Inventors:
Dennis M. Riggs - Belews Creek NC
Dwayne W. Beeson - Kernersville NC
Billy T. Conner - Greensboro NC
Assignee:
R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company - Winston-Salem NC
International Classification:
A24B 1500
Abstract:
The present invention is directed to a composition suitable for making fuel elements for smoking articles, which comprises at least about 50 weight percent, preferably at least about 60 weight percent, and most preferably at least about 70 weight percent powdered elemental carbon, preferably carbon obtained from the controlled carbonization of hardwood paper pulp. The fuel composition also comprises at least about 1 weight percent, preferably at least about 5 weight percent, and most preferably at least about 10 weight percent of a suitable binder. The fuel composition of the present invention can include at least about 3 weight percent, preferably at least about 5 weight percent, and most preferably at least about 8 weight percent powdered graphite. Finally, the fuel composition of the present invention can include at least about 1 weight percent, preferably at least about 2 weight percent, and most preferably at least about 3 weight percent of a suitable inorganic filler such as calcium carbonate, or the like. If necessary or desired, other additives can be included in the fuel compositions of the present invention, including up to about 10 weight percent powdered tobacco and/or up to about 1.