Heated Tobacco / Heat Not Burn; how it works, and what are the benefits
Heated tobacco, also known as Heat-Not-Burn (HNB) products, has been a significant development in my tobacco consumption journey. Unlike traditional cigarettes that rely on combustion to release nicotine and flavour, HNB devices like TEO offer an alternative by heating tobacco or cellulose to around 350°C, well below the temperature needed for combustion. This process creates an inhalable aerosol without producing smoke.
What is Cellulose?
Cellulose is a fundamental organic compound and the main component of plant cell walls. It's essentially a polysaccharide, which means it's made up of long chains of glucose molecules bonded together. These chains form strong, rigid structures that provide support and stability to plant cells, giving plants their structural integrity.
Cellulose is one of the most abundant organic compounds on Earth, found in various forms across the plant kingdom, from trees and grasses to cotton and hemp. It's also a key component of dietary fibre in our diets, although humans lack the enzymes necessary to digest it fully.
Industrially, cellulose has numerous applications. It's used in the production of paper and textiles, where its strong, fibrous nature lends itself well to creating durable materials. Cellulose is also used in food production as a thickener and stabilizer, and in pharmaceuticals as a coating for tablets. Additionally, it serves as a renewable and biodegradable alternative to synthetic materials in various industries, contributing to sustainability efforts.
All brands in the heat-not-burn arena, heat tobacco to 350C. However, NEAFS have developed a dry vape solution which utilises Cellulose therefore giving the same experience minus the tobacco.
How do the devices work?
The mechanics behind these devices are fascinating. Typically, they involve a battery-powered device paired with specially designed heat sticks. These sticks are inserted into the device, which then heats them to the optimal temperature, releasing the desired aerosol for inhalation. It's a streamlined process that usually takes just a few minutes, offering a quick and convenient way to enjoy a very realistic smoking experience.
What are the Benefits?
The benefits of heat not burn are compelling, especially when compared to traditional smoking. By avoiding combustion, HNB products produce emissions with lower levels of harmful chemicals, offering a potentially less harmful alternative. Additionally, the reduced odour makes them a discreet option for smokers like me who prefer not to draw attention to their habit.
Financially, the transition to heat not burn has been a wise choice. While the initial investment in a device may seem steep, the long-term savings are significant, with HNB sticks costing less than three times the price of a pack of traditional cigarettes.
However, it's crucial to approach heated tobacco as a harm reduction tool rather than a risk-free alternative. While it may be a better option for those seeking to reduce their exposure to harmful chemicals, it's not without risks. Responsible and moderate use is essential to minimize the potential for long-term health problems.
Is Heat not Burn the same as vaping?
One question that often arises is whether heated tobacco is the same as vaping. While both involve electronic devices, they operate differently. Heated tobacco products utilize real tobacco, while vaping devices heat a liquid (vape juice) to produce a vapor for inhalation. The distinction lies in the ingredients and process, with heated tobacco focusing on tobacco consumption and vaping on flavoured liquids containing nicotine or other additives.
In my journey, heated tobacco has offered a promising alternative to traditional smoking, providing a more satisfying and potentially less harmful experience.
