The Influence of Different Filter Parameters on the Semivolatile Composition of Mainstream Smoke

Abstract The semivolatile fraction of cigarette smoke contains the most important aroma and taste compounds which contribute to the smoker's enjoyment. Obviously, the semivolatile composition is strongly affected by cigarette filters and consequently by the material which is used for filter manufacturing. We have studied the effect of cellulose acetate and polypropylene as filter material on the smoke semivolatiles. Further, the effect of other parameters like pressure drop and the use of additives has been investigated. Smoke condensate was collected on a Cambridge filter pad, the semivolatiles were evaporated using a headspace apparatus and subsequently collected in a cold trap. Semivolatile analyses were performed by high-resolution GC/MS. The cellulose acetate filter, due to its polar structure, selectively retains polar compounds such as phenols and furans while the non-polar polypropylene filter shows a non-selective retention behaviour. The addition to polypropylene filters of a polar compound such as triacetin, which is used as plasticiser in the manufacturing of cellulose acetate filters, does not affect the retention behaviour towards the semivolatiles.