On September 19, 2024, at the InterTabac trade fair in Dortmund, Germany, FirstUnion was honored with the 2024 Alternative Award for “Best HNB Innovation” for its groundbreaking Alkaid Light Heating Technology.
This prestigious recognition highlights the revolutionary impact of Alkaid in the heated tobacco products (HTP) sector, a market rapidly evolving to meet consumer demands for better, safer alternatives to traditional smoking.
That same evening, FirstUnion hosted an exclusive launch event at the world’s premier tobacco industry exhibition, showcasing how Alkaid technology addresses key consumer concerns such as heating speed, flavor quality, device cleanliness, and health impacts.
At the heart of Alkaid is its light-heating method, which leverages full-spectrum light waves, mimicking the natural power of sunlight to deliver rapid and uniform heating. This innovative approach allows the device to preheat in just five seconds, transforming the smoking experience by eliminating long wait times and offering users immediate satisfaction.
Dr. Zhu Bin, FirstUnion’s Alkaid light-heating technical lead, emphasized that this rapid heating mechanism provides a smooth, seamless draw, without the delays typically associated with traditional heated tobacco devices.
But Alkaid’s rapid heating is just the beginning of its revolutionary impact.
The technology offers superior taste and health benefits, setting it apart from current products in the market. Alkaid increases nicotine release efficiency in aerosols by over 40%, while boosting total particulate matter (TPM) by 20%, offering a rich experience that closely mimics traditional cigarettes.
At the same time, the device cuts harmful substance emissions by 20%, significantly reducing potential health risks. This dual benefit of enhanced nicotine delivery with a reduction in harmful toxins demonstrates Alkaid’s commitment to both taste and harm reduction.
In addition to its performance, Alkaid’s non-contact heating design eliminates the need for regular cleaning, a common issue with many other devices. The result is a device that maintains consistent, fresh-tasting results even after 5,000 continuous uses, offering long-term convenience and reliability for consumers.
The development of Alkaid technology is the result of four years of extensive research and testing, carried out by a multidisciplinary team of over 100 experts in fields such as materials science, optics, electronics, and tobacco.
Inspired by the principles of solar collectors, Alkaid breaks away from traditional heating methods, utilizing the speed and penetrating power of light to provide faster, more efficient heating.
FirstUnion has been at the forefront of HTP innovation since 2012, and the launch of Alkaid not only reinforces its leadership position but also sets a new trajectory for the global HTP sector. Alkaid’s revolutionary design and impressive health benefits represent a significant step forward for the industry.
As the company’s slogan proudly declares, “Harnessing the power of light to guide the future – Alkaid brings the future within reach.”
With Alkaid, FirstUnion offers a transformative experience—where speed, taste, and health converge to redefine what’s possible in HTP technology. By providing an efficient, satisfying, and healthier alternative to traditional tobacco consumption, Alkaid is leading the charge in reshaping the future of smoking.
