation than when tobacco plants are used as aroma source materials. As described above, the heated aroma-generating substrate of the present invention is capable of generating a good aroma using a thermally meltable substance, thereby meeting user expectations.

The heated aroma cartridge of the present invention is attached to an inhaler having an electric heating means and generates an aerosol containing aromatic components when heated. The heated aroma cartridge comprises a cylindrical cover, a heated aroma-generating substrate housed at one end of the cover and generating an aerosol containing aromatic components when heated, and a filter housed at the other end of the cover, and is characterized in that the heated aroma-generating substrate is one of the heated aroma-generating substrates described above.

The heated aroma cartridge of the present invention uses the heated aroma-generating substrate, allowing the user to feel a rich aroma from the initial stage of inhaling the aerosol after attaching the heated aroma cartridge to an inhalation device and heating it.

The method for producing a heated aroma-emitting substrate of the present invention involves mixing and molding raw materials containing an aroma source material that emits an aroma when heated, an aerosol former that generates an aerosol when heated, and a heat-fusible substance that melts when heated, and is characterized in that the heat-fusible substance is a powder with a melting point in the range of 50 to 100°C that is added to the raw materials, and the raw materials are mixed and molded at a temperature below the melting point of the heat-fusible substance.

The method for manufacturing a heated aroma-generating substrate of the present invention allows the heated aroma-generating substrate to be manufactured so that the heat-fusible substance remains in an island-like structure. This allows the heat-fusible substance with the dissolved aroma components to migrate to the surface of the heated aroma-generating substrate, where it is more likely to volatilize along with the aerosol former. This makes it possible to generate an aerosol containing many aroma components in the early stages of the heating process of the heated aroma-generating substrate. Furthermore, users can enjoy a rich aroma immediately after the heating process using the heated smoking device is complete.

In the method for producing a heated aroma-emitting substrate of the present invention, it is preferable to add a powder of the heat-fusible substance containing an aroma agent to the raw materials.

By incorporating a fragrance into the heat-melting substance, the heated fragrance cartridge is attached to the inhalation device and heated, and the heat-melting substance melts in the early stages of inhalation, causing the fragrance to volatilize and flow out, allowing a richer fragrance to be felt from the very beginning of inhalation.

The heated aroma-generating substrate of the present invention makes it possible to generate an aerosol containing many aromatic components in the early stages of the heating process of the heated aroma-generating substrate. Therefore, users can enjoy a rich aroma immediately after the heating process using the heated smoking device has finished.

The heated aroma cartridge of the present invention contains the heated aroma-generating substrate of the present invention, allowing users to enjoy a rich aroma immediately after the heating process using the heated smoking device has finished.

In the manufacturing method of the heated aroma cartridge of the present invention, the raw materials are mixed and molded at a temperature below the melting point of the heat-fusible substance, leaving the heat-fusible substance in an island-sea structure. This allows the heat-fusible substance with the dissolved aroma components to migrate to the surface of the heated aroma-generating substrate and easily volatilize along with the aerosol former, allowing for a rich aroma to be enjoyed immediately after the heating process using the heated smoking device is completed.

1 is a perspective view showing an embodiment of a heated aroma cartridge of the present invention. FIG. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the heated aroma cartridge. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 1 is a schematic explanatory view showing the form of a heat-meltable substance contained in a heated aroma-generating base material. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a cigarette showing the sealing state of the sealing material No. 2. 1 is a process diagram showing one embodiment of a manufacturing process for a heated aroma-generating substrate of the present invention. 4 is a process diagram showing another embodiment of the manufacturing process of the heated aroma-generating substrate of the present invention. FIG.

Hereinafter, one embodiment of a heated aroma cartridge using a heated aroma-generating substrate according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 is a perspective view of a heated aroma cartridge according to this embodiment. Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a heated aroma cartridge according to this embodiment. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the heated aroma cartridge taken along line A-A in Figure 1.

[Configuration of heated aroma cartridge]
1 and 2, the heated aroma cartridge 100 can be used, for example, as a cartridge for a heated smoking device. Below, an example will be described in which the heated aroma cartridge 100 is a cartridge used in a heated smoking device (hereinafter also simply referred to as an inhalation device), which is an inhalation device having an electric heating means.

The heated aroma cartridge 100 comprises a cylindrical cover 10, a heated aroma-generating substrate 20 housed at one end of the cover 10, a filter 30 housed at the other end of the cover 10, and a support member 40 housed in the cover 10 and positioned between the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 and the filter 30.

In this embodiment, the cover 10 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The shape of the cover 10 is not particularly limited as long as it is cylindrical. The cover 10 may also be formed in the shape of a polygonal prism, a rectangular parallelepiped, or the like, for example.

The cover 10 is composed of a wrapping paper 11 that covers the heated aroma-generating substrate 20, a base material 12 that covers the heated aroma-generating substrate 20, the support member 40, and the filter 30 from the outside of the wrapping paper 11, and a tipping paper 13 that further covers the outer periphery of the filter 30 from the outside of the base material 12. The base material 12 is joined to the wrapping paper 11 and tipping paper 13 by means of adhesion, heat fusion, or the like.

The wrapping paper 11, base material 12, and tipping paper 13 can be made of, for example, paper, synthetic resin film, metal foil, etc., or may be a composite sheet formed by laminating these. Furthermore, an adhesive or fusible layer, such as an adhesive layer or hot melt layer, may be formed on the inner surface of the wrapping paper 11, base material 12, and tipping paper 13.

In this embodiment, the wrapping paper 11 serves to group the heated aroma-generating substrates 20 together to form a column. The substrate 12 serves to connect the heated aroma-generating substrates 20, the support member 40, and the filter 30. The tipping paper 13 serves to reinforce the part (mouthpiece) where the user holds the heated aroma cartridge 100 in their mouth. Note that the cover 10 is not limited to being composed of the wrapping paper 11, substrate 12, and tipping paper 13 individually; for example, the cover 10 may be composed of a single sheet in which the wrapping paper 11, substrate 12, and tipping paper 13 are integrated.

In this embodiment, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, the heated aroma-generating substrate 20, support member 40, and filter 30 are arranged axially from one end of the cover 10 to the other end.

The heated aroma-generating substrate 20 is an assembly of components that are, for example, rod-shaped, strip-shaped, powder-shaped, granular, pellet-shaped, small piece-shaped, sheet-shaped, fibrous, porous, or block-shaped. In this embodiment, the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 is formed into a cylindrical shape as a whole by strip-shaped components.

The heated aroma-generating substrate 20 can generate an aerosol when heated by the electrical heating means of the heated smoking device. The heated aroma-generating substrate 20 can contain an aroma source material made from a non-tobacco plant, not limited to tobacco plants, an aerosol former capable of generating an aerosol, and a thermo-fusible substance that melts when heated. The configuration of the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 will be described later.

The filter 30 preferably has a certain degree of breathability to the mainstream smoke or aerosol generated from the heated aroma-emitting substrate 20, and has the function of capturing solid particles contained in the mainstream smoke or aerosol and adsorbing harmful components. There are no particular limitations on the shape of the filter 30, as long as it can be wrapped in the cover 10.

The filter 30 may be, for example, an acetate filter using acetate fibers, a charcoal filter containing activated carbon in an acetate filter, or an AFT (Advanced Filter Technology) filter with multiple grooves recessed from the outer surface of the filter 30 in the axial direction of the cover 10. The filter 30 may also contain fragrances and microcellular fragrances. In this embodiment, the filter 30 is fixed to the inner surface of the base material 12 of the cover 10 by adhesive, welding, or other fixing means.

As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the support member 40 is located between the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 and the filter 30, and is disposed adjacent to each of them. The support member 40 may have an outer peripheral surface that corresponds to the shape of the inner peripheral surface of the cover 10. In this embodiment, the support member 40 is formed in an overall cylindrical shape. The support member 40 is fixed to the cover 10 by a fixing means such as adhesion or welding, and in this embodiment, it is fixed to the inner peripheral surface of the substrate 12.

The shape of the support member 40 is not limited as long as it has a structure that allows ventilation from one end to the other and has the function of restricting movement of the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 toward the other end.

In this embodiment, the support member 40 has one or more ventilation passages 41 that penetrate it in the axial direction. In this embodiment, the ventilation passages 41 are defined by four recessed grooves formed axially at equal intervals in the circumferential direction on the outer peripheral surface of the support member 20 and by the inner peripheral surface of the cover 10.

Furthermore, the ventilation passage 41 may be composed of, for example, one or more through holes formed so as to penetrate the support member 40 in the axial direction from one end face to the other end face. The ventilation passage 41 may be composed of, for example, a central ventilation passage formed along the axis of the support member 40, and multiple ventilation passages arranged in a circumferential direction surrounding this central ventilation passage and also formed so as to penetrate the support member 40 in the axial direction.

The support member 40 may also be composed of a honeycomb structure in which the end faces of the partition walls are hexagonal and have multiple air passages penetrating in the axial direction. Furthermore, the support member 40 may also be composed of a porous material, for example, in which open cells are formed.

The support member 40 preferably has a shape at one or both axial end faces of the cover 10, preferably the end face located on the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 side, that is capable of restricting the axial movement of the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 relative to the cover 10 when the electrical heating means of the inhaler is inserted. Here, a shape that is capable of restricting the axial movement of the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 relative to the cover 10 may be, for example, a shape that restricts the movement of the material of the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 to an extent that does not cause practical problems.

By configuring the support member 40 in this manner, when an electrical heating means for heating the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 of the heated smoking device is inserted into one end of the heated aroma cartridge 100, the support member 40 restricts movement of the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 toward the other end. In other words, the support member 40 can support the heated aroma-generating substrate 20.

Furthermore, the support member 40 is able to cool the high-temperature aerosol containing the aromatic components generated from the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 as it passes through. For this reason, the support member 40 is made of a material that can withstand the heat corresponding to the combustion temperature or heating temperature of the heated aroma cartridge 100. For example, if the heated aroma cartridge 100 is a cartridge for a heated smoking device, the support member should be made of a material that can withstand heat of approximately 200 to 350°C.

Such materials include, for example, paper, resin, rubber, wood, metal, and ceramic, but resin that can be molded into various shapes is more preferable.

The resin may be either a thermoplastic resin or a thermosetting resin, such as polyolefin-based resin, polyester-based resin, polystyrene-based resin, nylon-based resin, acrylic-based resin, silicone-based resin, fluorine-based resin, polyurethane-based resin, ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA)-based resin, phenol-based resin, amino-based resin, ABS-based resin, and biodegradable plastic. Of these resins, biodegradable plastic is preferred from the perspective of protecting the natural environment, as the heated aroma cartridge 100 becomes waste after use.

Examples of biodegradable plastics include poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB), poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL), poly(butylene succinate) (PBS), and polylactic acid (PLA).

The heated aroma-emitting substrate 20 of the heated aroma cartridge 100 is heated from room temperature or ambient temperature to a target temperature of 200°C or higher by the electrical heating means of the inhaler (not shown). Therefore, the heated aroma-emitting substrate 20 undergoes a temperature rise process from room temperature or ambient temperature to the target temperature. Immediately after the temperature rise process is complete, the user can inhale the aerosol emitted from the heated aroma cartridge 100.

[Configuration of the heated aroma-generating substrate 20]
The heated aroma-emitting substrate 20 contains an aroma source material that emits an aroma when heated, an aerosol former that generates an aerosol when heated, and a heat-meltable substance that melts when heated.

The heated aroma-emitting substrate 20 may also contain, for example, an aromatic agent that can supplement the aroma emitted from the aroma source material, a molding agent that can improve the moldability of the heated aroma-emitting substrate 20, a binder that helps to bond and integrate the aerosol former and aroma source material, a sorbent that can retain the aromatic agent in the heated aroma-emitting substrate 20, and a preservative that can improve the shelf life of the heated aroma-emitting substrate 20.

(fragrance source material)
Examples of aroma source materials include tobacco leaves and stems, as well as leaves, stems, flowers, seeds, fruits, bark, roots, and the like of non-tobacco plants.

Aromatic sources include, in particular, Chinese tea, black tea, roses, plants of the Oleaceae family (Oleaceae), lavender, saffron flowers, radishes, shallots, garlic, onions, konjac rhizomes, Chinese quince, plants of the Rutaceae family (citrus fruits such as bitter orange, satsuma mandarin, summer orange, ponkan, hassaku citrus, iyokan, ichan lemon, trifoliate orange, orange, mandarin orange, kabosu, Kishu mandarin, quinotto, grapefruit, koji, sanbokan, citron, jabara, sudachi, tachibana, tangor, summer mandarin, yuzu, hyuganatsu, Hirami lemon (shikwasa), pomelo (pomelo), yuzu, lime, lemon, kaffir lime, etc.), plants of the Rosaceae family (peach), apples, pineapples, mangoes, and finch Suitable ingredients for providing a pleasant fragrance to the user include, but are not limited to, at least one selected from the following: apple, melon, pomegranate, plum, apricot, blueberry, plants of the genus Fragaria (Rosaceae), raspberry, banana, and grape fruit; peppermint plants of the genus Mentha (Lamiaceae) (peppermint, Japanese mint, apple mint, water mint, Corsican mint, pennyroyal mint, etc.); spearmint plants of the genus Mentha (Lamiaceae) (spearmint, horse mint, green mentha, chili mint, ginger mint, etc.); catnip, lemon balm, savory, willow mint (hyssop), and the aboveground stems and leaves of plants of the genus Nicotiana (Solanaceae).

However, it is preferable that the heated aromatic cartridge have all three elements: fragrance, which is defined as the scent that wafts from the heated aromatic cartridge itself when it is attached to an inhalation device; aroma, which is defined as the scent that wafts into the air when the heated aromatic cartridge is heated; and flavor, which is defined as the scent that wafts into the mouth when the heated aromatic cartridge is heated and inhaled together with the aerosol.

The fragrance preferably contains at least one selected from Chinese tea, black tea, rose, plants of the Oleaceae family, lavender, saffron flowers, and the above-ground stems and leaves of plants of the Solanaceae family, genus Nicotiana, and species of Nicotiana.

The aroma preferably includes at least one selected from the rhizomes of scallions, shallots, garlic, onions, and konjac, and the above-ground stems and leaves of plants of the Nicotiana species of the Solanaceae family.

Flavors include quince, plants of the Rutaceae family (bitter orange, unshu mandarin, summer mandarin, ponkan, hassaku, iyokan, ichan lemon, trifoliate orange, orange, mandarin orange, kabosu, Kishu mandarin, quinot, grapefruit, koji, sanbokan, citron, jabara, sudachi, tachibana, tangor, summer mandarin, hanayuzu, hyuganatsu, Hirami lemon (shikwasa), pomelo (pomelo), yuzu, lime, lemon, kaffir lime, etc.), plants of the Rosaceae family (peach), apple, pineapple, mango, kumquat, melon, pomegranate, plum, and apricot. It is preferable to include at least one selected from the group consisting of blueberries, plants of the genus Fragaria in the family Rosaceae, raspberries, bananas, grapes, peppermint plants of the genus Mentha in the family Lamiaceae (peppermint, Japanese mint, apple mint, water mint, Corsican mint, pennyroyal mint, etc.), spearmint plants of the genus Mentha in the family Lamiaceae (spearmint, horse mint, green mentha, chili mint, ginger mint, etc.), catnip, lemon balm, savory mint, willow mint (hyssop), and the above-ground stems and leaves of plants of the genus Nicotiana in the family Solanaceae.

(aerosol former)
Examples of aerosol formers that can be used include glycerin, propylene glycol, sorbitol, triethylene glycol, lactic acid, diacetin (glycerin diacetate), triacetin (glycerin triacetate), triethylene glycol diacetate, triethyl citrate, isopropyl myristate, methyl stearate, dimethyl dodecanedionate, and dimethyl tetradecanedione, with glycerin and propylene glycol being particularly preferred.

(Thermal melting substance)
The melting point of the heat-fusible substance is in the range of 50 to 100°C, preferably in the range of 50 to 80°C, and more preferably in the range of 60 to 67°C. If the melting point of the heat-fusible substance is below 50°C, the heat-fusible substance may melt and become sticky during hot periods such as summer. If the melting point of the heat-fusible substance is above 100°C, the heat-fusible substance may not melt sufficiently in the early stages of the heating process of the heated aroma-generating substrate, and the aroma of the aerosol may tend to be insufficient immediately after the heating process by the heated smoking device is completed.

The melting point of a heat-melting substance can be measured, for example, in accordance with the paraffin wax melting point measurement method specified in JIS K2235. That is, using a designated melting point tester, a molten sample is placed in a test tube, and the reading on the melting point measurement thermometer is read every 15 seconds. The melting point can be measured as the temperature when the temperature drop is within a certain range (when the difference is within 0.1°C five times in a row).

The heat-melting substance is preferably in powder form. The average particle size of the heat-melting substance is preferably 125 to 355 μm, more preferably 150 to 300 μm, and even more preferably 180 to 250 μm. The average particle size can be measured, for example, using a laser diffraction particle size distribution analyzer. In the present invention, the term "average particle size" refers to the median diameter.

If the average particle size of the thermally melting substance is too large, its total surface area will be small, reducing the opportunity for contact with the heat source. As a result, the thermally melting substance will not melt sufficiently, and the concentration of aromatic components in the aerosol immediately after the heating process has finished will tend to decrease.

If the outer diameter of the thermally melting substance is too small, it becomes difficult to form an island-sea structure in which the thermally melting substance is dispersed in the heated aroma-generating substrate 20, as described below. As a result, each of the thermally melting substances exists in the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 as agglomerated lumps, creating areas where the melting rate upon contact with the heat source decreases, and the concentration of the aroma components in the aerosol immediately after the heating process is completed tends to decrease.

The heat-melting substance is preferably contained in the heated aroma-emitting substrate 20 in an amount of 2 to 20% by mass, preferably 3 to 15% by mass, and more preferably 5 to 15% by mass.

In order to balance the volatilization amounts of the smoke components and aromatic components, the blend amounts of the fragrance source material, aerosol former, and thermally soluble substance are preferably 55-75% by mass, 20-40% by mass, and 2-15% by mass, respectively, and more preferably 60-70% by mass, 25-35% by mass, and 3-10% by mass.

The heat-melting substance is not particularly limited as long as it is "an organic compound that exhibits a melting point or softening point and becomes a non-Newtonian fluid when heated." The heat-melting substance is preferably an organic compound commonly known as wax, and typical examples of wax include petroleum-based natural waxes, synthetic waxes, plant-based natural waxes, and animal-based natural waxes. Various tackifiers (adhesive agents) such as rosin, which is also used as wax, can also be used. These can be used alone or as a mixture containing at least one selected from these.

As heat-melting substances, natural plant waxes and natural animal waxes are preferably used because they have a desirable melting point and can impart flavor. Examples of natural plant waxes that can be used include hazel wax, lacquer wax, carnauba wax, sugarcane wax, palm wax, and candelilla wax. Natural animal waxes that can be used include beeswax, spermaceti, privet wax, wool wax, and shellac. These waxes are easily obtained with a melting point in the range of 50 to 100°C specified in the present invention, and because they possess a desirable flavor, they can enhance the fragrance of the aerosol. Among these natural waxes, carnauba wax, beeswax, petrolatum, and paraffin wax are particularly preferred, with beeswax being the most preferred, as it has a melting point of 62 to 65°C and is rich in aromatic components.

Natural plant-derived waxes and natural animal-derived waxes are primarily composed of esters of fatty acids and fatty alcohols. They are mixtures of esters of fatty acids with various carbon numbers and fatty alcohols, and also contain free fatty acids, free fatty alcohols, hydrocarbons, etc. Therefore, natural plant-derived waxes and natural animal-derived waxes are characterized by a wide molecular weight distribution, a wide melting point temperature range, and high viscosity when melted.

Petroleum-based natural waxes are hydrocarbon compounds, which have the advantage of having little interaction with fragrance components and aerosol formers and little adverse effect on flavor. Examples of petroleum-based natural waxes that can be used include petrolatum, paraffin wax, and microcrystalline wax.

These petroleum-based natural waxes have different melting point temperature ranges based on their molecular structure. Vaseline is a mixture of branched hydrocarbons and alicyclic hydrocarbons, and has a wide melting point range of 36-60°C.

Paraffin wax is primarily composed of straight-chain hydrocarbons, is highly crystalline, and most have a melting point between 40 and 70°C, a narrow melting point range.

Microcrystalline wax is a mixture of branched hydrocarbons and saturated cyclic hydrocarbons. It has low crystallinity but a high molecular weight. It has the highest melting point of any of these, between 60 and 90°C, and its melting point range is the second widest after petrolatum.

All of these petroleum-based natural waxes are hydrocarbon compounds extracted from crude oil. Paraffin wax and microcrystalline wax have low melt viscosity and surface energy when thermally melted, and they also have little interaction with aromatic components and aerosol formers.

Such paraffin waxes include, for example, Paraffin Wax-115, 120, 125, 130, 135, 140, 145, 150, and 155, which are standard products manufactured by Nippon Seiro Co., Ltd., and any of these are preferably used. Special paraffin waxes are also preferably used, such as the HNP series, which are high-purity refined paraffin waxes specially manufactured by Nippon Seiro Co., Ltd., the SP series for specific applications, and the EMW series, which are primarily composed of isoparaffin and are produced using a special manufacturing process. Microcrystalline waxes are also preferably used, such as the Hi-Mic series manufactured by Nippon Seiro Co., Ltd.

Preferably usable synthetic waxes include, for example, Fischer-Tropsch wax, polyethylene (PE) wax, modified PE wax, polypropylene (PP) wax, modified PP wax, fatty acid amide, fatty acid, fatty alcohol, polyoxyalkylene glycol, polyoxyethylene alkyl ether, and polyoxyethylene alkylamine.

In particular, because Fischer-Tropsch wax is a linear hydrocarbon-based organic compound, it has low melt viscosity and surface energy when thermally melted, and it also has minimal interaction with aerosol formers and aromatic components. As Fischer-Tropsch wax, mid-melting point products such as C80 (melting point: approximately 85-88°C) can be used.

PE wax and modified PE wax, as well as PP wax and modified PP wax, are also hydrocarbon compounds and can be preferably used. Specifically, "HIWAX (registered trademark)" manufactured by Mitsui Chemicals, Inc., "SANWAX" and "VISCOL" manufactured by Sanyo Chemical Industries, Ltd., and "CERAFAK (registered trademark) 929, 950, 913, 914, 915" manufactured by BYK can be preferably used.
In particular, metallocene-catalyzed polyolefin waxes are more preferred because of their narrow molecular weight distribution. For example, the metallocene-catalyzed PE wax "EXCEREX (registered trademark)" manufactured by Mitsui Chemicals, Inc. has a melting point of 89 to 128°C due to its narrow molecular weight distribution and composition distribution, but has a low melt viscosity upon thermal melting, making it an excellent polyolefin wax.

In addition to the above, fatty acid amides, fatty acids, fatty alcohols, etc. can also be used as heat-melting substances. Suitable fatty acid amides include monoamides and bisamides. Preferred monoamides are stearic acid monoamide, oleic acid monoamide, and erucic acid monoamide, which have melting points of approximately 72 to 105°C.

For example, monoamides such as Alflow (registered trademark) S-10, E-10, and P-10 manufactured by NOF Corporation can be used. Bisamides such as Alflow (registered trademark) H Series and AD Series manufactured by NOF Corporation and Kao Wax EB Series manufactured by Kao Corporation can be used.

Preferred fatty acids include capric acid, lauric acid, myristic acid, pentadecylic acid, palmitic acid, margaric acid, stearic acid, arachidic acid, behenic acid, lignoceric acid, and melissic acid, which have melting points of approximately 30 to 94°C. For example, capric acid, lauric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, and behenic acid are more preferred because they are industrially produced by companies such as NOF Corporation.

Preferred fatty alcohols include lauryl alcohol, tridecyl alcohol, myristyl alcohol, pentadecyl alcohol, cetyl alcohol, 1-heptadecanol, stearyl alcohol, cetostearyl alcohol, elaidyl alcohol, nanodecyl alcohol, arachidyl alcohol, heneicosanol, behenyl alcohol, lignoceryl alcohol, ceryl alcohol, 1-heptacosanol, montanyl alcohol, 1-nonacosanol, and myricyl alcohol, which have melting points of approximately 23 to 87°C. For example, lauryl alcohol, myristyl alcohol, cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, and cetostearyl alcohol are more preferred because they are produced industrially by NOF Corporation and other companies.

These higher fatty acids and higher aliphatic alcohols have a carboxyl group and a hydroxyl group bonded to the end of a straight-chain hydrocarbon, respectively, and have no or an extremely narrow molecular weight distribution. Therefore, like paraffin wax, they have a low melt viscosity when thermally melted and a narrow melting point temperature range, which greatly promotes the deformation and flow of the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 when heated.

Polyoxyalkylene glycols with an average molecular weight of 600 to 11,000 are preferred, as they have a low melting point and low melt viscosity when thermally melted. Also preferred are polyethylene glycol-polypropylene glycol block polymers with 40 to 80 wt% polyethylene glycol units and an average molecular weight of 3,000 to 13,000. Polyoxyalkylene glycols that meet these requirements are also used as nonionic surfactants, and because they have a narrow molecular weight distribution and a narrow melting point temperature range, they have excellent fluidity when thermally melted.

Preferably, the polyoxyethylene alkyl ether is polyoxyethylene monomethyl ether with an average molecular weight of 1,000 to 4,000. This is also used as a nonionic surfactant, but because it has a narrow molecular weight distribution and a narrow melting point temperature range, it has excellent fluidity when thermally melted.

Preferred polyoxyethylene alkylamines include polyoxyethylene-stearylamine and NOF Corporation's Nymeen (registered trademark) S202. These are also used as nonionic surfactants, but they contain a linear hydrocarbon unit with 18 carbon atoms, have a narrow molecular weight distribution, and have a narrow melting point temperature range, resulting in excellent fluidity when thermally melted.

For example, rosin, rosin derivatives, terpene resins, and modified terpene resins can be used as tackifiers. Specifically, gum rosin, rosin ester (Pensel), maleic acid-modified rosin resin, and rosin-modified phenolic resin (Tamanol), manufactured by Arakawa Chemical Industries, Ltd., can be used as rosin and rosin derivatives. Rosin and rosin derivatives have low interaction with fragrance components and aerosol formers and have high thermal fluidity.

Terpene resins and modified terpene resins that can be used include, for example, terpene monomer homopolymer resins (YS Resin PX and YS Resin PXN), aromatic modified terpene resins (YS Resin TO), and terpene phenolic resins (YS Polyster series) manufactured by Yasuhara Chemical Co., Ltd.

(Air freshener)
The aromatic agent may be added together with the aerosol former, but is preferably mixed in advance with the thermally meltable substance. As the aromatic agent, at least one selected from a refreshing agent and nicotine may be used.

Examples of cooling agents that can be used include menthol, menthol derivatives, menthone, menthone derivatives, menthanecarboxylic acid amide, 2,3-dimethyl-2-(2-propyl)-butyric acid derivatives, menthane, menthane derivatives, L-carvone, xylitol, eucalyptus essential oil, peppermint oil, spearmint essential oil, and spilanthol.

The aromatic substance content should be 3-25% by mass, preferably 5-20% by mass, based on 100% by mass of the total of the aromatic source material, aerosol former, and thermally fused substance. If the aromatic substance content is less than 3% by mass based on 100% by mass of the total of the aromatic source material, aerosol former, and thermally fused substance, it tends to be difficult to fully incorporate the aromatic components generated from the aromatic substance into the aerosol. Furthermore, if the aromatic substance content exceeds 25% by mass based on 100% by mass of the total of the aromatic source material, aerosol former, and thermally fused substance, the strength of the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 tends to decrease.

(Forming agent)
The molding agent is used to reinforce the heated aroma-emitting substrate 20. As the molding agent, for example, cellulose fiber, microcrystalline cellulose, etc. can be used.

Preferably, cellulose fibers are those derived from sugarcane, bamboo, wheat, rice, esparto, jute, hemp, wood, etc. These cellulose fibers preferably have a diameter of 5 to 25 μm and a length of 0.25 to 6 mm. Using cellulose fibers with diameters and lengths within these ranges can enhance the binding effect of the components of the heated aroma-generating substrate 20.

The microcrystalline cellulose preferably has an average particle size of 70 to 120 μm. If the average particle size of the microcrystalline cellulose is less than 70 μm, it tends to be difficult to suppress shrinkage of the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 and to prevent adhesion between the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 and the molding machine. If the average particle size of the microcrystalline cellulose exceeds 120 μm, the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 tends to be more susceptible to fracture. The average particle size of the microcrystalline cellulose can be measured using a laser diffraction particle size distribution analyzer. In the present invention, average particle size refers to the median diameter.

The mass average molecular weight (Mw) of the microcrystalline cellulose is preferably 20,000 to 60,000. If the mass average molecular weight (Mw) of the microcrystalline cellulose is less than 20,000, the effect of suppressing shrinkage of the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 tends to be poor. If the mass average molecular weight (Mw) of the microcrystalline cellulose exceeds 60,000, the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 tends to be more susceptible to breakage.

The forming agent should be contained in an amount of 2 to 25% by mass, preferably 3 to 20% by mass, based on 100% by mass of the total amount of the aroma source material, aerosol former, and heat-melting substance. By containing the forming agent in the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 in this manner, it can fulfill the above-mentioned functions and prevent the forming agent from interfering with the generation of volatile substances from the aroma source material and aerosol former.

(Binder)
The binder is used to bind together the ingredients of the heated aroma-emitting substrate, such as the aroma source material, aerosol former, and heat-melting substance. Examples of binders that can be used include polysaccharide polymers and cellulose polymers.

Examples of polysaccharide polymers that can be used include konjac mannan (glucomannan), guar gum, pectin, carrageenan, tamarin seed gum, gum arabic, soybean polysaccharides, locust bean gum, karaya gum, xanthan gum, and agar. From the standpoints of strength and the aforementioned moldability, glucomannan, guar gum, pectin, carrageenan, tamarin seed gum, locust bean gum, karaya gum, and xanthan gum are preferred as polysaccharide polymers, with the neutral polysaccharides glucomannan, guar gum, tamarin seed gum, and locust bean gum being more preferred.

Examples of cellulose-based polymers that can be used include carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), carboxyethyl cellulose, hydroxymethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, the sodium salt of CMC, the potassium salt of CMC, the calcium salt of CMC, the sodium salt of carboxyethyl cellulose, the potassium salt of carboxyethyl cellulose, and the calcium salt of carboxyethyl cellulose. From the standpoint of the strength and moldability of the heated aroma-generating substrate 20, the sodium salt of CMC, the potassium salt of CMC, the sodium salt of carboxyethyl cellulose, and the potassium salt of carboxyethyl cellulose are preferred as cellulose-based polymers.

As the binder, it is preferable to use a combination of a polysaccharide-based polymer and a cellulose-based polymer. In this case, glucomannan, guar gum, tamarin seed gum, and locust bean gum are preferably used as the polysaccharide-based polymer. Furthermore, it is preferable to use sodium salt of CMC, potassium salt of CMC, sodium salt of carboxyethyl cellulose, and potassium salt of carboxyethyl cellulose as the cellulose-based polymer. In this way, by using a combination of a polysaccharide-based polymer and a cellulose-based polymer, the strength and moldability of the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 can be improved.

The binder is preferably contained in an amount of 5 to 30% by mass, and more preferably 8 to 28% by mass, based on the total amount of the aroma source material, aerosol former, and thermally meltable substance (100% by mass). By containing such a binder in the heated aroma-generating substrate 20, the strength and moldability of the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 can be improved, and adverse effects on the generation of volatile substances from the aroma source material and aerosol former can be avoided.

Furthermore, it is preferable that the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 of the present invention contains both a binder and a molding agent. In this case, the blending ratio of the binder to the molding agent is preferably 1:1 to 1:25 by mass in terms of the binding effect.

(sorbent)
If the aromatic substance is not contained in the heat-melting substance, a sorbent may be used to prevent the aromatic substance from volatilizing before the temperature of the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 reaches the optimum temperature for volatilization of the aerosol former and the aromatic source material. As described above, the sorbent allows the aromatic substance to remain in the heated aroma-generating material 20.

A variety of sorbents can be used depending on the manner in which compounds such as fragrances are retained in the aroma-generating substrate 20. For example, a sorbent can be used that encapsulates the compound, thereby retaining it in the aroma-generating substrate 20. Cyclodextrin can be used as such a sorbent.

Cyclodextrins are known to form inclusion compounds with chemical substances containing hydroxyl or carboxyl groups of various sizes, and all of α-, β-, and γ-cyclodextrins can be used. In particular, β-cyclodextrin forms an inclusion compound with menthol and is ideal as a sorbent for menthol.

When cyclodextrin is used as the sorbent, the sorbent content is preferably 0.1 to 1.2 mass%, and more preferably 0.2 to 1.0 mass%, relative to 100 mass% of the total amount of the fragrance source material, aerosol former, and thermally melting substance.

A sorbent that adsorbs the compound and thereby retains it in the aroma-generating substrate 20 can also be used. For example, if the compound is menthol, menthol has a phenolic hydroxyl group. Therefore, the sorbent can be a hydrophilic cross-linked polymer, such as cross-linked polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), that is capable of adsorbing phenolic hydroxyl groups.

For example, if the compound in question is nicotine, nicotine has a five-membered heterocyclic compound containing nitrogen. Therefore, cross-linked PVP, which is thought to interact with the five-membered heterocyclic compound containing nitrogen, can be used as the sorbent.

When crosslinked PVP is used as the sorbent, the sorbent is preferably contained in an amount of 4 to 25% by mass, and more preferably 5 to 20% by mass, relative to 100% by mass of the total amount of the fragrance source material, aerosol former, and heat-melting substance.
More preferably, the sorbent contains both cross-linked PVP and cyclodextrin.

(preservative)
To preserve the heated aroma-emitting cartridge for a long period of time, a preservative may be used. Examples of the preservative include potassium sorbate and/or sodium benzoate. The preservative is preferably contained in an amount of 0.005 to 0.04% by mass relative to 100% by mass of the total amount of the aroma source material, aerosol former, and thermally melting substance.

(Aspects of the surface of the heated aroma-generating substrate 20)
Fig. 4 shows a schematic diagram of the thermally melting substance HS contained in the heated aroma-generating substrate 20. As shown in Fig. 4, the thermally melting substance HS is dispersed in the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 in an island-like structure.

In this sea-island structure, the sea is made up of components other than the heat-melting substance HS, and the islands are made up of the heat-melting substance HS. In other words, the heat-melting substance HS exists as clumps that define a certain area within the heated aroma-generating substrate 20.

The sea-island structure is formed on the surface and also inside the heated aroma-generating substrate 20. Therefore, the surface of the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 has the sea-island structure shown in Figure 4. Furthermore, when the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 is cut at any position, the cut surface also has the sea-island structure shown in Figure 4.

Furthermore, as mentioned above, the melting point of the heat-fusible substance HB is in the range of 50 to 100°C. Therefore, the heat-fusible substance HS melts in the early stages of the temperature rise process of the heated aroma-emitting substrate 20. The aromatic components emitted from the aroma source material, etc. dissolve into the molten heat-fusible substance HB.

By forming islands in a sea-island structure within the heated aroma-generating substrate 20, when the heated aroma-generating substrate is heated and the thermally fusible substance HS melts, the aroma components emitted from the aroma source material and the aroma components of the fragrance dissolve in the molten thermally fusible substance HS and easily flow together with the thermally fusible substance HS.

The melted heat-melting substance HS flows within the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 and comes into contact with the aerosol former, where the aromatic components are incorporated into the aerosol former and volatilize as an aerosol. This makes it possible to generate an aerosol containing many aromatic components in the early stages of the heating process of the heated aroma-generating substrate 20. This allows the user to enjoy a rich aroma immediately after the heating process of the heated smoking device has finished.

Next, a method for manufacturing the heated aroma-emitting substrate 20 will be described. Figure 5 shows one embodiment of the manufacturing process for the heated aroma-emitting substrate 20. As shown in Figure 5, a mixing step is carried out in which raw material (A) containing a mixture of aroma source material and a heat-melting substance, raw material (B) which is cellulose fiber as a binder, and raw material (C) containing a mixture of an aerosol former, an aroma agent, a molding agent, a binder (excluding cellulose fiber), a sorbent, a preservative, and pure water are mixed. The mixing step is carried out below the melting point of the heat-melting substance. The mixing step can be carried out using, for example, a known mixer.

Raw material (A) is obtained by compressing and shearing a dried, insecticidal, and then crushed fragrance source material and a crushed heat-melting substance, mixing the compressed and sheared mixture, and then cooling it to below 0°C and crushing it.

Raw material (B) is obtained by crushing compressed cellulose fibers, boiling the crushed cellulose fibers, dehydrating and drying them, and crushing them. Note that raw material (B) is an optional raw material.

Raw material (C) is essentially an aerosol former, and may contain any of the following: fragrances, forming agents (excluding cellulose fibers), binders, sorbents, preservatives, and pure water.

By carrying out the mixing process in this manner, a sea-island structure can be formed in the heated aroma-generating substrate 20, in which powder of the heat-melting substance mixed with the aroma source material is dispersed.

Next, the mixture obtained in the mixing step is compressed and sheared to form a sheet. The compression and shearing process can be carried out using, for example, a three-roll mill. By compressing and shearing using a three-roll mill, air is trapped and the water is evaporated, allowing the mixture to be formed into a sheet.

The sheet obtained in this way has a porous structure that contains air inside. As a result, it is possible to obtain a heated aroma-emitting substrate 20 with a low density. Furthermore, because the rolls of the three-roll mill have an extremely flat surface, the surface of the sheet is formed to be flat.

In other words, the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 has a porous structure containing air during compression and shearing, resulting in a low density and a flat, smooth surface.

The mixture formed into a sheet by compression and shearing is then cut into a predetermined shape and size in a cutting process. The sheet-like mixture is then processed into, for example, strips.

The mixture, cut to the desired shape and size, is placed on the cover 10 together with the filter 30 and support member 40. The cover 10 is then rolled up to encase these components, and the ends of the cover 10 are fastened together to produce the heated aroma cartridge 100.

In this way, by carrying out the mixing, compression/shearing, and cutting processes below the melting point of the heat-melting substance, it is possible to prevent the melting of the heat-melting substance from spreading throughout the heated aroma-generating substrate 20, and to maintain the sea-island structure of the heat-melting substance in the heated aroma-generating substrate 20.

When a sea-island structure is formed in the heated aroma-generating substrate 20, in which powder of the heat-melting substance mixed with the aroma source material is dispersed, the heat-melting substance is dispersed in the form of islands on the heated aroma-generating substrate 20.

When the heat-melting substance is dispersed in islands on the heated aroma-emitting substrate 20, it flows more easily upon melting than when it is impregnated into the aroma source material, making it easier for the aromatic components emitted from the aroma source material to be incorporated. Furthermore, when the flowing heat-melting substance comes into contact with the aerosol former, the aromatic components can easily become aerosols together with the aerosol former and volatilize.

As a result, the aromatic components of the aroma source material can be efficiently volatilized. Therefore, the user can more fully enjoy the aroma when inhaling the aerosol emitted from the heated aroma cartridge 100 immediately after the heating process of the heated smoking device has finished.

The fragrance may also be added to raw material (A). Figure 6 shows another embodiment of the manufacturing process for the heated aroma-emitting substrate 20. As shown in Figure 6, when adding the fragrance to raw material (A), for example, a powdered heat-fusible substance and the fragrance are heated and mixed at a temperature above the melting point of the heat-fusible substance, cooled, and then crushed to a predetermined size, and the crushed material and the powdered aroma source material are compressed and shear-mixed.

Furthermore, the manner in which the aromatic agent is added to raw material (A) is not limited to this; for example, some or all of the aromatic agent may be added during compression and shear mixing of raw material (A). By adding the aromatic agent to raw material (A) in this way, the user can fully enjoy the aromatic components emitted from the aromatic agent immediately after the temperature rise process is completed.

As described above, the heated aroma-generating substrate 20 of the present invention makes it possible to generate an aerosol containing many aromatic components in the early stages of the temperature rise process of the heated aroma-generating substrate 20.

The heated aroma cartridge 100 of the present invention includes a heated aroma-generating substrate 20, allowing the user to enjoy a rich aroma immediately after the heating process of the heated smoking device is complete.

The manufacturing method for the heated aroma cartridge 100 of the present invention allows the heat-fusible substance to remain in an island-like structure, making the heat-fusible substance more fluid. This allows the generated aroma components to dissolve in the heat-fusible substance, making it easier for the aroma components to flow out along with the aerosol.

[Test Example 1] (Sensory evaluation of flavor)
A heated aroma-generating substrate containing a thermally melting substance was prepared as an example, and a heated aroma-generating substrate not containing a thermally melting substance was prepared as a comparison example, and the flavors of the aerosols of both were evaluated.

(Sample Preparation)
The heated aroma cartridge of the example was prepared according to the formulation shown in Table 1. Specifically, the basic formulation was a blend of aroma source material, aerosol former, and thermally melting substance. In the example, the basic formulation was 65% by mass of aroma source material, 25% by mass of aerosol former, and 10% by mass of thermally melting substance.

The heated aroma cartridge of this example was created by adding 15 parts by weight of fragrance, 23 parts by weight of binder, 21 parts by weight of sorbent, 0.005 parts by weight of preservative, and 20 parts by weight of pure water to 100 parts by weight of the basic formula. Note that the pure water is added for molding purposes, but is removed from the heated aroma-generating substrate by drying after molding.

The aroma sources used as raw material (A) were black tea, konjac powder, osmanthus flowers, and gynostemma pentaphyllum.

The aerosol former used as raw material (C) was glycerin and propylene glycol.

Beeswax was used as the heat-melting substance used as raw material (A).

Mint oil and menthol were used as the fragrance raw material (A).

The binder used was CMC sodium salt as raw material (C) and sugarcane fiber as raw material (B).

The sorbent used as raw material (C) was cross-linked PVP and β-cyclodextrin.

The preservatives used as raw material (C) were potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate.

The above-mentioned raw material (A) was prepared in the manner shown in Figure 6. Specifically, raw material (A) was prepared by roughly mixing dried, insecticide-treated powdered fragrance source material with powdered fragrance and heat-melting substance in a Henschel mixer, then compressing and shearing the mixture, cooling it to below 0°C, and pulverizing it. Furthermore, raw material (A) was sorted using an 80-mesh sieve to have an average particle size of approximately 250 μm.

Heated aroma cartridges were also produced using raw materials (A) to (C) in the manner shown in Figure 6. Specifically, a mixing process was carried out in which raw materials (A) to (C) were mixed using a kneader.

Next, a compression and shearing process was carried out using three rolls to form the mixture into a sheet. In the compression and shearing process, the mixture was formed into a sheet with a thickness of 0.28±0.02 mm. The compression and shearing process was carried out at a temperature below the melting point of beeswax.

Then, a cutting process was carried out to cut the sheet. In the cutting process, the sheet was cut to a width of 1.5±0.1 mm and a length of approximately 240 mm.

The heated aroma-generating substrate thus obtained was wrapped in paper to achieve a predetermined filling rate. The wrapped heated aroma-generating substrate was then cut to lengths of 11.5 to 12.0 mm and dried to produce heated aroma cartridges.

(Creation of Comparative Example)
A heated aroma cartridge for the comparative example was prepared with the formulation shown in Table 2. The comparative example differs from the examples in that it does not contain a thermally melting substance. That is, the basic formulation was a blend of aroma source material and aerosol former. The basic formulation was also 70% by mass of aroma source material and 30% by mass of aerosol former. Since the rest was the same as the examples, a description of the raw materials and manufacturing method will be omitted.

(Sensory test)
The flavor of the aerosols generated from the heated aroma cartridges of the Examples and Comparative Examples using the heated smoking device was evaluated by 10 panelists.

Eight out of ten panelists rated the heated aroma cartridge of the example as having a better flavor than the heated aroma cartridge of the comparative example.

100 Heated aroma cartridge 10 Cover 20 Heated aroma-generating substrate 30 Filter 40 Support member HS Heat-melting substance

Claims (8)

A heated aroma-generating substrate contains an aroma source material that generates an aroma when heated, an aerosol former that generates an aerosol when heated, and a heat-melting substance that melts when heated, and is used for inhaling an aerosol containing an aroma component,
The heat-melting substance has a melting point in the range of 50 to 100°C and an average particle size of 125 to 355 μm;
The aroma-generating base material to be heated is characterized in that the aroma-generating agent is dispersed in the aroma-generating base material to form a sea-island structure and is contained in an amount of 2 to 20 mass %. The heated aroma-generating substrate according to claim 1, wherein the heat-melting substance has a melting point in the range of 50 to 80°C. The heated aroma-generating substrate according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the heat-melting substance is selected from the group consisting of beeswax, carnauba wax, petrolatum, and paraffin wax. The heated aroma-generating substrate according to claim 3, wherein the heat-meltable substance is beeswax. The heated, aroma-emitting substrate according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the heat-meltable substance contains a fragrance. 6. The heated aroma-generating substrate according to claim 5, further comprising a sorbent capable of retaining the aroma.
The heated aroma-generating substrate according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the aroma source material is derived from a non-tobacco plant. A heated aroma cartridge is attached to an inhalation device having an electric heating means, and generates an aerosol containing an aromatic component by heating,
The device comprises a cylindrical cover, a heated aroma-generating substrate accommodated at one end of the cover and configured to generate an aerosol containing an aromatic component when heated, and a filter accommodated at the other end of the cover,
A heated aroma cartridge, wherein the heated aroma-generating substrate according to any one of claims 1 to 7 is used as the heated aroma-generating substrate.