Smoking a joint with rolling paper often provides a smoother and potentially cooler smoke compared to tobacco wraps. This phenomenon is attributed to several factors that we’re about to get right into:
The Convenience and Consistency of Joint Wrappers
Joint papers are usually thinner and made from materials like rice, hemp, flax, or wood pulp. These materials are lightweight and burn more evenly compared to thicker tobacco wraps, which may contain added chemicals or fillers. These additives, when burned, might contribute to a harsher smoke and higher combustion temperature.
Cannabis burns differently than tobacco due to variations in their chemical composition. The combustion of cannabis produces different compounds compared to burning tobacco, which can affect the perceived temperature and smoothness of the smoke.
Thinner rolling papers have a higher surface area-to-mass ratio, leading to a more efficient burn. As a result, they require less heat to ignite and maintain combustion. Additionally, the increased airflow through the thin paper contributes to a cooler burn, reducing the overall temperature of the smoke.
Tobacco wraps might contain humectants or other substances to maintain moisture and flexibility. Higher moisture content can affect the burn rate and the perceived temperature of the smoke. In contrast, rolling papers for joints tend to have lower moisture content, which can contribute to a smoother, cooler smoke.
The science behind joint papers burning at a lower temperature than tobacco wraps encompasses various factors, including paper thickness, composition, burn rate, airflow, moisture content, additives, and differences between cannabis and tobacco combustion. These factors collectively contribute to the perceived cooler and smoother smoke when using rolling papers for joints.
Individual preferences also play a role. Some smokers perceive the smoke from joints to be cooler and smoother due to the factors mentioned above, while others may have different experiences based on their sensitivity to smoke or particular rolling techniques. Joints or blunts, which do you prefer?