Aerosol-generating article with low suction resistance

Abstract

There is provided an aerosol-generating article (10) for generating an inhalable aerosol upon heating, the aerosol-generating article (10) extending from a downstream end (20) to an upstream end (18) and comprising: an aerosol-generating section (52) comprising a strip (12) of an aerosol-generating substrate; a mouthpiece section (46) comprising a mouthpiece filter segment (42) formed from a fibrous filter material; and an intermediate hollow section (50) defining a longitudinal cavity providing an unrestricted flow passage from the aerosol-generating section (52) to the mouthpiece section (64). The mouthpiece section has a length L1 extending between an upstream end (62) of the mouthpiece filter segment (42) and a downstream end (20) of the aerosol-generating article. The intermediate hollow section (50) has a length L2 extending between the downstream end of the aerosol-generating section (52) and the upstream end of the mouthpiece section. The intermediate hollow section (50) comprises an aerosol cooling section (24) downstream of the aerosol-generating section (52) and a support section (22) between the aerosol cooling section (24) and the aerosol-generating section (52). The length (L1) of the mouthpiece section (46) is at least 0.10 times the length (L2) of the intermediate hollow section (50) and less than 0.34 times the length of the intermediate hollow section (50).

Description

[0001] The present application relates to an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol- generating substrate and adapted to generate an inhalable aerosol upon heating.

[0002] Aerosol-generating articles in which an aerosol-generating substrate, such as a tobacco- containing substrate, is heated rather than combusted are known in the art. Typically, in such heated smoking articles, an aerosol is generated by the transfer of heat from a heat source to a physically separate aerosol-generating substrate or material, which can be positioned in contact with, inside, around or downstream of the heat source. During use of the aerosol-generating article, volatile compounds are released from the aerosol-generating substrate by heat transfer from the heat source and are entrained in air drawn through the aerosol-generating article. As the released compounds cool, they condense to form an aerosol.

[0003] Consumables in which a solid substrate in the form of a nicotine-containing gel or film is heated rather than combusted are known in the art. For example, WO 2018 / 019543 discloses a thermoreversible gel composition, i.e. a gel that becomes fluid when heated to a melting temperature and solidifies again into a gel at a gelling temperature. The gel is disposed within a housing of a cartridge, and the cartridge can be disposed of and replaced when the gel has been consumed. WO 2020 / 207733 discloses a consumable comprising a strip of aerosol-generating substrate having a plurality of stacked layers of aerosol-generating film. In use, a majority of the components of the film can evaporate upon heating, leaving minimal residue and allowing the article to be more easily disposed of and reducing the impact on the environment.

[0004] A number of prior art documents disclose aerosol-generating devices for consuming aerosol-generating articles. Such devices include, for example, electrically heated aerosol-generating devices in which an aerosol is generated by heat transfer from one or more electric heater elements of the aerosol-generating device to an aerosol-generating substrate of a heated aerosol-generating article. For example, electrically heated aerosol-generating devices comprising an internal heater blade adapted to be inserted into an aerosol-generating substrate have been proposed. As an alternative, inductively heatable aerosol-generating articles comprising an aerosol-generating substrate and a susceptor arranged within the aerosol-generating substrate have been proposed by WO 2015 / 176898. Another alternative has been described in WO 2020 / 115151, which discloses an aerosol-generating article for use in combination with an external heating system comprising one or more heating elements arranged around the periphery of the aerosol-generating article. For example, the external heating elements can be provided in the form of a flexible heating foil on a dielectric substrate, such as polyimide. The external heating can be resistive or inductive.

[0005] Aerosol-generating articles in which a tobacco-containing substrate is heated rather than combusted present a number of challenges that are not encountered with conventional smoking articles. First, the tobacco-containing substrate is typically heated to a significantly lower temperature than the temperature reached by the combustion front in a conventional cigarette. This can impact the release of nicotine from the tobacco-containing substrate and the delivery of nicotine to the consumer. At the same time, if the heating temperature is increased in an attempt to enhance nicotine delivery, the generated aerosol typically needs to be cooled to a greater extent and more rapidly before it reaches the consumer. However, technical solutions commonly used to cool the mainstream smoke in conventional smoking articles, such as providing a high filter efficiency segment at the mouth end of the cigarette, can have undesirable effects in aerosol-generating articles in which a tobacco-containing substrate is heated rather than combusted, as they can reduce nicotine delivery.

[0006] To address one or more of the challenges that are particularly relevant to heating rather than combusting an aerosol-generating substrate to generate an aerosol, a number of aerosol-generating articles have been proposed in which a plurality of elements are combined with an aerosol-generating element containing an aerosol-generating substrate, for example, in longitudinal alignment. For example, aerosol-generating elements have been combined with support elements that impart improved structural strength to the article, aerosol-cooling elements that are adapted to reduce the temperature of the aerosol, low filter mouthpiece elements, and the like.

[0007] There is a general recognition that there is a need for aerosol-generating articles that are easy to use and have improved utility. In addition, it would be desirable to provide aerosol-generating articles that are easier to manufacture and can make the overall production chain more sustainable and cost-effective. There is also a need for aerosol-generating articles that are particularly suitable for use in combination with external heating systems, and in particular, aerosol-generating articles that have improved aerosol generation and aerosol-former delivery. There is also a need to provide such aerosol-generating articles that are easier to dispose of or have a reduced impact on the environment after use.

[0008] Heating a substrate comprising a cellulose-based material, in particular hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), to too high a temperature, such as above 300 degrees Celsius, can result in off-taste of the paper and generation of formaldehyde. However, heating such a substrate to a lower temperature, while reducing the level of harmful and potentially harmful compounds (HPHC) generated, also reduces the aerosolization of aerosol-former and nicotine. In addition, a film substrate comprises a relatively high amount by weight of cellulose-based material for imparting structure to the film and a lower amount by weight of aerosol-former compared to a gel substrate, which can comprise a relatively high amount by weight of aerosol-former. The lower amount by weight of aerosol-former used in a film substrate also reduces the efficiency of delivery of aerosol-former and nicotine relative to a gel substrate. There is a need to provide an aerosol-generating article comprising a film substrate that allows for efficient delivery of aerosol-former as well as nicotine.

[0009] Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide a new and improved aerosol-generating article that addresses at least one of the foregoing needs. Further, it would be desirable to provide an aerosol-generating article that allows for efficient delivery of nicotine and / or an aerosol-former, such as glycerol, while maintaining a low level of HPHC or even reducing the level of HPHC. Further, it would be desirable to provide such an aerosol-generating article that can be manufactured efficiently and at high speed, preferably with a satisfactory low RTD variability from one article to another.

[0010] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating article for producing an inhalable aerosol upon heating, the aerosol-generating article extending from an upstream end to a downstream end. The aerosol-generating article comprises an aerosol-generating segment comprising a rod of aerosol-generating substrate. The aerosol-generating article can further comprise a mouthpiece segment comprising a mouthpiece filter segment formed of fibrous filter material, the mouthpiece segment having a length LI extending between an upstream end of the mouthpiece filter segment and the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating article can comprise an intermediate hollow segment having a length L2 extending between the aerosol-generating segment and the mouthpiece segment, the intermediate hollow segment defining a longitudinal cavity providing an unrestricted flow passage from the aerosol-generating segment to the mouthpiece segment. The intermediate hollow segment can comprise an aerosol-cooling segment downstream of the aerosol-generating segment. The intermediate hollow segment can further comprise a support segment between the aerosol-cooling segment and the aerosol-generating segment. The length (LI) of the mouthpiece segment can be at least 0.10 times the length (L2) of the intermediate hollow segment and less than 0.40 times the length of the intermediate hollow segment.

[0011] According to the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol-generating article for producing an inhalable aerosol upon heating, the aerosol-generating article extending from an upstream end to a downstream end, and comprising: an aerosol-generating segment comprising a rod of aerosol-generating substrate; a mouthpiece segment comprising a mouthpiece filter segment formed of fibrous filter material, the mouthpiece segment having a length LI extending between an upstream end of the mouthpiece filter segment and the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article; an intermediate hollow segment having a length L2 extending between the aerosol-generating segment and the mouthpiece segment, the intermediate hollow segment defining a longitudinal cavity providing an unrestricted flow passage from the aerosol-generating segment to the mouthpiece segment. The intermediate hollow segment comprises: an aerosol-cooling segment downstream of the aerosol-generating segment; and a support segment between the aerosol-cooling segment and the aerosol-generating segment. According to the present disclosure, the length (LI) of the mouthpiece segment is at least 0.10 times the length (L2) of the intermediate hollow segment and less than 0.40 times the length of the intermediate hollow segment.

[0012] According to the present invention, there is provided an aerosol-generating article for generating an inhalable aerosol upon heating. The aerosol-generating article consists of three segments: an aerosol-generating segment, an intermediate hollow segment downstream of the aerosol-generating segment, and a mouthpiece segment downstream of the intermediate hollow segment. The aerosol-generating article comprises an aerosol-generating segment comprising a rod of aerosol-generating substrate.

[0013] The term "aerosol-generating article" is used herein to mean an article in which an aerosol-generating substrate is heated to produce and deliver to a consumer an inhalable aerosol. As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating substrate" means a substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds upon heating to generate an aerosol.

[0014] The aerosol-generating article of the present invention optionally comprises an aerosol-generating film. Such a substrate is designed to be heated to a relatively low temperature, that is to say, a temperature of less than about 300 degrees Celsius, to minimize the level of formaldehyde generated and to avoid off-notes of paper. While heating a substrate such as an aerosol-generating film to a lower temperature reduces the level of HPHC generated, it also reduces the aerosolization of aerosol former and nicotine. Additionally, relative to a gel substrate, an aerosol-generating film contains a relatively high amount by weight of cellulose-based material for imparting structure to the film and a lower amount by weight of aerosol former. The lower amount by weight of aerosol former relative to a gel substrate reduces the efficiency of delivery of aerosol former and nicotine in the film substrate. The aerosol-generating article of the present invention, which optionally comprises an aerosol-generating film substrate, allows for efficient delivery of aerosol former and nicotine to a consumer due to its relatively lower filtration and low RTD of the downstream segments comprising the intermediate hollow segment and the mouthpiece segment, as compared to conventional aerosol-generating articles.

[0015] Conventional cigarettes are lit when a user applies a flame to one end of the cigarette and draws air through the other end. The localized heat provided by the flame and oxygen in the air drawn through the cigarette ignites the end of the cigarette and the resulting combustion generates an inhalable smoke. In contrast, in a heated aerosol-generating article, an aerosol is generated by heating a flavour-generating substrate such as tobacco. Known heated aerosol-generating articles include, for example, electrically heated aerosol-generating articles and aerosol-generating articles in which an aerosol is generated by heat transfer from a combustible fuel element or heat source to physically separate aerosol-forming material. For example, aerosol-generating articles are particularly suitable for use in aerosol-generating systems comprising an electrically heated aerosol-generating device having an internal heater blade adapted to be inserted into a rod of aerosol-generating substrate. Aerosol-generating articles of this type are described in the prior art, for example, in European Patent Application EP 0822670.

[0016] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating device" refers to a device comprising a heater element that interacts with an aerosol-generating substrate of an aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol. During use, volatile compounds are released from the aerosol-generating substrate by heat transfer and are entrained in air that is drawn through the aerosol-generating article. As the released compounds cool, they condense to form an aerosol that is inhaled by the consumer.

[0017] The aerosol-generating element can be in the form of a rod comprising or made from an aerosol-generating substrate. As used herein with reference to the present application, the term "rod" is used to denote a generally cylindrical element of substantially circular, oval or elliptical cross-section.

[0018] As used herein, the term "longitudinal" refers to a direction corresponding to a main longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article, the direction extending between an upstream end and a downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. As used herein, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" describe the relative position of an element or part of an element of the aerosol-generating article with respect to the direction in which aerosol is conveyed through the aerosol-generating article during use.

[0019] As used herein, the term "upstream end of the aerosol-generating article" refers to the distal end of the aerosol-generating article.

[0020] As used herein, the term "downstream end of the aerosol-generating article" refers to the mouth end of the aerosol-generating article.

[0021] During use, air is drawn through the aerosol-generating article in the longitudinal direction. The term "lateral" refers to a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Unless otherwise stated, any reference to a "cross-section" of the aerosol-generating article or a component of the aerosol-generating article refers to a transverse cross-section.

[0022] The term "length" denotes the dimension of a component of the aerosol-generating article in the longitudinal direction. For example, it can be used to denote the dimension of a rod or an elongate tubular element in the longitudinal direction.

[0023] Unless otherwise stated, the resistance to draw (RTD) of a component or aerosol-generating article is measured in accordance with ISO 6565-2015. RTD refers to the pressure required to force air through the full length of the component. The term "pressure drop" or "draw resistance" of a component or article can also refer to "resistance to draw". Such terms generally refer to measurements in accordance with ISO 6565-2015, which are typically carried out in a test at a temperature of about 22 degrees Celsius, a pressure of about 101 kPa (about 760 Torr), and a relative humidity of about 60%, at a volumetric flow rate of about 17.5 millilitres / second at the output or downstream end of the component being measured.

[0024] The aerosol-generating article according to the present application provides an improved configuration of the elements downstream of the aerosol-generating segment, which is defined by having a ratio of the length of the mouthpiece segment to the length of the intermediate hollow segment of at least 0.10 times and less than 0.40 times. This ratio reflects a configuration in which a relatively short mouthpiece segment is provided in combination with a longer intermediate hollow segment than has previously been provided. In particularly preferred embodiments of the present application, the improved configuration provides a relatively short mouthpiece segment in combination with a longer aerosol-cooling segment than has previously been provided.

[0025] It has been found that by increasing the distance between the aerosol-generating segment and the mouthpiece segment while reducing the length of the mouthpiece segment, it is possible to provide a product with a lower resistance to draw (RTD) of the mouthpiece segment. This allows for improved aerosol delivery and efficient nicotine and glycerol delivery while maintaining or even reducing the level of HPHC. Furthermore, a shorter mouthpiece segment allows for improved product sustainability as a lower amount of plasticizer is used in the manufacture of the mouthpiece segment. Advantageously, these benefits can be provided without affecting the overall length of the article, such that the overall length consistent with existing aerosol-generating articles can be maintained.

[0026] As described in more detail below, the increase in the length of the intermediate hollow segment relative to the length of the mouthpiece segment can advantageously be provided by increasing the length of the aerosol-cooling segment.

[0027] According to the present application, there is provided an aerosol-generating article for generating an inhalable aerosol upon heating.

[0028] The aerosol-generating article comprises an aerosol-generating segment comprising a rod of aerosol-generating substrate. The aerosol-generating segment can further comprise one or more upstream segments at a location upstream of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating segment can further comprise an upstream segment arranged immediately upstream of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate. The aerosol-generating segment can further comprise one or more segments that are not hollow and that are contiguous with the rod of aerosol-generating substrate to form a continuous non-hollow segment. For example, a filter segment formed from a fibrous filter material and contiguous with the rod of aerosol-generating substrate can be part of the aerosol-generating segment. Such non-hollow segments can be contiguous with the rod of aerosol-generating substrate at a location upstream or downstream of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate.

[0029] The aerosol-generating segment extends from an upstream end of the aerosol-generating article to a downstream end of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate, or to a downstream end of any non-hollow segment contiguous with the rod of aerosol-generating substrate to form a continuous non-hollow segment downstream of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate.

[0030] The aerosol-generating article further comprises a downstream segment at a location downstream of the aerosol-generating segment. The downstream segment comprises an intermediate hollow segment and a mouthpiece segment.

[0031] In the aerosol-generating article according to the application, the mouthpiece segment comprises a mouthpiece filter segment. The mouthpiece segment extends from an upstream end of the mouthpiece filter segment to a downstream end of the aerosol-generating article.

[0032] The downstream segment further comprises an intermediate hollow segment between the mouthpiece segment and the aerosol-generating segment. The intermediate hollow segment (50) has a length L2 extending between a downstream end of the aerosol-generating segment (52) and an upstream end of the mouthpiece segment. The intermediate hollow segment comprises a support segment and an aerosol-cooling segment. The aerosol-cooling segment comprises a hollow tubular segment. The support segment can also comprise a hollow tubular segment.

[0033] As used herein, the term“hollow tubular segment” denotes a generally elongated element defining a lumen or airflow passage along its longitudinal axis. In particular, the term“tubular” will hereinafter be used to refer to a tubular segment having a substantially cylindrical cross-section and defining at least one airflow conduit establishing uninterrupted fluid communication between an upstream end of the tubular segment and a downstream end of the tubular segment. However, it will be understood that alternative geometrical shapes of the tubular segment, e.g. alternative cross-sectional shapes, are possible.

[0034] As used herein, the term“elongated” means that the length dimension of an element is greater than its width dimension or its diameter dimension, e.g. two times or more of its width dimension or its diameter dimension.

[0035] In the context of the present application, the hollow tubular segment provides an unrestricted flow passage. This means that the hollow tubular segment provides a negligible level of resistance to draw (RTD). Accordingly, the flow passage should be free of any components that would impede the flow of air in the longitudinal direction. Preferably, the flow passage is substantially empty.

[0036] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating article can comprise a ventilation zone at a location along the intermediate hollow segment. In more detail, the aerosol-generating article can comprise a ventilation zone at a location along the aerosol-cooling segment. In preferred embodiments, the aerosol-cooling segment comprises or is in the form of a hollow tubular segment, the ventilation zone being provided at a location along the hollow tubular segment of the aerosol-cooling element.

[0037] The aerosol-generating article can further comprise a susceptor element within the aerosol-generating substrate. In some embodiments, the susceptor element can be an elongated susceptor element. In preferred embodiments, the susceptor element extends longitudinally within the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0038] These components of aerosol-generated articles will be described in further detail below.

[0039] As defined above, the mouthpiece section of the aerosol-generating article of the present invention includes a mouthpiece filter segment. In some embodiments of the present invention, the mouthpiece section may include an end cavity at a downstream end of the mouthpiece section, downstream of the mouthpiece filter segment. The mouthpiece section may include an end cavity at the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article.

[0040] The mouthpiece filter segment is preferably located at the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The mouthpiece filter segment includes a fibrous filter material for filtering aerosols generated from the aerosol-generating matrix. Suitable fibrous filter materials will be known to those skilled in the art. Particularly preferably, at least one mouthpiece filter segment includes a cellulose acetate filter segment formed from cellulose acetate tow.

[0041] In some preferred embodiments, the mouthpiece section consists of a single mouthpiece filter segment. In alternative embodiments, the mouthpiece section includes two or more mouthpiece filter segments axially aligned in an end-to-end abutment relationship.

[0042] In some embodiments of the invention, the mouthpiece segment may include a mouth-end cavity at a downstream end downstream of the mouthpiece filter segment, as described above. The mouth-end cavity may be defined by a hollow tubular segment disposed at the downstream end of the mouthpiece segment. Alternatively, the mouth-end cavity may be defined by an outer casing of the mouthpiece segment, wherein the outer casing extends downstream from the mouthpiece filter segment.

[0043] The mouthpiece filter segment may optionally include a flavoring agent that can be configured in any suitable form. For example, the mouthpiece filter segment may include one or more capsules, beads, or microparticles of flavoring agent, or one or more threads or filaments carrying flavoring agent.

[0044] According to the present invention, the intermediate hollow section of the aerosol-generating article further includes a support segment located immediately downstream of the aerosol-generating section. Preferably, the support segment is located immediately downstream of the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix. The mouthpiece section is preferably located downstream of the support segment. The intermediate hollow section also includes an aerosol cooling segment located immediately downstream of the support segment. The mouthpiece section is preferably located downstream of both the support segment and the aerosol cooling segment. Particularly preferably, the mouthpiece section is located immediately downstream of the aerosol cooling segment. For example, the mouthpiece filter segment may be adjacent to the downstream end of the aerosol cooling segment.

[0045] Preferably, the cigarette filter segment has a low particle filtration efficiency.

[0046] Preferably, the mouthpiece section is defined by a stick package. Preferably, the mouthpiece section is not ventilated, so that air does not enter along the mouthpiece section to form an aerosol product.

[0047] The mouthpiece section is preferably connected to one or more upstream components of the adjacent upstream component of the aerosol-generating article by means of a tipping package.

[0048] Preferably, the mouthpiece section has an RTD of less than about 10 mm H2O. More preferably, the mouthpiece section has an RTD of less than about 9 mm H2O. Even more preferably, the mouthpiece section has an RTD of less than about 8 mm H2O.

[0049] Preferably, the mouthpiece section has an RTD of at least about 1 mm H2O. More preferably, the mouthpiece section has an RTD of at least about 2 mm H2O. Even more preferably, the mouthpiece section has an RTD of at least about 5 mm H2O.

[0050] An RTD value of about 1 mm H2O to about 10 mm H2O is particularly preferred because a mouthpiece section with such an RTD is expected to have the least impact on the overall RTD of the aerosol-generating article and essentially not exert a filtering effect on the aerosol delivered to the consumer.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment, the mouthpiece section comprises a single mouthpiece filter segment. Preferably, the mouthpiece filter segment has an RTD of less than about 10 mm H2O. More preferably, the mouthpiece filter segment has an RTD of less than about 9 mm H2O. Even more preferably, the mouthpiece filter segment has an RTD of less than about 8 mm H2O.

[0052] Preferably, the mouthpiece filter segment has an RTD of at least about 1 mm H2O. More preferably, the mouthpiece filter segment has an RTD of at least about 2 mm H2O. Even more preferably, the mouthpiece filter segment has an RTD of at least about 5 mm H2O.

[0053] An RTD value of about 1 mm H2O to about 10 mm H2O is particularly preferred because a mouthpiece filter segment with such an RTD is expected to have a minimal impact on the overall RTD of the aerosol-generating article and essentially not exert a filtering effect on the aerosol delivered to the consumer.

[0054] Preferably, the mouthpiece section has an outer diameter approximately equal to the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article. The mouthpiece section may have an outer diameter between about 5 mm and about 10 mm, or between about 6 mm and about 8 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the mouthpiece section has an outer diameter of about 7.2 mm.

[0055] In some embodiments, the mouthpiece segment preferably has a length of about 1 mm to about 10 mm, more preferably about 3 mm to about 9 mm, or even more preferably about 5 mm to about 9 mm.

[0056] For example, the mouthpiece segment may have a length between about 1 mm and about 10 mm, or between about 3 mm and about 9 mm, or between about 5 mm and about 9 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the mouthpiece segment has a length of about 7 mm.

[0057] In some preferred embodiments of the invention, the mouthpiece segment has a length of up to 10 mm or less. Therefore, in such embodiments, the mouthpiece segment is relatively short compared to mouthpiece segments provided in prior art articles. Providing a relatively short mouthpiece segment in the aerosol-generating articles of the present invention offers several benefits to consumers. A shorter mouthpiece segment allows for lower draw resistance (RTD). This allows for improved aerosol delivery and efficient delivery of nicotine and / or aerosol-forming agents (such as glycerin), while maintaining low levels of HPHC or even reducing HPHC levels. Furthermore, a shorter mouthpiece segment allows for improved product sustainability because less plasticizer is used in the manufacture of the mouthpiece element.

[0058] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, a mouthpiece segment having a length of at most 10 mm or less is combined with a relatively short aerosol cooling segment (e.g., an aerosol cooling segment having a length of at least 10 mm). This combination has been found to provide satisfactory aerosol delivery, particularly nicotine and glycerin delivery, while maintaining low levels of HPHC or even reducing HPHC levels.

[0059] According to the present invention, the length of the mouthpiece segment is at least about 0.10 times the length of the intermediate hollow segment, preferably at least about 0.15 times the length of the intermediate hollow segment, more preferably at least about 0.20 times the length of the intermediate hollow segment, even more preferably at least about 0.25 times the length of the intermediate hollow segment, and most preferably at least 0.30 times the length of the intermediate hollow segment. Therefore, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece segment and the length of the intermediate hollow segment is at least about 0.10, preferably at least about 0.15, more preferably at least about 0.20, even more preferably at least about 0.25, and most preferably at least about 0.30.

[0060] According to the present invention, the length of the mouthpiece segment is less than about 0.40 times the total length of the intermediate hollow segment, preferably less than about 0.38 times the length of the intermediate hollow segment, more preferably less than about 0.36 times the length of the intermediate hollow segment, and most preferably less than about 0.34 times the length of the intermediate hollow segment. Therefore, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece segment and the length of the intermediate hollow segment is less than about 0.40, preferably less than about 0.38, more preferably less than about 0.36, and most preferably less than about 0.34.

[0061] The ratio between the length of the mouthpiece section and the length of the hollow section can be at least about 0.10 and less than about 0.40, preferably at least about 0.10 and less than about 0.38, more preferably at least about 0.10 and less than 0.36, and even more preferably at least about 0.10 and less than 0.34. The ratio between the length of the mouthpiece section and the length of the hollow section can be at least about 0.15 and less than 0.40, preferably at least about 0.15 and less than about 0.38, more preferably at least about 0.15 and less than 0.36, and even more preferably at least about 0.15 and less than about 0.34. The ratio between the length of the mouthpiece section and the length of the hollow section can be at least about 0.20 and less than about 0.40, preferably at least about 0.20 and less than about 0.38, more preferably at least about 0.20 and less than 0.36, and even more preferably at least about 0.20 and less than 0.34. The ratio between the length of the mouthpiece section and the length of the central hollow section can be at least about 0.25 and less than about 0.40, preferably at least about 0.25 and less than about 0.38, more preferably at least about 0.25 and less than 0.36, and even more preferably at least about 0.25 and less than 0.34. The ratio between the length of the mouthpiece section and the length of the central hollow section can be at least about 0.30 and less than about 0.40, preferably at least about 0.30 and less than about 0.38, more preferably at least about 0.30 and less than 0.36, and even more preferably at least about 0.30 and less than 0.34.

[0062] The ratio between the length of the mouthpiece section and the length of the aerosol-generating matrix strip can be from about 0.10 to less than about 0.60.

[0063] Preferably, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece segment and the length of the aerosol generating matrix strip is at least about 0.10, more preferably at least about 0.20, and even more preferably at least about 0.30. In a preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece segment and the length of the aerosol generating matrix strip is less than about 0.60.

[0064] In some embodiments, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece segment and the length of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​from about 0.10 to less than about 0.60, preferably from about 0.20 to less than about 0.60, and more preferably from about 0.30 to less than about 0.60.

[0065] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece segment and the length of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​approximately 0.58.

[0066] Preferably, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece section and the length of the aerosol generation section is at least about 0.10, more preferably at least about 0.20, and even more preferably at least about 0.30. In a preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece section and the length of the aerosol generation section is less than about 0.60.

[0067] In some embodiments, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece section and the length of the aerosol generation section is from about 0.10 to less than about 0.60, preferably from about 0.20 to less than about 0.60, and more preferably from about 0.30 to less than about 0.60.

[0068] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece section and the length of the aerosol generation section is approximately 0.41.

[0069] The ratio between the length of the mouthpiece section and the total length of the aerosol-generated article can be from about 0.01 to less than about 0.20.

[0070] Preferably, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece section and the total length of the aerosol-generating article is at least about 0.05, more preferably at least about 0.07, and even more preferably at least about 0.10. The ratio between the length of the mouthpiece section and the total length of the aerosol-generating article is preferably less than about 0.20.

[0071] In some embodiments, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece section and the total length of the aerosol-generated article is preferably from about 0.05 to less than about 0.20, more preferably from about 0.07 to less than about 0.20, and even more preferably from about 0.10 to less than about 0.20.

[0072] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece section and the total length of the aerosol-generated article is approximately 0.16.

[0073] In a preferred embodiment, the mouthpiece section comprises a single mouthpiece filter segment. Preferably, the mouthpiece filter segment has an outer diameter approximately equal to the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article. The mouthpiece filter segment may have an outer diameter between about 5 mm and about 10 mm, or between about 6 mm and about 8 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the mouthpiece filter segment has an outer diameter of approximately 7.2 mm.

[0074] In some embodiments, the mouthpiece filter segment preferably has a length of about 1 mm to about 10 mm, more preferably about 3 mm to about 9 mm, or even more preferably about 5 mm to about 9 mm.

[0075] For example, the mouthpiece filter segment may have a length between about 1 mm and about 10 mm, or between about 3 mm and about 9 mm, or between about 5 mm and about 9 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the mouthpiece filter segment has a length of about 7 mm.

[0076] In some preferred embodiments of the invention, the mouthpiece filter segment has a length of up to 10 mm or less. Therefore, in such embodiments, the mouthpiece filter segment is relatively short compared to mouthpiece filter segments provided in prior art articles. Providing a relatively short mouthpiece filter segment in the aerosol-generating article of the present invention offers several benefits to consumers. A shorter mouthpiece filter segment allows for lower draw resistance (RTD). This allows for improved aerosol delivery and efficient delivery of nicotine and / or aerosol-forming agents (such as glycerin), while maintaining low levels of HPHC or even reducing HPHC levels. Furthermore, a shorter mouthpiece filter segment allows for improved product sustainability because less plasticizer is used in the manufacture of the mouthpiece filter segment.

[0077] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, a mouthpiece filter segment having a length of at most 10 mm or less is combined with a relatively short aerosol cooling segment (e.g., an aerosol cooling segment having a length of at least 10 mm). This combination has been found to provide satisfactory aerosol delivery, particularly nicotine and glycerin delivery, while maintaining low levels of HPHC or even reducing HPHC levels.

[0078] The length of the cigarette filter segment may be at least about 0.10 times the length of the intermediate hollow section, more preferably at least about 0.15 times the length of the intermediate hollow section, more preferably at least about 0.20 times the length of the intermediate hollow section, more preferably at least about 0.25 times the length of the intermediate hollow section, and even more preferably at least 0.30 times the length of the intermediate hollow section.

[0079] The length of the cigarette filter segment can be less than 0.40 times the total length of the intermediate hollow section, preferably less than 0.38 times the length of the intermediate hollow section, more preferably less than 0.36 times the length of the intermediate hollow section, and even more preferably less than 0.34 times the length of the intermediate hollow section. Therefore, the ratio between the length of the cigarette filter segment and the total length of the intermediate hollow section is less than about 0.40, preferably less than about 0.38, more preferably less than about 0.36, and most preferably less than about 0.34.

[0080] The ratio between the length of the filter segment and the length of the hollow section can be at least about 0.10 and less than about 0.40, preferably at least about 0.10 and less than about 0.38, more preferably at least about 0.10 and less than 0.36, and even more preferably at least about 0.10 and less than 0.34. The ratio between the length of the filter segment and the length of the hollow section can be at least about 0.15 and less than 0.40, preferably at least about 0.15 and less than about 0.38, more preferably at least about 0.15 and less than 0.36, and even more preferably at least about 0.15 and less than about 0.34. The ratio between the length of the filter segment and the length of the hollow section can be at least about 0.20 and less than about 0.40, preferably at least about 0.20 and less than about 0.38, more preferably at least about 0.20 and less than 0.36, and even more preferably at least about 0.20 and less than 0.34. The ratio between the length of the filter segment and the length of the hollow section is at least about 0.25 and less than about 0.40, preferably at least about 0.25 and less than about 0.38, more preferably at least about 0.25 and less than 0.36, and even more preferably at least about 0.25 and less than 0.34. The ratio between the length of the filter segment and the length of the hollow section is at least about 0.30 and less than about 0.40, preferably at least about 0.30 and less than about 0.38, more preferably at least about 0.30 and less than 0.36, and even more preferably at least about 0.30 and less than 0.34.

[0081] The ratio between the length of the cigarette filter segment and the length of the aerosol-generating matrix strip can be from about 0.10 to less than about 0.60.

[0082] Preferably, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece filter segment and the length of the aerosol generating matrix strip is at least about 0.10, more preferably at least about 0.20, and even more preferably at least about 0.30. In a preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece filter segment and the length of the aerosol generating matrix strip is less than about 0.60.

[0083] In some embodiments, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece filter segment and the length of the aerosol generating matrix strip is from about 0.10 to less than about 0.60, preferably from about 0.20 to less than about 0.60, and more preferably from about 0.30 to less than about 0.60.

[0084] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece filter segment and the length of the aerosol generating matrix strip is approximately 0.58.

[0085] Preferably, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece filter segment and the length of the aerosol generation section is at least about 0.10, more preferably at least about 0.20, and even more preferably at least about 0.30. In a preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece filter segment and the length of the aerosol generation section is less than about 0.60.

[0086] In some embodiments, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece filter segment and the length of the aerosol generation segment is from about 0.10 to less than about 0.60, preferably from about 0.20 to less than about 0.60, and more preferably from about 0.30 to less than about 0.60.

[0087] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece filter segment and the length of the aerosol generation section is approximately 0.41.

[0088] The ratio between the length of the cigarette filter segment and the total length of the aerosol-generated article can be from about 0.01 to less than about 0.20.

[0089] Preferably, the ratio between the length of the cigarette filter segment and the total length of the aerosol-generating article is at least about 0.05, more preferably at least about 0.07, and even more preferably at least about 0.10. The ratio between the length of the cigarette filter segment and the total length of the aerosol-generating article is preferably less than about 0.20.

[0090] In some embodiments, the ratio between the length of the cigarette filter segment and the total length of the aerosol-generated article is preferably from about 0.05 to less than about 0.20, more preferably from about 0.07 to less than about 0.20, and even more preferably from about 0.10 to less than about 0.20.

[0091] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the cigarette filter segment and the total length of the aerosol-generated article is approximately 0.16.

[0092] As described above, the downstream section of the aerosol generating article according to the present invention further includes an intermediate hollow section, which includes an aerosol cooling section arranged to be aligned with the aerosol generating section and downstream of the aerosol generating section.

[0093] The aerosol cooling segments are arranged to be substantially aligned with the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix. This means that the length of the aerosol cooling segments is arranged to be approximately parallel to the longitudinal direction of the strip and the article, for example, within + / - 10 degrees parallel to the longitudinal direction of the strip. In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol cooling segments extend along the longitudinal axis of the strip.

[0094] In the aerosol generating article according to the invention, the aerosol cooling segment is in the form of a hollow tubular segment defining a cavity extending from an upstream end of the aerosol cooling segment to a downstream end of the aerosol cooling segment. Preferably, a ventilation zone is provided along the hollow tubular segment.

[0095] The inventors have discovered that satisfactory cooling of the aerosol flow generated during the heating of the aerosol-generating matrix and drawn through such an aerosol cooling segment can be achieved by providing ventilation zones at locations along the hollow tubular segment. Furthermore, the inventors have discovered that, as will be described in more detail below, by arranging the ventilation zones at precisely defined locations along the length of the aerosol cooling segment, and by preferably utilizing hollow tubular segments having a predetermined peripheral wall thickness or internal volume, it is possible to counteract the increased aerosol dilution caused by the entry of ventilation air into the article.

[0096] Without being bound by theory, it is assumed that the temperature of the aerosol flow is rapidly reduced by introducing ventilation air as the aerosol travels toward the nozzle section. This ventilation air is permitted to enter the aerosol flow relatively close to the upstream end of the aerosol cooling section (i.e., sufficiently close to the sensor element extending within the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix, which serves as a heat source during use). This significantly cools the aerosol flow, having a favorable effect on the condensation and nucleation of aerosol particles. Therefore, compared to existing non-ventilated aerosol-generating articles, the overall ratio of aerosol particulate phase to aerosol gas phase can be increased.

[0097] Simultaneously, maintaining a relatively low thickness of the peripheral walls of the hollow tubular segment ensures that the total internal volume of the hollow tubular segment (which is available for initiating the nucleation process once the aerosol components leave the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix) and the cross-sectional surface area of ​​the hollow tubular segment are effectively maximized. This also ensures that the hollow tubular segment possesses the necessary structural strength to prevent collapse of the aerosol-generating article and to provide some support for the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix, and that the RTD of the hollow tubular segment is minimized. A larger value for the cross-sectional surface area of ​​the cavity of the hollow tubular segment is understood to be associated with a decreasing velocity of the aerosol flow traveling along the aerosol-generating article, which is also expected to favor aerosol nucleation. Furthermore, it seems that by utilizing hollow tubular segments with relatively low thickness, it is possible to substantially prevent the diffusion of the aerosol flow before the ventilation air comes into contact with and mixes with the aerosol flow, which is also understood to further favor nucleation. In practice, it is possible to enhance the effect of cooling on the formation of new aerosol particles by providing more controlled localized cooling to the volatile material flow.

[0098] Preferably, the outer diameter of the aerosol cooling section is approximately equal to the outer diameter of the aerosol generation section, the outer diameter of the aerosol generation matrix strip, and the outer diameter of the aerosol generation article.

[0099] The aerosol cooling segment may have an outer diameter between 5 mm and 12 mm, for example between 5 mm and 10 mm, or between 6 mm and 8 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol cooling segment has an outer diameter of 7.2 mm + / - 10%.

[0100] Preferably, the hollow tubular segment of the aerosol cooling section has an inner diameter of at least about 2 mm. More preferably, the hollow tubular segment of the aerosol cooling section has an inner diameter of at least about 2.5 mm. Even more preferably, the hollow tubular segment of the aerosol cooling section has an inner diameter of at least about 3 mm.

[0101] The peripheral wall of the aerosol cooling segment may have a thickness of less than about 2.5 mm, preferably less than about 1.5 mm, more preferably less than about 1250 micrometers, and even more preferably less than about 1000 micrometers. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the peripheral wall of the aerosol cooling segment has a thickness of less than about 900 micrometers, preferably less than about 800 micrometers.

[0102] In one embodiment, the peripheral wall of the aerosol cooling segment has a thickness of approximately 2 millimeters.

[0103] Aerosol cooling segments can have lengths between 5 mm and 25 mm.

[0104] Preferably, the aerosol cooling segment has a length of at least about 8 mm, more preferably at least about 10 mm.

[0105] In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol cooling segment has a length of less than about 20 mm, more preferably less than about 15 mm.

[0106] In some embodiments, the aerosol cooling segment has a length of about 5 mm to about 25 mm, preferably about 8 mm to about 25 mm, and more preferably about 10 mm to about 25 mm. In other embodiments, the aerosol cooling segment has a length of about 5 mm to about 20 mm, preferably about 8 mm to about 20 mm, and more preferably about 10 mm to about 20 mm. In still other embodiments, the aerosol cooling segment has a length of about 5 mm to about 15 mm, preferably about 8 mm to about 10 mm, and more preferably about 10 mm to about 15 mm.

[0107] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the aerosol cooling segment has a length of at least 10 mm. For example, in one particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol cooling segment has a length of 13 mm. Thus, in such embodiments, the aerosol cooling segment has a relatively long length compared to the aerosol cooling segments of prior art aerosol-generating articles.

[0108] The ratio between the length of the aerosol cooling segment and the length of the strip of aerosol generating matrix can be from about 0.70 to about 1.50.

[0109] Preferably, the ratio between the length of the aerosol cooling segment and the length of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​at least about 0.80, more preferably at least about 0.90, and even more preferably at least about 1.00. In a preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the aerosol cooling segment and the length of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​less than about 1.40, more preferably less than about 1.30, and even more preferably less than about 1.20.

[0110] In some embodiments, the ratio between the length of the aerosol cooling segment and the length of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​about 0.80 to about 1.40, preferably about 0.90 to about 1.40, and more preferably about 1.00 to about 1.40. In other embodiments, the ratio between the length of the aerosol cooling segment and the length of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​about 0.80 to about 1.30, preferably about 0.90 to about 1.30, and more preferably about 1.00 to about 1.30. In still other embodiments, the ratio between the length of the aerosol cooling segment and the length of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​about 0.80 to about 1.20, preferably about 0.90 to about 1.20, and more preferably about 1.00 to about 1.20.

[0111] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the aerosol cooling segment and the length of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​approximately 1.08.

[0112] The ratio between the length of the aerosol cooling section and the length of the aerosol generation section can be from about 0.40 to about 1.50.

[0113] Preferably, the ratio between the length of the aerosol cooling section and the length of the aerosol generation section is at least about 0.50, more preferably at least about 0.60, and even more preferably at least about 0.70. In a preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the aerosol cooling section and the length of the aerosol generation section is less than about 1.50, more preferably less than about 1.30, and even more preferably less than about 1.10.

[0114] In some embodiments, the ratio between the length of the aerosol cooling section and the length of the aerosol generation section is about 0.50 to about 1.50, preferably about 0.60 to about 1.50, and more preferably about 0.70 to about 1.50. In other embodiments, the ratio between the length of the aerosol cooling section and the length of the aerosol generation section is about 0.50 to about 1.30, preferably about 0.60 to about 1.30, and more preferably about 0.70 to about 1.30. In still other embodiments, the ratio between the length of the aerosol cooling section and the length of the aerosol generation section is about 0.50 to about 1.10, preferably about 0.60 to about 1.10, and more preferably about 0.70 to about 1.10.

[0115] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the aerosol cooling section and the length of the aerosol generation section is approximately 0.77.

[0116] The ratio between the length of the aerosol cooling section and the total length of the aerosol-generated article can be from about 0.225 to about 0.475.

[0117] Preferably, the ratio between the length of the aerosol cooling segment and the total length of the aerosol-generated article is at least about 0.23, more preferably at least about 0.24, and even more preferably at least about 0.25. The ratio between the length of the aerosol cooling segment and the total length of the aerosol-generated article is preferably less than about 0.40, more preferably less than about 0.35, and even more preferably less than about 0.30.

[0118] In some embodiments, the ratio between the length of the aerosol cooling segment and the total length of the aerosol-generated article is preferably from about 0.23 to about 0.40, more preferably from about 0.24 to about 0.40, and even more preferably from about 0.25 to about 0.40. In other embodiments, the ratio between the length of the aerosol cooling segment and the total length of the aerosol-generated article is preferably from about 0.23 to about 0.35, more preferably from about 0.24 to about 0.35, and even more preferably from about 0.25 to about 0.35. In yet another embodiment, the ratio between the length of the aerosol cooling segment and the total length of the aerosol-generated article is preferably from about 0.23 to about 0.30, more preferably from about 0.24 to about 0.30, and even more preferably from about 0.25 to about 0.30.

[0119] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the aerosol cooling segment and the total length of the aerosol-generated article is approximately 0.29.

[0120] Preferably, the length of the mouthpiece filter segment is at least 1 mm shorter than the length of the aerosol cooling segment, more preferably at least 3 mm shorter, and even more preferably at least 5 mm shorter. As mentioned above, reducing the length of the aerosol cooling segment advantageously allows for increased delivery of nicotine and glycerin to the consumer. The potential technical advantages of providing a relatively short mouthpiece filter segment have been described above.

[0121] Preferably, the length of the mouthpiece section is at least 1 mm shorter than the length of the aerosol cooling section, more preferably at least 3 mm shorter, and even more preferably at least 5 mm shorter. As mentioned above, reducing the length of the aerosol cooling section advantageously allows for increased delivery of nicotine and glycerin to the consumer. The potential technical advantages of providing a relatively short mouthpiece filter section have been described above.

[0122] Preferably, in the aerosol-generated article according to the invention, the aerosol cooling section has an average radial hardness of at least about 80%, more preferably at least about 85%, and even more preferably at least about 90%. Therefore, the aerosol cooling section is capable of providing the desired hardness level to the aerosol-generated article.

[0123] If desired, the radial stiffness of the aerosol cooling segment of the aerosol-generating article according to the invention can be further increased by defining the aerosol cooling segment by a rigid bar package (e.g., a bar package having a basis weight of at least about 80 g / m², or at least about 100 g / m, or at least about 110 g / m).

[0124] As used herein, the term "radial hardness" refers to resistance to compression in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of a segment. The radial hardness of an aerosol-generated article around a given element can be determined by applying a load across the article transverse to the longitudinal axis of the article, at the location of the segment, and measuring the average (mean) indentation diameter of the article. Radial hardness is given by the following formula:

[0125] radial

[0126] Where D S It is the original (un-dimpled) diameter, and D d It is the diameter of the indentation after a set load is applied within a set duration. The harder the material, the closer the hardness is to 100%.

[0127] To determine the hardness of a portion of an aerosol-generating article (such as a support segment or aerosol cooling segment provided in the form of a hollow tube section), the aerosol-generating articles should be aligned parallel in a plane, and the same portion of each aerosol-generating article to be tested should be subjected to a set load for a set duration. This test is performed using a known DD60A densitometer device (manufactured and commercially available by Heinr. Borgwaldt GmbH, Germany), which is equipped with a measuring head for aerosol-generating articles (such as cigarettes) and an aerosol-generating article container.

[0128] The load is applied using two load-applying cylindrical strips that extend simultaneously across the diameter of all aerosol-generating articles. According to the standard test method for this instrument, the test should be performed such that twenty contact points appear between the aerosol-generating articles and the load-applying cylindrical strips. In some cases, the hollow tube segment to be tested may be long enough that only ten aerosol-generating articles are needed to form twenty contact points, with each smoking article contacting two load-applying strips (because they are long enough to extend between these strips). In other cases, if the support segment is too short to achieve this, twenty aerosol-generating articles should be used to form twenty contact points, with each aerosol-generating article contacting only one load-applying strip, as discussed further below.

[0129] Two additional fixed cylindrical bars are located below the aerosol-generating article to support the aerosol-generating article and counteract the load applied by each of the cylindrical bars by these loads.

[0130] For the standard operating procedure for such equipment, a total load of 2 kg is applied for a duration of 20 seconds. After 20 seconds (while the smoking article is still under load), the indentation in the load-applied cylindrical strip is determined and then used to calculate the hardness according to the above formula. The temperature is maintained at approximately 22 degrees Celsius ± 2 degrees. The above test is known as the DD60A test. The standard way to measure filter hardness is when the aerosol-generated article has not yet been consumed. Additional information regarding the measurement of average radial hardness can be found, for example, in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0128378.

[0131] Aerosol cooling sections can be formed from any suitable material or combination of materials. For example, aerosol cooling sections can be formed from one or more materials selected from: cellulose acetate; cardboard; rolled paper, such as rolled heat-resistant paper or rolled parchment; and polymeric materials, such as low-density polyethylene (LDPE). Other suitable materials include polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) fibers.

[0132] In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol cooling segment is formed of cellulose acetate.

[0133] Preferably, the hollow tubular segments of the aerosol cooling segment are adapted to generate an RTD between about 0 mm H2O (about 0 Pa) and about 20 mm H2O (about 100 Pa), more preferably between about 0 mm H2O (about 0 Pa) and about 10 mm H2O (about 100 Pa).

[0134] In the aerosol-generating article according to the invention, the overall RTD of the article depends substantially on the RTD of the aerosol-generating matrix strips, and optionally on the RTD of the mouthpiece and / or upstream bar. This is because the hollow tubular segments of the aerosol cooling element and the hollow tubular segments of the support element are substantially empty, and thus have substantially only a minimal impact on the overall RTD of the aerosol-generating article.

[0135] The ventilation zone includes multiple perforations through the peripheral wall of the aerosol cooling section. Preferably, the ventilation zone includes at least one row of circumferential perforations. In some embodiments, the ventilation zone may include two rows of circumferential perforations. For example, the perforations may be formed on the production line during the manufacture of the aerosol-generating article. Preferably, each row of circumferential perforations includes 8 to 30 perforations.

[0136] The aerosol-generating articles according to the present invention can have a ventilation level of at least about 5%.

[0137] Throughout this specification, the term "ventilation level" is used to refer to the volume ratio of the airflow permitted to enter the aerosol-generating article via a ventilated zone (ventilation airflow) to the sum of the aerosol airflow and the ventilation airflow. A higher ventilation level results in a higher dilution of the aerosol stream delivered to the consumer.

[0138] Aerosol-generating articles can typically have a ventilation level of at least about 10%, preferably at least about 15%, and more preferably at least about 20%.

[0139] In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol-generating article has a ventilation level of at least about 25%. The aerosol-generating article preferably has a ventilation level of less than about 60%. The aerosol-generating article according to the invention preferably has a ventilation level of less than or equal to about 45%. More preferably, the aerosol-generating article according to the invention has a ventilation level of less than or equal to about 40%, and even more preferably less than or equal to about 35%.

[0140] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol-generating article has a ventilation level of about 30%. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating article has a ventilation level of about 20% to about 60%, preferably about 20% to about 45%, and more preferably about 20% to about 40%. In other embodiments, the aerosol-generating article has a ventilation level of about 25% to about 60%, preferably about 25% to about 45%, and more preferably about 25% to about 40%. In still other embodiments, the aerosol-generating article has a ventilation level of about 30% to about 60%, preferably about 30% to about 45%, and more preferably about 30% to about 40%.

[0141] In particularly preferred embodiments, the aerosol-generating article has a ventilation level of about 28% to about 42%. In some particularly preferred embodiments, the aerosol-generating article has a ventilation level of about 30%.

[0142] Without being bound by theory, the inventors have discovered that the temperature drop caused by cooler external air entering the hollow tubular segment through the ventilation zone can have a favorable effect on the nucleation and growth of aerosol particles.

[0143] The formation of aerosols from gaseous mixtures containing various chemical substances depends on the subtle interactions between nucleation, evaporation and condensation, and coalescence, while taking into account variations in vapor concentration, temperature, and velocity fields. The so-called classical nucleation theory is based on the assumption that a subset of molecules in the gas phase is large enough to remain coherent for a sufficiently long time (e.g., a 50% probability). These molecules represent some kind of critical, threshold molecular cluster in transient molecular aggregates, meaning that, on average, smaller clusters are likely to disintegrate into the gas phase fairly quickly, while larger clusters are likely to grow. Such critical clusters are considered key nucleation nuclei from which droplets are expected to grow due to the condensation of molecules in the vapor. It is assumed that newly nucleated pristine droplets appear with a certain initial diameter and can then grow by several orders of magnitude. This process is facilitated and enhanced by condensation caused by rapid cooling of the surrounding vapor. In this regard, it should be remembered that evaporation and condensation are two aspects of the same mechanism: gas-liquid mass transfer. While evaporation involves a net mass transfer from the droplet to the gas phase, condensation is a net mass transfer from the gas phase to the droplet phase. Evaporation (or condensation) will cause droplets to shrink (or grow), but will not change the number of droplets.

[0144] In situations that can be further complicated by coalescence, the temperature and rate of cooling play a crucial role in determining how the system responds. Generally, different cooling rates can lead to significantly different temporal behaviors associated with liquid phase (droplet) formation, since nucleation processes are typically nonlinear. Without being bound by theory, let's assume that cooling leads to a rapid increase in droplet number concentration, followed by a strong, brief surge in this growth (nucleation burst). This nucleation burst appears to be more pronounced at lower temperatures. Furthermore, higher cooling rates seem to favor earlier initiation of nucleation. In contrast, lower cooling rates appear to have a favorable effect on the final size that aerosol droplets eventually reach.

[0145] Therefore, the rapid cooling caused by the inflow of outside air into the hollow tubular segment via the ventilation zone can be advantageously used to promote the nucleation and growth of aerosol droplets. However, at the same time, the inflow of outside air into the hollow tubular segment has the direct disadvantage of diluting the aerosol stream delivered to the consumer.

[0146] The inventors have surprisingly discovered how the beneficial effect of enhanced nucleation promoted by rapid cooling caused by introducing ventilated air into the article can significantly offset the less desirable dilution effect. Thus, articles generated using the aerosol according to the invention consistently achieve satisfactory aerosol delivery values.

[0147] The inventors have also surprisingly discovered that when the ventilation level is within the aforementioned range, the dilution effect on the aerosol is advantageously minimized—which can be assessed, in particular, by measuring the effect on the delivery of aerosol-forming agents (such as glycerol) contained in the aerosol-generating matrix. Specifically, ventilation levels between 25% and 50%, and even more preferably between 28% and 42%, have been found to produce particularly satisfactory glycerol delivery values. Simultaneously, the degree of nucleation and therefore the delivery of nicotine and aerosol-forming agents (e.g., glycerol) are enhanced.

[0148] This is particularly advantageous for "short" aerosol-generating articles (such as those in which the length of the aerosol-generating matrix strip is less than about 40 mm, preferably less than 25 mm, or even more preferably less than 20 mm, or those in which the total length of the aerosol-generating article is less than about 70 mm, preferably less than about 60 mm, or even more preferably less than 50 mm). As will be understood, in such aerosol-generating articles, there is almost no time or space available for aerosol formation and the aerosol particle phase transition to be delivered to the consumer.

[0149] Furthermore, since the ventilated hollow tubular segments substantially do not affect the overall RTD of the aerosol-generating article, in the aerosol-generating article according to the invention, the overall RTD of the article can advantageously be fine-tuned by adjusting the length and density of the strips of the aerosol-generating matrix, or by adjusting the length and, optionally, the length and density of the segments of the filter material forming part of the mouthpiece, or by adjusting the length and density of the segments of the filter material disposed upstream of the aerosol-generating matrix and the sensor element. Therefore, aerosol-generating articles with a predetermined RTD can be manufactured consistently and with high precision, providing consumers with a satisfactory RTD level even in the presence of ventilation.

[0150] In some embodiments, the intermediate hollow section may further include one or more additional aerosol cooling segments, which may be located downstream of and adjacent to the aerosol cooling segment to form a continuous hollow section. In a preferred embodiment, the additional aerosol cooling segment comprises a hollow tubular segment or is in the form of a hollow tubular segment. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the intermediate hollow section includes a single additional aerosol cooling segment, which may be located downstream of and adjacent to the aerosol cooling segment.

[0151] In a preferred embodiment, the outer diameter of the additional aerosol cooling section is preferably approximately equal to the outer diameter of the mouthpiece filter section and the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article. The additional aerosol cooling section may have an outer diameter between about 5 mm and about 10 mm, or between about 6 mm and about 8 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the additional aerosol cooling section has an outer diameter of about 7.2 mm.

[0152] Preferably, the hollow tubular segment with the added aerosol cooling section has an inner diameter of at least about 2 mm. More preferably, the hollow tubular segment with the added aerosol cooling section has an inner diameter of at least about 2.5 mm. Even more preferably, the hollow tubular segment with the added aerosol cooling section has an inner diameter of at least about 3 mm.

[0153] The peripheral wall of the additional aerosol cooling section may have a thickness of less than about 2.5 mm, preferably less than about 1.5 mm, more preferably less than about 1250 micrometers, and even more preferably less than about 1000 micrometers. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the peripheral wall of the additional aerosol cooling section has a thickness of less than about 900 micrometers, preferably less than about 800 micrometers.

[0154] In one embodiment, the peripheral wall of the additional aerosol cooling section has a thickness of approximately 2 millimeters.

[0155] The additional aerosol cooling section can have a length of approximately 5 mm to less than approximately 10 mm.

[0156] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol cooling segment has a length of 8 mm, and the additional aerosol cooling segment has a length of 5 mm.

[0157] As described above, the intermediate hollow section of the aerosol-generating article according to the present invention further includes a support segment arranged aligned with and downstream of the aerosol-generating section. Specifically, the support segment may be located immediately downstream of and adjacent to the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0158] The support segment can be formed from any suitable material or combination of materials. For example, the support segment can be formed from one or more materials selected from: cellulose acetate; cardboard; rolled paper, such as rolled heat-resistant paper or rolled parchment; and polymeric materials, such as low-density polyethylene (LDPE). In a preferred embodiment, the support segment is formed from cellulose acetate. Other suitable materials include polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) fibers.

[0159] The support segment may include a hollow tubular segment. In a preferred embodiment, the support element includes a hollow cellulose acetate tube.

[0160] The support segments are substantially aligned with the strip. This means that the length of the support segments is arranged approximately parallel to the longitudinal direction of the strip and the article, for example, within + / - 10 degrees parallel to the longitudinal direction of the strip. In a preferred embodiment, the support segments extend along the longitudinal axis of the strip.

[0161] Preferably, the outer diameter of the support segment is approximately equal to the outer diameter of the strip of aerosol-generating matrix and the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article.

[0162] The support segment may have an outer diameter between 5 mm and 12 mm, for example between 5 mm and 10 mm, or between 6 mm and 8 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the support segment has an outer diameter of 7.2 mm + / - 10%.

[0163] The peripheral wall of the support segment may have a thickness of at least 1 mm, preferably at least about 1.5 mm, and more preferably at least about 2 mm.

[0164] The support segment can have a length between approximately 5 mm and approximately 15 mm.

[0165] Preferably, the support segment has a length of at least about 6 mm, more preferably at least about 7 mm.

[0166] In a preferred embodiment, the support segment has a length of less than about 12 mm, more preferably less than about 10 mm.

[0167] In some embodiments, the support segment has a length of about 5 mm to about 15 mm, preferably about 6 mm to about 15 mm, and more preferably about 7 mm to about 15 mm. In other embodiments, the support segment has a length of about 5 mm to about 12 mm, preferably about 6 mm to about 12 mm, and more preferably about 7 mm to about 12 mm. In still other embodiments, the support segment has a length of about 5 mm to about 10 mm, preferably about 6 mm to about 10 mm, and more preferably about 7 mm to about 10 mm.

[0168] In a preferred embodiment, the support segment has a length of approximately 8 millimeters.

[0169] Preferably, the total length of the intermediate hollow section does not exceed about 23 mm, more preferably not more than about 22 mm, and most preferably not more than about 21 mm. Preferably, the total length of the intermediate hollow section is greater than about 16 mm, more preferably greater than about 18 mm. The total length of the intermediate hollow section can be greater than about 16 mm and not more than about 23 mm, preferably greater than about 16 mm and not more than about 22 mm, and most preferably greater than about 16 mm and not more than about 21 mm. The total length of the intermediate hollow section can be greater than about 18 mm and not more than about 23 mm, more preferably greater than about 18 mm and not more than about 22 mm, and most preferably greater than about 18 mm and not more than about 21 mm.

[0170] In a preferred embodiment, the central hollow section has a length of approximately 21 millimeters.

[0171] The ratio between the length of the support segment and the length of the strip of aerosol-generating matrix can be from about 0.25 to about 1.00.

[0172] Preferably, the ratio between the length of the support segment and the length of the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​at least about 0.30, more preferably at least about 0.40, and even more preferably at least about 0.50. In a preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the support segment and the length of the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​less than about 0.90, more preferably less than about 0.80, and even more preferably less than about 0.70.

[0173] In some embodiments, the ratio between the length of the support segment and the length of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​about 0.30 to about 0.90, preferably about 0.40 to about 0.90, and more preferably about 0.50 to about 0.90. In other embodiments, the ratio between the length of the support segment and the length of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​about 0.30 to about 0.80, preferably about 0.40 to about 0.80, and more preferably about 0.50 to about 0.80. In still other embodiments, the ratio between the length of the support segment and the length of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​about 0.30 to about 0.70, preferably about 0.40 to about 0.70, and more preferably about 0.50 to about 0.70.

[0174] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the support segment and the length of the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​approximately 0.66.

[0175] The ratio between the length of the support segment and the length of the aerosol generation section can be from about 0.25 to about 1.00.

[0176] Preferably, the ratio between the length of the support segment and the length of the aerosol generation section is at least about 0.30, more preferably at least about 0.40, and even more preferably at least about 0.45. In a preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the support segment and the length of the strip of the aerosol generation matrix is ​​less than about 0.90, more preferably less than about 0.80, and even more preferably less than about 0.70.

[0177] In some embodiments, the ratio between the length of the support segment and the length of the aerosol generation section is from about 0.30 to about 0.90, preferably from about 0.40 to about 0.90, and more preferably from about 0.45 to about 0.90. In other embodiments, the ratio between the length of the support segment and the length of the aerosol generation section is from about 0.30 to about 0.80, preferably from about 0.40 to about 0.80, and more preferably from about 0.45 to about 0.80. In still other embodiments, the ratio between the length of the support segment and the length of the aerosol generation section is from about 0.30 to about 0.70, preferably from about 0.40 to about 0.70, and more preferably from about 0.45 to about 0.70.

[0178] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the support segment and the length of the aerosol generation section is approximately 0.47.

[0179] The ratio between the length of the support segment and the total length of the aerosol-generated article can be from about 0.125 to about 0.375.

[0180] Preferably, the ratio between the length of the support segment and the total length of the aerosol-generated article is at least about 0.13, more preferably at least about 0.14, and even more preferably at least about 0.15. The ratio between the length of the support segment and the total length of the aerosol-generated article is preferably less than about 0.30, more preferably less than about 0.25, and even more preferably less than about 0.20.

[0181] In some embodiments, the ratio between the length of the support segment and the total length of the aerosol-generating article is preferably from about 0.13 to about 0.30, more preferably from about 0.14 to about 0.30, and even more preferably from about 0.15 to about 0.30. In other embodiments, the ratio between the length of the support segment and the total length of the aerosol-generating article is preferably from about 0.13 to about 0.25, more preferably from about 0.14 to about 0.25, and even more preferably from about 0.15 to about 0.25. In yet another embodiment, the ratio between the length of the support segment and the total length of the aerosol-generating article is preferably from about 0.13 to about 0.20, more preferably from about 0.14 to about 0.20, and even more preferably from about 0.15 to about 0.20.

[0182] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the support segment and the total length of the aerosol-generated article is approximately 0.18.

[0183] Preferably, in the aerosol-generating article according to the invention, the support segment has an average radial hardness of at least about 80%, more preferably at least about 85%, and even more preferably at least about 90%. Therefore, the support segment is able to provide the desired hardness level for the aerosol-generating article.

[0184] If desired, the radial stiffness of the support segment of the aerosol-generating article according to the invention can be further increased by defining the support element by a rigid bar package (e.g., a bar package having a basis weight of at least about 80 g / m², or at least about 100 g / m, or at least about 110 g / m).

[0185] During the insertion of the aerosol generating article according to the invention into the aerosol generating apparatus to heat the aerosol generating matrix, the user may need to apply force to overcome the resistance of the aerosol generating matrix to insertion. This may damage one or both of the aerosol generating article and the aerosol generating apparatus. Additionally, applying force during insertion of the aerosol generating article into the aerosol generating apparatus can cause displacement of the aerosol generating matrix within the aerosol generating article. This may result in misalignment of the heating element of the aerosol generating apparatus with the sensor element disposed within the aerosol generating matrix, potentially leading to uneven and inefficient heating of the aerosol generating matrix of the aerosol generating article. The support segment is advantageously configured to resist downstream movement of the aerosol generating matrix during insertion into the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0186] Preferably, the hollow tubular segment of the support segment is adapted to generate an RTD between approximately 0 mm H2O (approximately 0 Pa) and approximately 20 mm H2O (approximately 100 Pa), more preferably between approximately 0 mm H2O (approximately 0 Pa) and approximately 10 mm H2O (approximately 100 Pa). The support segment therefore preferably does not affect the overall RTD of the aerosol-generating article.

[0187] In some embodiments where the intermediate hollow section includes both a support segment (which includes a first hollow tube segment) and an aerosol cooling segment (which includes a second hollow tube segment), the inner diameter (D) of the second hollow tube segment... STS Preferably, it is larger than the inner diameter (D) of the first hollow tubular segment. FTS ).

[0188] More specifically, the inner diameter (D) of the second hollow tubular segment STS ) and the inner diameter (D) of the first hollow tubular segment FTS The ratio between the two is preferably at least about 1.25. More preferably, the inner diameter (D) of the second hollow tubular segment is... STS ) and the inner diameter (D) of the first hollow tubular segment FTS The ratio between the two is preferably at least about 1.30. Even more preferably, the inner diameter (D) of the second hollow tubular segment is... STS ) and the inner diameter (D) of the first hollow tubular segment FTS The ratio between the two is preferably at least about 1.40. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the inner diameter (D) of the second hollow tubular segment is... STS ) and the inner diameter (D) of the first hollow tubular segmentFTS The ratio between them is at least about 1.50, more preferably at least about 1.60.

[0189] The inner diameter (D) of the second hollow tubular segment STS ) and the inner diameter (D) of the first hollow tubular segment FTS The ratio between the two is preferably less than or equal to about 2.50. More preferably, the inner diameter (D) of the second hollow tubular segment is... STS ) and the inner diameter (D) of the first hollow tubular segment FTS The ratio between the two is preferably less than or equal to about 2.25. Even more preferably, the inner diameter (D) of the second hollow tubular segment is... STS ) and the inner diameter (D) of the first hollow tubular segment FTS The ratio between () is preferably less than or equal to about 2.00.

[0190] In some embodiments, the inner diameter (D) of the second hollow tubular segment STS ) and the inner diameter (D) of the first hollow tubular segment FTS The ratio between them is approximately 1.25 to approximately 2.50. Preferably, the inner diameter (D) of the second hollow tubular segment is... STS ) and the inner diameter (D) of the first hollow tubular segment FTS The ratio between them is approximately 1.30 to approximately 2.50. More preferably, the inner diameter (D) of the second hollow tubular segment... STS ) and the inner diameter (D) of the first hollow tubular segment FTS The ratio between them is approximately 1.40 to approximately 2.50. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the inner diameter (D) of the second hollow tubular segment is... STS ) and the inner diameter (D) of the first hollow tubular segment FTS The ratio between ) is approximately 1.50 to approximately 2.50.

[0191] In other embodiments, the inner diameter (D) of the second hollow tubular segment STS ) and the inner diameter (D) of the first hollow tubular segment FTS The ratio between them is approximately 1.25 to approximately 2.25. Preferably, the inner diameter (D) of the second hollow tubular segment is... STS ) and the inner diameter (D) of the first hollow tubular segment FTS The ratio between them is approximately 1.30 to approximately 2.25. More preferably, the inner diameter (D) of the second hollow tubular segment... STS ) and the inner diameter (D) of the first hollow tubular segment FTS The ratio between them is approximately 1.40 to approximately 2.25. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the inner diameter (D) of the second hollow tubular segment is... STS ) and the inner diameter (D) of the first hollow tubular segment FTS The ratio between them is approximately 1.50 to approximately 2.25.

[0192] In another embodiment, the inner diameter (D) of the second hollow tubular segment STS ) and the inner diameter (D) of the first hollow tubular segment FTS The ratio between them is from about 1.25 to about 2.00. Preferably, the inner diameter (D) of the second hollow tubular segment is... STS ) and the inner diameter (D) of the first hollow tubular segment FTS The ratio between them is approximately 1.30 to approximately 2.00. More preferably, the inner diameter (D) of the second hollow tubular segment... STS ) and the inner diameter (D) of the first hollow tubular segment FTS The ratio between them is from about 1.40 to about 2.00. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the inner diameter (D) of the second hollow tubular segment is... STS ) and the inner diameter (D) of the first hollow tubular segment FTS The ratio between () is approximately 1.50 to approximately 2.00.

[0193] In embodiments where the article also includes elongated receptor elements arranged longitudinally within the aerosol-generating matrix, as described below, the inner diameter (D) of the first hollow tubular segment... FTS The ratio between the inner diameter (D) of the first hollow tubular segment and the width of the receptor element is preferably at least about 0.20. More preferably, the inner diameter (D) of the first hollow tubular segment is... FTS The ratio between the inner diameter (D) of the first hollow tubular segment and the width of the receptor element is at least about 0.30. Even more preferably, the inner diameter (D) of the first hollow tubular segment... FTS The ratio between the width of the sensor element and the width of the sensor element is at least about 0.40.

[0194] Alternatively, or as an alternative, the inner diameter (D) of the second hollow tubular segment STS The ratio between the inner diameter (D) of the second hollow tubular segment and the width of the receptor element is preferably at least about 0.20. More preferably, the inner diameter (D) of the second hollow tubular segment is... STS The ratio between the inner diameter (D) of the second hollow tubular segment and the width of the receptor element is at least about 0.50. Even more preferably, the inner diameter (D) of the second hollow tubular segment... STS The ratio between the width of the sensor element and the width of the sensor element is at least about 0.80.

[0195] Preferably, the ratio between the volume of the cavity of the first hollow tubular segment and the volume of the cavity of the second hollow tubular segment is at least about 0.10. More preferably, the ratio between the volume of the cavity of the first hollow tubular segment and the volume of the cavity of the second hollow tubular segment is at least about 0.20.

[0196] The ratio between the volume of the cavity of the first hollow tubular segment and the volume of the cavity of the second hollow tubular segment is preferably less than or equal to about 0.40. More preferably, the ratio between the volume of the cavity of the first hollow tubular segment and the volume of the cavity of the second hollow tubular segment is preferably less than or equal to about 0.30.

[0197] As defined above, the aerosol generating article of the present invention includes an aerosol generating section, which includes strips of an aerosol generating matrix.

[0198] The aerosol generating matrix can be any suitable solid aerosol generating matrix, such as an aerosol generating matrix containing homogenized plant material; a gel composition containing alkaloid compounds; a solid aerosol generating membrane; or an aerosol generating matrix containing thermally conductive particles. Preferably, the aerosol generating matrix is ​​a solid aerosol generating membrane.

[0199] In some preferred embodiments, the aerosol generating matrix comprises homogenized plant material, preferably homogenized tobacco material.

[0200] As used herein, the term "homogenized plant material" encompasses any plant material formed by the aggregation of plant particles. For example, homogenized tobacco material sheets or webs used as the aerosol-generating matrix of the present invention can be formed by agglomerating tobacco material particles obtained by crushing, grinding, or grinding plant material, and optionally tobacco leaves and tobacco stems, or one or more of these. Homogenized plant materials can be produced by casting, extrusion, papermaking processes, or any other suitable process known in the art.

[0201] Homogenized plant material can be provided in any suitable form. For example, homogenized plant material can be in the form of one or more sheets. As used herein, the term "sheet" describes a layered element whose width and length are significantly greater than its thickness.

[0202] Alternatively or additionally, homogenized plant material may be in the form of multiple pellets or microparticles.

[0203] Alternatively or additionally, homogenized plant material may be in the form of multiple strands, strips, or fragments. As used herein, the term "strand" describes an elongated material element whose length is significantly greater than its width and thickness. The term "strand" should be considered to encompass strips, fragments, and any other homogenized plant material having a similar form. Strands of homogenized plant material may be formed from sheets of homogenized plant material, for example by cutting or shredding, or by other methods, such as extrusion.

[0204] In some embodiments, strands may form in situ within the aerosol-generating matrix due to the splitting or cracking of sheets of homogenized plant material during the formation of the aerosol-generating matrix, for example, due to curling. The strands of homogenized plant material within the aerosol-generating matrix may be separable from each other. Alternatively, each strand of homogenized plant material within the aerosol-generating matrix may be at least partially connected along its length to one or more adjacent strands. For example, adjacent strands may be connected by one or more fibers. This can occur, for example, due to the formation of strands as described above, during the production of the aerosol-generating matrix, when the sheets of homogenized plant material are split.

[0205] Preferably, the aerosol generating matrix is ​​in the form of one or more sheets of homogenized plant material. In various embodiments of the invention, the one or more sheets of homogenized plant material may be produced by a casting process. In various embodiments of the invention, the one or more sheets of homogenized plant material may be produced by a papermaking process. The one or more sheets described herein may each individually have a thickness between 100 micrometers and 600 micrometers, preferably between 150 micrometers and 300 micrometers, and most preferably between 200 micrometers and 250 micrometers. Individual thickness refers to the thickness of a single sheet, while combined thickness refers to the total thickness of all sheets constituting the aerosol generating matrix. For example, if the aerosol generating matrix is ​​formed from two separate sheets, the combined thickness is the sum of the thicknesses of the two separate sheets, or, in the case of two sheets stacked in the aerosol generating matrix, the measured thickness of the two sheets.

[0206] One or more sheets as described herein may each individually have approximately 100 g / m³ 2 Approximately 300g / m 2 The weight between.

[0207] One or more sheets as described herein may each individually have approximately 0.3 g / cm³. 3 Approximately 1.3 g / cm³ 3 And preferably about 0.7 g / cm³ 3 To approximately 1.0 g / cm 3 The density.

[0208] In embodiments of the invention in which the aerosol-generating matrix comprises one or more sheets of homogenized plant material, the sheets are preferably in the form of one or more aggregated sheets. As used herein, the term "aggregated sheet" may refer to a sheet of aerosol-generating matrix or aerosol-generating article that is wound, folded, or otherwise compressed or contracted substantially transverse to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating matrix or aerosol-generating article, or substantially transverse to the cylindrical axis of a rod or strip.

[0209] One or more sheets of homogenized plant material may be laterally aggregated relative to its longitudinal axis and defined by packaging to form continuous strips or rods.

[0210] One or more sheets of homogenized plant material may be advantageously curled or similarly treated. As used herein, the term “curled” means that the sheet has a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or corrugations. Alternatively or in addition to curling, one or more sheets of homogenized plant material may be embossed, debossed, perforated or otherwise deformed to provide texture on one or both sides of the sheet.

[0211] Preferably, each sheet of homogenized plant material can be curled such that it has multiple ridges or corrugations substantially parallel to the cylindrical axis of the rod. This treatment advantageously promotes the aggregation of the curled sheets of homogenized plant material to form the rod. Preferably, one or more sheets of homogenized plant material can be aggregated. It should be appreciated that the curled sheets of homogenized plant material may alternatively or additionally have multiple substantially parallel ridges or corrugations arranged at acute or obtuse angles to the cylindrical axis of the rod. The sheets can be curled to such an extent that the integrity of the sheets is compromised at the multiple parallel ridges or corrugations, thereby causing material separation and resulting in the formation of fragments, strands, or strips of homogenized plant material.

[0212] Alternatively, one or more sheets of homogenized plant material can be cut into strands as described above. In such embodiments, the aerosol-generating matrix comprises multiple strands of homogenized plant material. Strands can be used to form rods. Typically, these strands are about 5 mm wide, or about 4 mm, or about 3 mm, or about 2 mm or less. The length of the strands can be greater than about 5 mm, between about 5 mm and about 15 mm, between about 8 mm and about 12 mm, or about 12 mm. Preferably, the strands have substantially the same length as each other. The length of the strands can be determined by the manufacturing process, thereby cutting strips into shorter rods, and the length of the strands corresponds to the length of the rods. The strands can be fragile, which may lead to breakage, especially during transport. In this case, some strands may be shorter than the length of the rods.

[0213] Preferably, the multiple strands extend substantially longitudinally, aligned with the longitudinal axis along the length of the aerosol-generating matrix. Preferably, the multiple strands are thus aligned substantially parallel to each other.

[0214] The homogenized plant material may contain up to about 95% by weight of plant particles on a dry weight basis. Preferably, the homogenized plant material contains up to about 90% by weight of plant particles on a dry weight basis, more preferably up to about 80% by weight of plant particles, more preferably up to about 70% by weight of plant particles, more preferably up to about 60% by weight of plant particles, and more preferably up to about 50% by weight of plant particles.

[0215] For example, homogenized plant material may comprise plant particles of about 2.5% to about 95% by weight on a dry weight basis, or about 5% to about 90% by weight, or about 10% to about 80% by weight, or about 15% to about 70% by weight, or about 20% to about 60% by weight, or about 30% to about 50% by weight.

[0216] In some embodiments of the invention, the homogenized plant material is a homogenized tobacco material comprising tobacco particles. Sheets of the homogenized tobacco material used in such embodiments of the invention may have a tobacco content of at least about 40% by weight, more preferably at least about 50% by weight, more preferably at least about 70% by weight, and most preferably at least about 90% by weight, based on dry weight.

[0217] The term "tobacco pellet" describes the pellets of any plant member of the genus Nicotiana. The term "tobacco pellet" encompasses ground or powdered tobacco leaves, ground or powdered tobacco stems, tobacco dust, tobacco debris, and other particulate tobacco byproducts formed during the processing, disposal, and transportation of tobacco. In a preferred embodiment, the tobacco pellets are substantially entirely derived from tobacco leaves. In contrast, isolated nicotine and nicotine salts are compounds derived from tobacco but are not considered tobacco pellets for the purposes of this invention and are not included in the percentage of granular plant material.

[0218] Tobacco pellets can be prepared from one or more tobacco plants. Any type of tobacco can be used in the blend. Examples of tobacco types that can be used include, but are not limited to, sun-cured tobacco, flue-cured tobacco, Burley tobacco, Maryland tobacco, Oriental tobacco, Virginia tobacco, and other specialty tobaccos.

[0219] Flue-curing is a method of drying tobacco, particularly Virginia tobacco. During the curing process, heated air circulates through densely packed tobacco leaves. In the first stage, the tobacco leaves turn yellow and wither. In the second stage, the leaf blades are completely dried. In the third stage, the leaf stalks are completely dried.

[0220] Burley tobacco plays an important role in many tobacco blends. It has a distinctive flavor and aroma, and is also capable of absorbing large amounts of casing.

[0221] Oriental tobacco is a type of tobacco with small leaves and high aromatic quality. However, its flavor is milder than that of other tobaccos, such as Burley tobacco. Therefore, a relatively small proportion of Oriental tobacco is typically used in tobacco blends.

[0222] Kasturi, Madura, and Jatim are all usable subtypes of sun-cured tobacco. Preferably, Kasturi tobacco and flue-cured tobacco can be used in blends to produce tobacco pellets. Therefore, tobacco pellets in granular plant material can include blends of Kasturi tobacco and flue-cured tobacco.

[0223] The tobacco pellets may have a nicotine content of at least about 2.5% by weight on a dry weight basis. More preferably, the tobacco pellets may have a nicotine content of at least about 3% by weight on a dry weight basis, even more preferably at least about 3.2% by weight, even more preferably at least about 3.5% by weight, and most preferably at least about 4% by weight.

[0224] In certain other embodiments of the invention, the homogenized plant material comprises tobacco particles combined with non-tobacco plant flavor particles. Preferably, the non-tobacco plant flavor particles are selected from one or more of the following: ginger particles, rosemary particles, eucalyptus particles, clove particles, and star anise particles. Preferably, in such embodiments, the homogenized plant material comprises at least about 2.5% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles on a dry weight basis, wherein the remainder of the plant particles is tobacco particles. Preferably, the homogenized plant material comprises at least about 4% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles on a dry weight basis, more preferably at least about 6% by weight, more preferably at least about 8% by weight, and more preferably at least about 10% by weight. Preferably, the homogenized plant material comprises up to about 20% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles, more preferably up to about 18% by weight, and more preferably up to about 16% by weight.

[0225] The weight ratio of non-tobacco plant flavor particles to tobacco particles in the granular plant material forming the homogenized plant material can vary depending on the desired flavor characteristics and composition of the aerosols generated from the aerosol-generating matrix during use. Preferably, the homogenized plant material comprises a non-tobacco plant flavor particle to tobacco particle ratio of at least 1:30 by dry weight, more preferably at least 1:20 by weight, even more preferably at least 1:10 by weight, and most preferably at least 1:5 by weight.

[0226] Preferably, the homogenized plant material comprises no more than 95% by weight of granular plant material on a dry weight basis. Therefore, the granular plant material is typically combined with one or more other components to form the homogenized plant material.

[0227] The homogenized plant material may also include a binder to modify the mechanical properties of the granular plant material, wherein the binder is included in the homogenized plant material during the manufacturing process as described herein. Suitable exogenous binders are known to those skilled in the art and include, but are not limited to: gums, such as guar gum, xanthan gum, gum arabic, and locust bean gum; cellulose binders, such as hydroxypropyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, and ethyl cellulose; polysaccharides, such as starch; organic acids, such as alginic acid; conjugate base salts of organic acids, such as sodium alginate, agar, and pectin; and combinations thereof. Preferably, the binder comprises guar gum.

[0228] The binder may be present in an amount of about 1% to about 10% by weight based on the dry weight of the homogenized plant material, preferably in an amount of about 2% to about 5% by weight based on the dry weight of the homogenized plant material.

[0229] Alternatively or additionally, the homogenized plant material may also contain one or more lipids to facilitate the diffusion of volatile components (e.g., aerosol forming agents, gingerol, and nicotine), wherein the lipids are contained in the homogenized plant material during manufacturing as described herein. Suitable lipids for inclusion in the homogenized plant material include, but are not limited to: medium-chain triglycerides, cocoa butter, palm oil, palm kernel oil, mango oil, shea butter, soybean oil, cottonseed oil, coconut oil, hydrogenated coconut oil, candelilla wax, carnauba wax, shellac, sunflower wax, sunflower oil, rice bran, and RevelA; and combinations thereof.

[0230] Alternatively or additionally, homogenized plant materials may also contain pH adjusters.

[0231] Alternatively or additionally, the homogenized plant material may also contain fibers to modify the mechanical properties of the homogenized plant material, wherein the fibers are included in the homogenized plant material during the manufacturing process as described herein. Suitable exogenous fibers for inclusion in the homogenized plant material are known in the art and include fibers formed from non-tobacco and non-ginger materials, including but not limited to: cellulose fibers; cork fibers; hardwood fibers; jute fibers, and combinations thereof. Exogenous fibers derived from tobacco and / or ginger may also be added. Any fibers added to the homogenized plant material are not considered to form part of the “granular plant material” as defined above. Prior to inclusion in the homogenized plant material, the fibers may be treated by suitable methods known in the art, including but not limited to: mechanical pulping; refining; chemical pulping; bleaching; sulfate pulping; and combinations thereof. The fibers typically have a length greater than their width.

[0232] Suitable fibers typically have a length greater than 400 micrometers and less than or equal to 4 millimeters, preferably in the range of 0.7 millimeters to 4 millimeters. Preferably, the fibers are present in an amount of about 2% to about 15% by weight, most preferably about 4% by weight, based on the dry weight of the matrix.

[0233] Alternatively or additionally, the homogenized plant material may also contain one or more aerosol forming agents. Upon evaporation, the aerosol forming agent can transport other volatile compounds, such as nicotine and flavorings, released from the aerosol-generating matrix upon heating within the aerosol. Suitable aerosol forming agents for inclusion in the homogenized plant material are known in the art and include, but are not limited to: polyols, such as triethylene glycol, propylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and glycerol; esters of polyols, such as mono, di, or triacetic acid esters of glycerol; and aliphatic esters of monocarboxylic acids, dicarboxylic acids, or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyl dodecanoate and dimethyl tetradecanoate.

[0234] The homogenized plant material may have an aerosol forming agent content of about 5% to about 30% by weight, such as about 10% to about 25% by weight, or about 15% to about 20% by weight, based on dry weight.

[0235] For example, if the matrix is ​​intended for use in an aerosol-generating article of an electrically operated aerosol-generating system with a heating element, it may preferably contain an aerosol-forming agent content of about 5% to about 30% by weight on a dry weight basis. If the matrix is ​​intended for use in an aerosol-generating article of an electrically operated aerosol-generating system with a heating element, the aerosol-forming agent is preferably glycerol.

[0236] In other embodiments, the homogenized plant material may have an aerosol forming agent content of about 1% to about 5% by weight on a dry weight basis. For example, if the matrix is ​​intended for use in an aerosol-generating article in which the aerosol forming agent is held in a reservoir separate from the matrix, the matrix may have an aerosol forming agent content greater than 1% and less than about 5%. In such embodiments, the aerosol forming agent volatilizes upon heating, and the flow of the aerosol forming agent contacts the aerosol-generating matrix to entrain flavor compounds from the aerosol-generating matrix in the aerosol.

[0237] In other embodiments, the homogenized plant material may have an aerosol forming agent content of about 30% to about 45% by weight. This relatively high level of aerosol forming agent is particularly suitable for aerosol-generating matrices intended to be heated at temperatures below 275 degrees Celsius. In such embodiments, the homogenized plant material preferably also comprises between about 2% to about 10% by weight of cellulose ether and between about 5% to about 50% by weight of additional cellulose, based on dry weight. It has been found that the combination of cellulose ether and additional cellulose provides particularly effective aerosol delivery when used for aerosol-generating matrices having an aerosol forming agent content of between 30% and 45% by weight.

[0238] Suitable cellulose ethers include, but are not limited to, methylcellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, ethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, ethyl hydroxyethylcellulose, and carboxymethylcellulose (CMC). In a particularly preferred embodiment, the cellulose ether is carboxymethylcellulose.

[0239] As used herein, the term "added cellulose" encompasses any cellulose material incorporated into the homogenized plant material that is not derived from non-tobacco plant particles or tobacco particles provided in the homogenized plant material. Thus, in addition to non-tobacco plant material or tobacco material, added cellulose is incorporated into the homogenized plant material as a separate and distinct cellulose source from any cellulose inherently provided within the non-tobacco plant particles or tobacco particles. Added cellulose is typically derived from plants different from those in the non-tobacco plant particles or tobacco particles. Preferably, the added cellulose is in the form of an inert cellulose material that is sensorily inert and therefore does not substantially affect the sensory properties of the aerosols generated from the aerosol-generating matrix. For example, the added cellulose is preferably a tasteless and odorless material.

[0240] Additional cellulose may include cellulose powder, cellulose fibers, or a combination thereof.

[0241] Aerosol forming agents can act as wetting agents in aerosol generation matrices.

[0242] The packaging for the homogenized plant material strips can be paper or non-paper. Suitable paper packaging for specific embodiments of the invention is known in the art and includes, but is not limited to, cigarette paper and filter tip packaging. Suitable non-paper packaging for specific embodiments of the invention is known in the art and includes, but is not limited to, sheets of homogenized tobacco material. In some preferred embodiments, the packaging may be formed of a laminate comprising multiple layers. Preferably, the packaging is formed of an aluminum co-laminated sheet. The use of an aluminum-containing co-laminated sheet advantageously prevents the combustion of the aerosol-generating matrix when it should be ignited rather than heated in the intended manner.

[0243] In other preferred embodiments of the invention, the aerosol-generating matrix comprises a gel composition containing an alkaloid compound. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol-generating matrix comprises a gel composition containing nicotine.

[0244] Preferably, the gel composition comprises an alkaloid compound; an aerosol forming agent; and at least one gelling agent. Preferably, at least one gelling agent forms a solid medium, and glycerol is dispersed in the solid medium, wherein the alkaloid is dispersed in the glycerol. Preferably, the gel composition is a stable gel phase.

[0245] Advantageously, nicotine-containing stable gel compositions provide a predictable compositional form during storage or shipment from manufacturer to consumer. Nicotine-containing stable gel compositions substantially maintain their shape. Nicotine-containing stable gel compositions substantially do not release the liquid phase during storage or shipment from manufacturer to consumer. Nicotine-containing stable gel compositions allow for simple consumable design. The consumable does not need to be designed to contain liquid, thus enabling a wider range of material and container constructions.

[0246] The gel composition described herein can be combined with an aerosol generating device to deliver nicotine aerosol to the lungs at an inhalation rate or airflow rate within the range of conventional smoking inhalation rates or airflow rates. The aerosol generating device can continuously heat the gel composition. The consumer can take multiple inhalations or "puffs," with each "puff" delivering a certain amount of nicotine aerosol. When preferably heated in a continuous manner, the gel composition is capable of delivering a high-nicotine / low-total-particulate-matter (TPM) aerosol to the consumer.

[0247] The phrase "stable gel phase" or "stable gel" refers to a gel that substantially maintains its shape and quality when exposed to a variety of environmental conditions. When exposed to standard temperature and pressure while the relative humidity changes from about 10% to about 60%, a stable gel will substantially not release (leak) or absorb moisture. For example, when exposed to standard temperature and pressure while the relative humidity changes from about 10% to about 60%, a stable gel can substantially maintain its shape and quality.

[0248] The gel composition contains an alkaloid compound. The gel composition may contain one or more alkaloids.

[0249] The term "alkaloid compound" refers to any of a class of naturally occurring organic compounds containing one or more basic nitrogen atoms. Typically, alkaloids contain at least one nitrogen atom in an amine-type structure. This or other nitrogen atom in the alkaloid compound molecule can function as a base in acid-base reactions. In most alkaloid compounds, one or more of the nitrogen atoms are part of a cyclic system, such as a heterocycle. In nature, alkaloid compounds are primarily found in plants, particularly in certain flowering plant families. However, some alkaloid compounds are found in animal species and fungi. In this disclosure, the term "alkaloid compound" refers to both naturally occurring alkaloid compounds and synthetically produced alkaloid compounds.

[0250] Preferably, the gel composition may contain an alkaloid compound selected from nicotine, anaphylabine, and combinations thereof.

[0251] Preferably, the gel composition contains nicotine.

[0252] The term "nicotine" refers to nicotine and nicotine derivatives, such as free nicotine base and nicotine salts.

[0253] Preferably, the gel composition comprises about 0.5% to about 10% by weight of an alkaloid compound. The gel composition may comprise about 0.5% to about 5% by weight of an alkaloid compound. Preferably, the gel composition comprises about 1% to about 3% by weight of an alkaloid compound. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise about 1.5% to about 2.5% by weight of an alkaloid compound. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise about 2% by weight of an alkaloid compound. The alkaloid compound component of the gel formulation may be the most volatile component of the gel formulation. In some aspects, water may be the most volatile component of the gel formulation, and the alkaloid compound component of the gel formulation may be the second most volatile component of the gel formulation. In some aspects, water may be the most volatile component of the gel formulation, and the alkaloid compound component of the gel formulation may be the second most volatile component of the gel formulation.

[0254] Preferably, nicotine is included in the gel composition. Nicotine may be added to the composition in free alkali form or salt form. The gel composition contains about 0.5% to about 10% by weight of nicotine, or about 0.5% to about 5% by weight of nicotine. Preferably, the gel composition contains about 1% to about 3% by weight of nicotine, or about 1.5% to about 2.5% by weight of nicotine, or about 2% by weight of nicotine. The nicotine component of the gel formulation may be the most volatile component of the gel formulation. In some aspects, water may be the most volatile component of the gel formulation, and the nicotine component of the gel formulation may be the second most volatile component of the gel formulation.

[0255] Preferably, the gel composition comprises an aerosol forming agent. Ideally, the aerosol forming agent is substantially resistant to thermal degradation at the operating temperature of the associated aerosol generating device. Suitable aerosol forming agents include, but are not limited to: polyols, such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and glycerol; esters of polyols, such as mono-, di-, or triacetic acid esters of glycerol; and aliphatic esters of monocarboxylic acids, dicarboxylic acids, or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyl dodecanoate and dimethyl tetradecanoate. The polyol or mixture thereof may be one or more of triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, glycerol (glycerol or propane-1,2,3-triol), or polyethylene glycol. Preferably, the aerosol forming agent is glycerol.

[0256] The gel composition may contain a majority aerosol forming agent. The gel composition may contain a mixture of water and an aerosol forming agent, wherein the aerosol forming agent forms the majority (by weight) of the gel composition. The aerosol forming agent may form at least about 50% by weight of the gel composition. The aerosol forming agent may form at least about 60% by weight, at least about 65% by weight, or at least about 70% by weight of the gel composition. The aerosol forming agent may form about 70% by weight to about 80% by weight of the gel composition. The aerosol forming agent may form about 70% by weight to about 75% by weight of the gel composition.

[0257] The gel composition may contain a majority of glycerol. The gel composition may contain a mixture of water and glycerol, wherein glycerol forms the majority (by weight) of the gel composition. Glycerol may form at least about 50% by weight of the gel composition. Glycerol may form at least about 60% by weight, at least about 65% by weight, or at least about 70% by weight of the gel composition. Glycerol may form about 70% by weight to about 80% by weight of the gel composition. Glycerol may form about 70% by weight to about 75% by weight of the gel composition.

[0258] Preferably, the gel composition comprises at least one gelling agent. Preferably, the gel composition comprises a gelling agent in a total amount ranging from about 0.4% to about 10% by weight. More preferably, the composition comprises a gelling agent in a total amount ranging from about 0.5% to about 8% by weight. More preferably, the composition comprises a gelling agent in a total amount ranging from about 1% to about 6% by weight. More preferably, the composition comprises a gelling agent in a total amount ranging from about 2% to about 4% by weight. More preferably, the composition comprises a gelling agent in a total amount ranging from about 2% to about 3% by weight.

[0259] The term "gelling agent" refers to a compound that, when added in an amount of about 0.3% by weight to a mixture of 50% by weight water and 50% by weight glycerol, homogeneously forms a solid medium or supporting matrix that results in gelation. Gelling agents include, but are not limited to, hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agents and ionic crosslinking gelling agents.

[0260] The gelling agent may contain one or more biopolymers. The biopolymer may be formed from polysaccharides.

[0261] Biopolymers include, for example, gellan gum (natural, low-acyl gellan gum, high-acyl gellan gum, preferably low-acyl gellan gum), xanthan gum, alginate (alginic acid), agar, guar gum, etc. Preferably, the composition may contain xanthan gum. The composition may contain two biopolymers. The composition may contain three biopolymers. The composition may contain two biopolymers in substantially equal weight. The composition may contain three biopolymers in substantially equal weight.

[0262] Preferably, the gel composition comprises at least about 0.2% by weight of a hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agent. Alternatively or additionally, the gel composition preferably comprises at least about 0.2% by weight of an ionic crosslinking gelling agent. Most preferably, the gel composition comprises at least about 0.2% by weight of both a hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agent and at least about 0.2% by weight of an ionic crosslinking gelling agent. The gel composition may comprise from about 0.5% by weight to about 3% by weight of a hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agent and from about 0.5% by weight to about 3% by weight of an ionic crosslinking gelling agent, or from about 1% by weight to about 2% by weight of a hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agent and from about 1% by weight to about 2% by weight of an ionic crosslinking gelling agent. The hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agent and the ionic crosslinking gelling agent may be present in substantially equal amounts by weight in the gel composition.

[0263] The term "hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agent" refers to a gelling agent that forms non-covalent or physical crosslinking bonds via hydrogen bonds. Hydrogen bonds are a type of electrostatic dipole-dipole attraction between molecules, rather than covalent bonds with hydrogen atoms. They arise from the attractive force between a hydrogen atom covalently bonded to a highly negatively charged atom (such as N, O, or F) and another highly negatively charged atom.

[0264] Hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agents may include one or more of galactomannan, gelatin, agarose, konjac gum, or agar. Preferably, the hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agent may include agar.

[0265] Preferably, the gel composition contains a hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agent in the range of about 0.3% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the composition contains a hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agent in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the composition contains a hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agent in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0266] The gel composition may contain galactomannan in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the galactomannan may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the galactomannan may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the galactomannan may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0267] The gel composition may contain gelatin in the range of about 0.2% by weight to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the gelatin may be in the range of about 0.5% by weight to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the gelatin may be in the range of about 0.5% by weight to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the gelatin may be in the range of about 1% by weight to about 2% by weight.

[0268] The gel composition may contain agarose in the range of about 0.2% by weight to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the agarose may be in the range of about 0.5% by weight to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the agarose may be in the range of about 0.5% by weight to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the agarose may be in the range of about 1% by weight to about 2% by weight.

[0269] The gel composition may contain konjac gum in the range of about 0.2% by weight to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the konjac gum may be in the range of about 0.5% by weight to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the konjac gum may be in the range of about 0.5% by weight to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the konjac gum may be in the range of about 1% by weight to about 2% by weight.

[0270] The gel composition may contain agar in the range of about 0.2% by weight to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the agar may be in the range of about 0.5% by weight to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the agar may be in the range of about 0.5% by weight to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the agar may be in the range of about 1% by weight to about 2% by weight.

[0271] The term "ionic crosslinking gelling agent" refers to a gelling agent that forms non-covalent or physical crosslinking bonds via ionic bonds. Ionic crosslinking involves the association of polymer chains through non-covalent interactions. A crosslinked network is formed when multivalent molecules with opposite charges attract each other electrostatically to form a crosslinked polymer network.

[0272] Ionic crosslinking gelling agents may include low-acyl gellan gum, pectin, κ-carrageenan, ι-carrageenan, or alginate. Preferably, the ionic crosslinking gelling agent may include low-acyl gellan gum.

[0273] The gel composition may contain an ionic crosslinking gelling agent in the range of about 0.3% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the composition contains an ionic crosslinking gelling agent in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the composition contains an ionic crosslinking gelling agent in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0274] The gel composition may contain a low-acyl gellan gum in the range of about 0.2 wt% to about 5 wt%. Preferably, the low-acyl gellan gum may be in the range of about 0.5 wt% to about 3 wt%. Preferably, the low-acyl gellan gum may be in the range of about 0.5 wt% to about 2 wt%. Preferably, the low-acyl gellan gum may be in the range of about 1 wt% to about 2 wt%.

[0275] The gel composition may contain pectin in the range of about 0.2% by weight to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the pectin may be in the range of about 0.5% by weight to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the pectin may be in the range of about 0.5% by weight to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the pectin may be in the range of about 1% by weight to about 2% by weight.

[0276] The gel composition may contain κ-carrageenan in the range of about 0.2 wt% to about 5 wt%. Preferably, κ-carrageenan may be in the range of about 0.5 wt% to about 3 wt%. Preferably, κ-carrageenan may be in the range of about 0.5 wt% to about 2 wt%. Preferably, κ-carrageenan may be in the range of about 1 wt% to about 2 wt%.

[0277] The gel composition may contain 1-carrageenan in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, 1-carrageenan may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, 1-carrageenan may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, 1-carrageenan may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0278] The gel composition may contain alginate in the range of about 0.2 wt% to about 5 wt%. Preferably, the alginate may be in the range of about 0.5 wt% to about 3 wt%. Preferably, the alginate may be in the range of about 0.5 wt% to about 2 wt%. Preferably, the alginate may be in the range of about 1 wt% to about 2 wt%.

[0279] The gel composition may contain a hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agent and an ionic crosslinking gelling agent in a ratio of about 3:1 to about 1:3. Preferably, the gel composition may contain a hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agent and an ionic crosslinking gelling agent in a ratio of about 2:1 to about 1:2. Preferably, the gel composition may contain a hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agent and an ionic crosslinking gelling agent in a ratio of about 1:1.

[0280] The gel composition may also contain a thickener. Thickeners combined with hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agents and ionic crosslinking gelling agents appear to unexpectedly support the solid medium and maintain the gel composition, even when the gel composition includes high levels of glycerol.

[0281] The term "thickening agent" refers to a compound that, when homogenized in an amount of 0.3% by weight at 25°C, increases viscosity without causing gel formation, and the mixture retains or preserves fluidity. Preferably, the thickening agent refers to a compound that, when homogenized in an amount of 0.3% by weight at 25°C, increases viscosity at a rate of 0.1s... -1The shear rate increases the viscosity to at least 50 cPs, preferably at least 200 cPs, preferably at least 500 cPs, preferably at least 1000 cPs, without causing gel formation, and the mixture retains or preserves fluidity. Preferably, the thickener refers to a compound that, when homogeneously added in an amount of 0.3 wt% to a mixture of 50 wt% water / 50 wt% glycerol at 25°C, increases the viscosity at a rate of 0.1 s⁻¹. -1 The shear rate causes the viscosity to increase by at least 2, 5, 10, or 100 times compared to before addition, without causing gel formation, the mixture retains or preserves the fluidity of the compound.

[0282] The viscosity values ​​described herein can be measured using a Brookfield RVT viscometer at 25°C by rotating the disc-type RV#2 spindle at a speed of 6 revolutions per minute (rpm).

[0283] Preferably, the gel composition contains a tackifier in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the composition contains a tackifier in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the composition contains a tackifier in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the composition contains a tackifier in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0284] The thickener may include one or more of xanthan gum, carboxymethyl cellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, methyl cellulose, gum arabic, guar gum, λ-carrageenan, or starch. Preferably, the thickener may include xanthan gum.

[0285] The gel composition may contain xanthan gum in the range of about 0.2 wt% to about 5 wt%. Preferably, the xanthan gum is in the range of about 0.5 wt% to about 3 wt%. Preferably, the xanthan gum is in the range of about 0.5 wt% to about 2 wt%. Preferably, the xanthan gum is in the range of about 1 wt% to about 2 wt%.

[0286] The gel composition may contain carboxymethyl cellulose in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the carboxymethyl cellulose may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the carboxymethyl cellulose may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the carboxymethyl cellulose may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0287] The gel composition may contain microcrystalline cellulose in the range of about 0.2 wt% to about 5 wt%. Preferably, the microcrystalline cellulose may be in the range of about 0.5 wt% to about 3 wt%. Preferably, the microcrystalline cellulose may be in the range of about 0.5 wt% to about 2 wt%. Preferably, the microcrystalline cellulose may be in the range of about 1 wt% to about 2 wt%.

[0288] The gel composition may contain methylcellulose in the range of about 0.2% by weight to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the methylcellulose may be in the range of about 0.5% by weight to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the methylcellulose may be in the range of about 0.5% by weight to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the methylcellulose may be in the range of about 1% by weight to about 2% by weight.

[0289] The gel composition may contain gum arabic in the range of about 0.2 wt% to about 5 wt%. Preferably, the gum arabic may be in the range of about 0.5 wt% to about 3 wt%. Preferably, the gum arabic may be in the range of about 0.5 wt% to about 2 wt%. Preferably, the gum arabic may be in the range of about 1 wt% to about 2 wt%.

[0290] The gel composition may contain guar gum in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the guar gum is in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the guar gum is in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the guar gum is in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0291] The gel composition may contain λ-carrageenan in the range of about 0.2 wt% to about 5 wt%. Preferably, λ-carrageenan may be in the range of about 0.5 wt% to about 3 wt%. Preferably, λ-carrageenan may be in the range of about 0.5 wt% to about 2 wt%. Preferably, λ-carrageenan may be in the range of about 1 wt% to about 2 wt%.

[0292] The gel composition may contain starch in the range of about 0.2% by weight to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the starch may be in the range of about 0.5% by weight to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the starch may be in the range of about 0.5% by weight to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the starch may be in the range of about 1% by weight to about 2% by weight.

[0293] The gel composition may also contain divalent cations. Preferably, the divalent cations include calcium ions, such as calcium lactate in solution. For example, divalent cations (such as calcium ions) can help form a gel in a composition including a gelling agent such as an ionic crosslinking gelling agent. Ionic effects can aid gel formation. Divalent cations may be present in the gel composition in the range of about 0.1% by weight to about 1% by weight or about 0.5% by weight.

[0294] The gel composition may also contain an acid. The acid may include a carboxylic acid. The carboxylic acid may include a ketone group. Preferably, the carboxylic acid may contain a ketone group having less than about 10 carbon atoms, less than about 6 carbon atoms, or less than about 4 carbon atoms, such as levulinic acid or lactic acid. Preferably, the carboxylic acid has three carbon atoms (such as lactic acid). Lactic acid, even more so than similar carboxylic acids, unexpectedly improves the stability of the gel composition. Carboxylic acids can aid in gel formation. During storage, carboxylic acids can reduce changes in the concentration of alkaloid compounds within the gel composition. During storage, carboxylic acids can reduce changes in the concentration of nicotine in the gel composition.

[0295] The gel composition may contain a carboxylic acid in the range of about 0.1 wt% to about 5 wt%. Preferably, the carboxylic acid may be in the range of about 0.5 wt% to about 3 wt%. Preferably, the carboxylic acid may be in the range of about 0.5 wt% to about 2 wt%. Preferably, the carboxylic acid may be in the range of about 1 wt% to about 2 wt%.

[0296] The gel composition may contain lactic acid in the range of about 0.1% by weight to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the lactic acid may be in the range of about 0.5% by weight to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the lactic acid may be in the range of about 0.5% by weight to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the lactic acid may be in the range of about 1% by weight to about 2% by weight.

[0297] The gel composition may contain levulinic acid in the range of about 0.1 wt% to about 5 wt%. Preferably, the levulinic acid may be in the range of about 0.5 wt% to about 3 wt%. Preferably, the levulinic acid may be in the range of about 0.5 wt% to about 2 wt%. Preferably, the levulinic acid may be in the range of about 1 wt% to about 2 wt%.

[0298] Preferably, the gel composition includes some water. The gel composition is more stable when it includes some water. Preferably, the gel composition includes at least about 1% by weight, or at least about 2% by weight, or at least about 5% by weight of water. Preferably, the gel composition includes at least about 10% by weight or at least about 15% by weight of water.

[0299] Preferably, the gel composition comprises about 8% by weight to about 32% by weight of water. Preferably, the gel composition comprises about 15% by weight to about 25% by weight of water. Preferably, the gel composition comprises about 18% by weight to about 22% by weight of water. Preferably, the gel composition comprises about 20% by weight of water.

[0300] Preferably, the aerosol generating matrix comprises a gel composition of between about 150 mg and about 350 mg.

[0301] Preferably, in embodiments comprising a gel composition, the aerosol-generating matrix comprises a porous medium carrying the gel composition. The advantage of a porous medium carrying the gel composition is that the gel composition is retained within the porous medium, which facilitates the manufacture, storage, or transport of the gel composition. It helps maintain the desired shape of the gel composition, particularly during manufacture, transport, or use.

[0302] The term "porous" is used herein to refer to a material that provides multiple holes or openings that allow air to pass through it.

[0303] The porous medium can be any suitable porous material capable of holding or retaining the gel composition. Ideally, the porous medium allows the gel composition to move within it. In certain embodiments, the porous medium includes natural, synthetic, or semi-synthetic materials, or combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, the porous medium includes sheet materials, foams, or fibers, such as loose fibers; or combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, the porous medium includes woven, nonwoven, or extruded materials, or combinations thereof. Preferably, the porous medium includes cotton, paper, viscose fibers, PLA, or cellulose acetate, or combinations thereof. Preferably, the porous medium includes sheet materials, such as cotton or cellulose acetate. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the porous medium includes a sheet made of cotton fibers.

[0304] The porous medium used in this invention can be coiled or shredded. In a preferred embodiment, the porous medium is coiled. In an alternative embodiment, the porous medium comprises shredded porous medium. The coiling or shredding process can be performed before or after the gel composition is loaded.

[0305] Curling sheet materials has the benefit of improving the structure to allow pathways through that structure. Pathways through the curled sheet material facilitate gel loading and retention, and also facilitate fluid flow through the curled sheet material. Therefore, using curled sheet materials as porous media has advantages.

[0306] Chopping gives the medium a large surface area to volume ratio, which allows it to easily absorb gel.

[0307] In certain embodiments, the sheet material is a composite material. Preferably, the sheet material is porous. The sheet material can aid in the fabrication of tubular elements comprising gels. The sheet material can aid in the introduction of surfactants into tubular elements comprising gels. The sheet material can aid in stabilizing the structure of tubular elements comprising gels. The sheet material can aid in the transport or storage of gels. Using the sheet material can enable or facilitate the incorporation of structures into porous media, for example, by curling the sheet material.

[0308] Porous media can be in the form of threads. Threads can include, for example, cotton, paper, or acetate tows. Threads can also carry gels, as with any other porous media. The advantage of using threads as porous media is that it facilitates ease of fabrication.

[0309] The filament can be loaded with gel in any known manner. The filament can be simply coated with gel, or it can be impregnated with gel. In manufacturing, the filament can be impregnated with gel and stored in preparation for inclusion in the assembly of tubular elements.

[0310] Preferably, the porous medium carrying the gel composition is disposed within a tubular element that forms part of the aerosol-generating article. Ideally, the longitudinal length of the tubular element may be longer than its width, but this is not necessary, as it can be a part of a multi-component article in which the longitudinal length is ideally longer than its width. Typically, the tubular element is cylindrical, but this is not mandatory. For example, the tubular element may have an oval, polygonal (such as triangular or rectangular), or irregular cross-section.

[0311] Preferably, the tubular element includes a first longitudinal passage. Preferably, the tubular element is formed from a package defining the first longitudinal passage. Preferably, the package is a waterproof package. This waterproof property of the package can be achieved by using a waterproof material or by treating the material of the package. This can be achieved by treating one or both sides of the package. Waterproofing helps to maintain structure, rigidity, or stiffness. This also helps to prevent leakage of gels or liquids, especially when using gels with a fluid structure.

[0312] Preferably, embodiments of the invention in which the strip of the aerosol generating matrix comprises the gel composition as described above include an upstream segment upstream of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix. In this case, the upstream segment advantageously prevents physical contact with the gel composition. The upstream segment can also advantageously compensate for any potential reduction in RTD, for example due to evaporation of the gel composition when the strip of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​heated during use.

[0313] In some preferred embodiments, the aerosol generating matrix may include or be in the form of a solid aerosol generating matrix. The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain nicotine, one or more cellulose-based reagents, one or more aerosol forming agents, and one or more carboxylic acids. The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total cellulose-based reagent content of at least 35% by weight, a total aerosol forming agent content of greater than or equal to 45% by weight, and a total carboxylic acid content of at least 0.5% by weight. The one or more cellulose-based reagents may include one or more of cellulose-based film-forming agents, cellulose-based reinforcing agents, and cellulose-based binders. The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain one or more carboxylic acids, wherein the carboxylic acid: (i) is free of any non-carboxyalkyl hydroxyl groups and any ketone groups; or (ii) has a pKa of less than or equal to 3.5 in water at 25°C; or (iii) is free of any non-carboxyalkyl hydroxyl groups, free of any ketone groups, and has a pKa of less than or equal to 3.5 in water at 25°C. The one or more carboxylic acids may be selected from acetic acid, adipic acid, benzoic acid, citric acid, fumaric acid, maleic acid, malic acid, myristic acid, oxalic acid, salicylic acid, stearic acid, succinic acid, undecanoic acid, and C1-C10 saturated alkyl monocarboxylic acids. The solid aerosol generating matrix may also contain one or more carboxylic acids selected from lactic acid and levulinic acid.

[0314] The solid aerosol generating matrix can remain solid when heated to a temperature between 180°C and 350°C. As further described below, this can advantageously reduce or eliminate crusting in aerosol generating articles.

[0315] For example, the solid aerosol generating matrix can remain solid when heated to temperatures between 200°C and 320°C, between 220°C and 300°C, or between 240°C and 280°C.

[0316] The solid aerosol generation matrix can be a solid aerosol generation membrane.

[0317] As used in this article, the term "membrane" is used to describe a solid aerosol-generating matrix whose thickness is significantly smaller than its width or length.

[0318] The term “exposed surface area of ​​the membrane” is used in this document to refer to the cumulative surface area of ​​the various surfaces of an aerosol-generating membrane that can be exposed to a gas stream passing through an aerosol-generating article containing the membrane during use.

[0319] The “weight” of the aerosol-generating membrane of the aerosol-generating article according to the present invention is generally the weight of the component corresponding to the corresponding film-forming composition minus the weight of water evaporated during the drying step. If the membrane is self-supporting, the membrane can be weighed separately. If the membrane is disposed on a support, the membrane and the support can be weighed, and the weight of the support measured before membrane deposition is subtracted from the combined weight of the membrane and the support.

[0320] Unless otherwise stated, the weight percentages of components in the aerosol-forming membrane described herein are based on the total weight of the aerosol-forming membrane.

[0321] As used herein, the term "thickness" is used to describe the minimum dimension between opposing, substantially parallel surfaces of a solid aerosol-generated film. The thickness of the aerosol-generated film can substantially correspond to the thickness of the corresponding film-forming composition when it is cast or extruded, because the cast or extruded film-forming composition does not substantially shrink during drying, despite water loss.

[0322] Solid aerosol generating membranes can have a thickness of 0.05 mm, 0.1 mm, 0.2 mm, or 0.3 mm or greater.

[0323] Solid aerosol generating membranes can have a thickness of less than or equal to 1.2 mm, less than or equal to 1 mm, less than or equal to 0.8 mm, less than or equal to 0.6 mm, or less than or equal to 0.4 mm.

[0324] The solid aerosol generating membrane can have a thickness between 0.05 mm and 1.2 mm, between 0.05 mm and 1 mm, between 0.05 mm and 0.8 mm, between 0.05 mm and 0.6 mm, or between 0.05 mm and 0.4 mm.

[0325] Solid aerosol generating membranes can have thicknesses between 0.1 mm and 1.2 mm, between 0.1 mm and 1 mm, between 0.1 mm and 0.8 mm, between 0.1 mm and 0.6 mm, or between 0.1 mm and 0.4 mm.

[0326] Solid aerosol generating membranes can have thicknesses between 0.2 mm and 1.2 mm, between 0.2 mm and 1 mm, between 0.2 mm and 0.8 mm, between 0.2 mm and 0.6 mm, or between 0.2 mm and 0.4 mm.

[0327] Solid aerosol generating membranes can have thicknesses between 0.3 mm and 1.2 mm, between 0.3 mm and 1 mm, between 0.3 mm and 0.8 mm, between 0.3 mm and 0.6 mm, or between 0.3 mm and 0.4 mm.

[0328] Solid aerosol generating membranes can have a basis weight of 85 g / m², 100 g / m², 120 g / m², or 140 g / m².

[0329] Solid aerosol generating membranes can have a basis weight of less than or equal to 300 g / m², less than or equal to 280 g / m², or less than or equal to 260 g / m².

[0330] Solid aerosol generating membranes can have a basis weight between 85 g / m² and 300 g / m², between 85 g / m² and 280 g / m², or between 85 g / m² and 260 g / m².

[0331] Solid aerosol generating membranes can have a basis weight between 100 g / m² and 300 g / m², between 100 g / m² and 280 g / m², or between 100 g / m² and 260 g / m².

[0332] Solid aerosol generating membranes can have a basis weight between 120 g / m² and 300 g / m², between 120 g / m² and 280 g / m², or between 120 g / m² and 260 g / m².

[0333] Solid aerosol generating membranes can have a basis weight between 140 g / m² and 300 g / m², between 140 g / m² and 280 g / m², or between 140 g / m² and 260 g / m².

[0334] Solid aerosol generating films can be formed by any suitable method. For example, solid aerosol generating films can be formed by batch casting, continuous casting, or extrusion.

[0335] Solid aerosol generating membranes can be self-supporting. In other words, the properties of solid aerosol generating membranes allow them to separate from the supporting surface even when formed by casting slurry onto it.

[0336] Solid aerosol generating membranes (SAMs) can be disposed on a support or sandwiched between other materials. This can enhance the mechanical stability of the SAM. For example, the SAM can be disposed on a layered support.

[0337] In some embodiments, the solid aerosol generating membrane may be cut or otherwise divided into multiple strips or fragments, which may be wrapped to form aerosol generating strips for inclusion in aerosol generating articles.

[0338] In some embodiments, the solid aerosol generating membrane may be aggregated to form an aerosol generating strip for inclusion in an aerosol generating article.

[0339] The solid aerosol generating film can be textured. In some embodiments, this can facilitate the aggregation of the solid aerosol generating film to form aerosol generating strips for inclusion in aerosol generating articles.

[0340] The term "textured" is used to describe solid aerosol generating films that have been curled, embossed, debossed, perforated, or otherwise deformed. Textured solid aerosol generating films may include multiple spaced indentations, protrusions, perforations, or combinations thereof.

[0341] It can cause solid aerosols to form rolled-up films.

[0342] As used herein, the term “curled” is intended to be synonymous with the term “wrinkled” and is used to describe a solid aerosol-generating film having multiple substantially parallel ridges or corrugations.

[0343] The coiled solid aerosol generating film can have multiple ridges or corrugations that are substantially parallel to the cylindrical axis of the aerosol generating strip. This can advantageously promote the aggregation of the coiled solid aerosol generating film to form the aerosol generating strip.

[0344] Solid aerosol forming membranes can be textured using suitable known machinery for texturing filter tows, paper and other materials.

[0345] Solid aerosol generating membranes can be rolled up using a rolling unit of the type described in CH-A-691156, which includes a pair of rotatable rolling rollers. However, it should be understood that other suitable machinery and processes can be used to texture solid aerosol generating membranes by deforming or perforating them.

[0346] Solid aerosol generating membranes can be directly incorporated into aerosol generating strips for inclusion in aerosol generating articles.

[0347] In some embodiments, the solid aerosol generating membrane may be applied to the layered support before being incorporated into the aerosol generating strip for inclusion in an aerosol generating article. For example, the solid aerosol generating membrane may be applied to the surface of a sheet material. Suitable sheet materials for use as layered supports include, but are not limited to: paper; cardboard; and homogenized plant materials. For example, the solid aerosol generating membrane may be applied to paper sheets, aluminum-coated paper sheets, or polyethylene-coated paper sheets.

[0348] The layered support having a solid aerosol generating film applied thereto can be cut as described above or otherwise divided into multiple strips or fragments.

[0349] Layered supports having a solid aerosol generating film applied thereon can be assembled as described above.

[0350] The layered support having a solid aerosol generating film applied thereon can be textured as described above.

[0351] In some embodiments, the solid aerosol generating membrane may be applied to the tubular support before being incorporated into the aerosol generating strip for inclusion in the aerosol generating article. For example, the solid aerosol generating membrane may be applied to the inner surface of the hollow tubular support.

[0352] Preferably, the solid aerosol generating matrix may contain nicotine.

[0353] As used herein, the term "nicotine" is used to describe nicotine, nicotine base, or nicotine salt. In some embodiments in which the solid aerosol generating matrix may contain nicotine base or nicotine salt, the amounts of nicotine described herein are either the amount of free base nicotine or the amount of protonated nicotine.

[0354] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain natural nicotine or synthetic nicotine, or a combination of natural and synthetic nicotine.

[0355] Nicotine may include one or more nicotine salts. One or more nicotine salts may be selected from: nicotine lactate, nicotine citrate, nicotine pyruvate, nicotine tartrate, nicotine benzoate, nicotine pectate, nicotine alginate, and nicotine salicylate.

[0356] Nicotine may include tobacco extracts.

[0357] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a nicotine content of ≥0.5% by weight, ≥1% by weight, ≥1.5% by weight, or ≥2% by weight.

[0358] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a nicotine content of less than or equal to 10% by weight, less than or equal to 8% by weight, less than or equal to 6% by weight, or less than or equal to 4% by weight.

[0359] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a nicotine content between 0.5% and 10% by weight, between 0.5% and 8% by weight, between 0.5% and 6% by weight, or between 0.5% and 4% by weight.

[0360] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a nicotine content between 1% and 10% by weight, between 1% and 8% by weight, between 1% and 6% by weight, or between 1% and 4% by weight.

[0361] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a nicotine content between 1.5% and 10% by weight, between 1.5% and 8% by weight, between 1.5% and 6% by weight, or between 1.5% and 4% by weight.

[0362] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a nicotine content between 2% and 10% by weight, between 2% and 8% by weight, between 2% and 6% by weight, or between 2% and 4% by weight.

[0363] The solid aerosol generating matrix contains one or more aerosol forming agents.

[0364] The term "aerosol forming agent" is used to describe compounds that promote the formation of aerosols during use and are preferably substantially resistant to thermal degradation at the operating temperature of the aerosol generating article or aerosol generating system comprising a solid aerosol generating matrix.

[0365] Examples of suitable aerosol forming agents include: polyols such as 1,3-butanediol, glycerol, 1,3-propanediol, propylene glycol, and triethylene glycol; esters of polyols such as mono-, di-, or triacetic acid esters; and aliphatic esters of monocarboxylic acids, dicarboxylic acids, or polycarboxylic acids such as dimethyl dodecanoate and dimethyl tetradecanoate.

[0366] Preferably, the one or more aerosol forming agents comprise one or more polyols selected from 1,3-butanediol, glycerol, 1,3-propanediol, propylene glycol, and triethylene glycol.

[0367] More preferably, the one or more aerosol forming agents comprise one or more polyols selected from glycerol and propylene glycol. Even more preferably, the one or more aerosol forming agents comprise glycerol.

[0368] Most preferably, the one or more aerosol forming agents may be glycerol.

[0369] The solid aerosol generating matrix has a total aerosol forming agent content of greater than or equal to 45% by weight.

[0370] The term "total aerosol forming agent content" is used to describe the combined content of all aerosol forming agents in the solid aerosol generating matrix.

[0371] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total aerosol forming agent content of 46% or more by weight, 48% or more by weight, 50% or more by weight, or 52% or more by weight.

[0372] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total aerosol forming agent content of less than or equal to 62% by weight, less than or equal to 60% by weight, less than or equal to 58% by weight, less than or equal to 56% by weight, or less than or equal to 54% by weight.

[0373] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total aerosol forming agent content between 45% and 62% by weight, between 45% and 60% by weight, between 45% and 58% by weight, between 45% and 56% by weight, or between 45% and 54% by weight.

[0374] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total aerosol forming agent content between 46% and 62% by weight, between 46% and 60% by weight, between 46% and 58% by weight, between 46% and 56% by weight, or between 46% and 54% by weight.

[0375] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total aerosol forming agent content between 48% and 62% by weight, between 48% and 60% by weight, between 48% and 58% by weight, between 48% and 56% by weight, or between 48% and 54% by weight.

[0376] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total aerosol forming agent content between 50% and 62% by weight, between 50% and 60% by weight, between 50% and 58% by weight, between 50% and 56% by weight, or between 50% and 54% by weight.

[0377] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total aerosol forming agent content between 52% and 62% by weight, between 52% and 60% by weight, between 52% and 58% by weight, between 52% and 56% by weight, or between 52% and 54% by weight.

[0378] Preferably, the solid aerosol generating matrix comprises one or more polyols.

[0379] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total polyol content of 45% or more by weight, 46% or more by weight, 48% or more by weight, 50% or more by weight, or 52% or more by weight.

[0380] The term "total polyol content" is used to describe the combined content of all polyols in the solid aerosol generating matrix.

[0381] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total polyol content of less than or equal to 62% by weight, less than or equal to 60% by weight, less than or equal to 58% by weight, less than or equal to 56% by weight, or less than or equal to 54% by weight.

[0382] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total polyol content between 45% and 62% by weight, between 45% and 60% by weight, between 45% and 58% by weight, between 45% and 56% by weight, or between 45% and 54% by weight.

[0383] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total polyol content between 46% and 62% by weight, between 46% and 60% by weight, between 46% and 58% by weight, between 46% and 56% by weight, or between 46% and 54% by weight.

[0384] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total polyol content between 48% and 62% by weight, between 48% and 60% by weight, between 48% and 58% by weight, between 48% and 56% by weight, or between 48% and 54% by weight.

[0385] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total polyol content between 50% and 62% by weight, between 50% and 60% by weight, between 50% and 58% by weight, between 50% and 56% by weight, or between 50% and 54% by weight.

[0386] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total polyol content between 52% and 62% by weight, between 52% and 60% by weight, between 52% and 58% by weight, between 52% and 56% by weight, or between 52% and 54% by weight.

[0387] Preferably, the solid aerosol generating matrix comprises one or more polyols selected from 1,3-butanediol, glycerol, 1,3-propanediol, propylene glycol, and triethylene glycol.

[0388] More preferably, the solid aerosol generating matrix comprises one or more polyols selected from glycerol and propylene glycol.

[0389] Most preferably, the solid aerosol generating matrix contains glycerol.

[0390] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a glycerol content of ≥35% by weight, ≥40% by weight, ≥45% by weight, ≥46% by weight, ≥48% by weight, ≥50% by weight, or ≥52% by weight.

[0391] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a glycerol content of less than or equal to 62% by weight, less than or equal to 60% by weight, less than or equal to 58% by weight, less than or equal to 56% by weight, or less than or equal to 54% by weight.

[0392] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a glycerol content between 35% and 62% by weight, between 35% and 60% by weight, between 35% and 58% by weight, between 35% and 56% by weight, or between 35% and 54% by weight.

[0393] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total glycerol content between 40% and 62% by weight, between 40% and 60% by weight, between 40% and 58% by weight, between 40% and 56% by weight, or between 40% and 54% by weight.

[0394] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a glycerol content between 45% and 62% by weight, between 45% and 60% by weight, between 45% and 58% by weight, between 45% and 56% by weight, or between 45% and 54% by weight.

[0395] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a glycerol content between 46% and 62% by weight, between 46% and 60% by weight, between 46% and 58% by weight, between 46% and 56% by weight, or between 46% and 54% by weight.

[0396] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a glycerol content between 48% and 62% by weight, between 48% and 60% by weight, between 48% and 58% by weight, between 48% and 56% by weight, or between 48% and 54% by weight.

[0397] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total glycerol content between 50% and 62% by weight, between 50% and 60% by weight, between 50% and 58% by weight, between 50% and 56% by weight, or between 50% and 54% by weight.

[0398] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total glycerol content between 52% and 62% by weight, between 52% and 60% by weight, between 52% and 58% by weight, between 52% and 56% by weight, or between 52% and 54% by weight.

[0399] The matrix for generating solid aerosols contains one or more carboxylic acids.

[0400] The solid aerosol generating matrix can contain multiple carboxylic acids. That is, the solid aerosol generating matrix can contain two or more carboxylic acids. For example, the solid aerosol generating matrix can contain two, three, four, or five carboxylic acids.

[0401] It has been unexpectedly found that including one or more carboxylic acids in the solid aerosol generating matrix of an aerosol generating article can advantageously improve the stability of the solid aerosol generating matrix during the storage of the aerosol generating article. It has also been unexpectedly found that including one or more carboxylic acids in the solid aerosol generating matrix of an aerosol generating article can advantageously improve the stability of nicotine in the solid aerosol generating matrix during the storage of the aerosol generating article. In particular, it has been unexpectedly found that including one or more carboxylic acids in the solid aerosol generating matrix of an aerosol generating article can advantageously inhibit corrosion of components of the aerosol generating article. In particular, it has been unexpectedly found that including one or more carboxylic acids in the solid aerosol generating matrix of an aerosol generating article can advantageously inhibit corrosion of metal components of the aerosol generating article. In particular, it has been unexpectedly found that including one or more carboxylic acids in the solid aerosol generating matrix of an aerosol generating article can advantageously inhibit corrosion of receptors in the aerosol generating article. In some embodiments, the receptors are in direct contact with the aerosol generating matrix.

[0402] While not wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that, when included in a solid aerosol-generating matrix, carboxylic acids without any non-carboxyalkylhydroxyl groups are less likely to oxidize other components of the aerosol-generating article than carboxylic acids containing non-carboxyalkylhydroxyl groups. Similarly, while not wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that, when included in a solid aerosol-generating matrix, carboxylic acids without any ketone groups are less likely to oxidize other components of the aerosol-generating article than carboxylic acids containing ketone groups. It is believed that the inclusion of one or more carboxylic acids without any non-carboxyalkylhydroxyl groups and without any ketone groups in a solid aerosol-generating matrix thereby inhibits corrosion of components of the aerosol-generating article.

[0403] While not wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that carboxylic acids having a pKa of less than or equal to 3.5 are less likely to oxidize other components of aerosol-generating articles when included in a solid aerosol-generating matrix than carboxylic acids having a pKa greater than 3.5. It is believed that the inclusion of one or more carboxylic acids having a pKa of less than or equal to 3.5 in a solid aerosol-generating matrix thereby inhibits corrosion of components of aerosol-generating articles.

[0404] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain one or more carboxylic acids, wherein the carboxylic acid: (i) contains no non-carboxyalkyl hydroxyl groups and no ketone groups; or (ii) has a pKa of less than or equal to 3.5 in water at 25°C; or (iii) contains no non-carboxyalkyl hydroxyl groups, no ketone groups, and has a pKa of less than or equal to 3.5 in water at 25°C.

[0405] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain a variety of carboxylic acids that do not contain any non-carboxylic alkyl hydroxyl groups and no ketone groups. For example, the solid aerosol generating matrix may contain benzoic acid and succinic acid.

[0406] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain one or more carboxylic acids having a pKa of less than or equal to 3.5 in water at 25°C.

[0407] As used herein with reference to the present invention, the term "carboxylic acid having a pKa of less than or equal to 3.5 in water at 25°C" is used to describe monoprotic carboxylic acids having a pKa of less than or equal to 3.5 in water at 25°C and polyprotic carboxylic acids having a pKa of less than or equal to 3.5 in water at 25°C.

[0408] For example, the solid aerosol generating matrix may contain one or more carboxylic acids selected from citric acid, fumaric acid, maleic acid, malic acid, oxalic acid, and salicylic acid.

[0409] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain various carboxylic acids having a pKa of less than or equal to 3.5 in water at 25°C. For example, the solid aerosol generating matrix may contain citric acid and malic acid.

[0410] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain one or more carboxylic acids that do not contain any non-carboxyalkyl hydroxyl groups, do not contain any ketone groups, and have a pKa of less than or equal to 3.5 in water at 25°C. For example, the solid aerosol generating matrix may contain one or more carboxylic acids selected from fumaric acid, maleic acid, oxalic acid, and salicylic acid.

[0411] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain various carboxylic acids that do not contain any non-carboxylated alkyl hydroxyl groups, do not contain any ketone groups, and have a pKa of less than or equal to 3.5 in water at 25°C. For example, the solid aerosol generating matrix may contain fumaric acid and maleic acid.

[0412] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain one or more carboxylic acids having a pKa greater than or equal to 3.6 in water at 25°C.

[0413] As used herein with reference to the present invention, the term "carboxylic acid having a pKa greater than or equal to 3.6 in water at 25°C" is used to describe monoprotic carboxylic acids having a pKa greater than or equal to 3.6 in water at 25°C and polyprotic carboxylic acids having a pKa greater than or equal to 3.6 in water at 25°C.

[0414] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain one or more carboxylic acids that do not contain any non-carboxylic alkyl hydroxyl groups, do not contain any ketone groups, and have a pKa greater than or equal to 3.6 in water at 25°C. For example, the solid aerosol generating matrix may contain one or more carboxylic acids selected from acetic acid, adipic acid, benzoic acid, and succinic acid.

[0415] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain various carboxylic acids that do not contain any non-carboxylated alkyl hydroxyl groups, do not contain any ketone groups, and have a pKa greater than or equal to 3.6 in water at 25°C. For example, the solid aerosol generating matrix may contain acetic acid and benzoic acid.

[0416] The solid aerosol generating matrix may also contain one or more carboxylic acids that have a non-carboxylic alkyl hydroxyl group and a pKa greater than or equal to 3.6 in water at 25°C. For example, the solid aerosol generating matrix may also contain lactic acid.

[0417] The solid aerosol generating matrix may also contain one or more carboxylic acids having a ketone group and a pKa greater than or equal to 3.6 in water at 25°C. For example, the solid aerosol generating matrix may also contain levulinic acid.

[0418] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain various carboxylic acids having a pKa greater than or equal to 3.6 in water at 25°C. For example, the solid aerosol generating matrix may contain benzoic acid and lactic acid.

[0419] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain one or more carboxylic acids having a pKa of less than or equal to 3.5 in water at 25°C and one or more carboxylic acids having a pKa of greater than or equal to 3.6 in water at 25°C.

[0420] For example, the solid aerosol generating matrix may contain one or more carboxylic acids selected from fumaric acid, maleic acid and malic acid, and one or more carboxylic acids selected from acetic acid, benzoic acid, lactic acid and levulinic acid.

[0421] For example, the solid aerosol generating matrix may contain fumaric acid and one or more carboxylic acids selected from acetic acid, benzoic acid, lactic acid and levulinic acid.

[0422] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain one or more carboxylic acids selected from acetic acid, adipic acid, benzoic acid, citric acid, fumaric acid, maleic acid, malic acid, myristic acid, oxalic acid, salicylic acid, stearic acid, succinic acid, undecanoic acid, and C1-C10 saturated alkyl monocarboxylic acids.

[0423] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain one or more carboxylic acids selected from acetic acid, adipic acid, benzoic acid, citric acid, fumaric acid, maleic acid, malic acid, myristic acid, oxalic acid, salicylic acid, stearic acid, succinic acid, and undecanoic acid.

[0424] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain one or more carboxylic acids selected from acetic acid, adipic acid, benzoic acid, citric acid, fumaric acid, maleic acid, myristic acid, oxalic acid, salicylic acid, stearic acid, succinic acid, and undecanoic acid.

[0425] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain one or more carboxylic acids selected from acetic acid, benzoic acid, citric acid, fumaric acid, maleic acid, and malic acid.

[0426] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain one or more carboxylic acids selected from acetic acid, benzoic acid, citric acid, fumaric acid, and maleic acid.

[0427] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain one or more carboxylic acids selected from fumaric acid, maleic acid, and malic acid.

[0428] Preferably, the solid aerosol generating matrix comprises one or more carboxylic acids selected from fumaric acid and maleic acid.

[0429] More preferably, the solid aerosol generating matrix contains fumaric acid.

[0430] The solid aerosol generating matrix may also contain one or more carboxylic acids selected from lactic acid and levulinic acid. Advantageously, the presence of one or more carboxylic acids in the aerosol generating matrix can produce nicotine salts. Advantageously, the inventors have discovered that lactic acid and levulinic acid are particularly good carboxylic acids for the production of nicotine salts.

[0431] The solid aerosol generating matrix has a total carboxylic acid content of greater than or equal to 0.5% by weight.

[0432] The term "total carboxylic acid content" is used to describe the combined content of all carboxylic acids in a solid aerosol generating matrix. For example, in the case where the solid aerosol generating matrix contains multiple carboxylic acids, including benzoic acid and fumaric acid, the term "total carboxylic acid content" describes the combined benzoic acid and fumaric acid content of the solid aerosol generating matrix.

[0433] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total carboxylic acid content of greater than or equal to 1% by weight, greater than or equal to 1.5% by weight, or greater than or equal to 2% by weight.

[0434] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total carboxylic acid content of less than or equal to 8% by weight, less than or equal to 6% by weight, or less than or equal to 4% by weight.

[0435] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total carboxylic acid content between 0.5% and 8% by weight, between 0.5% and 6% by weight, or between 0.5% and 4% by weight.

[0436] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total carboxylic acid content between 1% and 8% by weight, between 1% and 6% by weight, or between 1% and 4% by weight.

[0437] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total carboxylic acid content between 1.5% and 8% by weight, between 1.5% and 6% by weight, or between 1.5% and 4% by weight.

[0438] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total carboxylic acid content between 2% and 8% by weight, between 2% and 6% by weight, or between 2% and 4% by weight.

[0439] The molar ratio of total carboxylic acid to nicotine in the solid aerosol generating matrix can be greater than or equal to 0.5:1, greater than or equal to 1:1, greater than or equal to 1.5:1, or greater than or equal to 2:1.

[0440] The molar ratio of total carboxylic acid to nicotine in the solid aerosol generating matrix can be less than or equal to 5:1, less than or equal to 4.5:1, less than or equal to 4:1, or less than or equal to 3.5:1.

[0441] The molar ratio of total carboxylic acid to nicotine in the solid aerosol generating matrix can be between 0.5:1 and 5:1, between 0.5:1 and 4.5:1, between 0.5:1 and 4:1, or between 0.5:1 and 3.5:1.

[0442] The molar ratio of total carboxylic acid to nicotine in the solid aerosol generating matrix can be between 1:1 and 5:1, 1:1 and 4.5:1, 1:1 and 4:1, or 1:1 and 3.5:1.

[0443] The molar ratio of total carboxylic acid to nicotine in the solid aerosol generating matrix can be between 1.5:1 and 5:1, between 1.5:1 and 4.5:1, between 1.5:1 and 4:1, or between 1.5:1 and 3.5:1.

[0444] The molar ratio of total carboxylic acid to nicotine in the solid aerosol generating matrix can be between 2:1 and 5:1, 2:1 and 4.5:1, 2:1 and 4:1, or 2:1 and 3.5:1.

[0445] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a fumaric acid content of ≥0.5% by weight, ≥1% by weight, ≥1.5% by weight, or ≥2% by weight.

[0446] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a fumaric acid content of less than or equal to 8% by weight, less than or equal to 6% by weight, or less than or equal to 4% by weight.

[0447] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a fumaric acid content between 0.5% and 8% by weight, between 0.5% and 6% by weight, or between 0.5% and 4% by weight.

[0448] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a fumaric acid content between 1% and 8% by weight, between 1% and 6% by weight, or between 1% and 4% by weight.

[0449] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a fumaric acid content between 1.5% and 8% by weight, between 1.5% and 6% by weight, or between 1.5% and 4% by weight.

[0450] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a fumaric acid content between 2% and 8% by weight, between 2% and 6% by weight, or between 2% and 4% by weight.

[0451] The molar ratio of fumaric acid to nicotine in the solid aerosol generating matrix can be greater than or equal to 0.5:1, greater than or equal to 1:1, greater than or equal to 1.5:1, or greater than or equal to 2:1.

[0452] The molar ratio of fumaric acid to nicotine in the solid aerosol generating matrix can be less than or equal to 4:1, or less than or equal to 3.5:1, or less than or equal to 3:1, or less than or equal to 2.5:1.

[0453] The molar ratio of fumaric acid to nicotine in the solid aerosol generating matrix can be between 0.5:1 and 4:1, between 0.5:1 and 3.5:1, between 0.5:1 and 3:1, or between 0.5:1 and 2.5:1.

[0454] The molar ratio of fumaric acid to nicotine in the solid aerosol generating matrix can be between 1:1 and 4:1, 1:1 and 3.5:1, 1:1 and 3:1, or 1:1 and 2.5:1.

[0455] The molar ratio of fumaric acid to nicotine in the solid aerosol generating matrix can be between 1.5:1 and 4:1, between 1.5:1 and 3.5:1, between 1.5:1 and 3:1, or between 1.5:1 and 2.5:1.

[0456] The molar ratio of fumaric acid to nicotine in the solid aerosol generating matrix can be between 2:1 and 4:1, 2:1 and 3.5:1, 2:1 and 3:1, or 2:1 and 2.5:1.

[0457] The solid aerosol generating matrix contains one or more cellulose-based reagents.

[0458] The term "cellulose-based reagent" is used to describe cellulose substances. Examples of cellulose-based reagents include cellulose-based film-forming agents, cellulose-based fortifying agents, and cellulose-based binding agents.

[0459] Solid aerosol generating matrices can contain a variety of cellulose-based reagents. That is, solid aerosol generating matrices can contain two or more cellulose-based reagents. For example, a solid aerosol generating matrix can contain two, three, four, or five cellulose-based reagents.

[0460] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total cellulose-based reagent content of ≥25% by weight or ≥30% by weight.

[0461] The term "total cellulose-based reagent content" is used to describe the combined content of all cellulose-based reagents in a solid aerosol generating matrix. For example, in the case where the solid aerosol generating matrix contains multiple cellulose-based reagents consisting of cellulose-based film-forming agents, cellulose-based reinforcing agents, and cellulose-based binders, the term "total cellulose-based reagent content" describes the combined content of cellulose-based film-forming agents, cellulose-based reinforcing agents, and cellulose-based binders in the solid aerosol generating matrix.

[0462] Preferably, the solid aerosol generating matrix has a total cellulose-based reagent content of greater than or equal to 35% by weight.

[0463] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total cellulose-based reagent content of ≥36 wt%, ≥38 wt%, or ≥40 wt%.

[0464] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total cellulose-based reagent content of less than or equal to 52% by weight, less than or equal to 50% by weight, less than or equal to 48% by weight, less than or equal to 46% by weight, or less than or equal to 44% by weight.

[0465] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total cellulose-based reagent content between 35% and 52% by weight, between 35% and 50% by weight, between 35% and 48% by weight, between 35% and 46% by weight, or between 35% and 44% by weight.

[0466] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total cellulose-based reagent content between 36% and 52% by weight, between 36% and 50% by weight, between 36% and 48% by weight, between 36% and 46% by weight, or between 36% and 44% by weight.

[0467] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total cellulose-based reagent content between 38% and 52% by weight, between 38% and 50% by weight, between 38% and 48% by weight, between 38% and 46% by weight, or between 38% and 44% by weight.

[0468] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total cellulose-based reagent content between 40% and 52% by weight, between 40% and 50% by weight, between 40% and 48% by weight, between 40% and 46% by weight, or between 40% and 44% by weight.

[0469] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain one or more cellulose-based film-forming agents.

[0470] The term "cellulose-based film-forming agent" is used to describe cellulose polymers that can form continuous films alone or in the presence of an auxiliary thickener.

[0471] Advantageously, the solid aerosol generating matrix may contain one or more cellulose-based film-forming agents selected from carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), ethyl cellulose (EC), hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), hydroxyethyl methyl cellulose (HEMC), hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC), and methyl cellulose (MC).

[0472] More advantageously, the solid aerosol generating matrix may contain one or more cellulose-based film-forming agents selected from carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), ethyl cellulose (EC), methyl cellulose (MC), and hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC).

[0473] Most advantageously, the solid aerosol generating matrix comprises one or more cellulose-based film-forming agents selected from carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC).

[0474] Preferably, the solid aerosol generating matrix comprises carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC).

[0475] Most preferably, the solid aerosol generating matrix comprises hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC).

[0476] The one or more cellulose-based film-forming agents can act as binders for the formation of solid aerosol matrices.

[0477] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total cellulose-based film-forming agent content of ≥15% by weight, ≥20% by weight, or ≥25% by weight.

[0478] As used herein, the term "total cellulose-based film-forming agent content" is used to describe the combined content of all cellulose-based film-forming agents in the solid aerosol generating matrix.

[0479] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total cellulose-based film-forming agent content of less than or equal to 40% by weight, less than or equal to 35% by weight, or less than or equal to 30% by weight.

[0480] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total cellulose-based film-forming agent content of between 15% and 40% by weight, between 15% and 35% by weight, or between 15% and 30% by weight.

[0481] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total cellulose-based film-forming agent content of between 20% and 40% by weight, between 20% and 35% by weight, or between 20% and 30% by weight.

[0482] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total cellulose-based film-forming agent content of between 25% and 40% by weight, between 25% and 35% by weight, or between 25% and 30% by weight.

[0483] The inclusion of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose in a solid aerosol generating matrix can advantageously facilitate its manufacture. For example, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose can advantageously reduce the overall viscosity of the slurry of solid aerosol generating matrix components generated during the manufacture of the solid aerosol generating matrix. Lower viscosity slurries flow more easily and are easier to mix, transfer, and handle during the manufacturing process.

[0484] Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose can advantageously serve as a binder for the formation of solid aerosol matrices.

[0485] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a hydroxypropyl methylcellulose content of ≥14% by weight, ≥16% by weight, ≥18% by weight, or ≥20% by weight.

[0486] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a hydroxypropyl methylcellulose content of less than or equal to 40% by weight, less than or equal to 35% by weight, less than or equal to 30% by weight, or less than or equal to 25% by weight.

[0487] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a hydroxypropyl methylcellulose content between 14% and 40% by weight, between 14% and 35% by weight, between 14% and 30% by weight, or between 14% and 25% by weight.

[0488] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a hydroxypropyl methylcellulose content between 16% and 40% by weight, between 16% and 35% by weight, between 16% and 30% by weight, or between 16% and 25% by weight.

[0489] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a hydroxypropyl methylcellulose content between 18% and 40% by weight, between 18% and 35% by weight, between 18% and 30% by weight, or between 18% and 25% by weight.

[0490] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a hydroxypropyl methylcellulose content between 20% and 40% by weight, between 20% and 35% by weight, between 20% and 30% by weight, or between 20% and 25% by weight.

[0491] Including carboxymethyl cellulose in the solid aerosol generating matrix can advantageously reduce or eliminate crust formation in aerosol-generated products.

[0492] As used in this article, the term "crust" is used to describe the formation of a solid layer on a component of an aerosol-generated article.

[0493] Crust formation can occur because the components of the solid aerosol-forming matrix melt and then re-solidify around the components of the aerosol-forming article during use. Crust formation can be a particular problem for aerosol-forming articles containing receptors that are in direct contact with the solid aerosol-forming matrix. If crust forms on the receptors, the crusted receptors may become less effective when the solid aerosol-forming matrix is ​​heated. This can adversely lead to either a reduction in nicotine delivery to the user or a reduction in aerosol formation from the solid aerosol-forming matrix.

[0494] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain sodium carboxymethyl cellulose.

[0495] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a carboxymethyl cellulose content of ≥2% by weight, ≥3% by weight, ≥4% by weight, or ≥5% by weight.

[0496] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a carboxymethyl cellulose content of less than or equal to 12% by weight, less than or equal to 10% by weight, less than or equal to 8% by weight, or less than or equal to 6% by weight.

[0497] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a carboxymethyl cellulose content between 2% and 12% by weight, between 2% and 10% by weight, between 2% and 8% by weight, or between 2% and 6% by weight.

[0498] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a carboxymethyl cellulose content between 3% and 12% by weight, between 3% and 10% by weight, between 3% and 8% by weight, or between 3% and 6% by weight.

[0499] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a carboxymethyl cellulose content between 4% and 12% by weight, between 4% and 10% by weight, between 4% and 8% by weight, or between 4% and 6% by weight.

[0500] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a carboxymethyl cellulose content between 5% and 12% by weight, between 5% and 10% by weight, between 5% and 8% by weight, or between 5% and 6% by weight.

[0501] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain one or more cellulose-based fortifiers.

[0502] Including one or more cellulose-based reinforcing agents in a solid aerosol generating matrix can advantageously increase the tensile strength of the solid aerosol generating matrix. In particular, when the solid aerosol generating matrix is ​​a solid aerosol generating membrane, including one or more cellulose-based reinforcing agents in the solid aerosol generating matrix can advantageously increase the tensile strength of the solid aerosol generating membrane. A solid aerosol generating matrix with higher tensile strength is advantageously less likely to deteriorate or break during manufacturing and storage.

[0503] Advantageously, the solid aerosol generating matrix may contain one or more cellulose-based reinforcing agents selected from cellulose fibers, cellulose powder and microcrystalline cellulose (MCC).

[0504] Preferably, the solid aerosol generating matrix comprises cellulose fibers. Cellulose fibers may be particularly effective in increasing the tensile strength of the solid aerosol generating matrix.

[0505] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total cellulose-based fortifier content of 5% or more by weight, 10% or more by weight, or 15% or more by weight.

[0506] The term "total cellulose-based fortifier content" is used to describe the combined content of all cellulose-based fortifiers in the solid aerosol generating matrix.

[0507] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total cellulose-based fortifier content of less than or equal to 30% by weight, less than or equal to 25% by weight, or less than or equal to 20% by weight.

[0508] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total cellulose-based fortifier content between 5% and 30% by weight, between 5% and 25% by weight, or between 5% and 20% by weight.

[0509] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total cellulose-based fortifier content of between 10% and 30% by weight, between 10% and 25% by weight, or between 10% and 20% by weight.

[0510] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total cellulose-based fortifier content of between 15% and 30% by weight, between 15% and 25% by weight, or between 15% and 20% by weight.

[0511] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain cellulose fibers with a length greater than or equal to 0.2 mm, greater than or equal to 0.5 mm, greater than or equal to 0.7 mm, or greater than or equal to 0.9 mm.

[0512] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain cellulose fibers with a length of less than or equal to 2 mm, less than or equal to 1.8 mm, less than or equal to 1.6 mm, or less than or equal to 1.4 mm.

[0513] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain cellulose fibers with lengths between 0.2 mm and 2.0 mm, between 0.2 mm and 1.8 mm, between 0.2 mm and 1.6 mm, or between 0.2 mm and 1.4 mm.

[0514] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain cellulose fibers with lengths between 0.5 mm and 2.0 mm, 0.5 mm and 1.8 mm, 0.5 mm and 1.6 mm, or 0.5 mm and 1.4 mm.

[0515] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain cellulose fibers with lengths between 0.5 mm and 2.0 mm, 0.5 mm and 1.8 mm, 0.5 mm and 1.6 mm, or 0.5 mm and 1.4 mm.

[0516] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain cellulose fibers with lengths between 0.7 mm and 2.0 mm, 0.7 mm and 1.8 mm, 0.7 mm and 1.6 mm, or 0.7 mm and 1.4 mm.

[0517] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain cellulose fibers with lengths between 0.9 mm and 2.0 mm, between 0.9 mm and 1.8 mm, between 0.9 mm and 1.6 mm, or between 0.9 mm and 1.4 mm.

[0518] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a cellulose fiber content of ≥2% by weight, ≥5% by weight, ≥10% by weight, or ≥15% by weight.

[0519] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a cellulose fiber content of less than or equal to 30% by weight, less than or equal to 25% by weight, or less than or equal to 20% by weight.

[0520] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a cellulose fiber content between 2% and 30% by weight, between 2% and 25% by weight, or between 2% and 20% by weight.

[0521] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a cellulose fiber content between 5% and 30% by weight, between 5% and 25% by weight, or between 5% and 20% by weight.

[0522] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a cellulose fiber content between 10% and 30% by weight, between 10% and 25% by weight, or between 10% and 20% by weight.

[0523] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a cellulose fiber content between 15% and 30% by weight, between 15% and 25% by weight, or between 15% and 20% by weight.

[0524] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain microcrystalline cellulose with a D50 size greater than or equal to 5 micrometers, greater than or equal to 10 micrometers, or greater than or equal to 15 micrometers.

[0525] As used herein, the term "D50 size" describes the median particle size of particulate materials. The D50 size is the particle size that divides the distribution into two halves, where half of the particles are larger than the D50 size and half are smaller than the D50 size. Particle size distribution can be determined by laser diffraction. For example, particle size distribution can be determined by laser diffraction using a Malvern Mastersizer 3000 laser diffractometer according to the manufacturer's instructions.

[0526] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain microcrystalline cellulose with a D50 size of less than or equal to 100 micrometers, less than or equal to 90 micrometers, or less than or equal to 80 micrometers.

[0527] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain microcrystalline cellulose with a D50 size between 5 micrometers and 100 micrometers, between 5 micrometers and 90 micrometers, or between 5 micrometers and 80 micrometers.

[0528] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain microcrystalline cellulose with a D50 size between 10 micrometers and 100 micrometers, between 10 micrometers and 90 micrometers, or between 10 micrometers and 80 micrometers.

[0529] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain microcrystalline cellulose with a D50 size between 15 and 100 micrometers, between 15 and 90 micrometers, or between 150 and 80 micrometers.

[0530] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a microcrystalline cellulose content of ≥2% by weight, ≥5% by weight, ≥10% by weight, or ≥15% by weight.

[0531] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a microcrystalline cellulose content of less than or equal to 30% by weight, less than or equal to 25% by weight, or less than or equal to 20% by weight.

[0532] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a microcrystalline cellulose content between 2% and 30% by weight, between 2% and 25% by weight, or between 2% and 20% by weight.

[0533] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a microcrystalline cellulose content between 5% and 30% by weight, between 5% and 25% by weight, or between 5% and 20% by weight.

[0534] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a microcrystalline cellulose content between 10% and 30% by weight, between 10% and 25% by weight, or between 10% and 20% by weight.

[0535] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a microcrystalline cellulose content between 15% and 30% by weight, between 15% and 25% by weight, or between 15% and 20% by weight.

[0536] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain cellulose powder with a D50 size greater than or equal to 25 micrometers, greater than or equal to 30 micrometers, or greater than or equal to 35 micrometers.

[0537] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain cellulose powder with a D50 size of less than or equal to 250 micrometers, less than or equal to 225 micrometers, or less than or equal to 200 micrometers.

[0538] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain cellulose powder with a D50 size between 25 micrometers and 250 micrometers, between 25 micrometers and 225 micrometers, or between 25 micrometers and 200 micrometers.

[0539] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain cellulose powder with a D50 size between 30 micrometers and 250 micrometers, between 30 micrometers and 225 micrometers, or between 30 micrometers and 200 micrometers.

[0540] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain cellulose powder with a D50 size between 35 micrometers and 250 micrometers, between 35 micrometers and 225 micrometers, or between 35 micrometers and 200 micrometers.

[0541] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a cellulose powder content of ≥2% by weight, ≥5% by weight, ≥10% by weight, or ≥15% by weight.

[0542] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a cellulose powder content of less than or equal to 30% by weight, less than or equal to 25% by weight, or less than or equal to 20% by weight.

[0543] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a cellulose powder content between 2% and 30% by weight, between 2% and 25% by weight, or between 2% and 20% by weight.

[0544] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a cellulose powder content between 5% and 30% by weight, between 5% and 25% by weight, or between 5% and 20% by weight.

[0545] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a cellulose powder content between 10% and 30% by weight, between 10% and 25% by weight, or between 10% and 20% by weight.

[0546] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a cellulose powder content between 15% and 30% by weight, between 15% and 25% by weight, or between 15% and 20% by weight.

[0547] The matrix for generating solid aerosols may include water.

[0548] Based on the total weight of the solid aerosol generating matrix, the solid aerosol generating matrix may have a water content of greater than or equal to 5% by weight, greater than or equal to 10% by weight, greater than or equal to 15% by weight, or greater than or equal to 17% by weight.

[0549] Based on the total weight of the solid aerosol generating matrix, the solid aerosol generating matrix may have a water content of less than or equal to 35% by weight, less than or equal to 30% by weight, or less than or equal to 25% by weight.

[0550] Based on the total weight of the solid aerosol generating matrix, the solid aerosol generating matrix may have a water content between 5% and 35% by weight, between 5% and 30% by weight, or between 5% and 25% by weight.

[0551] Based on the total weight of the solid aerosol generating matrix, the solid aerosol generating matrix may have a water content between 10% and 35% by weight, between 10% and 30% by weight, or between 10% and 25% by weight.

[0552] Based on the total weight of the solid aerosol generating matrix, the solid aerosol generating matrix may have a water content between 15% and 35% by weight, between 15% and 30% by weight, or between 15% and 25% by weight.

[0553] Based on the total weight of the solid aerosol generating matrix, the solid aerosol generating matrix may have a water content between 17% and 35% by weight, between 17% and 30% by weight, or between 17% and 25% by weight.

[0554] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain one or more non-cellulose-based thickeners.

[0555] As used herein, the term "non-cellulose-based thickener" is used to describe non-cellulose substances that, when added to aqueous or non-aqueous liquid compositions, increase the viscosity of the liquid composition without substantially altering its other properties. One or more of these non-cellulose-based thickeners can increase stability and improve the suspension of components in the liquid composition. Thickeners may also be referred to as "thickening agents," "rheology modifiers," or "thickening agents."

[0556] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain one or more non-cellulose-based thickeners selected from alginate, gellan gum, guar gum, gum arabic, locust bean gum, pectin, starch, and xanthan gum.

[0557] Solid aerosol generating matrices may be free of ι-carrageenan or κ-carrageenan. Solid aerosol generating matrices free of ι-carrageenan or κ-carrageenan can advantageously remain solid when heated to temperatures between 180°C and 350°C. This can advantageously reduce or eliminate crusting in aerosol generating articles in which receptors are in direct contact with the matrix.

[0558] Solid aerosol generating matrices may be agar-free. Agar-free solid aerosol generating matrices can advantageously remain solid when heated to temperatures between 180°C and 350°C. This can advantageously reduce or eliminate crusting in aerosol generating articles in which receptors are in direct contact with the matrix.

[0559] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total non-cellulose-based thickener content of 1% or more by weight, 2% or more by weight, or 3% or more by weight.

[0560] As used herein, the term "total non-cellulose-based thickener content" is used to describe the combined content of all non-cellulose-based thickeners in the solid aerosol generating matrix.

[0561] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total non-cellulose-based thickener content of less than or equal to 10% by weight, less than or equal to 8% by weight, or less than or equal to 6% by weight.

[0562] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total non-cellulose-based thickener content between 1% and 10% by weight, between 1% and 8% by weight, or between 1% and 6% by weight.

[0563] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total non-cellulose-based thickener content between 2% and 10% by weight, between 2% and 8% by weight, or between 2% and 6% by weight.

[0564] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total non-cellulose-based thickener content between 3% and 10% by weight, between 3% and 8% by weight, or between 3% and 6% by weight.

[0565] The solid aerosol generating matrix may contain one or more flavorings.

[0566] Suitable flavoring agents are known in the art, and include, but are not limited to, menthol.

[0567] As used herein, the term "menthol" is used to describe the compound 2-isopropyl-5-methylcyclohexanol, which is in any of its isomers.

[0568] As used in this article, the term "total flavoring content" is used to describe the combined content of all flavorings in the solid aerosol generating matrix.

[0569] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total flavoring content of ≥0.5% by weight, ≥1% by weight, ≥2% by weight, or ≥3% by weight.

[0570] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total flavoring content of less than or equal to 6% by weight, less than or equal to 5% by weight, or less than or equal to 4% by weight.

[0571] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total flavoring content of between 0.5% and 6% by weight, between 0.5% and 5% by weight, or between 0.5% and 4% by weight.

[0572] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total flavoring content between 1% and 6% by weight, between 1% and 5% by weight, or between 1% and 4% by weight.

[0573] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total flavoring content of between 2% and 6% by weight, between 2% and 5% by weight, or between 2% and 4% by weight.

[0574] The solid aerosol generating matrix may have a total flavoring content of between 3% and 6% by weight, between 3% and 5% by weight, or between 3% and 4% by weight.

[0575] The solid aerosol generating matrix can be a solid aerosol generating matrix that is essentially free of tobacco.

[0576] As used herein, the term "solid aerosol generating matrix substantially free of tobacco" is used to describe a solid aerosol generating matrix containing less than 1% by weight of tobacco. For example, a solid aerosol generating matrix may have a tobacco content of less than 0.75% by weight, less than 0.5% by weight, or less than 0.25% by weight.

[0577] The solid aerosol generation matrix can be a tobacco-free aerosol generation membrane.

[0578] The term "tobacco-free solid aerosol generating matrix" is used to describe solid aerosol generating matrices with a tobacco content of 0% by weight.

[0579] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the solid aerosol generating matrix is ​​a solid aerosol generating membrane, comprising:

[0580] Glycerol in amounts between 35% and 62% by weight;

[0581] Carboxymethyl cellulose in amounts between 2% and 12% by weight;

[0582] Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose in amounts between 14% and 40% by weight;

[0583] The total cellulose-based fortifier content is between 2% and 30% by weight;

[0584] The total carboxylic acid content is between 0.5% and 8% by weight;

[0585] Nicotine in amounts between 0.5% and 10% by weight; and

[0586] The amount of water is between 5% and 35% by weight.

[0587] In another embodiment, the aerosol generating matrix may comprise thermally conductive particles. The aerosol generating matrix may comprise thermally conductive particles at a dry weight percentage (wt%) between 10 and 90%. The aerosol generating matrix may comprise an aerosol forming agent at a dry weight percentage between 7 and 60%. The aerosol generating matrix may comprise fibers at a dry weight percentage between 2 and 20%. The aerosol generating matrix may comprise a binder at a dry weight percentage between 2 and 10%. Each thermally conductive particle may be composed of one or more of graphite, expanded graphite, graphene, carbon nanotubes, charcoal, and diamond.

[0588] The term "thermal conductive particles" refers to carbon-containing particles, such as particles containing one or more of graphite, expanded graphite, graphene, carbon nanotubes, charcoal, and diamond, or particles composed of one or more of graphite, expanded graphite, graphene, carbon nanotubes, charcoal, and diamond. Thermal conductive particles can be called carbon particles or carbon-containing particles.

[0589] Advantageously, the thermally conductive particles can increase the thermal conductivity of the aerosol-generating matrix. This increased thermal conductivity allows for a more uniform temperature distribution throughout the matrix during use. This can result in a larger proportion of the aerosol-generating matrix reaching sufficiently high temperatures to release volatile compounds, and thus leading to greater utilization efficiency of the aerosol-generating matrix. Furthermore, the increased thermal conductivity of the matrix allows heaters (e.g., heating blades configured to heat the matrix) to operate at lower temperatures and therefore require less power. Even further, the increased thermal conductivity allows heaters to heat the matrix to temperatures that release volatile compounds in a shorter time. Therefore, the increased thermal conductivity can reduce the time required to form an inhalable aerosol for the user.

[0590] Advantageously, one or both of the fibers and the binder can increase the tensile strength of the aerosol-generating matrix. This increased tensile strength allows for the production of tear-resistant sheets of the aerosol-generating matrix. Furthermore, the increased tensile strength allows for the production of sheets of the aerosol-generating matrix using existing production machinery.

[0591] The aerosol-generating matrix can have a thermal conductivity of at least 0.05, 0.1, 0.15, 0.2, 0.22, 0.3, 0.4, or 0.5 W / (mK) in at least one or all directions at 25°C. This thermal conductivity can be measured when the moisture content of the matrix is ​​between 0 and 20%, or between 5 and 15%, for example, around 10%. This thermal conductivity can also be measured when the matrix contains between 0 and 20% by weight, or between 5 and 15% by weight, for example, around 10% by weight of water. The moisture content of the matrix can be measured using titration. The moisture content of the matrix can also be measured using the Karl Fischer method.

[0592] Optionally, some or all of the thermally conductive particles contain at least 10, 30, 50, 70, 90, 95, 98 or 99 percent carbon by weight.

[0593] Optionally, some or all of the thermally conductive particles are graphite particles. Optionally, some or all of the thermally conductive particles are expanded graphite particles. Optionally, some or all of the thermally conductive particles are graphene particles. Optionally, some or all of the thermally conductive particles are carbon nanotubes or carbon nanotube particles. Optionally, some or all of the thermally conductive particles are charcoal particles. Optionally, some or all of the thermally conductive particles are diamond particles, such as synthetic diamond particles. Advantageously, such materials can have relatively high thermal conductivity.

[0594] Expanded graphite can have densities less than 2, 1.8, 1.5, 1.2, 1, 0.8, or 0.5, 0.2, 0.1, 0.05, or 0.02 g / cm³. Expanded graphite can also have densities greater than 0.01, 0.02, 0.05, 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 0.8, 1, 1.2, 1.5, or 1.8 g / cm³. Expanded graphite can have a content of 0.01 to 3, 0.01 to 2, 0.01 to 1.8, 0.01 to 1.5, 0.01 to 1.2, 0.01 to 1, 0.01 to 0.8, 0.01 to 0.5, 0.02 to 3, 0.02 to 2, 0.02 to 1.8, 0.02 to 1.5, 0.02 to 1.2, 0.02 to 1, 0.02 to 0.8, 0.02 to 0.5, 0.01 to 3, 0.05 to 2, 0.05 to 1.8, 0.05 to 1.5, 0.05 to 1.2, 0.05 to 1, 0.05 to 0.8, 0.05 to 0.5 g / cm³, 0.1 to 3, 0 Densities between 0.1 and 2, 0.1 and 1.8, 0.1 and 1.5, 0.1 and 1.2, 0.1 and 1, 0.1 and 0.8, 0.1 and 0.5, 0.2 and 3, 0.2 and 2, 0.2 and 1.8, 0.2 and 1.5, 0.2 and 1.2, 0.2 and 1, 0.2 and 0.8, 0.2 and 0.5, 0.5 and 3, 0.5 and 2, 0.5 and 1.8, 0.5 and 1.5, 0.5 and 1.2, 0.5 and 1, 0.5 and 0.8, 0.8 and 3, 0.8 and 2, 0.8 and 1.8, 0.8 and 1.5, 0.8 and 1.2, and 0.8 and 1 g / cm³.

[0595] Optionally, where each thermally conductive particle is not necessarily composed of one or more of graphite, expanded graphite, graphene, carbon nanotubes, charcoal, and diamond, some or all of the thermally conductive particles may contain a metal. Alternatively or additionally, some or all of the thermally conductive particles may contain an alloy. Alternatively or additionally, some or all of the thermally conductive particles may contain an intermetallic compound. Advantageously, such a material can possess relatively high thermal conductivity.

[0596] Optionally, where each thermally conductive particle is not necessarily composed of one or more of graphite, expanded graphite, graphene, carbon nanotubes, charcoal, and diamond, some or all of the thermally conductive particles may contain one or more of silicon carbide, silver, copper, gold, aluminum nitride, aluminum, tungsten, and boron nitride. Optionally, some or all of the thermally conductive particles are silicon carbide particles. Optionally, some or all of the thermally conductive particles are silver particles. Optionally, some or all of the thermally conductive particles are copper particles. Optionally, some or all of the thermally conductive particles are gold particles. Optionally, some or all of the thermally conductive particles are aluminum nitride particles. Optionally, some or all of the thermally conductive particles are aluminum particles. Optionally, some or all of the thermally conductive particles are tungsten particles. Optionally, some or all of the thermally conductive particles are boron nitride particles. Advantageously, such a material can have relatively high thermal conductivity.

[0597] Thermally conductive particles can each have a "particle size". The meaning of the term "particle size" and the methods for measuring particle size will be explained later.

[0598] The characteristics of thermally conductive particles can lie in their particle size distribution. This distribution can have particle sizes of D10, D50, and D90. A D10 particle size is defined as such that 10% of the particles have a particle size less than or equal to D10. Similarly, a D50 particle size is defined as such that 50% of the particles have a particle size less than or equal to D50. Therefore, the D50 particle size can be referred to as the median particle size. A D90 particle size is defined as such that 90% of the particles have a particle size less than or equal to D90. Therefore, if there are 1,000 particles in the distribution and they are sorted in ascending order of particle size, it is expected that the D10 particle size is approximately equal to the particle size of the 100th particle, the D50 particle size is approximately equal to the particle size of the 500th particle, and the D90 particle size is approximately equal to the particle size of the 900th particle.

[0599] The particle size distribution can have volumetric sizes D10, D50, and D90. A volumetric size of D10 is defined as the total volume of particles with a size less than or equal to D10 comprising 10% of the total volume of all particles. Similarly, a volumetric size of D50 is defined as the total volume of particles with a size less than or equal to D50 comprising 50% of the total volume of all particles. And a volumetric size of D90 is defined as the total volume of particles with a size less than or equal to D90 comprising 90% of the total volume of all particles.

[0600] Optionally, the thermally conductive particles have a particle size distribution with a number of D10 particles, wherein the number of D10 particles is at least 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 or 500 micrometers.

[0601] Optionally, the thermally conductive particles have a particle size distribution with a number of D10 particles, wherein the number of D10 particles is no greater than 1,000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2, 1, 0.5 or 0.2 micrometers.

[0602] A trade-off must be made when determining particle size. Larger thermally conductive particles can advantageously increase the thermal conductivity of the aerosol-generating matrix more than smaller thermally conductive particles. However, larger thermally conductive particles can reduce the space within the matrix available for aerosol-generating materials.

[0603] Optionally, the thermally conductive particles have a particle size distribution with a number of D50 particles, wherein the number of D50 particles is at least 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 or 500 micrometers.

[0604] Optionally, the thermally conductive particles have a particle size distribution with a number of D50 particles, wherein the number of D50 particles is not greater than 1,000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2, 1, 0.5 or 0.2 micrometers.

[0605] Optionally, the thermally conductive particles have a particle size distribution with a number of D90 particles, wherein the number of D90 particles is at least 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 or 500 micrometers.

[0606] Optionally, the thermally conductive particles have a particle size distribution with a number of D90 particles, wherein the number of D90 particles is not greater than 1,000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2, 1, 0.5 or 0.2 micrometers.

[0607] Optionally, the thermally conductive particles have a particle size distribution having a number of D10 particles and a number of D90 particles, wherein the number of D90 particles is not greater than 50, 40, 30, 20, 10 or 5 times the number of D10 particles.

[0608] Optionally, the thermally conductive particles have a particle size distribution having a number of D10 particles and a number of D90 particles, wherein the number of D90 particles is at least 1.5, 2, 3, 5, 10 or 20 times the number of D10 particles.

[0609] A trade-off must be made regarding particle size distribution. A denser particle size distribution, such as one characterized by a smaller ratio between D90 and D10 particle sizes, can advantageously provide a more consistent thermal conductivity throughout the aerosol-generating matrix. This is because the particle size variation will be smaller at different locations within the matrix. This can advantageously allow for more efficient use of the aerosol-generating material throughout the aerosol-generating matrix. However, a denser particle size distribution can disadvantageously be more difficult to achieve and more expensive. The inventors have discovered that the aforementioned particle size distribution provides an optimal trade-off between these two factors.

[0610] Optionally, the thermally conductive particles have a particle size distribution with a volume D10 particle size, wherein the volume D10 particle size is at least 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 or 500 micrometers.

[0611] Optionally, the thermally conductive particles have a particle size distribution with a volume D10 particle size, wherein the volume D10 particle size is not greater than 1,000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2, 1, 0.5 or 0.2 micrometers.

[0612] Optionally, the thermally conductive particles have a particle size distribution with a volume D50 particle size, wherein the volume D50 particle size is at least 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 or 500 micrometers.

[0613] Optionally, the thermally conductive particles have a particle size distribution with a volume D50 particle size, wherein the volume D50 particle size is not greater than 1,000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2, 1, 0.5 or 0.2 micrometers.

[0614] Optionally, the thermally conductive particles have a particle size distribution with a volume D90 particle size, wherein the volume D90 particle size is at least 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 or 500 micrometers.

[0615] Optionally, the thermally conductive particles have a particle size distribution with a volume D90 particle size, wherein the volume D90 particle size is not greater than 1,000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2, 1, 0.5 or 0.2 micrometers.

[0616] For thermally conductive particles, a particle size distribution having a volume D10 particle size between 1 and 20 micrometers is particularly preferred. Alternatively or additionally, for thermally conductive particles, a particle size distribution having a volume D90 particle size between 50 and 300 micrometers or between 50 and 200 micrometers is particularly preferred.

[0617] Optionally, the thermally conductive particles have a particle size distribution with a volume D10 particle size and a volume D90 particle size, wherein the volume D90 particle size is not greater than 50, 40, 30, 20, 10 or 5 times the volume D10 particle size.

[0618] Optionally, the thermally conductive particles have a particle size distribution having a volume D10 particle size and a volume D90 particle size, wherein the volume D90 particle size is at least 1.5, 2, 3, 5, 10 or 20 times the volume D10 particle size.

[0619] As explained above, a trade-off must be made regarding the particle size distribution, and the inventors have found that the aforementioned particle size distribution provides the optimal trade-off.

[0620] Optionally, each of the thermally conductive particles has a particle size of at least 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, or 500 micrometers. Optionally, each of the thermally conductive particles has a particle size of no more than 1,000, 500, 300, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2, 1, 0.5, or 0.2 micrometers. A particle size of at least 1 micrometer is particularly preferred for each of the thermally conductive particles. Alternatively or additionally, a particle size of no more than 300 micrometers is particularly preferred for each of the thermally conductive particles. Particles smaller than 1 micrometer may be difficult to handle during manufacturing. Furthermore, particles smaller than 1 micrometer may be more likely to pass through filters in aerosol-generating articles comprising an aerosol-generating matrix. Particles larger than 300 micrometers may occupy a considerable amount of space in the matrix that could otherwise be used for aerosol-generating materials. Therefore, it is particularly advantageous for each of the thermally conductive particles to have a particle size of at least 1 micrometer, or no more than 300 micrometers, or both.

[0621] Optionally, each thermally conductive particle has three mutually perpendicular dimensions, the largest of which is no more than 10, 8, 5, 3, or 2 times larger than the smallest of the three dimensions. Optionally, each thermally conductive particle has three mutually perpendicular dimensions, the largest of which is no more than 10, 8, 5, 3, or 2 times larger than the second largest of the three dimensions. Optionally, each thermally conductive particle is substantially spherical. Advantageously, the orientation of substantially spherical particles does not affect the thermal conductivity of the matrix as much as the orientation of non-spherical particles. Therefore, the use of more spherical particles can result in smaller variability between different matrices where the orientation of the particles is uncontrolled. Additionally, substantially spherical particles may be easier to characterize.

[0622] Optionally, the thermally conductive particles comprise at least 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, or 1000 particles. Advantageously, a larger number of particles in the aerosol-generating matrix can allow for a more uniform thermal conductivity of the matrix.

[0623] Optionally, the matrix comprises at least 20, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, or 85% by weight of thermally conductive particles, based on dry weight. Optionally, the matrix comprises no more than 85, 80, 75, 70, 65, 60, 55, 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, or 15% by weight of thermally conductive particles, based on dry weight. Optionally, the matrix comprises thermally conductive particles in the range of 10 to 90, 20 to 90, 30 to 90, 40 to 90, 50 to 90, 60 to 90, 70 to 90, 80 to 90, 10 to 80, 20 to 80, 30 to 80, 40 to 80, 50 to 80, 60 to 80, 70 to 80, 10 to 70, 20 to 70, 30 to 70, 40 to 70, 50 to 70, 60 to 70, 10 to 60, 20 to 60, 30 to 60, 40 to 60, 50 to 60, 10 to 50, 20 to 50, 30 to 50, 40 to 50, 10 to 40, 20 to 40, 30 to 40, 10 to 30, 20 to 30, or 10 to 20% by weight, based on dry weight. The matrix is ​​particularly preferably composed of thermally conductive particles at a dry weight of 50 to 90% by weight, or more preferably 60 to 90% by weight, or even more preferably 65 to 85% by weight.

[0624] A trade-off must be made regarding the weight percentage of thermally conductive particles in the matrix. Increasing the weight percentage of particles in the aerosol-forming matrix can advantageously increase the thermal conductivity of the matrix. However, increasing the weight percentage of particles in the aerosol-forming matrix may also reduce the available space for one or more of the aerosol forming agents, binders, and fibers, thus potentially resulting in a matrix that forms fewer aerosols or has lower tensile strength.

[0625] Optionally, the matrix contains at least 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, or 55% by weight of aerosol forming agent on a dry weight basis. Optionally, the matrix contains no more than 55, 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, or 15% by weight of aerosol forming agent on a dry weight basis. Optionally, the matrix contains between 7 and 60, 10 and 60, 20 and 60, 30 and 60, 40 and 60, 50 and 60, 7 and 50, 10 and 50, 20 and 50, 30 and 50, 40 and 50, 7 and 40, 10 and 40, 20 and 40, 30 and 40, 7 and 30, 10 and 30, 20 and 30, 7 and 20, 10 and 20, or 7 and 10% by weight of aerosol forming agent on a dry weight basis. The matrix is ​​particularly preferred to contain an aerosol forming agent at a dry weight of 15 to 25 percent.

[0626] Optionally, the aerosol forming agent comprises or is composed of one or more of the following: polyols, such as propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and glycerol; esters of polyols, such as mono-, di-, or triacetic acid esters of glycerol; and aliphatic esters of monocarboxylic acids, dicarboxylic acids, or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyl dodecanoate and dimethyl tetradecanoate. Optionally, the aerosol generating matrix comprises one or both of glycerol and glycerol.

[0627] Optionally, the matrix comprises at least 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16 or 18% by weight of fibers on a dry weight basis. Optionally, the matrix comprises no more than 20, 18, 16, 14, 12, 10, 8, 6 or 4% by weight of fibers on a dry weight basis. Optionally, the matrix comprises fibers in the dry weight percentages of 4 to 20, 6 to 20, 8 to 20, 10 to 20, 12 to 20, 14 to 20, 16 to 20, 18 to 20, 2 to 18, 4 to 18, 6 to 18, 8 to 18, 10 to 18, 12 to 18, 14 to 18, 16 to 18, 2 to 16, 4 to 16, 6 to 16, 8 to 16, 10 to 16, 12 to 16, 14 to 16, 2 to 14, 4 to 14, 6 to 14, 8 to 14, 10 to 14, 12 to 14, 2 to 12, 4 to 12, 6 to 12, 8 to 12, 10 to 12, 2 to 10, 4 to 10, 6 to 10, 8 to 10, 2 to 8, 4 to 8, 6 to 8, 2 to 6, 4 to 6, or 2 to 4% by weight. The matrix is ​​particularly preferred to contain fibers ranging from 2 to 10% by weight on a dry weight basis.

[0628] Optionally, the fiber is a cellulose fiber. Advantageously, cellulose fibers are not too expensive and can increase the tensile strength of the matrix.

[0629] Optionally, each fiber has three mutually perpendicular dimensions, the largest of which is at least 1.5, 2, 3, 5, 10, or 20 times larger than the smallest of the three dimensions. Alternatively, each fiber has three mutually perpendicular dimensions, the largest of which is at least 1.5, 2, 3, 5, 10, or 20 times larger than the second largest of the three dimensions.

[0630] Optionally, the matrix comprises at least 4, 6, or 8% by weight of binder on a dry weight basis. Optionally, the matrix comprises no more than 8, 6, or 4% by weight of binder on a dry weight basis. Optionally, the matrix comprises binder in the range of 4 to 10, 6 to 10, 8 to 10, 2 to 8, 4 to 8, 6 to 8, 2 to 6, 4 to 6, or 2 to 4% by weight of binder on a dry weight basis. Particularly preferred for the matrix is ​​that it comprises binder in the range of 2 to 10% by weight on a dry weight basis.

[0631] Suitable binders are known in the art and include, but are not limited to, natural pectins such as fruit, citrus, or tobacco pectins; guar gum, such as hydroxyethyl guar gum and hydroxypropyl guar gum; locust bean gum, such as hydroxyethyl and hydroxypropyl locust bean gum; alginate; starch, such as modified or derived starch; cellulose, such as methylcellulose, ethylcellulose, ethylhydroxymethylcellulose, and carboxymethylcellulose; tamarind gum; dextran; pullalalon; konjac flour; xanthan gum, etc. Guar gum or guar gum is particularly preferred as a binder. A binder comprising one or more of carboxymethylcellulose or hydroxypropylcellulose or gums such as guar gum, or composed of one or more of carboxymethylcellulose or hydroxypropylcellulose or gums such as guar gum, is also particularly preferred.

[0632] Optionally, the thermally conductive particles are substantially uniformly distributed throughout the aerosol-generating matrix. Optionally, the aerosol forming agent is substantially uniformly distributed throughout the aerosol-generating matrix. Optionally, the fibers are substantially uniformly distributed throughout the aerosol-generating matrix. Optionally, the binder is substantially uniformly distributed throughout the aerosol-generating matrix. Advantageously, the uniform distribution of the matrix components can result in a more spatially consistent matrix property. For example, a substantially uniformly distributed thermally conductive particle can lead to a substantially uniform thermal conductivity in the matrix. As another example, a substantially uniformly distributed binder or fiber can lead to a substantially uniform tensile strength in the matrix.

[0633] Optionally, the matrix contains nicotine. Optionally, the matrix contains at least 0.01, 1, 2, 3, or 4% nicotine by weight on a dry weight basis. Optionally, the matrix contains no more than 5, 4, 3, 2, or 1% nicotine by weight on a dry weight basis. Optionally, the matrix contains nicotine in the range of 0.01 to 5, 1 to 5, 2 to 5, 3 to 5, 4 to 5, 0.01 to 4, 1 to 4, 2 to 4, 3 to 4, 0.01 to 3, 1 to 3, 2 to 3, 0.01 to 2, 1 to 2, or 0.01 to 1% nicotine by weight on a dry weight basis. Particularly preferred for the matrix is ​​that it contains nicotine in the range of 0.5 to 4% nicotine by weight on a dry weight basis.

[0634] Optionally, nicotine is distributed substantially uniformly throughout the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0635] Optionally, the matrix contains acid. Optionally, the matrix contains at least 0.01, 1, 2, 3, or 4% acid by weight on a dry weight basis. Optionally, the matrix contains no more than 5, 4, 3, 2, or 1% acid by weight on a dry weight basis. Optionally, the matrix contains acid in the range of 0.01 to 5, 1 to 5, 2 to 5, 3 to 5, 4 to 5, 0.01 to 4, 1 to 4, 2 to 4, 3 to 4, 0.01 to 3, 1 to 3, 2 to 3, 0.01 to 2, 1 to 2, or 0.01 to 1% acid by weight on a dry weight basis. Particularly preferred for the matrix is ​​that it contains acid in the range of 0.5 to 5% by weight on a dry weight basis.

[0636] Optionally, the acid comprises one or more of fumaric acid, lactic acid, benzoic acid and levulinic acid, or is composed of one or more of fumaric acid, lactic acid, benzoic acid and levulinic acid.

[0637] Optionally, the acid is distributed substantially uniformly throughout the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0638] Optionally, the matrix comprises at least one material derived from a plant. Optionally, the matrix comprises at least 0.01, 1, 2, 5, 10, or 15% by weight of the at least one material derived from a plant, based on dry weight. Optionally, the matrix comprises no more than 20, 15, 10, 5, 2, or 1% by weight of the at least one material derived from a plant, based on dry weight. Optionally, the matrix comprises at least one material derived from a plant, based on dry weight, in the range of 0.01 to 20, 1 to 20, 2 to 20, 5 to 20, 10 to 20, 15 to 20, 0.01 to 15, 1 to 15, 2 to 15, 5 to 15, 10 to 15, 0.01 to 10, 1 to 10, 2 to 10, 5 to 10, 0.01 to 5, 1 to 5, 2 to 5, 0.01 to 2, 1 to 2, or 0.01 to 1%. Particularly preferred for the matrix is ​​that it comprises at least one material derived from a plant, based on dry weight, in the range of 1 to 15%.

[0639] Optionally, the at least one plant-derived material comprises one or both of cloves and rosemary, or is composed of one or both of cloves and rosemary.

[0640] Optionally, at least one plant-derived material is substantially uniformly distributed throughout the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0641] Optionally, the base contains at least one flavoring agent. Optionally, the base contains at least 0.1, 1, 2, or 5% by weight of the at least one flavoring agent based on dry weight. Optionally, the base contains no more than 10, 5, 2, or 1% by weight of the at least one flavoring agent based on dry weight. Optionally, the base contains at least one flavoring agent in the range of 0.1 to 10, 1 to 10, 2 to 10, 5 to 10, 0.1 to 5, 1 to 5, 2 to 5, 0.1 to 2, 1 to 2, or 0.1 to 1% by weight based on dry weight. Particularly preferred for the base is that it contains at least one flavoring agent in the range of 0.1 to 5% by weight based on dry weight.

[0642] Optionally, the at least one flavoring agent is present as a coating (e.g., a coating on one or more other components of the aerosol-generating matrix). Alternatively or additionally, the at least one flavoring agent is substantially uniformly distributed throughout the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0643] Optionally, the aerosol-generating matrix comprises at least one organic material, such as tobacco. Optionally, said at least one organic material includes one or more of herbaceous plant leaves, tobacco leaves, tobacco rib fragments, reconstituted tobacco, homogenized tobacco, extruded tobacco, and expanded tobacco. Optionally, the at least one organic material is substantially uniformly distributed throughout the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0644] The matrix may contain less than 10, 5, 3, 2, or 1% tobacco by dry weight. Optionally, the aerosol generating matrix is ​​a tobacco-free aerosol generating matrix.

[0645] Optionally, some or every one of the thermally conductive particles may be inductively heatable, for example, inductively heatable to temperatures of at least 100, 150, or 200 degrees Celsius. Optionally, some or every one of the thermally conductive particles comprises or is composed of one or more receptor materials. Advantageously, this allows the thermally conductive particles to be inductively heated. The thermally conductive particles may contain a single receptor material(s) present in or within the aerosol-generating matrix or strips of the aerosol-generating matrix, or may be said receptor material. That is, receptor elements other than thermally conductive particles or carbon particles may not be present in or within the aerosol-generating matrix or strips of the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0646] Optionally, the aerosol generating matrix has a thermal conductivity greater than 0.05, 0.1, 0.15, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.75, 1, 1.25, 1.5, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 or 500 W / (mK) in at least one direction at 25 degrees Celsius.

[0647] Optionally, the aerosol generating matrix has a concentration of no more than 1500, 1450, 1400, 1350, 1300, 1250, 1200, 1100, 1050, 1000, 950, 900, 850, 800, 850, 800, 750, 700, 650, or 600 kg / m³. 3 The density of the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​optionally 600 to 1400, 800 to 1200, or 900 to 1100 kg / m³. 3 The density between [variables]. Advantageously, reducing the density of the substrate can reduce the transportation cost of the substrate.

[0648] Optionally, the aerosol generating matrix has a moisture content between 1 and 20% by weight or between 3 and 15% by weight. This moisture content can be measured after equilibration at 20°C and 50% relative humidity for 48 hours. Optionally, the aerosol generating matrix contains 1 to 20% or 3 to 15% by weight of water. The moisture content of the matrix can be measured using titration. The moisture content of the matrix can be measured using the Karl Fischer method.

[0649] Optionally, the aerosol generating matrix comprises or takes the form of one or more of the following: filamentous fillers, powder particles, microparticles, pellets, fragments, strips, bands, threads, strips, or sheets. Optionally, the aerosol generating matrix comprises or takes the form of one or more sheets or strips.

[0650] Optionally, the aerosol generating matrix comprises one or more sheets (e.g., aggregated sheets) or is in the form of one or more sheets. Optionally, the aerosol generating matrix comprises multiple strips or is in the form of multiple strips.

[0651] Optionally, each sheet or strip has a thickness of at least 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 150, or 200 micrometers. Optionally, each sheet or strip has a thickness of no more than 2000, 1000, 500, 400, 300, or 250 micrometers. Optionally, each sheet or strip has a thickness between 100 and 350, or between 150 and 300 micrometers.

[0652] Optionally, each sheet or strip has a width of at least 100, 200, 500, or 1000 micrometers. Optionally, each sheet or strip has a width not greater than 2000, 1000, 500, 400, 300, 250, or 200 micrometers. Optionally, each sheet or strip has a width between 100 and 2000, or 500 and 1000, or 600 and 1000 micrometers.

[0653] Optionally, each sheet or strip has a length of at least 100, 200, 500, 1000, 2000, or 3000 micrometers. Optionally, each sheet or strip has a length not exceeding 6000, 5000, 3000, 2000, 1000, 500, or 200 micrometers. Optionally, each sheet or strip has a length between 100 and 6000, or 500 and 5000, or 1000 and 4000 micrometers.

[0654] Optionally, each sheet or strip has a strength of at least 20, 50, or 100 g / m². 2 The weight per unit area. Optionally, each sheet or strip has a weight of not more than 300 g / m². 2 The weight per unit area. Optionally, each sheet or strip has a weight of 20 to 300, 50 to 250, or 100 to 250 g / m². 2 The weight between.

[0655] Optionally, each sheet or strip has a content of at least 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, or 0.5 g / m. 3 The density. Optionally, each sheet or strip has a density not exceeding 2, 1.5, 1.2, or 1 g / m³. 3 The density. Optionally, each sheet or strip has a density of 0.1 to 2, 0.2 to 2, 0.3 to 2, 0.3 to 1.5, or 0.3 to 1.2 g / m³. 3 The density between.

[0656] In the case where the matrix comprises one or more aggregated sheets, said or each aggregated sheet may have a width of at least about 1, 2, 5, 10, 25, 50 or 100 mm.

[0657] Aerosol-generating matrices containing thermally conductive particles can be formed by suitable methods, such as methods including the following steps: forming a slurry containing thermally conductive particles, an aerosol forming agent, fibers, and a binder; and

[0658] Casting and drying the slurry to form an aerosol-generating matrix or a precursor for forming an aerosol-generating matrix.

[0659] Optionally, the slurry includes water. Optionally, the slurry includes 20 to 90, 30 to 90, 40 to 90, 40 to 85, 50 to 80, 60 to 80, or 60 to 75% by weight of water.

[0660] Optionally, the slurry contains an acid. Optionally, the acid comprises one or more of fumaric acid, lactic acid, benzoic acid, and levulinic acid, or is composed of one or more of fumaric acid, lactic acid, benzoic acid, and levulinic acid.

[0661] Optionally, the slurry contains nicotine.

[0662] Optionally, forming the slurry includes forming a first mixture. The first mixture may contain an aerosol forming agent. The first mixture may contain fibers. The first mixture may contain water. The first mixture may contain an acid. The first mixture may contain nicotine. Forming the slurry may include forming a second mixture. The second mixture may contain thermally conductive particles. The second mixture may contain a binder. Forming the slurry may include adding the second mixture to the first mixture to form a combined mixture.

[0663] Therefore, forming a slurry may include:

[0664] Forming a first mixture comprising an aerosol forming agent, fiber, water, optionally an acid, and optionally nicotine;

[0665] A second mixture comprising thermally conductive particles and a binder is formed;

[0666] And to add the second mixture to the first mixture to form a combined mixture.

[0667] This mixture can then be used, for example, to form a slurry.

[0668] Optionally, forming the first mixture includes providing an aerosol forming agent or a solution containing an aerosol forming agent and nicotine.

[0669] Optionally, forming the first mixture includes adding an acid to an aerosol forming agent or a solution containing the aerosol forming agent and nicotine to form a first premix.

[0670] Optionally, forming the first mixture includes adding water to the aerosol forming agent or a solution containing the aerosol forming agent and nicotine, or to the first premix to form a second premix.

[0671] Optionally, forming the first mixture includes adding fibers to the second premix.

[0672] Optionally, forming a second mixture includes mixing thermally conductive particles with a binder.

[0673] Optionally, the method, such as the step of forming a slurry, includes a first mixing of the mixture. Optionally, the first mixing is carried out at a first pressure not exceeding 500, 400, 300, 250, or 200 millibars. Optionally, the first mixing is carried out for 1 to 10, 2 to 8, or 3 to 6 minutes, for example, about 4 minutes.

[0674] Optionally, the method, such as the step of forming a slurry, includes a second mixing after the first mixing. Optionally, the second mixing is carried out at a second pressure less than the first pressure. Optionally, the second pressure is no greater than 500, 400, 300, 200, 150, or 100 millibars. Optionally, the second mixing is carried out for 5 to 120, 5 to 80, 5 to 40, or 10 to 30 seconds, for example, about 20 seconds.

[0675] Optionally, the casting paste includes casting the paste onto a flat support, such as a steel flat support.

[0676] Optionally, after casting the slurry and before drying the slurry, the method includes setting the thickness of the slurry, for example, setting the thickness of the slurry between 100 and 1200, 200 and 1000, 300 and 900, 500 and 700 micrometers, for example, around 600 micrometers.

[0677] Optionally, drying the slurry includes providing a gas stream, such as air, above or through the slurry. Optionally, the gas stream is heated. Optionally, the gas stream is heated to a temperature between 100 and 160 degrees Celsius, or between 120 and 140 degrees Celsius. Optionally, the gas stream is provided for 1 to 10 minutes, or between 2 and 5 minutes. Optionally, drying the slurry includes drying the slurry until it has a moisture content between 1 and 20%, 2 and 15%, 2 and 10%, or 3 and 7% by weight.

[0678] Optionally, the dried slurry forms a precursor for forming an aerosol-generating matrix, the precursor being an aerosol-generating material sheet. Optionally, the method includes cutting the aerosol-generating material sheet.

[0679] As used herein, the term "thermally conductive particle" can refer to a particle having a thermal conductivity greater than 0.3, preferably 0.5, or more preferably 1 W / (mK) in at least one direction, or for example, in all directions at 25 degrees Celsius. The particle may exhibit anisotropic or isotropic thermal conductivity.

[0680] As used herein, the term "expanded graphite" can refer to a graphite-based material or a material having a graphite-like structure. Expanded graphite can have carbon layers (e.g., similar to graphite) with spacing between the carbon layers greater than that between carbon layers in regular graphite. Expanded graphite can have carbon layers in which elements or compounds are inserted into the spaces between the carbon layers.

[0681] As used herein, the term "particle size" can refer to a single dimension and can be used to characterize the size of a given particle. Dimension can be the diameter of a spherical particle occupying the same volume as a given particle. All particle sizes and particle size distributions described herein can be obtained using standard laser diffraction techniques. Commercially available sensors, such as the Sympatec HELOS laser diffraction sensor, can be used to obtain the particle sizes and particle size distributions described herein.

[0682] As used herein, unless otherwise specified, the term "density" may refer to true density. Therefore, unless otherwise specified, the density of a powder or particles may refer to the true density of the powder or particles (rather than the bulk density, which can vary considerably depending on how the powder or particles are handled). True density can be measured using many standard methods, often based on Archimedes' principle. The most widely used method for measuring the true density of a powder requires placing the powder in a container of known volume (a specific gravity bottle) and weighing it. The specific gravity bottle is then filled with a fluid of known density in which the powder is insoluble. The volume of the powder is determined by the difference between the volume shown in the specific gravity bottle and the volume of the added liquid (i.e., the volume of displaced air).

[0683] The packaging material for the strip defining the aerosol generating matrix can be paper or non-paper. Suitable paper packaging materials for specific embodiments of the invention are known in the art and include, but are not limited to: cigarette paper; and filter tip packaging materials. Suitable non-paper packaging materials for specific embodiments of the invention are known in the art and include, but are not limited to, sheets of homogenized tobacco material. In some preferred embodiments, the packaging material may be formed of a laminated material comprising multiple layers. Preferably, the packaging material is formed of an aluminum co-laminated sheet. The use of an aluminum-containing co-laminated sheet advantageously prevents the combustion of the aerosol generating matrix when it should be ignited rather than heated in the intended manner.

[0684] In some preferred embodiments of the invention, elongated receptor elements are arranged substantially longitudinally within strips of the aerosol generating matrix and are in thermal contact with the aerosol generating matrix.

[0685] As used herein, the term "receptor element" refers to a material that can convert electromagnetic energy into heat. When located in a fluctuating electromagnetic field, eddy currents induced in the receptor element cause heating of the receptor element. When an elongated receptor element is positioned in thermal contact with an aerosol-generating matrix, the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​heated by the receptor element.

[0686] The receptor can come into direct contact with the aerosol-generating matrix. The presence of one or more carboxylic acids in the aerosol-generating matrix can advantageously reduce or prevent corrosion of the receptor.

[0687] The receptor can be located within an aerosol generation strip that includes an aerosol generation matrix.

[0688] The receptors can be located within the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0689] The aerosol-generating matrix can at least partially surround the receptor.

[0690] The aerosol generating matrix can be disposed on the sensor. For example, when the aerosol generating matrix is ​​a solid aerosol generating membrane, the sensor can be at least partially coated with the solid aerosol generating membrane.

[0691] The receptor can be at least partially embedded in the aerosol generation matrix. For example, when the aerosol generation matrix is ​​an aerosol generation gel, the receptor can be at least partially embedded in the aerosol generation gel.

[0692] The receptor can be a long and thin receptor.

[0693] When used to describe a receptor element, the term "elongated" means that the length of the receptor element is greater than its width or thickness, for example, more than twice its width or thickness.

[0694] The receptor elements are arranged substantially longitudinally within the strip. This means that the length of the elongated receptor elements is arranged approximately parallel to the longitudinal direction of the strip, for example, within + / - 10 degrees parallel to the longitudinal direction of the strip. In a preferred embodiment, the elongated receptor elements may be positioned at a radial center within the strip and extend along the longitudinal axis of the strip.

[0695] Preferably, the receptor element extends to the downstream end of the aerosol generating matrix strip. In some embodiments, the receptor element may extend to the upstream end of the aerosol generating matrix strip. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the receptor element has substantially the same length as the aerosol generating matrix strip and extends from the upstream end of the strip to the downstream end of the strip.

[0696] Preferably, the receptor element is in the form of a pin, strip, strip, or blade.

[0697] The receptor element preferably has a length of about 6 mm to about 18 mm, for example about 8 mm to about 16 mm, or about 10 mm to about 14 mm.

[0698] The receptor can have a length that is substantially the same as the length of the solid aerosol generating matrix or substantially the same as the length of the aerosol generating strip that includes the solid aerosol generating matrix.

[0699] The receptor can extend along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generated product.

[0700] The ratio between the length of the receptor element and the total length of the aerosol-generated article can be from about 0.20 to about 0.35.

[0701] Preferably, the ratio between the length of the receptor element and the total length of the aerosol-generating article is at least about 0.22, more preferably at least about 0.24, and even more preferably at least about 0.26. The ratio between the length of the receptor element and the total length of the aerosol-generating article is preferably less than about 0.34, more preferably less than about 0.32, and even more preferably less than about 0.30.

[0702] In some embodiments, the ratio between the length of the receptor element and the total length of the aerosol-generating article is preferably from about 0.22 to about 0.34, more preferably from about 0.24 to about 0.34, and even more preferably from about 0.26 to about 0.34. In other embodiments, the ratio between the length of the receptor element and the total length of the aerosol-generating article is preferably from about 0.22 to about 0.32, more preferably from about 0.24 to about 0.32, and even more preferably from about 0.26 to about 0.32. In still other embodiments, the ratio between the length of the receptor element and the total length of the aerosol-generating article is preferably from about 0.22 to about 0.30, more preferably from about 0.24 to about 0.30, and even more preferably from about 0.26 to about 0.30.

[0703] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the receptor element and the total length of the aerosol-generated article is approximately 0.27.

[0704] The receptor can have any desired width. For example, the receptor can have a width between 2 mm and 8 mm, between 3 mm and 7 mm, or between 4 mm and 6 mm.

[0705] The receptor can have any desired thickness. For example, the receptor can have a thickness between 30 and 90 micrometers, between 40 and 80 micrometers, or between 50 and 70 micrometers.

[0706] If the sensor element has a constant cross-section, such as a circular cross-section, then it preferably has a width or diameter of about 1 mm to about 5 mm.

[0707] If the receptor element is in the form of a strip or blade, the strip or blade preferably has a rectangular shape, the rectangular shape having a width preferably from about 2 mm to about 8 mm, more preferably from about 3 mm to about 5 mm. For example, a receptor element in the form of a strip or blade may have a width of about 4 mm.

[0708] If the receptor element is in the form of a strip or blade, the strip or blade preferably has a rectangular shape and a thickness of about 0.03 mm to about 0.15 mm, more preferably about 0.05 mm to about 0.09 mm. For example, a receptor element in the form of a strip or blade may have a thickness of about 0.07 mm.

[0709] In a preferred embodiment, the elongated receptor element is in the form of a strip or leaf, preferably having a rectangular shape, and having a thickness of about 55 micrometers to about 65 micrometers.

[0710] More preferably, the elongated receptor element has a thickness of about 57 micrometers to about 63 micrometers. Even more preferably, the elongated receptor element has a thickness of about 58 micrometers to about 62 micrometers. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the elongated receptor element has a thickness of about 60 micrometers.

[0711] Preferably, the elongated receptor element has a length that is the same as or shorter than the length of the aerosol-generating matrix. Preferably, the elongated receptor element has the same length as the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0712] The sensor element can be formed from any material that can be inductively heated to a temperature sufficient to generate aerosols from a solid aerosol generation matrix.

[0713] Preferably, the receptor comprises a metal, an alloy, or carbon.

[0714] Suitable receptor materials include, but are not limited to: carbon, carbon-based materials, graphene, graphite, expanded graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, stainless steel, niobium, aluminum, nickel, nickel-containing compounds, titanium, and composites of metallic materials. The receptor may contain or be composed of ferromagnetic materials, such as ferromagnetic alloys, ferritic iron, ferromagnetic steel, or stainless steel. Suitable receptors may contain or be composed of aluminum. Preferably, the receptor material contains more than 5%, preferably more than 20%, more preferably more than 50%, or more than 90% ferromagnetic or paramagnetic materials. Preferred receptor materials may contain metals, metal alloys, or carbon.

[0715] The sensor can be made of 400 series stainless steel, such as grade 410, 420, or 430 stainless steel. When positioned in an electromagnetic field with similar frequency and field strength, different materials will consume different amounts of energy.

[0716] The sensor can be or may contain carbon, carbon-based materials, graphene, graphite, or expanded graphite. Advantageously, such materials have relatively high thermal conductivity, relatively low density, and can be inductively heated.

[0717] Therefore, parameters of the sensor element, such as material type, length, width, and thickness, can all be modified to provide the desired power dissipation within a known electromagnetic field. Preferred sensor elements can be heated to temperatures exceeding 250 degrees Celsius.

[0718] Suitable sensor elements may include a non-metallic core having a metallic layer disposed on the non-metallic core, such as metallic tracks formed on the surface of a ceramic core. The sensor element may have an outer protective layer, such as a ceramic or glass protective layer encapsulating the sensor element. The sensor element may include a protective coating formed of glass, ceramic, or an inert metal on the core of the sensor element material.

[0719] The sensor element is arranged in thermal contact with the aerosol-generating matrix. Therefore, when the sensor element heats up, the aerosol-generating matrix heats up and forms an aerosol. Preferably, the sensor element is arranged in direct physical contact with the aerosol-generating matrix, for example, within the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0720] The receptor element can be a multi-material receptor element and may include a first receptor element material and a second receptor element material. The first receptor element material is arranged in close physical contact with the second receptor element material. The second receptor element material preferably has a Curie temperature below 500 degrees Celsius. The first receptor element material is preferably primarily used to heat the receptor element when it is placed in a fluctuating electromagnetic field. Any suitable material can be used. For example, the first receptor element material may be aluminum, or it may be an iron-containing material, such as stainless steel. The second receptor element material is preferably primarily used to indicate when the receptor element reaches a specific temperature, which is the Curie temperature of the second receptor element material. The Curie temperature of the second receptor element material can be used to regulate the temperature of the entire receptor element during operation. Therefore, the Curie temperature of the second receptor element material should be below the ignition point of the aerosol-generating matrix. Suitable materials for the second receptor element material may include nickel and certain nickel alloys.

[0721] By providing a sensor element having at least a first sensor element material and a second sensor element material, wherein the second sensor element material has a Curie temperature and the first sensor element material does not have a Curie temperature, or the first sensor element material and the second sensor element material have different first and second Curie temperatures, the heating of the aerosol generating matrix and the temperature control of the heating can be separated. The first sensor element material is preferably a magnetic material having a Curie temperature of 500 degrees Celsius or higher. From the viewpoint of heating efficiency, it is desirable that the Curie temperature of the first sensor element material is above any highest temperature to which the sensor element should be heated. Preferably, the second Curie temperature may be selected to be below 400 degrees Celsius, more preferably below 380 degrees Celsius, or below 360 degrees Celsius. Preferably, the second sensor element material is a magnetic material selected to have a second Curie temperature substantially the same as the desired highest heating temperature. That is, preferably, the second Curie temperature is substantially the same as the temperature to which the sensor element should be heated in order to generate an aerosol from the aerosol generating matrix. The second Curie temperature may, for example, be in the range of 200 to 400 degrees Celsius, or between 250 and 360 degrees Celsius. The second Curie temperature of the second receptor element material may, for example, be selected such that after being heated by a receptor element at a temperature equal to the second Curie temperature, the overall average temperature of the aerosol-generating matrix does not exceed 240 degrees Celsius.

[0722] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating section of the aerosol-generating article of the present invention may include one or more upstream segments located upstream of the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating section may also include an upstream segment located upstream of and adjacent to the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix. The upstream segment may be adjacent to the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix. The upstream segment advantageously prevents direct physical contact with the upstream end of the aerosol-generating matrix. In particular, in cases where the aerosol-generating matrix includes receptor elements, the upstream segment prevents direct physical contact with the upstream end of the receptor elements. This helps prevent displacement or deformation of the receptor elements during handling or transport of the aerosol-generating article. This, in turn, helps to fix the shape and position of the receptor elements. Furthermore, the presence of the upstream segment helps prevent any loss of the matrix, which may be advantageous, for example, in cases where the matrix contains granular plant material.

[0723] The upstream segment can also provide an improved appearance for the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article. Furthermore, if desired, the upstream segment can be used to provide information about the aerosol-generating article, such as the brand, flavor, contents, or details of the aerosol-generating device to which the article is intended to be used.

[0724] The upstream segment may be a porous rod element. Preferably, the porous rod element does not alter the suction resistance of the aerosol-generating article. Preferably, the upstream segment has at least about 50% porosity in the longitudinal direction of the aerosol-generating article. More preferably, the upstream segment has between about 50% and about 90% porosity in the longitudinal direction. The porosity of the upstream segment in the longitudinal direction is defined by the ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the material forming the upstream segment to the internal cross-sectional area of ​​the aerosol-generating article at the location of the upstream segment.

[0725] The upstream segment may be made of a porous material or may include multiple openings. This can be achieved, for example, by laser perforation. Preferably, the multiple openings are uniformly distributed across the cross-section of the upstream segment.

[0726] The porosity or permeability of the upstream segment can be advantageously varied in order to provide the desired overall suction resistance for the aerosol-generated product.

[0727] Preferably, the RTD of the upstream segment is at least about 5 mm H2O. More preferably, the RTD of the upstream segment is at least about 10 mm H2O. Even more preferably, the RTD of the upstream segment is at least about 15 mm H2O. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the RTD of the upstream segment is at least about 20 mm H2O.

[0728] The RTD of the upstream segment is preferably less than or equal to about 80 mmH2O. More preferably, the RTD of the upstream segment is less than or equal to about 60 mmH2O. Even more preferably, the RTD of the upstream segment is less than or equal to about 40 mmH2O.

[0729] In some embodiments, the RTD of the upstream segment is about 5 mm H2O to about 80 mm H2O, preferably about 10 mm H2O to about 80 mm H2O, more preferably about 15 mm H2O to about 80 mm H2O, and even more preferably about 20 mm H2O to about 80 mm H2O. In other embodiments, the RTD of the upstream segment is about 5 mm H2O to about 60 mm H2O, preferably about 10 mm H2O to about 60 mm H2O, more preferably about 15 mm H2O to about 60 mm H2O, and even more preferably about 20 mm H2O to about 60 mm H2O. In yet another embodiment, the RTD of the upstream segment is about 5 mm H2O to about 40 mm H2O, preferably about 10 mm H2O to about 40 mm H2O, more preferably about 15 mm H2O to about 40 mm H2O, and even more preferably about 20 mm H2O to about 40 mm H2O.

[0730] In an alternative embodiment, the upstream segment may be formed of an air-impermeable material. In such embodiments, the aerosol-generating article may be configured such that air flows into the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix through a suitable ventilation device disposed in the packaging.

[0731] The upstream segment can be made of any material suitable for aerosol-generating articles. The upstream segment can, for example, be made of the same material as one of the other components used in the aerosol-generating article (such as a mouthpiece, cooling segment, or support segment). Suitable materials for forming the upstream segment include filter materials, ceramics, polymer materials, cellulose acetate, cardboard, zeolite, or aerosol-generating matrices. Preferably, the upstream segment is formed from cellulose acetate rods.

[0732] Preferably, the upstream segment is formed of a heat-resistant material. For example, preferably, the upstream segment is formed of a material that can withstand temperatures up to 350 degrees Celsius. This ensures that the upstream segment is not adversely affected by the heating device used to heat the aerosol generation matrix.

[0733] Preferably, the upstream segment has a diameter approximately equal to the diameter of the aerosol-generated product.

[0734] Preferably, the upstream segment has a length between about 1 mm and about 10 mm, more preferably between about 3 mm and about 8 mm, and even more preferably between about 4 mm and about 6 mm. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the upstream segment has a length of about 5 mm. The length of the upstream segment can be advantageously varied to provide the desired total length of the aerosol-generating article. For example, if it is desired to reduce the length of one of the other components of the aerosol-generating article, the length of the upstream segment can be increased to maintain the same total length of the article.

[0735] The upstream segment preferably has a substantially uniform structure. For example, the upstream segment may be substantially uniform in texture and appearance. The upstream segment may, for example, have a continuous, regular surface over its entire cross-section. The upstream segment may, for example, lack discernible symmetry.

[0736] The upstream segment is preferably defined by packaging. The packaging defining the upstream segment is preferably a rigid bar package, for example, a bar package having a basis weight of at least about 80 g / m², or at least about 100 g / m², or at least about 110 g / m². This provides structural stiffness to the upstream segment.

[0737] The aerosol-generated articles according to the present invention may have a length of about 35 mm to about 100 mm.

[0738] Preferably, the total length of the aerosol-generating article according to the present invention is at least about 38 mm. More preferably, the total length of the aerosol-generating article according to the present invention is at least about 40 mm. Even more preferably, the total length of the aerosol-generating article according to the present invention is at least about 42 mm.

[0739] The total length of the aerosol-generating article according to the present invention is preferably less than or equal to 70 mm. More preferably, the total length of the aerosol-generating article according to the present invention is preferably less than or equal to 60 mm. Even more preferably, the total length of the aerosol-generating article according to the present invention is preferably less than or equal to 50 mm.

[0740] In some embodiments, the total length of the aerosol-generating article is preferably from about 38 mm to about 70 mm, more preferably from about 40 mm to about 70 mm, and even more preferably from about 42 mm to about 70 mm. In other embodiments, the total length of the aerosol-generating article is preferably from about 38 mm to about 60 mm, more preferably from about 40 mm to about 60 mm, and even more preferably from about 42 mm to about 60 mm. In yet another embodiment, the total length of the aerosol-generating article is preferably from about 38 mm to about 50 mm, more preferably from about 40 mm to about 50 mm, and even more preferably from about 42 mm to about 50 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, the total length of the aerosol-generating article is about 45 mm.

[0741] The aerosol-generating article preferably has an outer diameter of at least 5 mm. Preferably, the aerosol-generating article has an outer diameter of at least 6 mm. More preferably, the aerosol-generating article has an outer diameter of at least 7 mm.

[0742] Preferably, the aerosol-generating article has an outer diameter of about 12 mm or less. More preferably, the aerosol-generating article has an outer diameter of about 10 mm or less. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating article has an outer diameter of about 8 mm or less.

[0743] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating article has an outer diameter of about 5 mm to about 12 mm, preferably about 6 mm to about 12 mm, and more preferably about 7 mm to about 12 mm. In other embodiments, the aerosol-generating article has an outer diameter of about 5 mm to about 10 mm, preferably about 6 mm to about 10 mm, and more preferably about 7 mm to about 10 mm. In still other embodiments, the aerosol-generating article has an outer diameter of about 5 mm to about 8 mm, preferably about 6 mm to about 8 mm, and more preferably about 7 mm to about 8 mm.

[0744] In some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the diameter (D) of the aerosol-generated article at the downstream end is... DE (Preferably) larger than the diameter (D) of the aerosol-generated product at the upstream end. UE More specifically, the ratio (D) between the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the downstream end and the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the upstream end. DE / D UE (Preferably) is at least about 1.005.

[0745] Preferably, the ratio (D) between the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the downstream end and the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the upstream end is... DE / D UE (Preferably) is at least about 1.01. More preferably, the ratio (D) between the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the downstream end and the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the upstream end is... DE / D UE The ratio is at least about 1.02. Even more preferably, the ratio between the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the downstream end and the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the upstream end (D) is... DE / D UE The value is at least approximately 1.05.

[0746] The ratio between the diameter of the aerosol-generated article at the downstream end and the diameter of the aerosol-generated article at the upstream end (D) DE / D UE Preferably, the ratio (D) is less than or equal to about 1.30. More preferably, the ratio between the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the downstream end and the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the upstream end is... DE / D UE The ratio (D) is less than or equal to about 1.25. Even more preferably, the ratio between the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the downstream end and the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the upstream end (D) is... DE / D UE The ratio (D) is less than or equal to about 1.20. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the ratio between the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the downstream end and the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the upstream end is (D) DE / D UE (less than or equal to 1.15 or 1.10)

[0747] In some preferred embodiments, the ratio (D) between the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the downstream end and the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the upstream end is... DE / D UE The value is approximately 1.01 to 1.30, more preferably 1.02 to 1.30, and even more preferably 1.05 to 1.30.

[0748] In other embodiments, the ratio (D) between the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the downstream end and the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the upstream end... DE / D UE The ratio is approximately 1.01 to 1.25, more preferably 1.02 to 1.25, and even more preferably 1.05 to 1.25. In another embodiment, the ratio (D) between the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the downstream end and the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the upstream end is... DE / D UEThe ratio is approximately 1.01 to 1.20, more preferably 1.02 to 1.20, and even more preferably 1.05 to 1.20. In other embodiments, the ratio (D) between the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the downstream end and the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the upstream end is... DE / D UE The value is approximately 1.01 to 1.15, more preferably 1.02 to 1.15, and even more preferably 1.05 to 1.15.

[0749] For example, the outer diameter of the article may be substantially constant over a distal portion of the article extending at least about 5 mm or at least about 10 mm from the upstream end of the article from which the aerosol is generated. Alternatively, the outer diameter of the article may taper over a distal portion of the article extending at least about 5 mm or at least about 10 mm from the upstream end.

[0750] In certain preferred embodiments of the invention, the elements of the aerosol generating article described above are arranged such that the center of mass of the aerosol generating article is at least about 60% of the length of the aerosol generating article from the downstream end. More preferably, the elements of the aerosol generating article are arranged such that the center of mass of the aerosol generating article is at least about 62% of the length of the aerosol generating article from the downstream end, and more preferably at least about 65% of the length of the aerosol generating article from the downstream end.

[0751] Preferably, the center of mass does not exceed about 70% of the length of the aerosol-generated article from the downstream end.

[0752] Providing an arrangement of components with a center of mass closer to the upstream end than the downstream end results in an aerosol-generating article with a weight imbalance, where the upstream end is heavier. This weight imbalance can advantageously provide tactile feedback to the consumer, enabling them to distinguish between the upstream and downstream ends and thus insert the correct end into the aerosol-generating device. This can be particularly beneficial when the upstream components are provided in such a way that the upstream and downstream ends of the aerosol-generating article appear visually similar to each other.

[0753] In embodiments of the aerosol-generating article according to the invention, both the aerosol cooling segment and the support segment are present in the intermediate hollow section, and the aerosol cooling segment and the support segment are preferably enclosed together in a combined package. The combined package defines the aerosol cooling segment and the support segment, but does not define more downstream segments, such as cigarette filter segments.

[0754] In these embodiments, the aerosol cooling segment and the support segment are assembled before being defined by the modular packaging, and then they are further assembled with the mouthpiece filter segment.

[0755] From a manufacturing point of view, this is advantageous because it enables the assembly of shorter aerosol-generated products.

[0756] Generally, it can be difficult to handle individual elements with a length smaller than their diameter. For example, for an element with a diameter of 7 mm, a length of approximately 7 mm represents a threshold, which is preferably not approached. However, a 10 mm aerosol cooling element can be combined with a pair of support elements of 7 mm on each side (and potentially with other elements such as strips of aerosol generating matrix) to provide a 24 mm hollow segment, which is then cut into two intermediate hollow sections of 12 mm each.

[0757] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the other components of the aerosol-generating article are individually defined by their own packaging. In other words, the upstream element, the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix, the support segment, and the aerosol cooling segment are all individually wrapped. The support segment and the aerosol cooling segment are combined to form an intermediate hollow segment. This is achieved by wrapping the support segment and the aerosol cooling segment with a combined packaging. Then, the upstream segment, the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix, and the intermediate hollow segment are combined with the outer packaging. Subsequently, they are combined with the mouthpiece segment, which has its own packaging, by means of a tipping paper.

[0758] Preferably, at least one component of the aerosol-generating article is encased in a hydrophobic packaging.

[0759] The term "hydrophobic" refers to a surface exhibiting water-repellent properties. A useful method for determining this is to measure the water contact angle. The water contact angle is the angle through which a liquid passes through a solid surface, as conventionally measured when a liquid / vapor interface encounters a solid surface. It quantifies the wettability of a solid surface by a liquid using Young's equation. Hydrophobicity, or the water contact angle, can be determined using the TAPPIT 558 test method, and the results are presented as interfacial contact angles and reported in degrees, ranging from near zero to near 180 degrees.

[0760] In a preferred embodiment, the hydrophobic packaging is a packaging comprising a paper layer having a water contact angle of about 30 degrees or greater, and preferably about 35 degrees or greater, or about 40 degrees or greater, or about 45 degrees or greater.

[0761] For example, the paper layer may contain PVOH (polyvinyl alcohol) or silicone. PVOH may be applied to the paper layer as a surface coating, or the paper layer may include a surface treatment containing PVOH or silicone.

[0762] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol generating article according to the invention comprises an upstream segment arranged in a linear sequence, a strip of aerosol generating matrix located immediately downstream of the upstream segment, a support segment located immediately downstream of the strip of aerosol generating matrix, an aerosol cooling segment located immediately downstream of the support segment, a mouthpiece filter segment located immediately downstream of the aerosol cooling segment, and an outer packaging defining the upstream segment, the strip of aerosol generating matrix, the support segment, the aerosol cooling segment, and the mouthpiece filter segment.

[0763] More specifically, the aerosol generating matrix strip may be adjacent to the upstream segment. The support segment may be adjacent to the aerosol generating matrix strip. The aerosol cooling segment may be adjacent to the support segment. The nozzle segment may be adjacent to the aerosol cooling segment.

[0764] The aerosol-generated article has a generally cylindrical shape and an outer diameter of about 7.25 mm.

[0765] The upstream segment has a length of approximately 5 mm, the aerosol-generating matrix strip has a length of approximately 12 mm, the support segment has a length of approximately 8 mm, the aerosol cooling segment has a length of approximately 13 mm, and the mouthpiece filter segment has a length of approximately 7 mm. Therefore, the total length of the aerosol-generating article is approximately 45 mm.

[0766] The upstream segment is in the form of a cellulose acetate rod encased in a rigid rod package.

[0767] The aerosol generating article includes an elongated receptor element arranged substantially longitudinally within a strip of an aerosol generating matrix and in thermal contact with the aerosol generating matrix. The receptor element is in the form of a strip or blade, having a length substantially equal to the length of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix and a thickness of approximately 60 micrometers.

[0768] The support segment is in the form of a hollow cellulose acetate tube and has an inner diameter of approximately 1.9 mm. Therefore, the thickness of the peripheral wall of the support element is approximately 2.675 mm.

[0769] The aerosol cooling segment is in the form of a thin hollow cellulose acetate tube with an inner diameter of approximately 3.25 mm. Therefore, the thickness of the peripheral wall of the aerosol cooling element is approximately 2 mm.

[0770] The mouthpiece is in the form of a low-density cellulose acetate filter segment.

[0771] The aerosol generating matrix includes at least one of the types of aerosol generating matrices described above (such as homogenized tobacco, gel formulations, or homogenized plant materials containing particles of plants other than tobacco); an aerosol generating membrane; or thermally conductive particles.

[0772] The following will refer to the appendix. Figure 1and 2 The invention will be further described in the accompanying drawings, which show a schematic side cross-sectional view of an aerosol-generated article according to the invention.

[0773] Figure 1 The aerosol generating article 10 shown includes an aerosol generating section 52, a central hollow section 50, and a mouthpiece section 64. The aerosol generating section includes a strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix and an upstream segment 16 located upstream of the strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0774] The aerosol-generated product has a total length of approximately 45 millimeters.

[0775] The aerosol generating article 10 extends from an upstream or distal end 18 to a downstream or inlet end 20. The aerosol generating article includes a strip 12 of aerosol generating matrix and a downstream section 14 located downstream of the strip 12. The downstream section 14 includes a support segment 22 located immediately downstream of the strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix, the support segment 22 being longitudinally aligned with the strip 12. Figure 1 In this embodiment, the upstream end 30 of the support segment 22 is adjacent to the downstream end of the strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix. Additionally, the downstream section 14 includes an aerosol cooling segment 24 located immediately downstream of the support segment 22, the aerosol cooling segment 24 being longitudinally aligned with the strip 12 and the support segment 22. Figure 1 In one embodiment, the upstream end 38 of the aerosol cooling segment 24 is adjacent to the downstream end of the support segment 22.

[0776] As will be apparent from the following description, the support segment 22 and the aerosol cooling segment 24 together define the intermediate hollow section 50 of the aerosol generating article 10. Overall, the intermediate hollow section 50 substantially does not affect the overall RTD of the aerosol generating article. Overall, the RTD of the intermediate hollow section 50 is substantially 0 mmH2O.

[0777] The support segment 22 includes a first hollow tubular segment 26. The first hollow tubular segment 26 is provided in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube made of cellulose acetate. The first hollow tubular segment 26 defines an inner cavity 28 extending from the upstream end 30 of the first hollow tubular segment 20 to the downstream end 32 of the first hollow tubular segment 20. The inner cavity 28 is substantially empty, and therefore allows substantially unrestricted airflow along the inner cavity 28. The first hollow tubular segment 26, and therefore the support segment 22, substantially does not affect the overall RTD of the aerosol-generating article 10. More specifically, the RTD of the first hollow tubular segment 26 (which is substantially the RTD of the support segment 22) is substantially 0 mmH2O.

[0778] The first hollow tubular segment 26 has a length of approximately 8 mm, an outer diameter of approximately 7.25 mm, and an inner diameter of approximately 1.9 mm (D).FTS Therefore, the thickness of the peripheral wall of the first hollow tubular segment 26 is approximately 2.67 mm.

[0779] The aerosol cooling segment 24 includes a second hollow tubular segment 34. The second hollow tubular segment 34 is provided in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube made of cellulose acetate. The second hollow tubular segment 34 defines an inner cavity 36 extending from an upstream end 38 of the second hollow tubular segment to a downstream end 40 of the second hollow tubular segment 34. The inner cavity 36 is substantially empty, and therefore allows substantially unrestricted airflow along the inner cavity 36. The second hollow tubular segment 34, and therefore the aerosol cooling segment 24, substantially does not affect the overall RTD of the aerosol generating article 10. More specifically, the RTD of the second hollow tubular segment 34 (which is essentially the RTD of the aerosol cooling element 24) is substantially 0 mmH2O.

[0780] The second hollow tubular segment 34 has a length of approximately 13 mm, an outer diameter of approximately 7.25 mm, and an inner diameter of approximately 3.25 mm (D). STS Therefore, the thickness of the peripheral wall of the second hollow tubular segment 34 is approximately 2 mm. Therefore, the inner diameter (D) of the first hollow tubular segment 26 is... FTS ) and the inner diameter (D) of the second hollow tubular segment 34 STS The ratio between them is approximately 0.75.

[0781] The aerosol-generating article 10 includes a ventilation zone 60 located along the second hollow tubular segment 34. More specifically, the ventilation zone is located approximately 2 mm upstream of the second hollow tubular segment 34. The ventilation level of the aerosol-generating article 10 is approximately 25%.

[0782] exist Figure 1 In one embodiment, the downstream section 14 further includes a mouthpiece filter segment 42 located downstream of the intermediate hollow section 50. More specifically, the mouthpiece filter segment 42 is positioned immediately downstream of the aerosol cooling element 24. Figure 1 As shown in the figure, the upstream end of the mouthpiece filter segment 42 is adjacent to the downstream end 40 of the aerosol cooling element 18.

[0783] The mouthpiece filter segment 42 is provided in the form of a cylindrical filter segment of low-density cellulose acetate.

[0784] The mouthpiece filter segment 42 has a length of approximately 7 mm and an outer diameter of approximately 7.25 mm. The RTD of the mouthpiece filter segment 42 is approximately 7 mm H2O. The ratio of the length of the mouthpiece filter segment 42 to the length of the intermediate hollow segment 50 is approximately 0.33.

[0785] Article 12 includes an aerosol-generating matrix of one of the above types.

[0786] The strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix has an outer diameter of about 7.25 mm and a length of about 12 mm.

[0787] The aerosol generating article 10 also includes an elongated receptor element 44 within the strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix. More specifically, the receptor element 44 is arranged substantially longitudinally within the aerosol generating matrix, such as being generally parallel to the longitudinal direction of the strip 12. Figure 1 As shown in the figure, the receptor element 44 is positioned at the radial center within the strip and extends effectively along the longitudinal axis of the strip 12.

[0788] The receptor element 44 extends from the upstream end of the strip 12 to the downstream end. In fact, the receptor element 44 has a length that is substantially the same as that of the strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0789] exist Figure 1 In one embodiment, the receptor element 44 is provided in the form of a strip and has a length of approximately 12 mm, a thickness of approximately 60 micrometers, and a width of approximately 4 mm. The upstream segment 16 includes an upstream element 46 located immediately upstream of the strip 12 of the aerosol-generating matrix, the upstream element 46 being longitudinally aligned with the strip 12. Figure 1 In this embodiment, the downstream end of the upstream element 46 is adjacent to the upstream end of the strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix. This advantageously prevents the receptor element 44 from being removed. Furthermore, this ensures that the consumer will not accidentally come into contact with the heated receptor element 44 after use.

[0790] The upstream segment 46 is provided in the form of a cylindrical cellulose acetate rod defined by a rigid packaging. The upstream segment 46 has a length of approximately 5 mm. The RTD of the upstream element 46 is approximately 30 mm H2O.

[0791] Figure 2 An aerosol generating article 100 is shown, which is a variation of the aforementioned aerosol generating article 10. The difference between aerosol generating article 100 and aerosol generating article 10 is the provision of an additional aerosol cooling section 58 comprising a third hollow tubular segment 54. Thus, the intermediate hollow section 50 includes a support segment 22, an aerosol cooling section 24, and an additional aerosol cooling section 58. The third hollow tubular segment 54 is provided in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube made of cellulose acetate. The third hollow tubular segment 54 defines an inner cavity 56. The third hollow tubular segment 54 is adjacent to the upstream end 62 of the mouthpiece filter 42. The inner cavity 56 is substantially empty, and therefore allows for substantially unrestricted airflow along the inner cavity 56. The third hollow tubular segment 54 and therefore the additional aerosol cooling section 58 substantially do not affect the overall RTD of the aerosol generating article 100. More specifically, the RTD of the third hollow tubular segment 54 (which is essentially the RTD of the aerosol cooling element 58) is essentially 0 mmH2O.

[0792] In an embodiment of article 100, the second hollow tubular segment 34 has a length of about 8 mm, and the third hollow tubular segment 54 has a length of about 5 mm.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating article for generating an inhalable aerosol upon heating, the aerosol generating article extending from a downstream end to an upstream end, and comprising: The aerosol generation section includes strips of the aerosol generation matrix; The mouthpiece section includes a mouthpiece filter segment formed of fibrous filter material, the mouthpiece section having a length L1 extending between an upstream end of the mouthpiece filter segment and a downstream end of the aerosol generating article; as well as An intermediate hollow section having a length L2 extending between the aerosol generation section and the mouthpiece section, the intermediate hollow section defining a longitudinal cavity providing an unrestricted flow path from the aerosol generation section to the mouthpiece section, the intermediate hollow section comprising: Downstream of the aerosol generation section is the aerosol cooling section. as well as The support section between the aerosol cooling section and the aerosol generation section. The length (L1) of the mouthpiece section is at least 0.10 times the length (L2) of the intermediate hollow section and less than 0.34 times the length of the intermediate hollow section.

2. The aerosol-generating article according to claim 1, wherein the length of the mouthpiece section is at least 0.20 times the length of the intermediate hollow section.

3. The aerosol-generating article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the length of the mouthpiece section is at least 0.30 times the length of the intermediate hollow section.

4. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the mouthpiece section includes a mouthpiece filter segment whose length is at least 0.10 times the length (L2) of the intermediate hollow section and less than 0.34 times the length of the intermediate hollow section.

5. The aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the length of the mouthpiece section is about 1 mm to about 10 mm, preferably about 5 mm to about 9 mm, and most preferably about 7 mm.

6. The aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the mouthpiece section includes a mouthpiece filter segment having a length of about 1 mm to about 10 mm, preferably about 5 mm to about 9 mm, and most preferably about 7 mm.

7. The aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the suction resistance (RTD) of the mouthpiece section is less than about 10 mmH2O, most preferably about 7 mmH2O.

8. The aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the aerosol cooling segment includes a hollow tubular segment defining a longitudinal cavity that provides an unrestricted flow passage, and the aerosol cooling segment further includes a ventilation zone at a location along the hollow tubular segment.

9. The aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the aerosol generating matrix is ​​a solid aerosol generating matrix, the solid aerosol generating matrix comprising nicotine, one or more cellulose-based reagents, one or more aerosol forming agents, and one or more carboxylic acids, wherein the solid aerosol generating matrix has a total cellulose-based reagent content of at least 35% by weight, a total aerosol forming agent content of greater than or equal to 45% by weight, and a total carboxylic acid content of at least 0.5% by weight.

10. The aerosol generating article according to claim 9, wherein the solid aerosol generating matrix comprises one or more carboxylic acids selected from acetic acid, adipic acid, benzoic acid, citric acid, fumaric acid, maleic acid, malic acid, myristic acid, oxalic acid, salicylic acid, stearic acid, succinic acid, undecanoic acid, and C1-C10 saturated alkyl monocarboxylic acids.

11. The aerosol generating article according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the solid aerosol generating matrix comprises fumaric acid.

12. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the solid aerosol generating matrix further comprises one or more carboxylic acids selected from lactic acid and levulinic acid.

13. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the solid aerosol generating matrix has a total carboxylic acid content between 1% and 6% by weight.

14. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 9 to 13, wherein the solid aerosol generating matrix has a total cellulose-based reagent content of between 35% and 50% by weight.

15. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 9 to 14, wherein the solid aerosol generating matrix comprises one or more cellulose-based film-forming agents selected from carboxymethyl cellulose and hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose.

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