Smoking article and fuel element therefor

Abstract

 The present invention relates to a smoking article, preferably in cigarette form, which produces an aerosol that resembles tobacco smoke. The article preferably comprises a short combustible fuel element (10) having a density greater than 0.5 g/cc, a separate substrate (12) bearing an aerosol forming material, a heat conducting member (14) recessed from the lighting end of the fuel element (10), which preferably encloses the substrate (12), a resilient insulating jacket (72) encircling at least a portion of the fuel element, and an optional tobacco jacket (88) encircling at least a portion of the aerosol forming material.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a smoking article, preferably in cigarette form, and a fuel element therefor. Such smoking article having a combustible fuel element and an aerosol generting means produces an aerosol that resembles tobacco smoke, and which contains substantially reduced amounts of incomplete combustion and pyrolysis products than are normally produced by a conventional cigarette.

[0002] Many smoking articles have been proposed through the years, especially over the last 20 to 30 years, but none of these products has ever realized any commercial success.

[0003] EP-A-0 117 355 (Hearn et al.) describes a proposed cirgarette smoking article having a carbon heat source with an axial passageway and a separate flavor generator. The heat source (page 2, line 23 to page 7, line 14) is formed by pyrolyzing a preformed, tube-shaped ligno-cellulosic material of e.g. 90 mm or 65 mm length (see Comparative Example 1 and Example 4, respectively) under specified conditions, followed by at least one additional specified process step. The purported flavor generator (page 8, lines 8-27) comprises a substrate material, which may be tobacco, alumina, etc., adjacent the mouth end, which is impregnated with or inherently contains at least one thermally releasable flavorant. The flavor generator also may comprise a flavored, foamed core inside the heat source. A conventional filter may be placed after the flavor generator. The purported formation of an aerosol during use is described from page 8, line 28 to page 9, line 8. The heat source, the flavor generator and the filter are wrapped in cigarette paper.

[0004] Despite decades of interest and effort, there is still no smoking article on the market which provides the benefits and advantages associated with conventional cigarette smoking, without delivering considerable quantities of incomplete combustion and pyrolysis products generated by a conventional cigarette.

[0005] It is the the object of the present invention to provide a fuel element for a smoking article of the type having a combustible fuel element and a separate aerosol generator wherein the fuel element produces a low amount of incomplete combustion products.

[0006] According to subject invention this object is achieved by each of the following articles:

[0007] A smoking article comprising a combustible fuel element, wherein the fuel element comprises a plurality of closely spaced longitudinal passages therethrough. said passages being in such closely spaced arrangement that during burning they coalesce into a single passageway at least at the lighting end of the fuel element.

[0008] Fuel element for a smoking article comprising a plurality of closely spaced longitudinal passageways therethrough, said passageways being in such closely spaced arrangement that during burning they coalesce into a single passageway at least at the lighting end of the fuel element.

[0009] The plurality of passageways allow for easy ignition of the fuel element, and due to the closely spaced arrangement the passageways coalesce into a single passageway during burning thereby producing a smaller amount of CO.

[0010] Further advantageous features are subject of enclosed Claims 3 to 20.

[0011] A preferred embodiment of the invention comprises a smoking article, preferably in cigarette form, which utilizes a small, high density combustible fuel element in conjunction with a physically separate aerosol generating means which includes one or more aerosol forming materials. Preferably, the aerosol generating means is in a con­ductive heat exchange relationship with the fuel element and/or at least a portion of the fuel element is circumscribed by a resilient insulating jacket to reduce radial heat loss. Upon lighting, the fuel element generates heat which is used to volatilize the aerosol forming materials in the aerosol generating means. These volatile materials are then drawn toward the mouth end, especially during puffing, and into the user's mouth, akin to the smoke of a conventional cigarette.

[0012] Smoking articles of the invention are capable of producing substantial quantities of aerosol, both initially and over the useful life of the product, and are capable of providing the user with the sensations and benefits of cigarette smoking. The aerosol pro­duced by the aerosol generating means is produced without significant thermal degradation and is advan­tageously delivered to the user with substantially reduced amounts of pyrolysis and incomplete combustion products than are normally delivered by a conventional cigarette.

[0013] The small fuel element utilized bin the inven­tion is less than about 30 mm in length, preferably less than about 20 mm in length, and has a density of at least about 0.5 g/cc, more preferably of at least about 0.7 g/cc, as measured, e.g., by mercury displace­ment. Suitable fuel elements may be molded or extruded from comminuted or reconstituted tobacco and/or a tobacco substitute, and preferably contain combustible carbon. Preferred fuel elements also are provided with one or more longitudinal passageways, more preferably from 5 to 9 passageways or more, which help to control the transfer of heat from the burning fuel element to the aerosol forming materials in the aerosol generating means.

[0014] Advantageously, the aerosol generating means includes a substrate or carrier, preferably of a heat stable material, bearing one or more aerosol forming materials. Preferably, the conductive heat exchange relationship between the fuel and the aerosol generator is achieved by providing a heat conducting member, such as a metal conductor, which contacts the fuel element and the aerosol generating means and efficiently con­ducts or transfers heat from the burning fuel element to the aerosol generating means. This heat conducting member preferably contacts the fuel element and the aerosol generating means around at least a portion of their peripheral surfaces and preferably is recessed or spaced from the lighting end of the fuel element, advantageously by at least about 3 mm, preferably by at least about 5 mm, to avoid interference with lighting and burning of the fuel and to avoid any protrusion of the heat conducting member. More preferably, the heat conducting member also encloses at least a part of the substrate for the aerosol forming materials. Alterna­tively, a separate conductive container may be provided to enclose the aerosol forming materials.

[0015] In addition, at least a part of the fuel element is preferably provided with a peripheral insulating member, such as a jacket of insulating fibers, the jacket preferably being of resilient, non-­burning material at least 0.5 mm thick. This member reduces radical heat loss and assists in retaining and directing heat from the fuel element toward the aerosol generating means and in reducing the fire-causing property of the fuel. The preferred insulating member circumscribes at least part of the fuel element, and advantageously at least part of the aerosol generating means, which helps simulate the feel of a conventional cigarette. The materials used to insulate the fuel element and the aerosol generating means may be the same or different.

[0016] Because the fuel element is relatively short, the hot, burning fire cone is always close to the aero­sol generating means, which maximizes heat transfer thereto and the resultant production of aerosol, especially in embodiments which are provided with a multiple passageway fuel element, a heat conducting member, and/or an insulating member. A relatively high density fuel material is used to help insure that the small fuel element will burn long enough to simulate the burning time of a conventional cirgarette and that it will provide sufficient energy to generate the required amounts of aerosol. Because the aerosol forming substance is physically separate from the fuel element, it is exposed to substantially lower tempera­tures than are present in the burning fire cone, thereby minimizing the possibility of thermal degrada­tion of the aerosol former.

[0017] The smoking article of the present invention normally is provided with a mouthend piece including means, such as a longitudinal passage, for delivering the volatile material produced by the aerosol generat­ing means to the user. Preferably, the mouthend piece includes a resilient outer member, such as an annular section of cellulose acetate tow, to help simulate the feel of a conventional cirgarette. Advantageously, the article has the same overall dimensions as a conven­tional cigarette, and as a result, the mouthend piece and the aerosol delivery means usually extend over about one-half or more of the length of the article. Alternatively, the fuel element and the aerosol generating means may be produced without a built-in mouthend piece or aerosol delivery means, for use with a separate, disposable or reusable mouthend piece.

[0018] The smoking article of the present invention also may include a charge of plug of tobacco which may be used to add a tobacco flavor to the aerosol. This tobacco charge may be placed between the aerosol gene­rating means and the mouth end of the article. Prefer­ably, an annular section of tobacco is placed around the periphery of the aerosol generating means where it also acts as an insulating member and helps simulate the aroma and feel of a conventional cigarette. A tobacco charge also may be mixed with, or used as, the substrate for the aerosol forming material. Other sub­stances, such as flavoring agents, also may be incor­porated into the article to flavor or otherwise modify the aerosol delivered to the user.

[0019] Smoking articles of the present invention normally utilize substantially less fuel on a volume basis, and preferably on a weight basis, than conven­tional cirgarettes to produce acceptable aerosol levels. Moreover, the aerosol delivered to the user normally is lower in pyrolysis and incomplete combustion products, due to the undegraded aerosol from the aerosol genera­ting means and because the short, high density fuel element, especially in embodiments have a plurality of longitudinal passageways, produces substantially reduced amounts of pyrolysis and/or incomplete combus­tion products in comparison to a conventional cigarette, even when the fuel element comprises tobacco or other cellulosic material.

[0020] As used herein, and only for the purpose of this application, "aerosol" is defined to include vapors, gases, particles, and the like, both visible and invisible, and especially those components per­ceived by the user to be "smoke-like," generated by action of the heat from the burning fuel element upon substances contained within the aerosol generating means, or elsewhere in the article. As so defined, the term "aerosol" also includes volatile flavoring agents and/opr pharmacologically or physiologically active agents, irrespective of whether they produce a visible aerosol.

[0021] As used herein, the term "conductive heat exchange relationship" is defined as a physical arrangement of the aerosol generating means and the fuel element whereby heat is transferred by conduction from the burning fuel element to the aerosol generating means substantially throughout the burning period of the fuel element. Conductive heat exchange relation­ships can be achieved by locating the aerosol generat­ing means in contact with the fuel element and in close proximity to the burning portion of the fuel element, and/or by utilizing a conductive member to transfer heat from the burning fuel to the aerosol generating means. Preferably both methods of providing conductive heat transfer are used.

[0022] As used herein, the term "insulating member" applies to all materials which act primarily as insula­tors. Preferably, these materials do not burn during use, but they may include slow burning carbons and like materials, and especially materials which fuse during use, such as low temperature grades of glass fibers. Suitable insulators have a thermal conductivity in g-cal/(sec) (cm²) (^oC/cm), of less than about 0.05, preferably less than about 0.02, most preferably less than about 0.005. See, Hackh's Chemical Dictionary, 34 (4th ed., 1969) and Lange's Handbook of Chemistry, 10, 272-274 (11th ed., 1973).

[0023] Therefore, the invention relates to a smoking article comprising a combustible fuel element, a physically separate aerosol generating means including an aerosol forming material, and a heat conducting member for conducting heat from the fuel element to the aerosol generating means, the conducting member being spaced from the lighting end of the fuel element. Preferably, the conducting member is spaced at least about 5 mm from the lighting end of the fuel element. It is advisable to design the article such that the conducting member circumscribes a portion of the fuel element and at least a portion of the aerosol generating means. Preferably the heat conducting member is located within the fuel element. In preferred embodiments the conducting member contacts the fuel element along less than about one-half of its length.

[0024] According to the invention it is proposed to use a fuel element which is less than about 30 mm in length.

[0025] Advantageously, the fuel element has a density of at least about 0.5 g/cc.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment the fuel element comprises carbon.

[0027] It is advantageous to use a fuel element which is provided with a plurality of longitudinal passageways.

[0028] Most preferably, the fuel element is less than about 20 mm in length and has a density of at least about 0.7 g/cc.

[0029] Preferred embodiments of the inventive smoking article comprise an insulating member which circumscribes at least a portion of the fuel element. Preferably, the insulating member is a resilient, nonburning member at least 0.5 mm thick. In a preferred embodiment the insulating member fuses during use.

[0030] It is suggested to design the article such that a resilient insulating member encircles at least a portion of the aerosol generating means.

[0031] In preferred embodiments the conducting member encloses the aerosol forming material.

[0032] In an advantageous embodiment of the inventive smoking article a resilient, nonburning insulating member is provided which is at least 0.5 mm thick and encircles at least a portion of the periphery of the fuel element. It is also advisable to have a resilient insulating member which encircles at least a portion of the aerosol generating means.

[0033] In preferred embodiments at least a part of the aerosol generating means is encircled by a tobacco containing material.

[0034] Most advantageously the fuel element has a density of at least 0.5 g/cc and is less than about 30 mm in length and at least a portion of the fuel element is circumscribed by a resilient insulating material at least about 0.5 mm thick. Preferably, the insulating material has a softening temperature of about 650°C or less. It is advisable to use a resilient material which fuses during use of the smoking article and is at least about 1 mm thick. Also in this embodiment, it is advisable to have a resilient insulating member which circumscribes at least a portion of the aerosol generating means. Preferably, the aerosol forming material is located within a heat conductive container and a resilient insulating member circumscribes at least a portion of the container; for this embodiment it is suggested that at least a portion of container is circumscribed by a tobacco containg mass.

[0035] In preferred embodiments the heat conducting member extends along less than about one-half the length of the fuel element.

[0036] Preferably, a fuel element is used which comprises carbon and has a density greater than about 0.7 g/cc.

[0037] Also for these embodiments it is advantageous to have a fuel element which is less than about 20 mm in length and is provided with a plurality of longitudinal passageways.

[0038] In preferred embodiments the heat conducting member is spaced at least about 5 mm from the lighting end of the fuel element.

[0039] According to a further feature of this invention the fuel element has a density of at least about 0.5 g/cc and is less than about 30 mm in length, the heat conducting member is spaced at least 5 mm from the lighting end of the fuel element, circumscribes a portion of the fuel element and encloses aerosol forming material, a resilient insulating member at least 0.5 mm thick circumscribes at least a portion of the fuel element, and a resilient insulating member circumscribes at least part of the heat conducting member which encloses the aerosol forming material. Also for such an embodiment it is suggested to use a heat conducting member which extends along less than about one-half the length of the fuel element.

[0040] It is suggested to use an insulating member which circumscribes the fuel element, is at least 1 mm thick and fuses during use.

[0041] Preferably, at least a portion of the heat conducting member which encloses the aerosol forming material is circumscribed by a tobacco containing mass.

[0042] Also for thee embodiments it is advisable to use an insulating member which circumscribes the fuel element and is of a fibrous material having a softening temperature of about 650°C or less.

[0043] Preferably, the fuel element comprises carbon and has a density greater than 0.7 g/cc.

[0044] Most preferably, the fuel element is less than about 20 mm in length.

[0045] Also in these cases it is advantageous to have a fuel element which is provided with a plurality of longitudinal passageways.

[0046] From the foregoing it becomes clear that the invention also relates to a cigarette-type smoking article comprising a combustible fuel element having a density of at least 0.5 g/cc, a physically separate aerosol generating means including an aerosol forming material, and an insulating member circumscribing at least a portion of the fuel element.

[0047] Advantageously, the insulating member is resilient and at least about 0.5 mm thick.

[0048] In a preferred embodiment the insulating member fuses during use of the smoking article.

[0049] It is suggested to use an insulating member which does not burn during use of the smoking article.

[0050] Preferably, the insulating member is a resilient nonburning material at least about 1 mm thick.

[0051] In preferred embodiments the insulating member comprises ceramic or glass fibers.

[0052] It is most advantageous if the fibers have a softening temperature of about 650°C or less.

[0053] In preferred embodiments a resilient insulating member is provided which circumscribes at least a portion of the aerosol generating means; advantageously, the insulating member comprises a ceramic of glass fibers.

[0054] In preferred embodiments the insulating member circumscribing the fuel element comprises ceramic or glass fibers and the insulating member circumscribing at least a portion of the aerosol generating means is a tobacco containing material. For these embodiments it is suggested to use ceramic or glass fibers which have a softening temperature of about 650°C or less.

[0055] Also for these embodiments it is suggested to use a fuel element which is less than 30 mm in length. Preferably, such fuel element is provided with a plurality of longitudinal passageways.

[0056] It is also preferred to use a fuel element which comprises carbon.

[0057] For these embodiments it is proposed to have the aerosol forming material enclosed within a heat conductive container; moreover, it is suggested to have a resilient insulating member which circumscribes at least a portion of the heat conductive container. In such a case it is advisable to use for the insulating member which circumscribes the fuel element a material which fuses during use.

[0058] Also for these embodiments it is advantageous to have a tobacco containing mass which circumscribes at least a portion of the heat conductive container.

[0059] Preferably, the container contacts the fuel element.

[0060] Also for these embodiments it is advantageous to have a fuel element which is less than 30 mm in length and an insulating member circumscribing the fuel element which insulating member is a resilient material at least 0.5 mm thick. Preferably, the fuel element comprises carbon and has a density greater than about 0.7 g/cc. Most advantageously the fuel element is provided with a plurality of longitudinal passageways.

[0061] As it becomes also clear from the foregoing the invention relates to a smoking article which delivers at least about 0.6 mg of wet total particulate matter in the first three puffs under FTC smoking conditions.

[0062] The invention also relates to a smoking article which delivers an average of at least about 0.8 mg per puff of wet total particulate matter under FTC smoking conditions, for at least six puffs.

[0063] In preferred embodiments, at least a portion of the aerosol generating means is circumscribed by a tobacco containing mass.

[0064] According to a further feature of subject invention a fuel element which is carbonaceous is used.

[0065] The smoking article of the present invention is described in greater detail in the accompanying drawings and in the detailed description of the inven­tion which follow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0066] 

Figures 1 through 9 are longitudinal sectional views of various embodiments of the inven­tion;

Figure 1A is a sectional view of the embodi­ment of Figure 1, taken along lines 1A-1A in Figure 1;

Figure 2A is a sectional view of the embodi­ment of Figure 2, taken along lines 2A-2A in Figure 2;

Figure 6A is a sectional view of the embodi­ment of Figure 6, taken along lines 6A-6A in Figure 6;

Figures 7A, 7B, 7C, and 9A are end views showing various fuel element passageway configurations suitable for use in embodiments of the invention;

Figure 8A is a sectional view of the embodi­ment of Figure 8, taken along lines 8-8 in Figure 8;

Figure 8B is an enlarged end view of the metallic container employed in the embodiment of Figure 8; and

Figure 9B is a longitudinal sectional view of a preferred fuel element passageway configuration suit­able for use in embodiments of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0067] The embodiment of the invention illustrated in Figure 1, which preferably has the overall dimen­sions of a conventional cigarette, includes a short, about 20 mm long, combustible fuel element 10, an abutting aerosol generating means 12, and a foil lined paper tube 14, which forms the mouthend 15 of the article. In this embodiment, fuel element 10 is extruded or molded from a mixture containing comminuted or reconstituted tobacco and/or a tobacco substitute and a minor amount of combustible carbon, and is pro­vided with five longitudinally extending holes 16. See Figure 1A. The lighting end of fuel element 10 may be tapered or reduced in diameter to improve ease of light­ing.

[0068] Aerosol generating means 12 includes a porous carbon mass 13 which is provided with one or more passages 17 and is impregnated with one or more aerosol forming materials, such as triethylene glycol, propy­lene glycol, glycerin, or mixtures thereof.

[0069] The foil lined paper tube 14, which forms the mouthend piece of the article, surrounds aerosol gene­rating means 12 and the rear, nonlighting end of fuel element 10 so that the foil lined tube is spaced about 15 mm from the lighting end of the fuel element. The tube 14 also forms an aerosol delivery passage 18 between the aerosol generating means 12 and mouth end 15 of the article. The presence of foil lined tube 14, which couples the nonlighting end of fuel 10 to aerosol generator 12, increases heat transfer to the aerosol generator. The foil also helps to extinguish the fire cone. When only a small amount of the unburned fuel remains, heat loss through the foil acts as a heat sink which helps to extinguish the fire cone. The foil used in this article is typically an aluminum foil of 0.35 mils (0.0089 mm) in thickness, but the thickness and/or the type of conductor employed may be varied to achieve virtually any desired degree of heat transfer.

[0070] The article illustrated in Figure 1 also includes an optional mass or plug of tobacco 20 to contribute flavor to the aerosol. This tobacco charge 20 may be placed at the mouth end of carbon mass 13, as shown in Figure 1, or it may be placed in passage 18 at a location spaced from aerosol generator 12. For appearance sake, the article may include an optional low efficiency cellulose acetate filler 22, positioned at or near the mouth end 15.

[0071] The embodiment of the invention illustrated in Figure 2, includes a short combustible fuel element 24, about 20 mm long, connected to aerosol generating means 12 by a heat conductive rod 26 and by a foil lined paper tube 14, which also leads to the mouth end 15 of the article. Aerosol generating means 12 includes a thermally stable carbonaceous substrate 28, such as a plug of porous carbon, which is impregnated with one or more aerosol forming materials. This embodiment includes a void space 30 between the fuel element 24 and the substrate 28. The portion of the foil lined tube 14 surrounding this void space includes a plurality of peripheral holes 32 which permit suffi­cient air to enter the void space to provide appro­priate pressure drop.

[0072] As shown in Figures 2 and 2A, the heat con­ducting means includes the conductive rod 26 and the foil lined tube 14, both of which are spaced from the lighting end of the fuel element. The rod 26 is spaced about 5 mm from the lighting end; the tube about 15 mm. The rod 26 is preferably formed of aluminum and has at least one, preferably from 2 to 5, peripheral grooves 34 therein, to allow air passage through the substrate. The article of Figure 2 has the advantage that the air introduced into void space 30 contains less oxidation products because it is not drawn through the burning fuel.

[0073] The embodiment illustrated in Figure 3 includes fuel element 10, about 10 mm long, with a single axial hole 16. Again, the lighting end of the fuel element may be tapered or reduced in diameter to improve ease of lighting. The substrate 38 of the aerosol generator is a granular, thermally stable carbon or alumina impregnated with an aerosol forming material. A mass of tobacco 20 is located immediately behind the substrate. This article is provided with a cellulose acetate tube 40, in place of the foil lined tube of previous embodiments. This tube 40 includes an annular section 42 of resilient cellulose acetate tow surrounding an optional plastic tube 44 of polypropy­lene, Nomex, Mylar, or the like. At the mouth end 15 of this element there is a low efficiency cellulose acetate filter plug 45.

[0074] The entire length of the article may be wrapped in cigarette-type paper 46. A cork or white ink coating 48 may be used on the mouth end to simulate tipping. A foil strip 50 is located on the inside of the paper, toward the fuel end of the article. This strip preferably overlaps the rear 2 to 3 mm of the fuel element and extends to the mouth end of the tobacco charge 20. It may be integral with the paper or it may be a separate piece applied before the paper overwrap.

[0075] The embodiment of Figure 4 is similar to that of Figure 3. In this embodiment, the fuel element 10 is about 15 mm long and the aerosol generating means 12 is formed by an aluminum capsule 52 which is filled with a granular substrate or, as shown in the drawing, a mixture of a granular substrate 54 and tobacco 56. The capsule 52 is crimped at its ends 58, 60 to enclose the material and to inhibit migration of the aerosol former. The crimped end 58, at the fuel end, prefer­ably abuts the rear end of the fuel element to provide for conductive heat transfer.

[0076] A void space 62 formed by end 58 also helps to inhibit migration of the aerosol former to the fuel. Longitudinal passageways 59 and 61 are provided to per­mit the passage of air and the aerosol forming material. Capsule 52 and fuel element 10 may be united by a con­ventional cigarette paper 47, as illustrated in the drawing, by a perforated ceramic paper, or a metallic strip or tube. If cigarette paper is used, a strip 64 near the rear end of the fuel should be printed or treated with sodium silicate or other known materials which cause the paper to extinguish. If a metal foil is used, it preferably should be spaced about 8 to 12 mm from the lighting end of the fuel. The entire length of the article may be overwrapped with conven­tional cigarette paper 46.

[0077] The embodiment shown in Figure 5 illustrates the use of a substrate 66 impregnated with one or more aerosol forming materials and which is embedded within a large cavity 68 in fuel element 10. In this type of embodiment, the substrate 66 usually is a relatively rigid, porous material. The entire length of the article may be wrapped with conventional cigarette paper 46. This embodiment may also include a foil strip 70 to couple fuel element 10 to the cellulose acetate tube 40 and to help extinguish the fuel. This strip is spaced about 5 to 10 mm from the lighting end.

[0078] The embodiments shown in Figures 6 through 8 include a resilient insulating jacket which encircles or circumscribes the fuel element to insulate and help concentrate the heat in the fuel element. These embodiments also help to reduce any fire causing poten­tial of the burning fire cone and, in some cases, help simulate the feel of a conventional cigarette.

[0079] In the embodiment of Figure 6, the fuel element 10 is provided with a plurality of holes 16 and is circumscribed by a resilient jacket 72 about 0.5 mm thick, as shown in Figure 6A. This jacket is formed of insulating fibers, such as ceramic (e.g., glass) fibers or nonburning carbon or graphite fibers. The aerosol generating means 12 comprises a porous carbon mass 13 having a single, axial hole 17.

[0080] In the embodiment of Figure 7, the resilient, glass fiber insulating jacket 72 surrounds the peri­phery of both fuel element 10 and aerosol generating means 12 and is preferably a low temperature material which fuses during use. This jacket 72 is overwrapped with a non-porous paper 73, such as P 878-5 obtained from Kimberly-Clark. In this embodiment, the fuel element is about 15 to 20 mm long and is preferably provided with three or more holes 16 to increase air flow through the fuel. Three suitable passageway arrangements are illustrated in Figures 7A, 7B, and 7C.

[0081] In this embodiment, the aerosol generating means 12 comprises a metallic container 74 which en­closes a granular substrate 38 and/or densified tobacco 76, one or both of which include an aerosol forming material. As illustrated, the open end 75 of container 74 overlaps the rear 3 to 5 mm portion of fuel element 10. Alternatively, the open end 75 may abut the rear end of fuel element 10. The opposite end of container 74 is crimped to form wall 78, which is provided with a plurality of passages 80 to permit passage of gases, tobacco flavors, and/or the aerosol forming material into aerosol delivery passage 18.

[0082] Plastic tube 44 abuts or preferably overlaps walled end 78 of metallic container 74 and is sur­rounded by a section of resilient, high density cellu­lose acetate two 42. A layer of glue 82, or other material, may be applied to the fuel end of tow 42 to seal the tow and block air flow therethrough. A low efficiency filter plug 45 is provided at the mouth end of the article, and tow 42 and filter plug 45 are preferably overwrapped with a conventional plug wrap paper 85. Another layer of cigarette paper 86 may be used to join the rear portion of the insulating jacket 72 and the tow/filter section.

[0083] In a modified version of the embodiment of Figure 7, the insulating jacket may also be used in lieu of the cellulose acetate tow 42, so that the jacket extends from the lighting end to the filter plug 45. In embodiments of this type, a layer of glue is preferably applied to the annular section of the filter plug which abuts the end of the insulating jacket, or a short annular section of tow is placed between the in­sulating jacket and the filter piece, with glue applied at either end.

[0084] Figure 8 illustrates an embodiment in which a 10 to 15 mm long fuel element 10 is overwrapped with an insulating jacket 72 of glass fibers and the aerosol generating means is circumscribed by a jacket of tobacco 88. The glass fibers used on this embodiment preferably have a softening temperature below about 650^oC, such as experimental fibers 6432 and 6437 obtained from Owens-Corning, Toledo, Ohio, so that they will fuse during use. The glass fiber and tobacco jackets are each wrapped with a plug wrap 85, such as Ecusta 646, and are joined by an overwrap of cigarette paper 89, such as 780-63-5 or P 878-16-2, obtained from Kimberly Clark. In this embodiment, the metallic capsule 90 overlaps the rear 3 to 4 mm of the fuel element so that it is spaced about 6 to 12 mm from the lighting end, and the rear portion of the capsule 90 is crimped into a lobe shape, as shown in Figure 8B. A passage 91 is provided at the mouth end of the capsule, in the center of the capsule. Four additional passages 92 are provided at the transition points between the crimped and uncrimped portion of the capsule. Alterna­tively, the rear portion of the capsule may have a rectangular or square cross section in lieu of the lobes, or a simple tubular capsule with a crimped mouth end may be employed, with or without peripheral passages 92.

[0085] At the mouth end of tobacco jacket 88 is a mouthend piece 40 including an annular section of cellulose acetate tow 42, a plastic tube 44, a low efficiency filter piece 45, and layers of cigarette paper 85 and 89. The mouth end piece 40 is joined to the jacketed fuel/capsule end by an overwrapping layer of tipping paper 86. As illustrated, the capsule end of plastic tube 44 is spaced from the capsule 90. Thus, the hot vapors flowing through passages 92 pass through tobacco jacket 88, where volatile compoents in the tobacco are vaporized or extracted, and then into passage 18 where the tobacco jacket abuts the cellulose acetate tow 42.

[0086] In embodiments of this type having low density fuel insulating jackets 72, some air and gases pass through jacket 72 and into tobacco jacket 88. Thus, the peripheral passage 92 in the capsule may not be needed to extract tobacco flavor from the tobacco jacket 88.

[0087] In the embodiment of Figure 9, the jacket 94 comprises tobacco or an admixture of tobacco and insu­lating fibers, such as glass fibers. As shown, the tobacco jacket 94 extends just beyond the mouth end of metallic container 96. Alternatively, it may extend over the entire length of the article, up to the mouth end filter piece. In embodiments of this type, con­tainer 96 is preferably provided with one or more longitudinal slots 99 on its periphery (preferably two slots 180^o apart) so that vapors from the aerosol generator pass through the annular section of tobacco which surrounds the aerosol generator to extract tobacco flavors before entering passage 18.

[0088] As illustrated, the tobacco at the fuel element end of jacket 94 is compressed. This aids in reducing air flow through the tobacco, thereby reducing the burn potential thereof. In addition, the container 96 aids in extinguishing the tobacco by acting as a heat sink. This heat sink effect helps quench any burning of the tobacco surrounding the capsule, and it also helps to evenly distribute heat to the tobacco around the aerosol generating means, thereby aiding in the release of tobacco flavor components. In addition, it may be desirable to treat the portion of the cigarette paper overwrap 85, 89 near the rear end of the fuel with a material, such as sodium silicate, to help extinguish the tobacco, so that it will not burn significantly beyond the exposed portion of the fuel element. Alternatively, the tobacco itself may be treated with a burn modifier to prevent burning of the tobacco which surrounds the aerosol generator.

[0089] Upon lighting any of the aforesaid embodi­ments, the fuel element burns, generating the heat used to volatilize the aerosol forming material or materials present in the aerosol generating means. These vola­tile materials are then drawn toward the mouthend, especially during puffing, and into the user's mouth, akin to the smoke of a conventional cigarette.

[0090] Because the fuel element is relatively short, the hot, burning fire cone is always close to the aerosol generating body, which maximizes heat transfer to the aerosol generating means and any optional tobacco charges, and the resultant production of aerosol and optional tobacco flavor, especially when the preferred heat conducting member is used. Because the fuel element is short, there is never a long sec­tion of nonburning fuel to act as a heat sink, as was common in previous thermal aerosol articles. The small fuel source also tends to minimize the amount of incom­plete combustion or pyrolysis products, especially in embodiments which contain carbon and/or multiple passageways.

[0091] Heat transfer, and therefor aerosol delivery, also is enhanced by the use of passageways through the fuel, which draw hot air to the aerosol generator, especially during puffing. Heat transfer also is enhanced by the preferred heat conducting member, which is spaced or recessed from the lighting end of the fuel element to avoid interference with lighting and burning of the fuel and to avoid any unsightly protrusion, even after use. In addition, the preferred insulating member tends to confine, direct, and concentrate the heat toward the central core of the article, thereby increasing the heat transferred to the aerosol forming substance.

[0092] Because the aerosol forming material is physi­cally separate from the fuel element, it is exposed to substantially lower temperatures than are present in the burning fire cone. This minimizes the possibility of thermal degradation of the aerosol former and attend­ant off taste. This also results in aerosol production during puffing, but minimal aerosol production from the aerosol generating means during smolder.

[0093] In the preferred embodiments of the inven­tion, the short fuel element, the recessed heat con­ducting member, the insulating member, and/or the passages in the fuel cooperate with the aerosol gene­rator to provide a system which is capable of producing substantial quantities of aerosol and optional tobacco flavor, on virtually every puff. The close proximity of the fire cone to the aerosol generator after a few puffs, together with the conducting member, the in­sulating member, and/or the multiple passageways in the fuel element, results in high heat delivery both during puffing and during the relatively long period of smolder between puffs.

[0094] While not wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the aerosol generating means is main­tained at a relatively high temperature between puffs, and that the additional heat delivered during puffs, which is significantly increased by the preferred passageways in the fuel element, is primarily utilized to vaporize the aerosol forming material. This increased heat transfer makes more efficient use of the available fuel energy, reduces the amount of fuel needed, and helps deliver early aerosol.

[0095] Furthermore, by the appropriate selection of the fuel element composition, the number, size, con­figuration, and arrangement of fuel element passage­ways, the insulating jacket, the paper overwrap, and/or the heat conducting means, it is possible to control the burn properties of the fuel source to a substantial degree. This provides significant control over the heat transferred to the aerosol generator, which in turn, can be used to alter the number of puffs and/or the amount of aerosol delivered to the user.

[0096] In general, the combustible fuel elements which may be employed in practicing the invention are less than about 30 mm long. Preferably the fuel element is about 20 mm or less, more preferably about 15 mm or less in length. Advantageously, the diameter of the fuel element is about 8 mm or less, preferably between about 3 and 7 mm, and more preferably between about 4 to 6 mm. The density of the fuel elements which may be employed herein range from about 0.5 g/cc to about 1.5 g/cc as measured, e.g., by mercury dis­placement. Preferably, the density is greater than 0.7 g/cc., more preferably greater than 0.8 g/cc. In most cases, a high density material is desired because it helps to ensure that the fuel element will burn long enough to simulate the burning time of a conventional cigarette and that it will provide sufficient energy to generate the required amount of aerosol.

[0097] The fuel elements employed herein are advan­tageously molded or extruded from comminuted tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, or tobacco substitute materials, such as modified cellulosic materials, degraded or pre­pyrolyzed tobacco, and the like. Suitable materials include those described in U.S. Patent No. 4,347,855 to Lanzilotti et al., U.S. Patent No. 3,931,824 to Miano et al., and U.S. Patent Nos. 3,885,574 and 4,008,723 to Borthwick et al. and in Sittig, Tobacco Substitutes, Noyes Data Corp. (1976). Other suitable combustible materials may be employed, as long as they burn long enough to simulate the burning time of a conventional cigarette and generate sufficient heat for the aerosol generating means to produce the desired level of aero­sol from the aerosol forming material.

[0098] Preferred fuel elements normally include combustible carbon materials, such as those obtained by the pyrolysis or carbonization of cellulosic materials, such as wood, cotton, rayon, tobacco, coconut, paper, and the like. In most cases, combustible carbon is desirable because of its high heat generating capacity and because it produces only minimal amounts of incom­plete combustion products. Preferably, the carbon content of the fuel element is about 20 to 40% by weight, or more.

[0099] The most preferred fuel elements useful in practicing this invention are carbonaceous fuel elements (i.e., fuel elements primarily comprising carbon) which are described and claimed in copending applications Serial Number 650,604, filed September 14 1984 and Serial No. 769,532, filed August 26, 1985. Carbonaceous fuel elements are particularly advantage­ous because they produce minimal pyrolysis and incom­plete combustion products, produce little or no visible sidestream smoke, and minimal ash, and have high heat capacity. In especially preferred embodiments, the aerosol delivered to the user has no significant mutagenic activity as measured by the Ames test. See Ames et al., Mut. Res., 31:347-364 (1975); Nagas et al., Mut. Res., 42:335 (1977).

[0100] Burn additives or combustion modifying agents also may be incorporated into the fuel to provide the appropriate burning and glow characteristics. If de­sired, fillers, such as diatomaceous earth, and binders, such as sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (SCMC), also may be incorporated into the fuel. Flavorants, such as tobacco extracts, may be incorporated into the fuel to add a tobacco or other flavor to the aerosol.

[0101] Preferably, the fuel element is provided with one or more longitudinally extending passageways. These passageways help to control transfer of heat from the fuel element to the aerosol generating means, which is important both in terms of transferring enough heat to produce sufficient aerosol and in terms of avoiding the transfer of so much heat that the aerosol former is degraded. Generally, these passageways provide porosity and increase early heat transfer to the sub­strate by increasing the amount of hot gases which reach the substrate. They also tend to increase the rate of burning.

[0102] Generally, a large number of passageways, e.g., about 5 to 9 or more, especially with a rela­tively wide spacing between the passageways, as in Figures 1A, 7A, and 9A, produce high convective heat transfer, which leads to high aerosol delivery. A large number of passageways also generally helps assure ease of lighting.

[0103] High convective heat transfer tends to pro­duce a higher CO output in the mainstream. To reduce CO levels, fewer passageways or a higher density fuel element may be employed, but such changes generally tend to make the fuel element more difficult to ignite, and to decrease the convective heat transfer, thereby lowering the aerosol delivery rate and amount. However, it has been discovered that with passageway arrangements which are closely spaced, as in Figure 7B, such that they burn out or coalesce to form one passageway, at least at the lighting end, the amount of CO in the combustion products is generally lower than in the same, but widely spaced, passageway arrangement.

[0104] The optimum arrangement, configuration, and number of fuel element passageways should delivery a steady and high supply of aerosol, allow for easy ignition, and produce low CO. Various combinations have been examined for passageway arrangement/con­figuration and/or number in carbonsaceous fuel elements used in various embodiments of the invention. In general, it has been discovered that fuel elements having from about 5 to 9 passageways, relatively closely spaced such that they burn away into one large passageway, at least at the lighting end of the fuel element, appear to most closely satisfy the require­ments of a preferred fuel element for use in this invention, especially for the preferred carbonaceous fuel elements. However, it is believed that this phenomenon also occurs with the various non-­carbonaceous fuel elements which may be employed in practicing the invention.

[0105] Variables which affect the rate at which the fuel element passageways will coalesce upon burning include the density and composition of the fuel element, the size, shape, and number of passageways, the distance between the passageways, and the arrange­ment thereof. For example, for a 0.85 g/cc carbon­aceous fuel source having seven passageways of about 0.5 mm, the passageways should be located within a core diameter, i.e., the diameter of the smallest circle which will circumscribe the outer edge of the passage­ways, between about 1.6 mm and 2.5 mm in order for them to coalesce into a single passageway during burning. However, when the diameter of the seven passageways is increased to about 0.6 mm, the core diameter which will coalesce during burning increases to about 2.1 mm to about 3.0 mm.

[0106] Another preferred fuel element passageway arrangement useful in embodiments of the invention is the configuration illustrated in Figure 9B, which has been found to be particularly advantageous for low CO delivery and ease of lighting. In this preferred arrangement, a short section at the lighting end of the fuel element is provided with a plurality of passages, preferably from about 5 to 9, which merge into a large cavity 97 which extends to the mouth end of the fuel element. The plurality of passages at the lighting end provide the large surface area desired for ease of lighting and early aerosol delivery. The cavity, which may be from about 30% to 95%, preferably more than 50%, of the length of the fuel element, helps assure uniform heat transfer to the aerosol generating means and tends to delivery low CO to the mainstream.

[0107] The aerosol generating means used in practic­ing the invention is physically separate from the fuel element. By physically separate it is meant that the substrate, container, or chamber which contains the aerosol forming materials is not mixed with, or a part of, the burning fuel element. As noted previously, this arrangement helps reduce or eliminate thermal degradation of the aerosol forming material and the presence of sidestream smoke. While not a part of the fuel, the aerosol generating means is preferably in a conductive heat exchange relationship with the fuel element, and preferably abuts or is adjacent to the fuel element. More preferably, the conductive heat exchange relationship is achieved by a heat conducting member, such as a metal tube or foil, which is prefer­ably recessed or spaced from the lighting end of the fuel.

[0108] Preferably, the aerosol generating means includes one or more thermally stable materials which carry one or more aerosol forming materials. As used herein, a thermally stable material is one capable of withstanding the high temperatures, e.g., 400^oC-600^oC, which exist near the fuel without decomposition or burning. While not preferred, other aerosol generating means, such as heat rupturable microcapsules, or solid aerosol forming substances, are within the scope of the invention, provided they are capable of releasing sufficient aerosol forming vapors to satisfactorily resemble tobacco smoke.

[0109] Thermally stable materials which may be used as a substrate or carrier for the aerosol forming materials are well known to those skilled in the art. Useful substrates should be porous and must be capable of retaining an aerosol forming material when not in use and capable of releasing a potential aerosol form­ing vapor upon heating by the fuel element. Substrates, especially particulates, may be placed within a con­tainer, preferably formed from a conductive material.

[0110] Useful thermally stable materials include thermally stable adsorbent carbons, such as porous grade carbons, graphite, activated, or nonactivated carbons, and the like. Other suitable materials include inorganic solids such as ceramics, glass, alumina, vermiculite, clays such as bentonite, and the like. Preferred carbon substrate materials include porous carbons such as PC-25 and PG-60 available from Union Carbide, and SGL carbon available from Calgon. A preferred alumina substrate is SMR-14-1896, available from the Davidson Chemical Division of W.R. Grace & Co., which is sintered at elevated temperatures, e.g., greater than about 1000^oC, washed, and dried prior to use.

[0111] It has been found that suitable particulate substrates also may be formed from carbon, tobacco, or mixtures of carbon and tobacco, into densified particles in a one-step process using a machine made by Fuji Paudal KK of Japan, and sold under the trade name of "Marumerizer". This apparatus is described in German Patent No. 1,294,351 and U.S. Patent No. 3,277,520 (now reissued as No. 27,214) as well as Japanese published specification No. 8684/1967.

[0112] The aerosol generating means used in the invention is advantageously spaced no more than about 40 mm, preferably no more than 30 mm, most preferably no more than 20 mm from the lighting end of the fuel element. The aerosol generator may vary in length from about 2 mm to about 60 mm, preferably from about 5 mm to 40 mm, and most preferably from about 20 mm to 35 mm. The diameter of the aerosol generating means may vary from about 2 mm to about 8 mm, preferably from about 3 to 6 mm. If a non-particulate substrate is used, it may be provided with one or more holes, to increase the surface area of the substrate, and to increase air flow and heat transfer.

[0113] The aerosol forming material or materials used in the invention must be capable of forming an aerosol at the temperatures present in the aerosol generating means when heated by the burning fuel element. Such materials preferably will be composed of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen, but they may include other materials. The aerosol forming materials can be in solid, semisolid, or liquid form. The boiling point of the material and/or the mixture of materials can range up to about 500^oC. Substances having these character­istics include polyhydric alcohols, such as glycerin and propylene glycol, as well as aliphatic esters of mono-, di-, or poly-carboxylic acids, such as methyl stearate, dodecandioate, dimethyl tetradodecandioate, and others.

[0114] The preferred aerosol forming materials are polyhydric alcohols, or mixtures of polyhydric alcohols. Especially preferred aerosol formers are glycerin, propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, or mixtures thereof.

[0115] The aerosol forming material may be dispersed on or within the aerosol generating means in a concen­tration sufficient to permeate or coat the substrate, carrier, or container. For example, the aerosol forming substance may be applied full strength or in a dilute solution by dipping, spraying, vapor deposition, or similar techniques. Solid aerosol forming com­ponents may be admixed with the substrate and distri­buted evenly throughout prior to formation.

[0116] While the loading of the aerosol forming material will vary from carrier to carrier and from aerosol forming material to aerosol forming material, the amount of liquid aerosol forming materials may generally vary from about 20 mg to about 120 mg, preferably from about 35 mg to about 85 mg, and most preferably from about 45 mg to about 65 mg. As much as possible of the aerosol former carried on the aerosol generating means should be delivered to the user as WTPM. Preferably, above about 2 weight percent, more preferably above about 15 weight percent, and most preferably above about 20 weight percent of the aerosol former carried on the aerosol generating means is delivered to the user as WTPM.

[0117] The aerosol generating means also may include one or more volatile flavoring agents, such as menthol, vanillin, artificial coffee, tobacco extracts, nico­tine, caffeine, liquors, and other agents which impart flavor to the aerosol. It also may include any other desirable volatile solid or liquid materials. Alter­natively, these optional agents may be placed between the aerosol generating means and the mouthend, such as in a separate substrate or chamber in the passage which leads from the aerosol generating means to the mouth­end, or in the optional tobacco charge. If desired, these volatile agents may be used in lieu of part, or all, of the aerosol forming material, so that the article delivery a nonaerosol flavor or other material to the user.

[0118] One particularly preferred aerosol generating means comprises the aforesaid alumina substrate containing spray dried tobacco extract, tobacco flavor modifiers, such as levulinic acid, one or more flavor­ing agents, and an aerosol forming material, such as glycerin. This substrate may be mixed with densified tobacco particles, such as those produced on a "Marumerizer", which particles also may be impregnated with an aerosol forming material.

[0119] Articles of the type disclosed herein may be used, or may be modified for use, as drug delivery articles, for delivery of volatile pharmacologically or physiologically active materials such as ephedrine, metaproterenol, terbutaline or the like.

[0120] As shown in the illustrated embodiments, the smoking article of the present invention also may include a charge or plug of tobacco or a tobacco con­taining material downstream from the fuel element, which may be used to add a tobacco flavor to the aerosol. In such cases, hot vapors are swept through the tobacco to extract and vaporize the volatile com­ponents in the tobacco, without combustion or substan­tial pyrolysis. One preferred location for the tobacco charge is around the periphery of the aerosol generat­ing means, as shown in Figures 8 and 9, which increases heat transfer to the tobacco, especially in embodiments which employ a heat conducting member or conductive container between the aerosol forming material and the peripheral tobacco jacket. The tobacco in these embodiments also acts as an insulating member for the aerosol generator and helps simulate the feel and aroma of a conventional cigarette. Another preferred loca­tion for the tobacco charge is within the aerosol generating means, where tobacco or densified tobacco particles may be mixed with, or used in lieu of, the substrate for the aerosol forming materials.

[0121] The tobacco containing material may contain any tobacco available to the skilled artisan, such as Burley, Flue Cured, Turkish, reconstituted tobacco, extruder or densified tobacco mixtures, tobacco containing sheets and the like. Advantageously, a blend of tobaccos may be used to contribute a greater variety of flavors. The tobacco containing material may also include conventional tobacco additives, such as fillers, casings, reinforcing agents, such as glass fibers, humectants, and the like. Flavor agents may likewise be added to the tobacco material, as well as flavor modifying agents.

[0122] The heat conducting member preferably employed in practicing this invention is typically a metallic (e.g., aluminum) tube, strip, or foil varying in thickness from less than about 0.01 mm to about 0.2 mm or more. The thickness, shape, and/or type of conducting material (e.g., other metals or Grafoil from Union Carbide) may be varied to achieve virtually any desired degree of heat transfer. In general, the heat conducting member should be sufficiently recessed to avoid any interference with the lighting of the fuel element, but close enough to the lighting end to provide conductive heat transfer on the early and middle puffs.

[0123] As shown in the illustrated embodiments, the heat conducting member preferably contacts or overlaps the rear portion of the fuel element and at least a portion of the aerosol generating means and is recessed or spaced from the lighting end, by at least about 3 mm or more, preferably by about 5 mm or more. Preferably, the heat conducting member extends over no more than about one-half the length of the fuel element. More preferably, the heat conducting member overlaps or otherwise contacts no more than about the rear 5 mm of the fuel element. Preferred recessed members of this type do not interfere with the lighting or burning of the fuel element. Preferred recessed conducting members also help to extinguish the fuel when it burns back to the point of contact by the conductor, by act­ing as a heat sink, and do not protrude, even after the fuel has been consumed.

[0124] Preferably, the heat conducting member also forms a conductive container which encloses the aerosol forming materials. Alternatively, a separate conductive container may be provided, especially in embodiments which employ particulate substrates or semi-liquid aerosol forming materials. In addition to acting as a container for the aerosol forming materials, the conductive container improves heat distribution to the aerosol forming materials and the preferred peripheral tobacco jacket and helps to prevent migration of the aerosol former to other components of the article. The container also provides a means for controlling the pressure drop through the article, by varying the number, size, and/or position of the passageways through which the aerosol former is delivered to the mouthend piece of the article. Moreover, in embodi­ments with a tobacco jacket around the periphery of the aerosol generating means, the container may be provided with peripheral passages or slots to control and direct the flow of vapors through the tobacco. The use of a container also simplifies the manufacture of the article by reducing the number of necessary elements and/or manufacturing steps.

[0125] The insulating members which may be employed in practicing the invention are preferably formed into a resilient jacket from one or more layers of an in­sulating material. Advantageously, this jacket is at least 0.5 mm thick, preferably at least 1 mm thick, and more preferably from about 1.5 to about 2 mm thick. Preferably, the jacket extends over more than half the length of the fuel element. More preferably, it ex­tends over substantially the entire outer periphery of the fuel element and all or a portion of the aerosol generating means. As shown in the embodiment of Figure 8, different materials may be used to insulate these two components of the article.

[0126] Insulating members which may be used in accordance with the present invention generally comprise inorganic or organic fibers such as those made out of glass, alumina, silica, vitreous materials, mineral wool, carbons, silicons, boron, organic polymers, cellulosics, and the like, including mixtures of these materials. Nonfibrous insulating materials, such as silica aerogel, pearlite, glass, and the like, formed in mats, strips or other shapes, may also be used. Preferred insulating members are resilient, to help simulate the feel of a conventional cigarette. Preferred insulating materials should fuse during use and should have a softening temperature below about 650-700^oC. Preferred insulating materials also should not burn during use. However, slow burning carbons and like materials may be employed. These materials act primarily as an insulating jacket, retaining and directing a significant portion of the heat formed by the burning fuel element to the aerosol generating means. Because the insulating jacket becomes hot adjacent to the burning fuel element, to a limited extent, it also may conduct heat toward the aerosol generating means.

[0127] Currently preferred insulating materials for the fuel element include ceramic fibers, such as glass fibers. Two suitable glass fibers are available from the Manning Paper Company of Troy, New York, under the designations Manniglas 1000 and Manniglas 1200. Preferred glass fiber materials have a low softening point, e.g., below about 650^oC, using ASTM test method C 338-73. Preferred glass fibers include experimental materials produced by Owens-Corning of Toledo, Ohio under the designations 6432 and 6437, which have a softening point of about 640^oC and fuse during use.

[0128] Several commerically available inorganic fibers are prepared with a binder, e.g., PVA, which acts to maintain structural integrity during handling. These binders, which would exhibit a harsh aroma upon heating, should be removed, e.g., by heating in air at about 650^oC for up to about 15 min. before use. If desired, pectin, at about 3 wt. percent, may be added to the fibers to provide mechanical strength to the jacket without contributing harsh aromas.

[0129] Alternatively, the insulating material may be replaced, in whole or in part, by tobacco, either loosely packed or tightly packed. The use of tobacco as a substitute for part or all of the insulating jacket serves an additional function by adding tobacco flavors to the mainstream aerosol and producing a tobacco sidestream aroma, in addition to acting as an insulator. In preferred embodiments where the tobacco jacket encompasses the aerosol generating means, the jacket acts as a non-burning insulator, as well as contributing tobacco flavors to the mainstream aerosol. In embodiments where the tobacco encircles the fuel, the tobacco is preferably consumed only to the extent that the fuel source is consumed, i.e., up to about the point of contact between the fuel element and the aerosol generating means. This may be achieved by com­pressing the tobacco around the fuel element and/or using a conductive heat sink, as in the embodiment of Figure 9. It also may be achieved by treating the cigarette paper overwrap and/or the tobacco with materials which help extinguish the tobacco at the point where it overlaps the aerosol generating means.

[0130] When the insulating member comprises fibrous materials other than tobacco, there may be employed a barrier means between the insulating member and the mouth end of the article. One such barrier means com­prises an annular member of high density cellulose acetate tow which abuts the fibrous insulating means and which is sealed, at either end, with, for example, glue, to block air flow through the tow.

[0131] In most embodiments of the invention, the fuel/aerosol generating means combination will be attached to a mouthend piece, such as a foil lined paper or cellulose acetate/plastic tubes illustrated in the Figures, although a mouthend piece may be provided separately, e.g., in the form of a cigarette holder. This element of the article provides the passageway which channels the vaporized aerosol forming materials into the mouth of the user. Due to its length, prefer­ably about 35 to 50 mm or more, it also keeps the hot fire cone away from the mouth and fingers of the user and provides sufficient time for the hot aerosol to form and cool before it reaches the user.

[0132] Suitable mouthend pieces should be inert with respect to the aerosol forming substances, may have a water or liquid proof inner layer, should offer minimum aerosol loss by condensation or filtration, and should be capable of withstanding the temperature at the interface with the other elements of the article. Preferred mouthend pieces include the cellulose-acetate tube employed in many of the illustrated embodiments which acts as a resilient outer member and helps simu­late the feel of a conventional cigarette in the mouth end portion of the article. Other suitable mouthend pieces will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0133] Mouthend pieces useful in articles of the invention may include an optional "filter" tip, which is used to give the article the appearance of the conventional filtered cigarette. Such filters include low efficiency cellulose acetate filters and hollow or baffled plastic filters, such as those made of poly­ propylene. Such filters do not appreciably interfere with aerosol delivery.

[0134] The entire length of article or any portion thereof may be overwrapped with cigarette paper. Preferred papers at the fuel element end should not openly flame during burning of the fuel element. In addition, the paper should have controllable smolder properties and should produce a grey, cigarette-like ash.

[0135] In those embodiments utilizing an insulating jacket, wherein the paper burns away from the jacketed fuel element, maximum heat transfer is achieved because air flow to the fuel source is not restricted. However, papers can be designed to remain wholly or partially intact upon exposure to heat from the burning fuel element. Such papers provide restricted air flow to the burning fuel element, thereby helping to control the temperature at which the fuel element burns and the subsequent heat transfer to the aerosol generating means.

[0136] To reduce the burning rate and temperature of the fuel element, thereby maintaining a low CO/CO₂ ratio, a non-porous or zero-porosity paper treated to be slightly porous, e.g., non-combustible mica paper with a plurality of holes therein, may be employed as the overwrap layer. Such a paper controls heat delivery, especially in the middle puffs (i.e., puffs 4 through 6).

[0137] To maximize aerosol delivery which otherwise would be diluted by radial (i.e., outside) air infil­tration through the article, a non-porous paper may be used from the aerosol generating means to the mouth end.

[0138] Papers such as these are known in the cigarette paper art and combinations of such papers may be employed to produce various functional effects. Preferred papers used in the articles of the present invention include Ecusta 01788 and 646 plug wrap manu­factured by Ecusta of Pisgah Forest, North Carolina, and Kimberly-Clark's KC-63-5, P 878-5, P 878-16-2, and 780-63-5 papers.

[0139] Preferred embodiments of the invention are capable of delivering at least 0.6 mg of aerosol, measured as wet total particulate matter (WTPM), in the first 3 puffs, when smoked under FTC smoking condi­tions. (FTC smoking conditions consist of two seconds of puffing (35 ml total volume) separated by 58 seconds of smolder.) More preferred embodiments of the inven­tion are capable of delivering 1.5 mg or more of aerosol in the first 3 puffs. Most preferably, embodi­ments of the invention are capable of delivering 3 mg or more of aerosol in the first 3 puffs when smoked under FTC smoking conditions. Moreover, preferred embodiments of the invention deliver an average of at least about 0.8 mg of wet total particulate matter per puff for at least about 6 puffs, preferably for at least about 10 puffs, under FTC smoking conditions.

Claims

1. A smoking article comprising a combustible fuel element, wherein the fuel element comprises a plurality of closely spaced longitudinal passages therethrough, said passages being in such closely spaced arrangement that during burning they coalesce into a single passageway at least at the lighting end of the fuel element.

2. Fuel element for a smoking article comprising a plurality of closely spaced longitudinal passageways therethrough, said passageways being in such closely spaced arrangement that during burning they coalesce into a single passageway at least at the lighting end of the fuel element.

3. Article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the fuel element is carbonaceous.

4. Article according to claim 3, wherein the fuel element comprises at least 50 % by weight carbon.

5. Article according to claim 3, wherein the fuel element comprises at least 60 % to 70 % by weight carbon.

6. Article according to claim 5, wherein the fuel element comprises at least 80 % by weight carbon.

7. Article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fuel element is substantially free of organic volatile agents.

8. Article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fuel element has a length of less than 30 mm prior to smoking.

9. Article according to claim 8, wherein the fuel element has a length of less than 20 mm prior to smoking.

10. Article according to claim 9, wherein the fuel element has a length of less than 15 mm prior to smoking.

11. Article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fuel element is about 5 mm to 30 mm in length.

12. Article according to claim 11, wherein the fuel element is about 5 mm to 20 mm in length.

13. Article according to claim 12, wherein the fuel element is about 5 mm to 15 mm in length.

14. Article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the number of passageways is about 5 to 9 or more.

15. Article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fuel element has a diameter between about 3 mm and 8 mm.

16. Article according to claim 15, wherein the fuel element has a diameter of from about 4 mm to about 5 mm.

17. Article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fuel element has a density range from about 0.5 g/cc to about 1.5 g/cc.

18. Article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fuel element has a density of at least about 0.7 g/cc.

19. Article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fuel element is a pressed or extruded carbonaceous mass.

20. Article according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fuel element produces substantially no visible sidestream smoke during smolder.

Drawing