Patent Description:
Techniques for using tobacco raw material per se as a flavor source for use in inhaling flavor products, such as flavor inhalers or oral products, are conventionally known. Alternatively, techniques in which inhaling flavor components extracted from tobacco raw material are supported by a flavor base material, and used as a flavor source are known.

Patent Document <NUM> relates to devices and methods for delivering nicotine and/or other alkaloids from tobacco, other plants and other natural sources, and in particular, to devices and methods for delivering an aerosol of nicotine to a user's lungs without combustion of the nicotine source materials.

Patent Document <NUM> relates to cigarettes and other smoking articles such as cigars, pipes, and the like, and in particular, to smoking articles which employ a relatively low temperature heat source to heat tobacco to produce a tobacco flavor or tobacco-flavored aerosol.

The invention is described in the appended claims.

A first feature is summarized as a method for producing a flavor source that supports an inhaling flavor component contained in a tobacco raw material, the method comprising: step A of performing an alkali treatment on the tobacco raw material; and step B of arranging an alkali-treated tobacco raw material and a flavor base material configured by non-tobacco material within a same space in such a way that the alkali-treated tobacco raw material and the flavor base material are maintained in a non-contacting state, thereby inducing the flavor base material to support the inhaling flavor component emitted as a vapor phase from the tobacco raw material, wherein the flavor base material is a capture solvent, and the method includes step E of adding a carboxylic acid to the capture solvent.

A second feature is summarized as the method for producing a flavor source according to the first feature, wherein the ratio of a molar quantity of the carboxylic acid added to the capture solvent, relative to a molar quantity of the inhaling flavor component captured by the capture solvent, is greater than <NUM> and less than <NUM>.

A third feature is summarized as the method for producing a flavor source according to the first feature, wherein a capture solution includes <NUM> wt% or more of water where the capture solution containing at least the inhaling flavor component, the carboxylic acid and a capture solvent is <NUM> wt%, in a case where a ratio of the molar quantity of the carboxylic acid added to the capture solvent, relative to the molar quantity of the inhaling flavor component captured by the capture solvent, is <NUM> or more.

A fourth feature is summarized as the method for producing a flavor source according to the third feature, wherein the step B includes: heating the alkali-treated tobacco raw material while arranged in the same space, the method includes: step F of adding water to the capture solvent or to the capture solution, in a case where the ratio of the molar quantity of the carboxylic acid added to the capture solvent, relative to the molar quantity of the inhaling flavor component captured by the capture solvent, is <NUM> or more, and the step F is a step of adding water such that the capture solution includes <NUM> wt% or more of water, where the capture solution is <NUM> wt%.

A fifth feature is summarized as the method for producing a flavor source according to the first feature, wherein the capture solution includes <NUM> wt% or more of propylene glycol, <NUM> wt% or more of water, or a total of <NUM> wt% or more of a mixed solution of propylene glycol and water where the capture solvent including at least the inhaling flavor component, the carboxylic acid and the capture solvent is <NUM> wt%, in a case where the ratio of the molar quantity of the carboxylic acid added to the capture solvent, relative to the molar quantity of the inhaling flavor component captured by the capture solvent, is <NUM> or less.

An sixth feature is summarized as the method for producing a flavor source according to the fifth feature, wherein the step B includes: heating the alkali-treated tobacco raw material while arranged in the same space, the method includes a step F of adding propylene glycol, water, or a mixed solution of propylene glycol and water, to the capture solvent or to the capture solution, in a case where the ratio of the molar quantity of the carboxylic acid added to the capture solvent, relative to the molar quantity of the inhaling flavor component captured by the capture solvent, is <NUM> or less, and the step F is a step of adding propylene glycol, water or the mixed solution, such that the capture solution includes <NUM> wt% or more of propylene glycol, <NUM> wt% or more of water, or a total of <NUM> wt% or more of the mixed solution, where the capture solution is <NUM> wt%.

A seventh feature is summarized as the method for producing a flavor source according to the fourth feature or the sixth feature, wherein the step F is performed after the step B in a case where the capture solvent is heated together with the alkali-treated tobacco raw material in the step B.

An eighth feature is summarized as the method for producing a flavor source according to any one of the first feature to the seventh feature, wherein the step B includes: heating at least the alkali-treated tobacco raw material.

A ninth feature is summarized as the method for producing a flavor source that supports an inhaling flavor component contained in a tobacco raw material, the method comprising: step A of performing an alkali treatment on the tobacco raw material; and step B of arranging an alkali-treated tobacco raw material and a flavor base material configured by non-tobacco material within a same space in such a way that the alkali-treated tobacco raw material and the flavor base material are maintained in a non-contacting state, thereby inducing the flavor base material to support the inhaling flavor component emitted as a vapor phase from the tobacco raw material, wherein the flavor base material is a member of solid form, and the method includes step C of kneading the flavor base material.

A tenth feature is summarized as the method for producing a flavor source according to the ninth feature, comprising step D of molding the flavor base material after the step C.

An eleventh feature is summarized as a portable package comprising: an inhaling flavor product including a flavor base material configured by a non-tobacco material, a tobacco raw material that has undergone an alkali treatment and emits an inhaling flavor component as a vapor phase, and a container portion that contains the tobacco raw material and the flavor base material, wherein the container portion limits a movement of at least one of the tobacco raw material and the flavor base material so as to maintain the tobacco raw material and the flavor base material in a non-contacting state, and the tobacco raw material and the flavor base material are arranged within a same space constructed by the container portion, wherein the inhaling flavor product is a flavor inhaler used to inhale the inhaling flavor component, the flavor inhaler includes the flavor base material and a holder configured to hold the flavor base material, and the holder functions as part of the container portion prior to use of the flavor inhaler, wherein the flavor base material is a member containing at least one type of polyhydric alcohol.

A twelfth feature is summarized as a portable package comprising: an inhaling flavor product including a flavor base material configured by a non-tobacco material, a tobacco raw material that has undergone an alkali treatment and emits an inhaling flavor component as a vapor phase, and a container portion that contains the tobacco raw material and the flavor base material, wherein the container portion limits a movement of at least one of the tobacco raw material and the flavor base material so as to maintain the tobacco raw material and the flavor base material in a non-contacting state, and the tobacco raw material and the flavor base material are arranged within a same space constructed by the container portion, comprising a case body configured to form a space for containing the tobacco raw material and the inhaling flavor product, wherein the flavor base material is an oral base material for use in the mouth, the inhaling flavor product is an oral product configured by the oral base material itself, and the container portion is configured by the case body, wherein the oral base material is at least one of a gum base, a tablet, a film, and a candy base material.

A thirteenth feature is summarized as the portable package according to the eleventh feature or twelfth feature, wherein the same space is a sealed space.

Next, an embodiment will be described. Note that, the same or similar portions are denoted with the same or similar reference signs in the descriptions of the drawings below. Note that, the drawings are schematic and a ratio of each size is different from a real one.

Therefore, specific sizes and the like should be judged in consideration of the following descriptions. Needless to say, portions of which relationship and ratios of mutual sizes are different between the mutual drawings, are included.

In the above-described technique, the contaminating component contained in the tobacco raw material negatively affects the inhaling flavor, thus it is preferable to remove the contaminating component. Technology to remove the contaminating components has been proposed, however such technology requires complex processes and large scale devices, and it is thus not possible to remove the contaminating components easily and at low cost.

Firstly, a method for producing a flavor source according to the present embodiment is a method for producing a flavor source in which an inhaling flavor component contained in tobacco raw material is supported. This method for producing a flavor source includes (A) performing an alkali treatment on tobacco raw material, and (B) arranging the alkali-treated tobacco raw material and a flavor base material configured by non-tobacco material within the same space in such a way that the alkali-treated tobacco raw material and the flavor base material are maintained in a non-contacting state, thereby inducing the flavor base material to support the inhaling flavor component released as a vapor phase from the tobacco raw material, wherein the flavor base material is a capture solvent, and the method includes step E of adding a carboxylic acid to the capture solvent.

In an embodiment, while the tobacco raw material and the flavor base material are in a non-contacting state, the flavor base material is induced to support the inhaling flavor component released as a vapor phase from the tobacco raw material. Therefore, as compared with a case where a flavor base material is induced to support an inhaling flavor component while the tobacco raw material and the flavor base material are in a contacting state, it is possible to induce the flavor base material to induce easily and at low cost the inhaling flavor component contained in the tobacco raw material while preventing transfer of contaminating components.

Secondly, the packaging according to the embodiment is portable. The package includes an inhaling flavor product that has a flavor base material configured by a non-tobacco material, an alkali-treated tobacco raw material that releases an inhaling flavor component as a vapor phase, and a container portion configured to contain the tobacco raw material and the flavor base material. The container portion limits the movement of at least one of the tobacco raw material and the flavor base material so as to maintain the tobacco raw material and the flavor base material in a non-contacting state, and the tobacco raw material and the flavor base material are arranged within the same space configured by the container portion.

In an embodiment, while the tobacco raw material and the flavor base material are arranged within the same space configured by the container portion, movement of at least one of the tobacco raw material and the flavor base material is limited so as to maintain the tobacco raw material and the flavor base material in a non-contacting state. Therefore, it is possible to induce the flavor base material to support easily and at low cost the inhaling flavor component contained in the tobacco raw material, while preventing transfer of contaminating components.

A producing device according to a first embodiment will be described below. <FIG> are diagrams showing an example of the producing device according to the first embodiment.

Firstly, one example of a treatment device <NUM> will be described with reference to <FIG>. The treatment device <NUM> includes a container <NUM> and an atomizer <NUM>.

The container <NUM> contains a tobacco raw material <NUM>. The container <NUM> is configured, for example, by a member having heat resistance and pressure resistance (e.g., steel used stainless (SUS)). It is preferable that the container <NUM> configures a sealed space. A "sealed space" refers to a condition in which foreign matter is prevented from infiltrating in the course of normal handling (transport, storage, and the like). In so doing, volatilization of the inhaling flavor component contained in the tobacco raw material <NUM> out of the container <NUM> is prevented.

It is noted that as mentioned previously, a nicotine component is one example of an inhaling flavor component that contributes to inhaling flavor, and the use thereof as an index of an inhaling flavor component in an embodiment should be noted.

The atomizer <NUM> applies an alkali substance to the tobacco raw material <NUM>. As the alkali substance, it is preferable to use, for example, a basic substance, such as an aqueous solution of potassium carbonate.

In this instance, the atomizer <NUM> preferably applies the alkali substance to the tobacco raw material <NUM>, until the tobacco raw material <NUM> pH reaches a range of from <NUM> to <NUM>, and preferably from <NUM> to <NUM>. Further, for efficient release of the inhaling flavor component as a vapor phase from the tobacco raw material <NUM>, the water content in the tobacco raw material <NUM> after being misted with the alkaline substance is preferably <NUM> wt% or more, and more preferably <NUM> wt% or more. There is no particular limit as to the upper limit of the water content in the tobacco raw material <NUM>; however, the water content is preferably <NUM> wt% or less, in order to efficiently heat the tobacco raw material <NUM>, for example.

It is noted that the initial contained amount of the inhaling flavor component (in this case, the nicotine component) contained in the tobacco raw material <NUM>, in the dry state, is preferably <NUM> wt% or more, where the total weight of the tobacco raw material <NUM> is <NUM> wt%. The initial contained amount of the inhaling flavor component (in this case, the nicotine component) is preferably <NUM> wt% or more.

As the tobacco raw material <NUM>, a Nicotiana raw material such as Nicotiana. tabacum or Nicotiana. rusutica, may be used, for example. Varieties such as Burley and flue-cured, for example, may be used as the Nicotiana. It is noted that varieties besides Burley and flue-cured may also be used as the tobacco raw material <NUM>.

The tobacco raw material <NUM> may be configured by cut or powder and granular tobacco raw material. In this case, the particle diameter of the cut or powder and granular material is preferably from <NUM> to <NUM>.

Secondly, one example of a transfer device <NUM> will be described with reference to <FIG>. The transfer device <NUM> includes a container <NUM>, a container <NUM>, and a pipe <NUM>.

The container <NUM> has an outer case 21A and an inner case 21B. The container <NUM>, configured by the outer case 21A and the inner case 21B, contains the tobacco raw material <NUM> which has undergone alkali treatment (hereinafter, "tobacco raw material 50A"). Between the inner case 21A and the outer case 21B is formed a flow path through which circulates a heat medium (e.g. steam). The tobacco raw material 50A contained within the container <NUM> is heated by the heat medium circulating along the flow path formed between the inner case 21A and the outer case 21B.

The container <NUM> is provided separately from the container <NUM>, and contains the flavor base material <NUM>. The pipe <NUM> is a cylindrical member, with one end of the pipe <NUM> opening to the inside of the container <NUM>, and the other end of the pipe <NUM> opening to the inside of the container <NUM>.

Here, the container <NUM>, the container <NUM>, and the pipe <NUM> contain the tobacco raw material 50A and the flavor base material <NUM> in such a way that the tobacco raw material 50A and the flavor base material <NUM> are maintained in a non-contacting state. It is preferable that the container <NUM>, the container <NUM>, and the pipe <NUM> configure a sealed space. A "sealed space" refers to a condition in which foreign matter is prevented from infiltrating in the course of normal handling (transport, storage, and the like). In so doing, volatilization of the inhaling flavor component contained in the tobacco raw material <NUM> to the outside of the sealed space is prevented.

As described above, the heat medium circulating through the flow passage formed between the outer case 21A and the inner case 21B heats the tobacco raw material 50A which is contained in the container <NUM>. While there are no particular limitations as to the conditions for heating the tobacco raw material 50A, a temperature of from <NUM> to less than <NUM> is preferred.

The flavor base material <NUM> is configured by a non-tobacco material. The flavor base material <NUM> is a member of solid form, or a liquid impregnated into a solid.

A member of solid form should be a member having a definite shape, but a semi-solid member (a member of gel form) having a given viscosity would also be acceptable. In a case where the flavor base material <NUM> is a solid member, the flavor base material <NUM> is at least any one of a gum base, a tablet, a film, or a hard candy base material, for example.

The liquid which has been impregnated into the solid is a capture solvent that contains an aerosol source such as a polyhydric alcohol (e.g., glycerol). The capture solvent may contain an acidic substance in addition to glycerol. As acidic substances, for example, carboxylic acids such as levulinic acid, malic acid, citric acid, tartaric acid, pyruvic acid, or formic acid may be used. In addition to glycerol and an acidic substance, the capture solvent may contain water or polypropylene glycol. In a case where the flavor base material <NUM> is a solid impregnated with a liquid, the flavor base material <NUM> is, for example, a capture solvent impregnated into a filter member (e.g., an acetate filter). However, there is no limitation of embodiment to this arrangement, and the flavor base material <NUM> may be a capture solvent contained in a cartridge of an electronic cigarette.

A method for producing a flavor source according to the first embodiment will be described below. <FIG> is a flowchart showing a basic concept of the method for producing a flavor source according to the first embodiment.

As illustrated in <FIG>, in step S10 (that is, step A), an alkali substance is applied to the tobacco raw material <NUM>, by using the treatment device <NUM> mentioned previously. A basic substance, such as a potassium carbonate aqueous solution for example, can be used as the alkali substance.

The pH of the tobacco raw material <NUM> subsequent to alkali treatment is within the range of from <NUM> to <NUM>, and preferably within the range of from <NUM> to <NUM>.

In step S20 (that is, step B), by using the transfer device <NUM> mentioned previously, the flavor base material <NUM> is induced to support the inhaling flavor component released as a vapor phase from the alkali-treated tobacco raw material <NUM> (the tobacco raw material 50A). Here, the tobacco raw material 50A and the flavor base material <NUM> are arranged within the same space configured by the container <NUM> and the container <NUM>, so as to maintain the tobacco raw material 50A and the flavor base material <NUM> in a non-contacting state. It is preferable that the same space configured by the container <NUM> and the container <NUM> is a sealed space.

Here, it is preferable that step S20 includes a step of heating the alkali-treated tobacco raw material <NUM> (the tobacco raw material 50A). While there are no particular limitations as to the heating conditions of the tobacco raw material 50A, as mentioned previously, a temperature of from <NUM> to less than <NUM> is preferred. However, it should be noted that it would be acceptable to not carry out heating of the tobacco raw material 50A.

In step S30, the flavor base material <NUM> may be stored. Storage of the flavor base material <NUM> may be performed in a sealed space, or performed in an open space. Further, storage of the flavor base material <NUM> may be performed in a sealed space, and subsequently performed in an open space. The flavor base material <NUM> is stored in a state in which the tobacco raw material 50A is not present in the same space therewith. Conceivably, storage may take place in the course of the product distribution process, or during storage at a production facility or retail outlet.

A first example of method for producing a flavor source according to the first embodiment will be described below. <FIG> is a flowchart showing a first example of the method for producing a flavor source according to the first embodiment. It is noted that in <FIG>, like step numbers have been assigned to like processes in <FIG>. However, it should be noted that the flowchart shown in <FIG> is an option of the flowchart shown in <FIG>, and is not an essential flowchart.

The first example applies to a case where the flavor base material <NUM> is a member of solid form. That is, the flavor base material <NUM> is at least any one of a gum base, a tablet, a film, or a hard candy base material, for example.

As shown in <FIG>, in the first example, step S22A to step S23A have been added to the flowchart shown in <FIG>.

In step S22A (that is, step C), the flavor base material <NUM> is kneaded. Specifically, the flavor base material <NUM> is kneaded in such a way that the interior of the flavor base material <NUM> changes position with the surface layer portion of the flavor base material <NUM>. In so doing, the inhaling flavor component that has migrated to the surface layer portion of the flavor base material <NUM> becomes confined within the interior of the flavor base material <NUM>, thereby preventing volatilization of the inhaling flavor component that has transferred to the surface layer portion of the flavor base material <NUM>. The kneading process (step S22A) may be performed in an open space, for ease of handing. However, the kneading process (step S22A) may be performed in the sealed space in the same manner as step S20.

In step S23A (that is, step D), the flavor base material <NUM> is molded. It should be noted that step 23A (the molding step) is performed after step 22A (the kneading process).

It is noted that in the first example, the transfer step (step S20) may include a step of heating the alkali-treated tobacco raw material <NUM> (the tobacco raw material 50A).

A second example of the method for producing a flavor source according to the first embodiment will be described below. <FIG> is a flowchart showing the second example of the method for producing a flavor source according to the first embodiment. It is noted that in <FIG>, like step numbers have been assigned to like processes in <FIG> and <FIG>. However, it should be noted that the flowchart shown in <FIG> is an option of the flowchart shown in <FIG>, and is not an essential flowchart.

The second example, like the first example, applies to a case where the flavor base material <NUM> is a member of solid form. That is, the flavor base material <NUM> is at least any one of a gum base, a tablet, a film, or a hard candy base material, for example.

As shown in <FIG>, in the second example, step S21A has been added to the flowchart shown in <FIG>.

In step S21A, a determination is made as to whether the number of transfer processes has reached N iterations or more. N is an integer equal to <NUM> or more. When the determination result is YES, a process of step S22C is performed. When the determination result is NO, a process of step S22A is performed.

Here, it should be noted that in the flowchart shown in <FIG>, because N is equal to <NUM> or more, at least two iterations of the transfer process (step S20) are performed. Further, it should be noted that when performing the transfer process (step S20) subsequent to the kneading process (step S22A) is designated as one cycle, the cycle is performed at least once. In so doing, in addition to preventing volatilization of the inhaling flavor component that has migrated to the surface layer portion of the flavor base material <NUM>, the transfer process (S20) is performed in a state in which the concentration of the inhaling flavor component contained in the surface layer portion of the flavor base material <NUM> has been lowered due to the kneading process (step S22A), and therefore the desired amount of the inhaling flavor component can rapidly migrate from the tobacco raw material 50A to the flavor base material <NUM>.

It should be noted that in the second example, because N is equal to <NUM> or more, step S23A (the molding process) is performed after step S22A (the kneading process).

Further, in the second example, the transfer step (step S20) may include a step of heating the alkali-treated tobacco raw material <NUM> (the tobacco raw material 50A).

A third example of the method for producing a flavor source according to the first embodiment will be described below. <FIG> is a flowchart showing a third example of the method for producing a flavor source according to the first embodiment. It is noted that in <FIG>, like step numbers have been assigned to like processes in <FIG>. However, it should be noted that the flowchart shown in <FIG> is an option of the flowchart shown in <FIG>, and is not an essential flowchart.

The third example applies to a case where the flavor base material <NUM> is a capture solvent. That is, the flavor base material <NUM> is, for example, a capture solvent impregnated into a filter member (e.g., an acetate filter). However, there is no limitation of embodiment to this arrangement, and the flavor base material <NUM> may be a capture solvent contained in a cartridge of an electronic cigarette. The capture solvent is, for example, an aerosol source such as a polyhydric alcohol (e.g., glycerol).

As shown in <FIG>, in the third example, step 21B is added to the flowchart shown in <FIG>.

In step S21B (that is, step E and step F), an addition process is performed. The addition process may be performed before step S20 (the transfer step), or performed before step S10 (alkali treatment).

It is noted that in the third example, the transfer step (step S20) includes a step of heating the alkali-treated tobacco raw material <NUM> (the tobacco raw material 50A). Further, in the third example, it is preferable to use the transfer device <NUM> mentioned previously, and it is preferable to not heat the capture solvent.

In step S21B (the addition step), an additive is added to the capture solvent. The additive is, for example, an acidic substance, and carboxylic acids such as levulinic acid, malic acid, citric acid, tartaric acid, pyruvic acid, or formic acid may be used as the acidic substance, for example. That is, step S21B (the addition step) includes a step (step E) of adding a carboxylic acid to the capture solvent.

Here, the added amount of the acidic substance (carboxylic acid) preferably satisfies the following condition. Specifically, the condition is that which the ratio of the molar quantity of the acidic substance (carboxylic acid) added to the capture solvent, relative to the molar quantity of the inhaling flavor component (here, a nicotine component) captured by the capture solvent (hereinafter denoted as "A/N ratio") is greater than <NUM>, and less than <NUM>. Here, it should be noted that the lower limit and the upper limit of the A/N ratio includes error of about <NUM>. That is, the A/N ratio is preferably greater than any value (lower limit value) within the range from <NUM> to <NUM>, and preferably smaller than any value (upper limit value) within the range from <NUM> to <NUM>.

Further, it is preferable that in a case where the A/N ratio is <NUM> or less, step S21B (the addition process) includes a step (step F) of adding to a capture solvent propylene glycol, water, or a mixed solution of propylene glycol and water. Specifically, this step is preferably a step of adding to the capture solvent or a capture solution <NUM> wt% or more of propylene glycol or <NUM> wt% or more of water, or a total of <NUM> wt% or more of a mixed solution, where the capture solution containing at least the inhaling flavor component, the carboxylic acid, and the capture solvent is <NUM> wt%. Here, while there is no particular upper limit as to the added amount of the propylene glycol and the water, or the added amount of the mixed solution, the limit is preferably <NUM> wt%, and more preferably <NUM> wt%. It is noted that the additives may include the carboxylic acids mentioned above, in addition to propylene glycol, water, or a mixed solution.

In this way, in a case where the inhaling flavor component (e.g., a nicotine component) is greater in amount than the carboxylic acid, by adding at least one of propylene glycol and water, the residual ratio of the inhaling flavor component residual ratio can be improved, as shown in a fourth experiment described below.

On the other hand, in a case where the A/N ratio is <NUM> or more, step S21B (the addition process) preferably includes a step (step F) of adding water to the capture solvent. Specifically, this step is preferably a step of adding <NUM> wt% or more of water to the capture solvent or the capture solution, where the capture solution containing at least the inhaling flavor component, the carboxylic acid, and the capture solvent is <NUM> wt%. Here, while there is no particular upper limit as to the added amount of water, the limit is preferably <NUM> wt%, and more preferably <NUM> wt%. It is noted that the additives may include the carboxylic acids mentioned above, in addition to propylene glycol, water, or a mixed solution.

In this way, in a case where the inhaling flavor component (here, a nicotine component) is greater in amount than the carboxylic acid, that is, a case where there is a tendency for esterification of the carboxylic acid to occur by a reaction of the carboxylic acid and glycerol, by adding water, esterification of the carboxylic acid due to a reaction of the carboxylic acid and glycerol is prevented. Therefore, formation of unwanted esters in association with esterification of the carboxylic acid is prevented.

In the first embodiment while the tobacco raw material <NUM> and the flavor base material <NUM> are in a non-contacting state, the flavor base material <NUM> is induced to support the inhaling flavor component emitted as a vapor phase from the tobacco raw material <NUM>. Therefore, as compared to a case where the flavor base material <NUM> is induced to support the inhaling flavor component while the tobacco raw material and the flavor base material are in a contacting state, it is possible to induce the flavor base material <NUM> to support easily and a low cost the inhaling flavor component contained in the tobacco raw material <NUM>, while preventing transfer of contaminating components.

A first modification of the first embodiment will be described below. Description proceeds with a focus on a difference from the first embodiment, below. The first modification is a modification of the third example of the method for producing a flavor source described above (that is, a case where the flavor base material <NUM> is a capture solvent).

Specifically, in the first embodiment, a schematic transfer device <NUM> is shown as an example of the device configured to perform the transfer process (step S20). In contrast to this, in the first modification, the treatment device <NUM> shown in <FIG> and the capture device <NUM> shown in <FIG> are used as devices configured to perform the transfer step (step S20). In a case where the alkali-treated tobacco raw material 50A is heated, the tobacco raw material 50A, together with the container <NUM>, can be heated while the tobacco raw material 50A is contained in the container <NUM> of the treatment device <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the capture device <NUM> has a container <NUM>, a pipe <NUM>, an emission part <NUM>, and a pipe <NUM>.

The container <NUM> contains a capture solvent <NUM> (that is, the flavor base material <NUM>). The container <NUM> is configured by a member that is resistant to the capture solvent and to volatile inhaling flavor components or volatile contaminants (e.g., glass or stainless steel (SUS)). It is preferable that the container <NUM> configures a space that is airtight to the extent that it is possible to prevent movement of air to outside the space.

The temperature of the capture solvent <NUM> is normal temperature, for example. Here, the lower limit for normal temperature is, for example, a temperature at which the capture solvent <NUM> does not solidify, preferably <NUM>. The upper limit of normal temperature is <NUM> or less, for example. By setting the temperature of the capture solvent <NUM> to from <NUM> to <NUM>, it is possible to effectively remove volatile contaminating components, such as ammonium ions or pyridine, while preventing the volatilization of the inhaling flavor component from the capture solution. It is noted that in order to bring the temperature of the capture solvent from <NUM> to <NUM> to <NUM>, the temperature of the container <NUM> may be chilled to a temperature below normal temperature (e.g. <NUM>).

Glycerol, water, or ethanol can be used as the capture solvent <NUM>, for example. As in the first embodiment, an acidic substance may be added to the capture solvent <NUM>. As acidic substances, for example, carboxylic acids such as levulinic acid, malic acid, citric acid, tartaric acid, pyruvic acid, or formic acid may be used.

The pipe <NUM> communicates with the container <NUM> of the treatment device <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>. The pipe <NUM> guides an emitted component <NUM>, which has been emitted as a vapor phase from the tobacco raw material <NUM> through heating of the tobacco raw material <NUM>, to the capture solvent <NUM>.

The emission part <NUM> is arranged at the distal end of the pipe <NUM>, and is submerged in the capture solvent <NUM>. The emission part <NUM> has a plurality of openings 33A. The emission section <NUM>, guided by the pipe <NUM>, emits bubbles of an emitted component <NUM> into the capture solvent <NUM> from the plurality of openings 33A.

The pipe <NUM> guides a residual component <NUM>, which has not been captured by the capture solvent <NUM>, out from the container <NUM>.

In the first modification, the container <NUM> mentioned above is divided by the interface of the capture solvent <NUM> into a solvent arranged space 31A in which the capture solvent <NUM> is arranged, and a solvent non-arranged space 31B in which the capture solvent <NUM> is not arranged. The emission part <NUM> arranged at the distal end of the pipe <NUM> is arranged within the solvent arranged space 31A. That is, the tobacco raw material <NUM> and the capture solvent <NUM> are arranged within the same space, configured by the container <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, or the solvent arranged space 31A, the pipe <NUM> which communicates with the container <NUM> and the solvent arranged space 31A, and the emission part <NUM>, which are illustrated in <FIG>. The same space according to the first modification is a sealed space in the sense that volatilization of the emitted component <NUM> emitted as a vapor phase from the tobacco raw material <NUM> is prevented in a stage preceding contact of the emitted component <NUM> with the capture solvent <NUM>.

Here, because the emitted component <NUM> is a component that is emitted as vapor phase by heating the tobacco raw material <NUM>, it is likely that the temperature of capture solvent <NUM> rises due to the emitted component <NUM>. Therefore, the capture device <NUM> may have a function of chilling the capture solvent <NUM> in order to maintain the temperature of the capture solvent <NUM> at normal temperature.

The capture device <NUM> may have a Raschig ring in order to increase the contact area of the emitted component <NUM> with the capture solvent <NUM>.

Here, in a case where the ratio of the molar quantity of the carboxylic acid added to the capture solvent, relative to the molar quantity of the inhaling flavor component (here, a nicotine component) captured by the capture solvent, is <NUM> or more, it is preferable for the capture solution to contain <NUM> wt% or more of water, where the capture solution containing at least the inhaling flavor component, the carboxylic acid, and the capture solvent is equal to <NUM> wt%. The capture solution should contain <NUM> wt% or more of water, at least prior to step S30 (the storage process). Further, it is preferable that the capture solution is maintained in a state of containing <NUM> wt% or more of water from the time of the transfer process (step S20) to that of step S30 (the storage process). While there is no particular upper limit as to the amount of water contained in the capture solution, <NUM> wt% or less is preferred.

It would be acceptable, for example, to use water, or to use water to which a carboxylic acid has been added, as the capture solvent used in the transfer process (step S20). In such a case, it would be acceptable to further add glycerol to the capture solvent. In a case where step S30 (the storage process) is performed, it is acceptable for the timing for addition of the glycerol to precede step S30 (the storage process). In a case where the capture solvent is heated in the transfer process (step S20), from the standpoint of preventing volatilization or denaturation of the glycerol, it is preferable for the timing of addition of the glycerol to follow the transfer step (step S20). It is noted that as mentioned above, it is preferable for the capture solution to contain <NUM> wt% or more of water following addition of the glycerol.

Further, in a case where the ratio of the molar quantity of the carboxylic acid added to the capture solvent, relative to the molar quantity of the inhaling flavor component (here, a nicotine component) captured by the capture solvent, is <NUM> or less, it is preferable for the capture solution to contain <NUM> wt% or more of propylene glycol, <NUM> wt% or more of water, or a total of <NUM> wt% or more of a mixed solution of propylene glycol and water, where the capture solution containing at least the inhaling flavor component, the carboxylic acid, and the capture solvent is equal to <NUM> wt%. It is acceptable for the capture solution to contain <NUM> wt% or more of propylene glycol, water, or a mixed solution, at least prior to step S30 (the storage process). Further, it is preferable that the capture solution is maintained in a state of containing <NUM> wt% or more of propylene glycol, water, or a mixed solution, from the time of the transfer process (step S20) to that of step S30 (the storage process). While there is no particular upper limit as to the amount of propylene glycol, water, or mixed solution contained in the capture solution, <NUM> wt% or less is preferred.

A first example of a package according to a second embodiment will be described below. <FIG> are diagrams describing a package <NUM> according to the second embodiment.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the package <NUM> is portable. The package <NUM> has a delivery member <NUM> and an inhaling flavor product <NUM>.

The delivery member <NUM> has a tobacco raw material <NUM> and a wrapping member <NUM>. The tobacco raw material <NUM> has undergone an alkali treatment, and emits an inhaling flavor component as a vapor phase. The tobacco raw material <NUM> is wrapped at least in part by the wrapping member <NUM>.

The inhaling flavor product <NUM> is a flavor inhaler used to inhale the inhaling flavor component. The inhaling flavor product <NUM> has a holder <NUM> and a flavor base material <NUM>. The holder <NUM> is, for example, a paper tube having a cylindrical shape, and retains the flavor base material <NUM>. Further, the tobacco raw material <NUM> of the delivery member <NUM> is inserted into the holder <NUM>. The flavor base material <NUM> is an acetate filter, for example. The flavor base material <NUM> is a member containing at least one type of polyhydric alcohol. The polyhydric alcohol is glycerol, propylene glycol, or the like, for example. The flavor base material <NUM> captures the inhaling flavor component emitted as a vapor phase from the tobacco raw material <NUM>.

In the first example of the package, the wrapping member <NUM> and the holder <NUM> configure a container portion <NUM> configured to contain the tobacco raw material <NUM> and the flavor base material <NUM>. The container portion <NUM> limits the movement of at least one of the tobacco raw material <NUM> and the flavor base material <NUM> so as to maintain the tobacco raw material <NUM> and the flavor base material <NUM> in a non-contacting state. The tobacco raw material <NUM> and the flavor base material <NUM> are arranged within the same space configured by the container portion <NUM> (the wrapping member <NUM> and the holder <NUM>).

Specifically, as illustrated in <FIG>, the tobacco raw material <NUM> retained by the wrapping member <NUM> is inserted into the holder <NUM>, and is exposed within an inside space of the holder <NUM>. Because the tobacco raw material <NUM> is retained by the wrapping member <NUM>, and the flavor base material <NUM> is retained by the holder <NUM>, the tobacco raw material <NUM> and the flavor base material <NUM> are maintained in a non-contacting state.

Here, it is preferable that the same space configured by the wrapping member <NUM> and the holder <NUM> is a sealed space. A "sealed space" refers to a condition in which foreign matter is prevented from infiltrating in the course of normal handling (transport, storage, and the like). For example, one end of the holder <NUM> is closed off by the delivery member <NUM>, and the other end of the holder <NUM> is sealed by a seal member. In so doing, the inhaling flavor component contained in the tobacco raw material <NUM> is largely prevented from volatilization to the outside of the container portion <NUM> (the wrapping member <NUM> and the holder <NUM>).

It should be noted that in the first example of the package, during use of the inhaling flavor product <NUM> (the flavor inhaler), the delivery member <NUM> is detached from the inhaling flavor product <NUM> as illustrated in <FIG> (the A-A cross section shown in <FIG>). That is, it should be noted that whereas prior to use of the inhaling flavor product <NUM> (the flavor inhaler), the holder <NUM> functions as part of the container portion <NUM>, during use of the inhaling flavor product <NUM> (the flavor inhaler), it does not function as part of the container portion <NUM>.

While there is no particular limitation thereto, in the first example of the package, the inhaling flavor product <NUM> may be a burning type flavor inhaler including a carbon heat source configured to entail burning or the like, or a non-burning type flavor inhaler including an atomizer or the like configured to generate an aerosol, without burning.

In the first example of the package, as with the tobacco raw material <NUM>, a Nicotiana raw material such as Nicotiana. tabacum or Nicotiana. rusutica, for example may be used as the tobacco raw material <NUM>. Varieties such as Burley and flue-cured, for example, may be used as the Nicotiana. It is noted that varieties other than Burley and flue-cured varieties can also be used as the tobacco raw material <NUM>.

The tobacco raw material <NUM> may be configured by cut or powder and granular tobacco raw material. In this case, the particle diameter of the cut or powder and granular material is preferably <NUM> or less, so as to enlarge the specific surface area. Still more preferably, the particle diameter of the cut or powder and granular material is <NUM> or less. While there is no particular limitation as to the lower limit of the particle diameter of the cut or powder and granular material, a value of <NUM> or more is preferred.

It is noted that the initial content, in the dry state, of the inhaling flavor component (here, a nicotine component) contained in the tobacco raw material <NUM> is preferably <NUM> wt% or more, where the total weight of the tobacco raw material <NUM> is <NUM> wt%. The initial contained amount of the inhaling flavor component (in this case, the nicotine component) is preferably <NUM> wt% or more.

As mentioned above, it is preferable that the pH of the tobacco raw material <NUM> after the alkali treatment is <NUM> or more. Still more preferably, the pH of the tobacco raw material <NUM> after the alkali treatment is within the range from <NUM> to <NUM>, and more preferably from <NUM> to <NUM>.

A second example of a package according to the second embodiment will be described below. <FIG> are diagrams describing a package <NUM> according to the second embodiment.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the package <NUM> is portable. The package <NUM> includes an inhaling flavor product <NUM>, and a case body <NUM>.

The inhaling flavor product <NUM> is a product for oral use, configured per se by a base material for oral use intended for use in the mouth. The base material for oral use is one example of a flavor base material configured by a non-tobacco material. The inhaling flavor product <NUM> is at least any one of a gum base, a tablet, a film, or a hard candy base material, for example.

The case body <NUM> is an example of a container portion configured to form a space for containing the tobacco raw material <NUM> and the inhaling flavor product <NUM>. The case body <NUM> has a main body <NUM>, a lid body <NUM>, and a partition plate <NUM>.

The main body <NUM> has a boxy shape. The lid body <NUM> is reclosably attached to the main body <NUM>. The main body <NUM> and the lid body <NUM> form a space which, with the lid body <NUM> in the closed state, contains the tobacco raw material <NUM> and the inhaling flavor product <NUM>. The partition plate <NUM> divides the space formed by the main body <NUM> and the lid body <NUM> into a space for containing the tobacco raw material <NUM>, and a space for containing the inhaling flavor product <NUM>. The partition plate <NUM> has holes so that the inhaling flavor component emitted as a vapor phase from the tobacco raw material <NUM> may flow from the space containing the tobacco raw material <NUM> to the space containing the inhaling flavor product <NUM>. It is preferable that the partition plate <NUM> has a plurality of holes.

That is, the case body <NUM> is designed such that movement of at least one of the tobacco raw material <NUM> and the inhaling flavor product <NUM> is limited by the partition plate <NUM>, so as to maintain the tobacco raw material <NUM> and the inhaling flavor product <NUM> in a non-contacting state. The tobacco raw material <NUM> and the inhaling flavor product <NUM> are arranged within the same space configured by the case body <NUM> (the main body <NUM> and the lid body <NUM>). It is preferable that the same space is a sealed space. A "sealed space" refers to a condition in which foreign matter is prevented from infiltrating in the course of normal handling (transport, storage, and the like). In so doing, the inhaling flavor component contained in the tobacco raw material <NUM> is largely prevented from volatilization to the outside of the case body <NUM>.

In the second example of the package, the tobacco raw material <NUM>, like the tobacco raw material <NUM>, has undergone an alkali treatment, and emits an inhaling flavor component as a vapor phase. A Nicotiana raw material such as Nicotiana. tabacum or Nicotiana. rusutica, for example, may be used as the tobacco raw material <NUM>. Varieties such as Burley and flue-cured, for example, may be used as the Nicotiana. It is noted that tobacco raw materials of varieties other than Burley and flue-cured may also be used as the tobacco raw material <NUM>.

The tobacco raw material <NUM> may be configured by a cut or powder and granular tobacco raw material. In this case, the particle diameter of the cut or powder and granular material is preferably <NUM> or less, so as to enlarge the specific surface area. Still more preferably, the particle diameter of the cut or powder and granular material is <NUM> or less. While there is no particular limitation as to the lower limit of the particle diameter of the cut or powder and granular material, a value of <NUM> or more is preferred.

As mentioned above, the pH of the tobacco raw material <NUM> subsequent to alkali treatment is preferably <NUM> or more. Still more preferably, the pH of the tobacco raw material <NUM> subsequent to alkali treatment is within the range from <NUM> to <NUM>, and preferably within the range from <NUM> to <NUM>.

In the second example of the package, the tobacco raw material <NUM> may be placed in a breathable pouch or the like. In so doing, the cut or powder and granular tobacco raw material configuring the tobacco raw material <NUM> is not drawn through the holes in the partition plate <NUM> and into the space containing the inhaling flavor product <NUM>.

A package according to a third example of the second embodiment will be described below. <FIG> is a diagram describing a package <NUM> according to the second embodiment.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the package <NUM> is portable. The package <NUM> is a cartridge for use, for example, in a non-burning type flavor inhaler equipped with an atomizer or the like. The package <NUM> includes a lid body <NUM> and an inhaling flavor product <NUM>.

The lid body <NUM> has a tobacco raw material <NUM> and a lid main body <NUM>. The configuration of the tobacco raw material <NUM> is similar to that of the tobacco raw material <NUM>. The tobacco raw material <NUM> has undergone an alkali treatment, and emits an inhaling flavor component as a vapor phase. The lid main body <NUM> retains the tobacco raw material <NUM>.

The inhaling flavor product <NUM> has a cartridge main body <NUM> and a flavor base material <NUM>. The cartridge main body <NUM> is a member having a cylindrical shape, for example, and retains the flavor base material <NUM>. The flavor base material <NUM> is a member configured, for example, by a porous body such as a resin web or cotton, and contains at least one type of polyhydric alcohol. The polyhydric alcohol is glycerol, propylene glycol, or the like, for example. The flavor base material <NUM> captures the inhaling flavor component emitted as a vapor phase from the tobacco raw material <NUM>.

In the third example of the package, the lid main body <NUM> and the cartridge main body <NUM> configure a container portion <NUM> for containing the tobacco raw material <NUM> and the flavor base material <NUM>. The container portion <NUM> limits the movement of at least one of the tobacco raw material <NUM> and the flavor base material <NUM>, so as to maintain the tobacco raw material <NUM> and the flavor base material <NUM> in a non-contacting state. The tobacco raw material <NUM> and the flavor base material <NUM> are arranged within the same space configured by the container portion <NUM> (the lid main body <NUM> and the cartridge main body <NUM>).

Specifically, the tobacco raw material <NUM>, while retained by the lid main body <NUM>, is inserted into the cartridge main body <NUM>, and is exposed within an inside space of the cartridge main body <NUM>. Because the tobacco raw material <NUM> is retained by the lid main body <NUM>, and the flavor base material <NUM> is retained by the cartridge main body <NUM>, the tobacco raw material <NUM> and the flavor base material <NUM> are maintained in a non-contacting state.

It is preferable that the same space configured by the lid main body <NUM> and the cartridge main body <NUM> is a sealed space. A "sealed space" refers to a condition in which foreign matter is prevented from infiltrating in the course of normal handling (transport, storage, and the like). For example, one end of the cartridge main body <NUM> is closed off by the lid body <NUM>, and the other end of the cartridge main body <NUM> is sealed by a seal member. In so doing, the inhaling flavor component contained in the tobacco raw material <NUM> is largely prevented from volatilization to the outside of the container portion <NUM> (the lid main body <NUM> and the cartridge main body <NUM>).

It should be noted that in the third example of the package, the lid main body <NUM> is detached from the inhaling flavor product <NUM> at times of use of the inhaling flavor product <NUM>. Times of use of the inhaling flavor product <NUM> refers to times at which the inhaling flavor product <NUM> is installed in a non-burning type flavor inhaler.

In the second embodiment, while the tobacco raw material <NUM> (the tobacco raw material <NUM> or the tobacco raw material <NUM>) and the flavor base material <NUM> (the inhaling flavor product <NUM> or the flavor base material <NUM>) are arranged within the same space configured by the container portion <NUM> (the case body <NUM> or the container portion <NUM>), movement of at least one of the tobacco raw material <NUM> (the tobacco raw material <NUM> or the tobacco raw material <NUM>) and the flavor base material <NUM> (the inhaling flavor product <NUM> or the flavor base material <NUM>) is limited so that the tobacco raw material <NUM> (the tobacco raw material <NUM> or the tobacco raw material <NUM>) and the flavor base material <NUM> (the inhaling flavor product <NUM> or the flavor base material <NUM>) are maintained in a non-contacting state. Therefore, it is possible to induce the flavor base material <NUM> (the inhaling flavor product <NUM> or the flavor base material <NUM>) to support easily and at low cost the inhaling flavor component contained in the tobacco raw material <NUM> (the tobacco raw material <NUM> or the tobacco raw material <NUM>), while preventing transfer of contaminating components.

In a first experiment, samples <NUM> to <NUM> were produced in accordance with the basic concept (See <FIG>) of the method for producing a flavor source described above. However, step S30 (the storage process) was omitted. The compositions and weights of the tobacco raw materials and flavor base materials (gum bases) used in the samples <NUM> to <NUM> were as indicated in <FIG>. Further, the conditions (the transfer temperature and the transfer time) that were implemented in step S20 shown in <FIG> (transfer step) were as indicated in <FIG>. It is noted that the amount of raw material of the transfer source raw material employed in producing the samples <NUM> and <NUM> was <NUM>, and the amount of raw material of the transfer source raw material employed in producing the samples <NUM> and <NUM> was <NUM>.

Here, spherical gum bases having a diameter of <NUM> were used as the flavor base material for the samples <NUM> to <NUM>. In the first experiment, the gum bases were divided into a surface layer portion and an inner portion, in such a way that the weight ratio of the surface layer portion and the inner portion was <NUM>:<NUM>, and the inhaling flavor component (here, the amount of the nicotine component) in the surface layer portion and the inner portion was measured. The measurement results for the samples <NUM> and <NUM> are as indicated in <FIG>, and the measurement results for the samples <NUM> and <NUM> are as indicated in <FIG>.

As shown in <FIG>, in the both samples <NUM> and <NUM>, in which the transfer time was the same but the transfer temperatures were different, it was found that about <NUM>% or more of the inhaling flavor component was contained in the surface layer portion. As shown in <FIG>, in the both samples <NUM> and <NUM>, in which the transfer temperature was the same but the transfer times were different, it was found that about <NUM>% or more of the inhaling flavor component was contained in the surface layer portion.

That is, from the first experiment, it was found that the inhaling flavor component concentrates in the surface layer portion, irrespective of the transfer time and the transfer temperature. It was found that therefore, if a storage process (e.g., in the course of the product distribution process, or during storage at a production facility or retail outlet) was performed on the flavor base material while still in this state, the inhaling flavor component concentrated in the surface layer portion tends to volatilize. In other words, it was discovered that by performing the kneading process (step S22A) after performing the transfer process (step S20) as in the first example of the method for producing a flavor source described above (see <FIG>), the inhaling flavor component that has transferred to the surface layer portion of the flavor base material becomes confined within the inside of the flavor base material, effectively preventing volatilization of the inhaling flavor component that has transferred to the surface layer portion of the flavor base material.

Further, because, due to the fact that the kneading process (step S22A) is performed after having performed the transfer process (step S20), and then a further transfer process (step S20) is performed, as in the second example of the method for producing a flavor source described above (see <FIG>), the transfer process (step S20) takes place in a state in which the concentration of the inhaling flavor component contained in the surface layer portion of the flavor base material has been reduced due the kneading process (step S22A), and therefore the desired amount of the inhaling flavor component can be quickly transferred from the tobacco raw material to the flavor base material.

In a second experiment, samples <NUM> and <NUM> were produced according to the basic concept of the method for producing a flavor source described above (see <FIG>). However, step S30 (the storage process) was omitted. The compositions and weights of the tobacco raw materials and flavor base materials (capture solution supported on acetate filters) used in producing the samples <NUM> and <NUM> were as indicated in <FIG>. Further, the conditions (the transfer temperature and the transfer time) implemented in step S20 (the transfer process) shown in <FIG> were as indicated in <FIG>.

In the second experiment, the content of the inhaling flavor component (here, a nicotine component) in the samples <NUM> and <NUM> was measured after performing step S20 (the transfer process). The measurement results for the samples <NUM> and <NUM> are as shown in <FIG>.

As shown in <FIG>, it was found that the inhaling flavor component content of sample <NUM>, in which the capture solvent supported on the acetate filter contained levulinic acid in addition of glycerol, was greater as compared with sample <NUM>, in which the capture solvent supported on the acetate filter was configured by glycerol only.

That is, it was found that by adding an acidic substance (here, levulinic acid) to the capture solvent in the addition process (step S21B) of the third example of the method for producing a flavor source described above, re-volatilization of the inhaling flavor component (here, the nicotine component) already transferred to the capture solvent is prevented, and the inhaling flavor component (here, the nicotine component) supported on the flavor base material could be maintained.

In a third experiment, simulating the third example of the method for producing a flavor source described above (see <FIG>), samples <NUM>-<NUM> were produced by mixing nicotine (<NPL>, purity: <NUM>%) and other reagents. That is, for the sample <NUM> to sample <NUM>, glycerol was used as the flavor base material (capture solvent). The amount of glycerol in the sample <NUM> was approximately <NUM> wt%, and the amount of glycerol in the samples <NUM> to <NUM> was approximately <NUM> wt%, where the capture solution after addition of the additives is <NUM> wt%. Further, in the samples <NUM>-<NUM>, an acidic substance (here, levulinic acid) was added to the capture solvent. As shown in <FIG>, the A/N ratio in the samples <NUM> to <NUM> were <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, respectively. As mentioned above, the A/N ratio is the ratio of the molar quantity of the acidic substance (here, levulinic acid) added to the capture solvent, relative to the molar quantity of the inhaling flavor component (here, the nicotine component) captured by the capture solvent.

In the third experiment, by way of step S30 (storage process), the samples were stored under open space conditions for seven days, in an environment controlled to <NUM>. For the samples <NUM> to <NUM>, the ratio of the amount of the inhaling flavor component (here, the amount of the nicotine component) after performing storage under open space conditions to the amount of the inhaling flavor component (here, the amount of the nicotine component) prior to performing storage under open space conditions (the inhaling flavor component residual ratio) was measured. The measurement results are as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. For the samples <NUM> to <NUM>, the ratio of the amount of levulinic acid after performing storage under open space conditions to the amount of levulinic acid prior to performing storage under open space conditions (the levulinic acid residual ratio) was measured. The measurement results are as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>.

Here, in the third experiment, the inhaling flavor component residual ratio was determined to be sufficient when the inhaling flavor component residual ratio was <NUM> or more, and the levulinic acid residual ratio was determined to be sufficient when the levulinic acid residual ratio was <NUM> or more.

As shown in <FIG>, it was found that the inhaling flavor component residual ratio of the samples <NUM> to <NUM> which contained levulinic acid was higher than that of the sample <NUM>, which did not contain levulinic acid. In particular, for the sample <NUM> and the sampel <NUM>, which had A/N ratios of <NUM> or more, the inhaling flavor component residual ratio exceeded <NUM>, and the inhaling flavor component residual ratio was found to be sufficient; whereas, considering the error of <NUM>, for the sample <NUM>, which had an A/N ratio of <NUM> or less, the inhaling flavor component residual ratio fell below <NUM>, and the inhaling flavor component residual ratio was found to be insufficient. Meanwhile, as shown in <FIG> it was found that the levulinic acid residual ratio declines at higher A/N ratios. In particular, for the sample <NUM> and the sample <NUM>, which had A/N ratios of <NUM> or more, the levulinic acid residual ratio fell below <NUM>, and the inhaling flavor component residual ratio was found to be insufficient; whereas, considering the error of <NUM>, for sample <NUM>, which had an A/N ratio of <NUM> or less, the levulinic acid residual ratio fell below <NUM>, and the levulinic acid residual ratio was found to be sufficient.

In other words, while the inhaling flavor component residual ratio was improved by the addition of an acidic substance (here, levulinic acid), considering the error of <NUM>, for the sample <NUM>, which had an A/N ratio of <NUM> or less, the inhaling flavor component residual ratio was insufficient, whereas for the samples <NUM> and <NUM>, which had A/N ratios of <NUM> or more, the levulinic acid residual ratio was insufficient.

Here, it should be noted that because it is inferred that the decline in the levulinic acid residual ratio is due to the production of unwanted substances due to reasons such as esterification of the levulinic acid caused by reaction of the levulinic acid and the glycerol, it is preferable to avoid a decline in the levulinic acid residual ratio.

In a fourth experiment, simulating the third example of the method for producing a flavor source described above (see <FIG>), samples <NUM> to <NUM> were produced by mixing nicotine (<NPL>, purity: <NUM>%) and other reagents. For the sample <NUM> to the sample <NUM>, glycerol was used as the flavor base material (capture solvent). The amount of glycerol in the sample <NUM> was approximately <NUM> wt%, and the amount of glycerol in the sample <NUM> and the sample <NUM> was approximately <NUM> wt%, where the capture solution after addition of the additives is <NUM> wt%. In the sample <NUM> to the sample <NUM>, an acidic substance (here, levulinic acid) was added to the capture solvent. As shown in <FIG>, the A/N ratios in the samples <NUM>-<NUM> were <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, respectively. It should be noted that, considering the error of <NUM>, the samples <NUM> to <NUM> were samples in which the A/N ratio was <NUM> or less. Here, in the sample <NUM>, <NUM> wt% of propylene glycol was added to the capture solvent, and in the sample <NUM>, <NUM> wt% of water was added to the capture solvent.

In the fourth experiment, by way of step S30 (storage process), storage was performed under open space conditions for seven days, in an environment controlled to <NUM>. For the samples <NUM> to <NUM>, the ratio of the amount of the inhaling flavor component (here, the nicotine component) after performing storage under open space conditions to the amount of inhaling flavor component (here, the nicotine component) prior to performing storage under open space conditions (the inhaling flavor component residual ratio) was measured. The measurement results are as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>.

In the fourth experiment, when the inhaling flavor component residual ratio was <NUM> or more, the inhaling flavor component residual ratio was determined to be sufficient.

As shown in <FIG>, for the sample <NUM> and the sample <NUM>, to which <NUM> wt% of propylene glycol or water was added to the capture solvent, the inhaling flavor component residual ratio exceeded <NUM>, and the inhaling flavor component residual ratio was found to be sufficient, whereas for sample <NUM>, to which neither propylene glycol or water added, the inhaling flavor component residual ratio fell below <NUM>, and the inhaling flavor component residual ratio was found to be insufficient. That is, in the third experiment, considering the error of <NUM>, while samples for which the A/N ratio was <NUM> or less were found to have an insufficient inhaling flavor component residual ratio, it was also found that in such samples, the inhaling flavor component residual ratio was improved through the addition of <NUM> wt% or more of propylene glycol or water. It should be noted from the results of the third experiment that in a case where the A/N ratio is <NUM> or less, the levulinic acid residual ratio is sufficient.

In this way, it was found that in a case where the A/N ratio is <NUM> or less, by including <NUM> wt% or more of propylene glycol or <NUM> wt% or more of water in the capture solution, where the capture solution subsequent to addition of the additives (here, levulinic acid and propylene glycol, levulinic acid and water, levulinic acid, or propylene glycol and water) is <NUM> wt%, the inhaling flavor component residual ratio can be improved, while maintaining the levulinic acid residual ratio at a sufficient level.

It is inferred that similar results could be obtained by including a total of <NUM> wt% or more of a mixed solution of propylene glycol and water in a capture solution.

In a fifth experiment, simulating the third example of the method for producing a flavor source described above (see <FIG>), samples <NUM> to <NUM> were produced by mixing nicotine (<NPL>, purity: <NUM>%) and other reagents. For the sample <NUM> to the sample <NUM>, glycerol was used as the flavor base material (capture solvent). The amount of glycerol in the sample <NUM> and the sample <NUM> was approximately <NUM> wt%, and the amount of glycerol in the sample <NUM> and the sample <NUM> was approximately <NUM> wt%, where the capture solution after addition of the additives is <NUM> wt%. In the sample <NUM> to the sample <NUM>, an acidic substance (here, levulinic acid) was added to the capture solvent. As shown in <FIG>, the A/N ratios in samples <NUM>-<NUM> were2. <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>, respectively. It should be noted that the samples <NUM> to <NUM> are samples in which the A/N ratio is <NUM> or more. Here, in the sample <NUM> and the sample <NUM>, <NUM> wt% of water was added to the capture solvent.

In the fifth experiment, by way of step S30 (storage process), storage was performed under sealed space conditions for four weeks, in an environment controlled to <NUM>. For the samples <NUM> to <NUM>, the ratio of the amount of levulinic acid after performing storage under sealed space conditions to the amount of levulinic acid prior to performing storage under sealed space conditions (the levulinic acid residual ratio) was measured. The measurement results are as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>.

In the fifth experiment, if the levulinic acid residual ratio was <NUM> or more, the levulinic acid residual ratio was determined to be sufficient.

As shown in <FIG>, in the sample <NUM> and the sample <NUM> in which <NUM> wt% of water was added to the capture solvent, the levulinic acid residual ratio exceeded <NUM>, and the levulinic acid residual ratio was found to be sufficient, whereas in the sample <NUM> and the sample <NUM> to which no water was added, the levulinic acid residual ratio fell below <NUM>, and the levulinic acid residual ratio was found to be insufficient. That is, in the third experiment, samples in which the A/N ratio was <NUM> or more were found to have a levulinic acid residual ratio that was insufficient, but for such samples, it was found that the levulinic acid residual ratio was improved by the addition of <NUM> wt% or more of water. It should be noted that from the results of the third experiment, it should be noted that cases in which the A/N ratio is <NUM> or more, the inhaling flavor component residual ratio is insufficient.

In this way, it was found that in a case where the A/N ratio is <NUM> or more, by including <NUM> wt% or more of water in the capture solution, where the capture solution subsequent to addition of the additives (here, levulinic acid and water) is <NUM> wt%, the levulinic acid residual ratio can be improved, while maintaining the inhaling flavor component residual ratio at a sufficient level.

In a sixth experiment, simulating the third example of the method for producing a flavor source described above (see <FIG>), samples <NUM> to <NUM> were produced by mixing nicotine (<NPL>, purity: <NUM>%) and other reagents. For the sample <NUM> to the sample <NUM>, glycerol was used as the flavor base material (capture solvent). The amount of glycerol in the sample <NUM> to the sample <NUM> was approximately <NUM> wt%, where the capture solution after addition of the additives is <NUM> wt%. Further, in the sample <NUM> to the sample <NUM>, an acidic substance (here, formic acid) was added to the capture solvent. As shown in <FIG>, the A/N ratios in the samples <NUM> to <NUM> were <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, respectively. It should be noted that the samples <NUM> to <NUM> are samples in which the A/N ratio is greater than <NUM> but less than <NUM>.

In the sixth experiment, by way of step S30 (storage process), storage was performed under open space conditions for seven days, in an environment controlled to <NUM>. For the samples <NUM> to <NUM>, the ratio of the amount of the inhaling flavor component (here, the nicotine component) after performing storage under open space conditions to the amount of inhaling flavor component (here, the nicotine component) prior to performing storage under open space conditions (the inhaling flavor component residual ratio) was measured. The measurement results are as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. For the samples <NUM> to <NUM>, the ratio of the amount of formic acid after performing storage under open space conditions to the amount of formic acid prior to performing storage under open space conditions (the formic acid residual ratio) was measured. The measurement results are as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>.

Here, in the sixth experiment, the inhaling flavor component residual ratio was determined to be sufficient when the inhaling flavor component residual ratio was <NUM> or more, and the formic acid residual ratio was determined to be sufficient when the formic acid residual ratio was <NUM> or more.

As shown in <FIG>, in the samples <NUM> to <NUM>, in which the A/N ratio was greater than <NUM> but less than <NUM>, the inhaling flavor component residual ratio exceeded <NUM>, and the inhaling flavor component was found to be sufficient. Further, as shown in <FIG>, in the samples <NUM>-<NUM>, in which the A/N ratio was greater than <NUM> but less than <NUM>, the formic acid residual ratio exceeded <NUM>, and the formic acid residual ratio was found to be sufficient. That is, in the third experiment, considering the error of <NUM>, in samples for which the A/N ratio was <NUM> or less, the inhaling flavor component residual ratio was found to be insufficient, and in samples in which the A/N was <NUM> or more, the levulinic acid residual ratio was found to be insufficient, but it was found that when the A/N ratio was greater than <NUM> but less than <NUM>, the inhaling flavor component residual ratio and the formic acid residual ratio were sufficient, even when propylene glycol or water was not added to the capture solvent.

In this way, it was found that in a case where an acidic substance such as a carboxylic acid is added to a capture solvent, it is preferable for the A/N ratio to be greater than <NUM> but less than <NUM>.

Firstly, the entire amount of a sample is introduced into a <NUM> screw vial, <NUM> of <NUM>% sodium hydroxide aqueous solution is introduced, and then, <NUM> of a mixed solution of <NUM> of n-hexane and <NUM> of n-heptadecane is introduced.

Secondly, the above-described screw vial is shielded from light by using aluminium foil, and then shaken for <NUM> hours.

Thirdly, the shaken screw vial is left to rest for about one hour.

Fourthly, the supernatant is collected, filtered by using a <NUM> pm membrane filter, and then analyzed by a gas chromatography mass spectrometer (GCMS).

Measurement is performed using a method in accordance with the German Institute for Standardization, DIN <NUM>. That is, <NUM> of the capture solvent in which the inhaling flavor component was captured was collected, <NUM> of an <NUM>% sodium hydroxide aqueous solution and <NUM> of hexane were added, and the nicotine was transferred to the hexane phase by shaking extraction for <NUM> minutes. After the extraction, a hexane phase, which configured the supernatant, was supplied to a gas chromatography mass spectrometer (GC/MS), and the nicotine weight included in the tobacco raw material was quantitatively measured.

An analysis was performed by the following method. That is, <NUM> of the capture solution targeted for analysis was collected, <NUM> of purified water was added, and shaking extraction was performed for <NUM> minutes. Next, the shaken solution was filtered through a <NUM> pm membrane filter, and then analyzed by a capillary-electrophoretic system to quantify the weight of the carboxylic acid (levulinic acid or formic acid) added to the capture solution.

In the embodiment, there were many described cases in which the flavor base material is a member of solid form, or a liquid impregnating a solid. However, the embodiment is not limited thereto. Specifically, the flavor base material may be a capture solvent itself. As stated above, such a capture solvent could be, for example, a capture solvent that is contained in a cartridge for an electronic cigarette.

In the embodiment, step S21B (the addition process) was performed prior to step S20 (the transfer process), but the embodiment is not limited thereto. In a mode in which the capture solvent is not heated during step S20 (the transfer process), as in the third example of the method for producing a flavor source described above, i.e., a mode in which there is no volatilization of the additives (acidic substances such as carboxylic acids, water, or propylene glycol) added to the capture solvent, there are no particular limitations as to the timing for adding the additives. However, as shown in the second experiment, from the standpoint of maintaining the inhaling flavor component (here, the nicotine component) in step S20 (the transfer process), it is preferable for the addition process of the carboxylic acid or other acidic substance to be performed before step S20 (the transfer process). On the other hand, in a mode in which the capture solvent is heated during step S20 (the transfer process), in order to prevent volatilization of additives (acidic substances such as carboxylic acids, water, or propylene glycol) added to the capture solvent, it is preferable for step S21B (the addition process) to be performed prior to step S20 (the transfer process). However, it should be noted that in a case where acidic substances added to the capture solvent are substances that are not readily volatilized (e.g., citric acid, malic acid, or tartaric acid), even in a mode in which the capture solvent is heated, the acidic substance addition process can be performed prior to step S20 (the transfer process).

In the embodiment, step S21B (the addition process) was performed prior to step S20 (the transfer process), but the embodiment is not limited thereto. It should be noted that in a mode in which water or an acidic substance such as a carboxylic acid is added as an addition treatment to the capture solvent, a phenomenon whereby moisture or an acidic substance such as a carboxylic acid contained in the tobacco raw material (e.g., formic acid, acetic acid, or the like contained in the tobacco raw material) is transferred to the capture solvent in step S20 (the transfer process) is also encompassed within the concept of step S21B (the addition step). Further, in step S21B (the addition process), it would of course be acceptable to further add water or an acidic substance such as a carboxylic acid, in addition to water or an acidic substance such as a carboxylic acid that has transferred from the tobacco raw material to the capture solvent.

It should be noted that in the embodiment, the capture solvent after the inhaling flavor component has been captured therein is referred to as a capture solution. Therefore, in a case where the process to add to the capture solvent additives such as carboxylic acids, water, or propylene glycol is performed after the inhaling flavor component has been captured by the capture solvent, the process to added the additives to the capture solvent may be understood a a process to add the additives to the capture solution.

Claim 1:
A method for producing a flavor source that supports an inhaling flavor component contained in a tobacco raw material, the method comprising:
step A of performing an alkali treatment on the tobacco raw material; and
step B of arranging an alkali-treated tobacco raw material and a flavor base material configured by non-tobacco material within a same space in such a way that the alkali-treated tobacco raw material and the flavor base material are maintained in a non-contacting state, thereby inducing the flavor base material to support the inhaling flavor component emitted as a vapor phase from the tobacco raw material, wherein
the flavor base material is a capture solvent, and
the method includes step E of adding a carboxylic acid to the capture solvent.