TGA/FTIR study of the decomposition of Heet tobacco in presence of zeolites and silicate compounds

Abstract

This paper studied the thermal behaviour of Heet tobacco analysing the functional groups generated in the process of decomposition in inert and oxidative atmosphere. The effect of three zeolites, ZSM5, USY, and Beta, and two silicates, SBA-15 and Silica Fumed (SF) in the compounds of decomposition has been studied. The stages of decomposition of the tobacco (TGA) and the evolution of the functional groups with temperature (FTIR) have been analyzed. All additives produce significant changes in the volatiles generated under both atmospheres, being Beta zeolite and especially SBA-15 the materials more markedly reducing the yields of methylene, alcohols, CO, CO2 and carbonyl compounds, during the pyrolysis of Heet tobacco under nitrogen and air atmospheres. This effect may contribute efficiently to further reduce the toxicity of the Heet HNB tobacco.