| Abstract:This study characterized the moisture absorption of slurry-type reconstituted tobacco flakes using the equilibrium moisture content, and explored the effects of added fiber beating degree, fiber type, tobacco powder particle size, and inorganic filler type on the moisture absorption of the tobacco sheet using the method of controlled variables. The study also optimized the preparation process of slurry-type reconstituted tobacco flakes. The results showed that the effects of added fiber beating degree, fiber type, and tobacco powder particle size on the moisture absorption of tobacco sheet were small. Among the 5 inorganic fillers, adding bentonite was found to be effective in reducing the equilibrium moisture content of tobacco sheet and improving its moisture absorption. As the concentration of bentonite in the thick paste increased from 0% to 2%, the equilibrium moisture content of the tobacco sheet decreased. When the concentration of bentonite in the thick paste was 1.5%, the equilibrium moisture content of the tobacco sheet at 50%, 60%, and 70% humidity was 16.7%, 15.5%, and 13.5% lower than that of the original sheet, respectively. The cigarette made from the sheet had similar burning rate and fragrance to the original cigarette. |