The cigarette filtered process is further complicated by the technical efforts of the tobacco producers. They specifically designed cigarettes to control a variety of factors include stopping cigarettes from burning in feces, reducing tobacco spoilage, changing the smell of smoke, and controlling the levels of substances (tar and nicotine) measured by government agencies.
The porosity of cigarette filter tips and paper is specially controlled to regulate the amount of air flowing through the smoke and diluting it. Porosity also affects how fast the cigarette burns. Phosphate is added to the paper to ensure a stable and even combustion.
There are several types of additives in tobacco itself. One type of additive is called a moisturizer. Fluxes are chemicals that help retain moisture in tobacco. This is important when burning tobacco. Humet also affects the taste and temperature of the smoke.
The most commonly used moisturizers are glycerin, D-sorbitol, and diethylene glycol. Flux forms a new percentage of the total weight of the tobacco. Another type of additive is called a coating agent. This helps mix the tobacco and hold it in. It also affects the smell of the smoke and how fast the tobacco burns.
The most commonly used cartridges include sugar, syrup, licorice, and conditioners. The amount of cork material used varies from about 5% of the total weight of tobacco in cigarette tobacco to about 30% of the weight of pipe tobacco.
