R.j. Reynolds Tobacco Company

Kenneth O Baker

Jack F Clearman

Jerry W Lawson

Robert L Meiring

The present invention is directed to improvements in carbonaceous fuel elements wherein (a) the fuel elements are provided with a composite support member which assists in retaining the fuel element within the cigarette structure during smoking, and (b) the fuel elements burn at a lower average temperature than previously known carbonaceous fuel elements. In one preferred embodiment of the present invention, the fuel element comprises at least two different materials contiguous throughout the length thereof, and including one material which burns, and another material which preferably does not burn, or burns more slowly than the burnable material. The non-burning, or substantially non-burning material is advantageously a heat exchange material such as graphite. In preferred embodiments, the nonburning support or retaining member extends beyond the periphery of the burnable material such that it interacts with the insulating jacket which surrounds the fuel element, locking the same in place, particularly during smoking.

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Clemmons, NC, United States of America

Kenneth O Baker