Cartridge comprising nicotine and a water-immiscible solvent

Abstract

A cartridge (20) for an aerosol generation system, the cartridge containing: a first liquid formulation (34) comprising at least one of water and one or more water-miscible solvents; and a second liquid formulation (38) comprising one or more water-immiscible solvents having a water solubility of less than or equal to about 100 mg / ml at 20°C, wherein at least one of the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation contains nicotine. An aerosol generation system comprising: a cartridge (20) containing a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation, the first liquid formulation comprising at least one of water and one or more water-miscible solvents, the second liquid formulation comprising one or more water-immiscible solvents having a water solubility of less than or equal to about 100 mg / ml at 20°C, wherein at least one of the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation contains nicotine; and an aerosol generation device (10) comprising one or more atomizers configured to generate an aerosol from the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation contained in the cartridge (20).

Description

[0001] This invention relates to a cylinder for use in an aerosol generation system, the cylinder containing a liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation. The invention also relates to an aerosol generation system comprising a cylinder and an aerosol generation device, the aerosol generation device including one or more atomizers configured to generate an aerosol from a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation contained in the cylinder.

[0002] Aerosol generation systems for delivering nicotine to users are known, comprising a cartridge containing a liquid nicotine formulation and an atomizer configured to generate an inhalable aerosol from the liquid nicotine formulation contained in the cartridge. Some known aerosol generation systems include thermal atomizers, such as electric heaters, configured to heat and vaporize the liquid nicotine formulation in the cartridge to generate an aerosol. Other known aerosol generation systems include non-thermal atomizers configured to use, for example, impingement jet, ultrasonic, or vibrating mesh techniques to generate an aerosol from the liquid nicotine formulation in the cartridge. Typical liquid nicotine formulations used in aerosol generation systems contain glycerol, propylene glycol, and water as solvents.

[0003] In such aerosol generation systems, pulmonary delivery of inhalable aerosols generated from liquid nicotine formulations is important for user palatability and satisfaction. Nicotine adsorption via the alveoli is rapid and efficient. In contrast, nicotine adsorption in the upper airways is slower and less efficient. Upper airway adsorption may also be undesirably perceived by the user as having a harsh sensory experience and causing irritation to the mouth and throat.

[0004] It is desirable to provide a container for containing liquid formulations in an aerosol generation system, which enables the generation of aerosols that provide improved nicotine satisfaction to the user compared to containers containing typical liquid nicotine formulations. In particular, it is desirable to provide a container for containing liquid formulations in an aerosol generation system that enables the generation of aerosols with improved lung deposition characteristics and nicotine retention compared to aerosols generated from containers containing typical liquid nicotine formulations.

[0005] This invention relates to a cartridge. The cartridge can be used in an aerosol generation system. The cartridge can contain a first liquid formulation. The first liquid formulation may contain water. The first liquid formulation may contain one or more water-miscible solvents. The first liquid formulation may contain at least one of water and one or more water-miscible solvents. The cartridge can contain a second liquid formulation containing one or more water-immiscible solvents. The one or more water-immiscible solvents may have a water solubility of less than or equal to about 100 mg / ml at 20°C. At least one of the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation may contain nicotine.

[0006] The present invention also relates to an aerosol generation system. The aerosol generation system may comprise a first liquid formulation. The first liquid formulation may comprise water. The first liquid formulation may comprise one or more water-miscible solvents. The first liquid formulation may comprise at least one of water and one or more water-miscible solvents. The aerosol generation system may contain a second liquid formulation comprising one or more water-immiscible solvents. The one or more water-immiscible solvents may have a water solubility of less than or equal to about 100 mg / ml at 20°C. At least one of the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation may contain nicotine. The aerosol generation system may include one or more nebulizers. The one or more nebulizers may be configured to generate an aerosol from the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation.

[0007] An aerosol generation system may include a cartridge. The cartridge may contain a first liquid formulation. The first liquid formulation may contain water. The first liquid formulation may contain one or more water-miscible solvents. The first liquid formulation may contain at least one of water and one or more water-miscible solvents. The cartridge may contain a second liquid formulation containing one or more water-immiscible solvents. The one or more water-immiscible solvents may have a water solubility of less than or equal to about 100 mg / ml at 20°C. At least one of the first and second liquid formulations may contain nicotine. The aerosol generation system may include an aerosol generation device. The aerosol generation device may include one or more atomizers. The one or more atomizers may be configured to generate an aerosol from the first and second liquid formulations contained in the cartridge.

[0008] According to the present invention, a cylinder for an aerosol generation system is provided, the cylinder containing: a first liquid formulation comprising at least one of water and one or more water-miscible solvents; and a second liquid formulation comprising one or more water-immiscible solvents having a water solubility of less than or equal to about 100 mg / ml at 20°C, wherein at least one of the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation contains nicotine.

[0009] According to the present invention, an aerosol generation system is also provided, the aerosol generation system comprising: a first liquid formulation comprising at least one of water and one or more water-miscible solvents; a second liquid formulation comprising one or more water-immiscible solvents having a water solubility of less than or equal to about 100 mg / ml at 20°C, wherein at least one of the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation comprises nicotine; and one or more atomizers configured to generate aerosols from the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation.

[0010] According to the present invention, an aerosol generation system is further provided, the aerosol generation system comprising: a cylinder containing a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation, the first liquid formulation comprising at least one of water and one or more water-miscible solvents, the second liquid formulation comprising one or more water-immiscible solvents having a water solubility of less than or equal to about 100 mg / ml at 20°C, wherein at least one of the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation comprises nicotine; and an aerosol generation device comprising one or more atomizers configured to generate aerosols from the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation contained in the cylinder.

[0011] As used herein in conjunction with the invention, the term "nicotine" describes nicotine, nicotine base, or nicotine salt. In embodiments in which at least one of the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation comprises nicotine base or nicotine salt, the amount of nicotine described herein is either an amount of free nicotine base or an amount of protonated nicotine.

[0012] As used herein in conjunction with the invention, the term "water-miscible solvent" describes a non-aqueous compound or organic acid that is a liquid at 20°C and can be mixed with water in all proportions to form a homogeneous solution.

[0013] As used herein in conjunction with the invention, the term "water-immiscible solvent" describes a compound that is a liquid at 20°C and has a water solubility of less than or equal to about 100 mg / ml at 20°C.

[0014] Unless otherwise stated, the water solubility values ​​described herein are based on measurements obtained from the following preliminary test: OECD (1995), Test No. 105: Water Solubility, OECD Guidelines for the Testing of Chemicals, Section 1, OECD Publishing, Paris, https: / / doi.org / 10.1787 / 9789264069589-en. In the stepwise procedure, 0.1 g of sample (solid substances must be crushed) is added in gradually increasing volumes of distilled water at 20°C to a 10 ml glass-stoppered graduated cylinder. However, when the substance is acidic, the sample is added to distilled water in the first step. After each addition of water, the mixture is shaken for 10 minutes, and the sample is visually inspected for any undissolved portions. If the sample or a portion thereof remains undissolved after adding 10 ml of water, the experiment is continued in a 100 ml graduated cylinder. Table 1 below gives the approximate solubility in the volume of water in which the sample is completely dissolved.

[0015] When solubility is low, it may take a long time to dissolve the substance; at least 24 hours should be allowed. If the substance is still undissolved after 24 hours, place the graduated cylinder in a 40°C ultrasonic bath for 15 minutes and allow another 24 hours (maximum 96 hours). If the substance is still undissolved, it is considered that the solubility is below the limit or insoluble.

[0016]

[0017] Table 1

[0018] The first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation are different liquid formulations.

[0019] The first and second liquid formulations are physically separated liquid formulations.

[0020] According to the invention, introducing a combination of a first liquid formulation comprising at least one of water and one or more water-miscible solvents and a second liquid formulation comprising one or more water-immiscible solvents into a cylinder and aerosol generation system advantageously enables the generation of inhalable aerosols that provide improved nicotine satisfaction to the user compared to aerosols generated from typical liquid nicotine formulations, wherein at least one of the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation comprises nicotine. In particular, according to the invention, introducing a first liquid formulation comprising at least one of water and one or more water-miscible solvents and a second liquid formulation comprising one or more water-immiscible solvents into a cylinder and aerosol generation system advantageously enables the generation of inhalable aerosols with improved lung deposition characteristics and nicotine retention compared to aerosols generated from typical liquid nicotine formulations, wherein at least one of the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation comprises nicotine.

[0021] According to the present invention, introducing a combination of a first liquid formulation comprising at least one of water and one or more water-miscible solvents with a second liquid formulation comprising one or more water-immiscible solvents in a cylinder and aerosol generation system enables the generation of inhalable aerosols comprising biphasic particles or droplets, wherein at least one of the first and second liquid formulations comprises nicotine, and the biphasic particles or droplets comprise an aqueous phase or a water-miscible phase and a water-immiscible phase. This advantageously reduces nicotine adsorption in the upper airways and enhances nicotine delivery and retention in the lungs. It is not desirable to be bound by theory, but it is believed that the improvement in nicotine delivery and retention in the lungs is due to the coating or encapsulation of the water-immiscible phase with the aqueous or water-miscible phase. This is believed to reduce nicotine evaporation and adsorption in the upper airways.

[0022] According to the present invention, introducing a combination of a first liquid formulation comprising at least one of water and one or more water-miscible solvents and a second liquid formulation comprising one or more water-immiscible solvents into a cylinder and aerosol generation system can advantageously prevent or reduce the separation or fragmentation of the water-miscible and water-immiscible components of the liquid formulation, wherein at least one of the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation comprises nicotine.

[0023] According to the present invention, introducing a combination of a first liquid formulation comprising at least one of water and one or more water-miscible solvents and a second liquid formulation comprising one or more water-immiscible solvents in a cylinder and aerosol generation system can advantageously avoid the need to introduce an emulsifier into the liquid formulation, wherein at least one of the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation comprises nicotine.

[0024] The first liquid formulation comprises at least one of water and one or more water-miscible solvents. That is, the first liquid formulation comprises water or one or more miscible solvents, or both water and one or more miscible solvents.

[0025] Unless otherwise stated, the weight percentages of the components of the first liquid formulation described herein are based on the total weight of the first liquid formulation.

[0026] The first liquid formulation may have a total content of water and water-miscible solvents of more than or equal to about 65% by weight or more than or equal to about 70% by weight.

[0027] Preferably, the first liquid formulation has a total content of water and water-miscible solvents of greater than or equal to about 75% by weight. More preferably, the first liquid formulation has a total content of water and water-miscible solvents of greater than or equal to 80% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a total content of water and water-miscible solvents of greater than or equal to about 85% by weight or greater than or equal to about 90% by weight.

[0028] In embodiments in which the first liquid formulation comprises water, water can advantageously help dissolve and stabilize the polar and ionic components of the first liquid formulation.

[0029] The first liquid formulation may have a water content of more than or equal to about 10% by weight or more than or equal to about 15% by weight.

[0030] Preferably, the first liquid formulation has a water content of more than or equal to about 20% by weight. More preferably, the first liquid formulation has a water content of more than or equal to about 25% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a water content of more than or equal to about 30% by weight.

[0031] The first liquid formulation may have a water content of less than or equal to about 75% by weight or less than or equal to about 70% by weight.

[0032] Preferably, the first liquid formulation has a water content of less than or equal to about 65% by weight. More preferably, the first liquid formulation has a water content of less than or equal to about 60% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a water content of less than or equal to about 55% by weight or less than or equal to about 50% by weight.

[0033] The first liquid formulation may have a water content between about 10% by weight and about 75% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a water content between about 10% by weight and about 70% by weight, between about 10% by weight and about 65% by weight, between about 10% by weight and about 60% by weight, between about 10% by weight and about 55% by weight, or between about 10% by weight and about 50% by weight.

[0034] The first liquid formulation may have a water content between about 15% by weight and about 75% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a water content between about 15% by weight and about 70% by weight, between about 15% by weight and about 65% by weight, between about 15% by weight and about 60% by weight, between about 15% by weight and about 55% by weight, or between about 15% by weight and about 50% by weight.

[0035] The first liquid formulation may have a water content between about 20% by weight and about 75% by weight, or between about 20% by weight and about 70% by weight. Preferably, the first liquid formulation has a water content between about 20% by weight and about 65% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a water content between about 20% by weight and about 60% by weight, between about 20% by weight and about 55% by weight, or between about 20% by weight and about 50% by weight.

[0036] The first liquid formulation may have a water content between about 25% by weight and about 75% by weight, or between about 25% by weight and about 70% by weight. More preferably, the first liquid formulation has a water content between about 25% by weight and about 65% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a water content between about 25% by weight and about 60% by weight, between about 25% by weight and about 55% by weight, or between about 25% by weight and about 50% by weight.

[0037] The first liquid formulation may have a water content between about 30% by weight and about 75% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a water content between about 30% by weight and about 70% by weight, between about 30% by weight and about 65% by weight, between about 30% by weight and about 60% by weight, between about 30% by weight and about 55% by weight, or between about 30% by weight and about 50% by weight.

[0038] In embodiments in which the first liquid formulation comprises one or more water-miscible solvents, the one or more water-miscible solvents may advantageously help dissolve and stabilize the polar and ionic components of the first liquid formulation.

[0039] The first liquid formulation may have a water-miscible solvent content of greater than or equal to about 20% by weight or greater than or equal to about 25% by weight.

[0040] Preferably, the first liquid formulation has a water-miscible solvent content of greater than or equal to about 30% by weight. More preferably, the first liquid formulation has a water-miscible solvent content of greater than or equal to about 35% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a water-miscible solvent content of greater than or equal to about 40% by weight or greater than or equal to about 45% by weight.

[0041] The first liquid formulation may have a water-miscible solvent content of less than or equal to about 90% by weight or less than or equal to about 85% by weight.

[0042] Preferably, the first liquid formulation has a water-miscible solvent content of less than or equal to about 80% by weight. More preferably, the first liquid formulation has a water-miscible solvent content of less than or equal to about 75% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a water-miscible solvent content of less than or equal to about 70% by weight or less than or equal to about 65% by weight.

[0043] The first liquid formulation may have a water-miscible solvent content of about 20% to about 90% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a water-miscible solvent content of about 20% to about 85% by weight, about 20% to about 80% by weight, about 20% to about 75% by weight, about 20% to about 70% by weight, or about 20% to about 65% by weight.

[0044] The first liquid formulation may have a water-miscible solvent content of about 25% to about 90% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a water-miscible solvent content of about 25% to about 85% by weight, about 25% to about 80% by weight, about 25% to about 75% by weight, about 25% to about 70% by weight, or about 25% to about 65% by weight.

[0045] Preferably, the first liquid formulation has a water-miscible solvent content of about 30% to about 90% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a water-miscible solvent content of about 30% to about 85% by weight, about 30% to about 80% by weight, about 30% to about 75% by weight, about 30% to about 70% by weight, or about 30% to about 65% by weight.

[0046] More preferably, the first liquid formulation has a water-miscible solvent content of about 35% to about 90% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a water-miscible solvent content of about 35% to about 85% by weight, about 35% to about 80% by weight, about 35% to about 75% by weight, about 35% to about 70% by weight, or about 35% to about 65% by weight.

[0047] The first liquid formulation may have a water-miscible solvent content of about 40% to about 90% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a water-miscible solvent content of about 40% to about 85% by weight, about 40% to about 80% by weight, about 40% to about 75% by weight, about 40% to about 70% by weight, or about 40% to about 65% by weight.

[0048] The first liquid formulation may have a water-miscible solvent content of about 45% to about 90% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a water-miscible solvent content of about 45% to about 85% by weight, about 45% to about 80% by weight, about 45% to about 75% by weight, about 45% to about 70% by weight, or about 45% to about 65% by weight.

[0049] Preferably, the one or more water-miscible solvents are one or more water-miscible polyols.

[0050] As used herein in conjunction with the invention, the term "water-miscible polyol" describes a polyol that is a liquid at 20°C and can be mixed with water in all proportions to form a homogeneous solution.

[0051] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a cartridge for an aerosol generation system is provided, the cartridge containing: a first liquid formulation comprising at least one of water and one or more water-miscible polyols; and a second liquid formulation comprising one or more water-immiscible solvents having a water solubility of less than or equal to about 100 mg / ml at 20°C, wherein at least one of the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation contains nicotine.

[0052] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, an aerosol generating system is also provided, the aerosol generating system comprising: a first liquid formulation comprising at least one of water and one or more water-miscible polyols; a second liquid formulation comprising one or more water-immiscible solvents having a water solubility of less than or equal to about 100 mg / ml at 20°C, wherein at least one of the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation comprises nicotine; and one or more atomizers configured to generate aerosols from the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation.

[0053] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, an aerosol generation system is further provided, the aerosol generation system comprising: a cylinder containing a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation, the first liquid formulation comprising water and at least one of one or more water-miscible polyols, the second liquid formulation comprising one or more water-immiscible solvents having a water solubility of less than or equal to about 100 mg / ml at 20°C, wherein at least one of the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation comprises nicotine; and an aerosol generation device comprising one or more atomizers configured to generate aerosols from the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation contained in the cylinder.

[0054] The first liquid formulation may have a water-miscible polyol content of greater than or equal to about 20% by weight or greater than or equal to about 25% by weight.

[0055] Preferably, the first liquid formulation has a water-miscible polyol content of greater than or equal to about 30% by weight. More preferably, the first liquid formulation has a water-miscible polyol content of greater than or equal to about 35% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a water-miscible polyol content of greater than or equal to about 40% by weight or greater than or equal to about 45% by weight.

[0056] The first liquid formulation may have a water-miscible polyol content of less than or equal to about 90% by weight or less than or equal to about 85% by weight.

[0057] Preferably, the first liquid formulation has a water-miscible polyol content of less than or equal to about 80% by weight. More preferably, the first liquid formulation has a water-miscible polyol content of less than or equal to about 75% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a water-miscible polyol content of less than or equal to about 70% by weight or less than or equal to about 65% by weight.

[0058] The first liquid formulation may have a water-miscible polyol content of about 20% to about 90% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a water-miscible polyol content of about 20% to about 85% by weight, about 20% to about 80% by weight, about 20% to about 75% by weight, about 20% to about 70% by weight, or about 20% to about 65% by weight.

[0059] The first liquid formulation may have a water-miscible polyol content of about 25% to about 90% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a water-miscible polyol content of about 25% to about 85% by weight, about 25% to about 80% by weight, about 25% to about 75% by weight, about 25% to about 70% by weight, or about 25% to about 65% by weight.

[0060] Preferably, the first liquid formulation has a water-miscible polyol content of about 30% to about 90% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a water-miscible polyol content of about 30% to about 85% by weight, about 30% to about 80% by weight, about 30% to about 75% by weight, about 30% to about 70% by weight, or about 30% to about 65% by weight.

[0061] More preferably, the first liquid formulation has a water-miscible polyol content of about 35% to about 90% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a water-miscible polyol content of about 35% to about 85% by weight, about 35% to about 80% by weight, about 35% to about 75% by weight, about 35% to about 70% by weight, or about 35% to about 65% by weight.

[0062] The first liquid formulation may have a water-miscible polyol content of about 40% to about 90% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation comprises one or more water-miscible polyols, and the first liquid formulation may have a water-miscible polyol content of about 40% to about 85% by weight, about 40% to about 80% by weight, about 40% to about 75% by weight, about 40% to about 70% by weight, or about 40% to about 65% by weight.

[0063] The first liquid formulation may have a water-miscible polyol content of about 45% to about 90% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a water-miscible polyol content of about 45% to about 85% by weight, about 45% to about 80% by weight, about 45% to about 75% by weight, about 45% to about 70% by weight, or about 45% to about 65% by weight.

[0064] Preferably, the one or more water-miscible polyols are selected from 1,3-butanediol, glycerol, propylene glycol, and triethylene glycol.

[0065] More preferably, the one or more water-miscible polyols are selected from glycerol and propylene glycol.

[0066] Most preferably, the one or more water-miscible polyols are selected from vegetable glycerol and propylene glycol.

[0067] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a cartridge for an aerosol generation system is provided, the cartridge containing: a first liquid formulation comprising water and at least one of one or more water-miscible polyols selected from glycerol and propylene glycol; and a second liquid formulation comprising one or more water-immiscible solvents having a water solubility of less than or equal to about 100 mg / ml at 20°C, wherein at least one of the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation contains nicotine.

[0068] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, an aerosol generating system is also provided, the aerosol generating system comprising: a first liquid formulation comprising water and at least one of one or more water-miscible polyols selected from glycerol and propylene glycol; a second liquid formulation comprising one or more water-immiscible solvents having a water solubility of less than or equal to about 100 mg / ml at 20°C, wherein at least one of the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation comprises nicotine; and one or more atomizers configured to generate aerosols from the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation.

[0069] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, an aerosol generation system is further provided, the aerosol generation system comprising: a cartridge containing a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation, the first liquid formulation comprising water and at least one of one or more water-miscible polyols selected from glycerol and propylene glycol, the second liquid formulation comprising one or more water-immiscible solvents having a water solubility of less than or equal to about 100 mg / ml at 20°C, wherein at least one of the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation comprises nicotine; and an aerosol generation device comprising one or more atomizers configured to generate an aerosol from the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation contained in the cartridge.

[0070] The first liquid formulation may have a combined content of glycerol and propylene glycol of greater than or equal to about 20% by weight or greater than or equal to about 25% by weight.

[0071] Preferably, the first liquid formulation has a combined content of glycerol and propylene glycol of greater than or equal to about 30% by weight. More preferably, the first liquid formulation has a combined content of glycerol and propylene glycol of greater than or equal to about 35% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a combined content of glycerol and propylene glycol of greater than or equal to about 40% by weight or greater than or equal to about 45% by weight.

[0072] The first liquid formulation may have a combined content of glycerol and propylene glycol of less than or equal to about 90% by weight or less than or equal to about 85% by weight.

[0073] Preferably, the first liquid formulation has a combined content of glycerol and propylene glycol of less than or equal to about 80% by weight. More preferably, the first liquid formulation has a combined content of glycerol and propylene glycol of less than or equal to about 75% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a combined content of glycerol and propylene glycol of less than or equal to about 70% by weight or less than or equal to about 65% by weight.

[0074] The first liquid formulation may have a combined content of glycerol and propylene glycol between about 20% by weight and about 90% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a combined content of glycerol and propylene glycol between about 20% by weight and about 85% by weight, between about 20% by weight and about 80% by weight, between about 20% by weight and about 75% by weight, between about 20% by weight and about 70% by weight, or between about 20% by weight and about 65% by weight.

[0075] The first liquid formulation may have a combined content of glycerol and propylene glycol between about 25% by weight and about 90% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a combined content of glycerol and propylene glycol between about 25% by weight and about 85% by weight, between about 25% by weight and about 80% by weight, between about 25% by weight and about 75% by weight, between about 25% by weight and about 70% by weight, or between about 25% by weight and about 65% by weight.

[0076] Preferably, the first liquid formulation has a combined content of glycerol and propylene glycol between about 30% by weight and about 90% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a combined content of glycerol and propylene glycol between about 30% by weight and about 85% by weight, between about 30% by weight and about 80% by weight, between about 30% by weight and about 75% by weight, between about 30% by weight and about 70% by weight, or between about 30% by weight and about 65% by weight.

[0077] More preferably, the first liquid formulation has a combined content of glycerol and propylene glycol between about 35% by weight and about 90% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a combined content of glycerol and propylene glycol between about 35% by weight and about 85% by weight, between about 35% by weight and about 80% by weight, between about 35% by weight and about 75% by weight, between about 35% by weight and about 70% by weight, or between about 35% by weight and about 65% by weight.

[0078] The first liquid formulation may have a combined content of glycerol and propylene glycol between about 40% by weight and about 90% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a combined content of glycerol and propylene glycol between about 40% by weight and about 85% by weight, between about 40% by weight and about 80% by weight, between about 40% by weight and about 75% by weight, between about 40% by weight and about 70% by weight, or between about 40% by weight and about 65% by weight.

[0079] The first liquid formulation may have a combined content of glycerol and propylene glycol between about 45% by weight and about 90% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a combined content of glycerol and propylene glycol between about 45% by weight and about 85% by weight, between about 45% by weight and about 80% by weight, between about 45% by weight and about 75% by weight, between about 45% by weight and about 70% by weight, or between about 45% by weight and about 65% by weight.

[0080] Preferably, the first liquid formulation comprises water and one or more water-miscible solvents.

[0081] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a cartridge for an aerosol generation system is provided, the cartridge containing: a first liquid formulation comprising water and one or more water-miscible solvents; and a second liquid formulation comprising one or more water-immiscible solvents having a water solubility of less than or equal to about 100 mg / ml at 20°C, wherein at least one of the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation contains nicotine.

[0082] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, an aerosol generation system is also provided, the aerosol generation system comprising: a first liquid formulation comprising water and one or more water-miscible solvents; a second liquid formulation comprising one or more water-immiscible solvents having a water solubility of less than or equal to about 100 mg / ml at 20°C, wherein at least one of the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation comprises nicotine; and one or more atomizers configured to generate aerosols from the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation.

[0083] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, an aerosol generation system is further provided, the aerosol generation system comprising: a cylinder containing a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation, the first liquid formulation comprising water and one or more water-miscible solvents, the second liquid formulation comprising one or more water-immiscible solvents having a water solubility of less than or equal to about 100 mg / ml at 20°C, wherein at least one of the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation comprises nicotine; and an aerosol generation device comprising one or more atomizers configured to generate aerosols from the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation contained in the cylinder.

[0084] The first liquid formulation may have a combined content of more than or equal to about 65% by weight or more than or equal to about 70% by weight of water and a water-miscible solvent.

[0085] Preferably, the first liquid formulation has a combined content of water and water-miscible solvents of greater than or equal to about 75% by weight. More preferably, the first liquid formulation has a combined content of water and water-miscible solvents of greater than or equal to 80% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a combined content of water and water-miscible solvents of greater than or equal to about 85% by weight or greater than or equal to about 90% by weight.

[0086] More preferably, the first liquid formulation comprises water and one or more water-miscible polyols.

[0087] According to a more preferred embodiment of the present invention, a cartridge for an aerosol generation system is provided, the cartridge containing: a first liquid formulation comprising water and one or more water-miscible polyols; and a second liquid formulation comprising one or more water-immiscible solvents having a water solubility of less than or equal to about 100 mg / ml at 20°C, wherein at least one of the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation contains nicotine.

[0088] According to a more preferred embodiment of the present invention, an aerosol generating system is also provided, the aerosol generating system comprising: a first liquid formulation comprising water and one or more water-miscible polyols; a second liquid formulation comprising one or more water-immiscible solvents having a water solubility of less than or equal to about 100 mg / ml at 20°C, wherein at least one of the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation comprises nicotine; and one or more atomizers configured to generate aerosols from the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation.

[0089] According to a more preferred embodiment of the present invention, an aerosol generation system is further provided, the aerosol generation system comprising: a cylinder containing a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation, the first liquid formulation comprising water and one or more water-miscible polyols, the second liquid formulation comprising one or more water-immiscible solvents having a water solubility of less than or equal to about 100 mg / ml at 20°C, wherein at least one of the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation comprises nicotine; and an aerosol generation device comprising one or more atomizers configured to generate aerosols from the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation contained in the cylinder.

[0090] The first liquid formulation may have a combined content of more than or equal to about 65% by weight or more than or equal to about 70% by weight of water and water-miscible polyols.

[0091] Preferably, the first liquid formulation has a combined content of more than or equal to about 75% by weight of water and water-miscible polyols. More preferably, the first liquid formulation has a combined content of more than or equal to 80% by weight of water and water-miscible polyols. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a combined content of more than or equal to about 85% by weight or more than or equal to about 90% by weight of water and water-miscible polyols.

[0092] Preferably, the weight percentage of water-miscible polyol in the first liquid formulation is greater than or equal to about 1. For example, the weight percentage of water-miscible polyol in the first liquid formulation may be greater than or equal to about 1.1, greater than or equal to about 1.2, greater than or equal to about 1.3, or greater than or equal to about 1.4.

[0093] Most preferably, the first liquid formulation comprises water and one or more water-miscible polyols selected from glycerol and propylene glycol.

[0094] According to a more preferred embodiment of the invention, a cartridge for an aerosol generation system is provided, the cartridge containing: a first liquid formulation comprising water and one or more water-miscible polyols selected from glycerol and propylene glycol; and a second liquid formulation comprising one or more water-immiscible solvents having a water solubility of less than or equal to about 100 mg / ml at 20°C, wherein at least one of the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation contains nicotine.

[0095] According to a more preferred embodiment of the present invention, an aerosol generating system is also provided, the aerosol generating system comprising: a first liquid formulation comprising water and one or more water-miscible polyols selected from glycerol and propylene glycol; a second liquid formulation comprising one or more water-immiscible solvents having a water solubility of less than or equal to about 100 mg / ml at 20°C, wherein at least one of the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation comprises nicotine; and one or more nebulizers configured to generate aerosols from the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation.

[0096] According to a more preferred embodiment of the present invention, an aerosol generating system is further provided, the aerosol generating system comprising: a cartridge containing a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation, the first liquid formulation comprising water and one or more water-miscible polyols selected from glycerol and propylene glycol, the second liquid formulation comprising one or more water-immiscible solvents having a water solubility of less than or equal to about 100 mg / ml at 20°C, wherein at least one of the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation comprises nicotine; and an aerosol generating device comprising one or more atomizers configured to generate an aerosol from the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation contained in the cartridge.

[0097] The first liquid formulation may have a combined content of more than or equal to about 65% by weight or more than or equal to about 70% by weight of water, glycerol and propylene glycol.

[0098] Preferably, the first liquid formulation has a combined content of water, glycerol, and propylene glycol of greater than or equal to about 75% by weight. More preferably, the first liquid formulation has a combined content of water, glycerol, and propylene glycol of greater than or equal to 80% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a combined content of water, glycerol, and propylene glycol of greater than or equal to about 85% by weight or greater than or equal to about 90% by weight.

[0099] Preferably, the weight percentage ratio of the combined glycerol and propylene glycol content to the weight percentage content of water in the first liquid formulation is greater than or equal to about 1. For example, the weight percentage ratio of the combined glycerol and propylene glycol content to the weight percentage content of water in the first liquid formulation may be greater than or equal to about 1.1, greater than or equal to about 1.2, greater than or equal to about 1.3, or greater than or equal to about 1.4.

[0100] The first liquid formulation may contain nicotine.

[0101] The first liquid formulation may contain natural or synthetic nicotine.

[0102] In embodiments in which the first liquid formulation contains nicotine, preferably the first liquid formulation has a nicotine content of greater than or equal to about 0.5% by weight. More preferably, the first liquid formulation has a nicotine content of greater than or equal to about 1% by weight.

[0103] The first liquid formulation may have a nicotine content of greater than or equal to about 1.5% by weight or greater than or equal to about 2% by weight.

[0104] The first liquid formulation may have a nicotine content of less than or equal to about 10% by weight or less than or equal to about 8% by weight.

[0105] Preferably, the first liquid formulation has a nicotine content of less than or equal to about 6% by weight. More preferably, the first liquid formulation has a nicotine content of less than or equal to about 4% by weight.

[0106] Preferably, the first liquid formulation has a nicotine content of about 0.5% to about 10% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a nicotine content of about 0.5% to about 8% by weight, about 0.5% to about 6% by weight, or about 0.5% to about 4% by weight.

[0107] More preferably, the first liquid formulation has a nicotine content of about 1% to about 10% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a nicotine content of about 1% to about 8% by weight, about 1% to about 6% by weight, or about 1% to about 4% by weight.

[0108] The first liquid formulation may have a nicotine content of about 1.5% by weight to about 10% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a nicotine content of about 1.5% by weight to about 8% by weight, about 1.5% by weight to about 6% by weight, or about 1.5% by weight to about 4% by weight.

[0109] The first liquid formulation may have a nicotine content of about 2% to about 10% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a nicotine content of about 2% to about 8% by weight, about 2% to about 6% by weight, or about 2% to about 4% by weight.

[0110] Preferably, the first liquid formulation comprises one or more water-soluble organic acids.

[0111] As used herein in conjunction with the present invention, the term "water-soluble organic acid" describes an organic acid with a water solubility greater than or equal to about 500 mg / ml at 20°C.

[0112] In embodiments in which the first liquid formulation contains nicotine, the one or more water-soluble organic acids can advantageously bind to the nicotine in the first liquid formulation by forming a nicotine salt. The one or more nicotine salts can advantageously dissolve and be stabilized in at least one of water and one or more water-miscible solvents. As discussed above, this can advantageously reduce nicotine adsorption in the upper airways and enhance nicotine delivery and retention in the lungs.

[0113] More preferably, the first liquid formulation comprises one or more water-soluble carboxylic acids.

[0114] Suitable water-soluble carboxylic acids include, but are not limited to, acetic acid, benzoic acid, citric acid, lactic acid, levulinic acid, malic acid, malonic acid, and pyruvic acid.

[0115] Most preferably, the first liquid formulation contains lactic acid.

[0116] Preferably, the first liquid formulation has a water-soluble organic acid content of greater than or equal to about 1.5% by weight. More preferably, the first liquid formulation has a water-soluble organic acid content of greater than or equal to about 2% by weight.

[0117] Preferably, the first liquid formulation has a water-soluble organic acid content of less than or equal to about 7% by weight. More preferably, the first liquid formulation has a water-soluble organic acid content of less than or equal to about 5% by weight.

[0118] Preferably, the first liquid formulation has a water-soluble organic acid content of about 1.5% by weight to about 7% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a water-soluble organic acid content of about 1.5% by weight to about 5% by weight.

[0119] More preferably, the first liquid formulation has a water-soluble organic acid content of about 2% to about 7% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a water-soluble organic acid content of about 2% to about 5% by weight.

[0120] The first liquid formulation may contain one or more flavorings.

[0121] The first liquid formulation may contain one or more polar flavorings.

[0122] The first liquid formulation may contain one or more hydrophilic flavorings.

[0123] The first liquid formulation may contain one or more polar fragrances and one or more hydrophilic fragrances.

[0124] Flavors suitable for inclusion in the first liquid formulation include, but are not limited to, guaiacol, 4-hydroxy-2,5-dimethylfuran-3(2H)-one, isovaleric acid, maltol, phenylacetic acid, valeric acid and vanillin.

[0125] The first liquid formulation may have a flavoring content of less than or equal to about 5% by weight. For example, the first liquid formulation may have a flavoring content of less than or equal to about 4% by weight or less than or equal to about 3% by weight.

[0126] The second liquid formulation contains one or more water-immiscible solvents.

[0127] Water-immiscible solvents can advantageously help dissolve and stabilize the nonpolar components of the second liquid formulation.

[0128] Water-immiscible solvents reduce the hygroscopicity of the aerosols generated from the first and second liquid nicotine formulations. This advantageously reduces or prevents an increase in aerosol particle or droplet size due to water adsorption in the respiratory tract when inhaled by the user.

[0129] Unless otherwise stated, the weight percentages of the components of the second liquid formulation described herein are based on the total weight of the second liquid formulation.

[0130] The second liquid formulation may have a water-immiscible solvent content of greater than or equal to about 55% by weight, greater than or equal to about 60% by weight, or greater than about 65% by weight.

[0131] Preferably, the second liquid formulation has a water-immiscible solvent content of greater than or equal to about 70% by weight. More preferably, the second liquid formulation has a water-immiscible solvent content of greater than or equal to about 75% by weight. For example, the second liquid formulation may have a water-immiscible solvent content of greater than or equal to about 80% by weight.

[0132] The second liquid formulation may have a water-immiscible solvent content of less than or equal to about 95% by weight or less than or equal to about 92% by weight. For example, the second liquid formulation may have a water-immiscible solvent content of less than or equal to about 90% by weight.

[0133] The second liquid formulation may have a water-immiscible solvent content of about 55% to about 95% by weight. For example, the second liquid formulation may have a water-immiscible solvent content of about 55% to about 92% by weight or about 55% to about 90% by weight.

[0134] The second liquid formulation may have a water-immiscible solvent content of about 60% to about 95% by weight. For example, the second liquid formulation may have a water-immiscible solvent content of about 60% to about 92% by weight or about 60% to about 90% by weight.

[0135] The second liquid formulation may have a water-immiscible solvent content of about 65% to about 95% by weight. For example, the second liquid formulation may have a water-immiscible solvent content of about 65% to about 92% by weight or about 65% to about 90% by weight.

[0136] Preferably, the second liquid formulation has a water-immiscible solvent content of about 70% to about 95% by weight. For example, the second liquid formulation may have a water-immiscible solvent content of about 70% to about 92% by weight or about 70% to about 90% by weight.

[0137] More preferably, the second liquid formulation may have a water-immiscible solvent content of about 75% to about 95% by weight. For example, the second liquid formulation may have a water-immiscible solvent content of about 75% to about 92% by weight or about 75% to about 90% by weight.

[0138] The second liquid formulation may have a water-immiscible solvent content of about 80% to about 95% by weight. For example, the second liquid formulation may have a water-immiscible solvent content of about 80% to about 92% by weight or about 80% to about 90% by weight.

[0139] Preferably, the second liquid formulation comprises one or more ingredients selected from polysorbate 80, triglyceride, triethyl citrate, oleic acid, and... (A mixture of decyl glycerol and capryloyl glycerol) is an immiscible solvent in water.

[0140] The one or more water-immiscible solvents may include one or more partially water-soluble solvents.

[0141] As used herein in conjunction with the invention, the term "partially water-soluble solvent" describes a compound that is a liquid at 20°C and has a water solubility at 20°C between about 20 mg / ml and about 100 mg / ml.

[0142] The second liquid formulation may have a partially water-soluble solvent content of about 55% by weight, about 60% by weight, or about 65% by weight. For example, the second liquid formulation may have a partially water-soluble solvent content of about 70% by weight, about 75% by weight, or about 80% by weight.

[0143] The second liquid formulation may have a partial water-soluble solvent content of less than or equal to about 95% by weight, less than or equal to about 92% by weight, or less than or equal to about 90% by weight.

[0144] The second liquid formulation may have a partially water-soluble solvent content of about 55% to about 95% by weight. For example, the second liquid formulation may have a partially water-soluble solvent content of about 55% to about 92% by weight or about 55% to about 90% by weight.

[0145] The second liquid formulation may have a partially water-soluble solvent content of about 60% to about 95% by weight. For example, the second liquid formulation may have a partially water-soluble solvent content of about 60% to about 92% by weight or about 60% to about 90% by weight.

[0146] The second liquid formulation may have a partially water-soluble solvent content of about 65% to about 95% by weight. For example, the second liquid formulation may have a partially water-soluble solvent content of about 65% to about 92% by weight or about 65% to about 90% by weight.

[0147] The second liquid formulation may have a partially water-soluble solvent content of about 70% to about 95% by weight. For example, the second liquid formulation may have a partially water-soluble solvent content of about 70% to about 92% by weight or about 70% to about 90% by weight.

[0148] The second liquid formulation may have a partially water-soluble solvent content of about 75% to about 95% by weight. For example, the second liquid formulation may have a partially water-soluble solvent content of about 75% to about 92% by weight or about 75% to about 90% by weight.

[0149] The second liquid formulation may have a partially water-soluble solvent content of about 80% to about 95% by weight. For example, the second liquid formulation may have a partially water-soluble solvent content of about 80% to about 92% by weight or about 80% to about 90% by weight.

[0150] Preferably, the one or more partially water-soluble solvents are selected from polysorbate 80, triethyl citrate, and triglyceride.

[0151] More preferably, the one or more partially water-soluble solvents are selected from triethyl citrate and triacetyl glycerol.

[0152] The one or more water-immiscible solvents may include one or more water-immiscible solvents.

[0153] As used herein in conjunction with the invention, the term "water-insoluble solvent" describes a compound that is a liquid at 20°C and has a water solubility of less than or equal to about 5 mg / ml at 20°C.

[0154] The second liquid formulation may have a water-insoluble solvent content of greater than or equal to about 55% by weight, greater than or equal to about 60% by weight, or greater than or equal to about 65% by weight. For example, the second liquid formulation may have a water-insoluble solvent content of greater than or equal to about 70% by weight, greater than or equal to about 75% by weight, or greater than or equal to about 80% by weight.

[0155] The second liquid formulation may have a water-insoluble solvent content of less than or equal to about 95% by weight, less than or equal to about 92% by weight, or less than or equal to about 90% by weight.

[0156] The second liquid formulation may have a water-insoluble solvent content of about 55% to about 95% by weight. For example, the second liquid formulation may have a water-insoluble solvent content of about 55% to about 92% by weight or about 55% to about 90% by weight.

[0157] The second liquid formulation may have a water-insoluble solvent content of about 60% to about 95% by weight. For example, the second liquid formulation may have a water-insoluble solvent content of about 60% to about 92% by weight or about 60% to about 90% by weight.

[0158] The second liquid formulation may have a water-insoluble solvent content of about 65% to about 95% by weight. For example, the second liquid formulation may have a water-insoluble solvent content of about 65% to about 92% by weight or about 65% to about 90% by weight.

[0159] The second liquid formulation may have a water-insoluble solvent content of about 70% to about 95% by weight. For example, the second liquid formulation may have a water-insoluble solvent content of about 70% to about 92% by weight or about 70% to about 90% by weight.

[0160] The second liquid formulation may have a water-insoluble solvent content of about 75% to about 95% by weight. For example, the second liquid formulation may have a water-insoluble solvent content of about 75% to about 92% by weight or about 75% to about 90% by weight.

[0161] The second liquid formulation may have a water-insoluble solvent content of about 80% to about 95% by weight. For example, the second liquid formulation may have a water-insoluble solvent content of about 80% to about 92% by weight or about 80% to about 90% by weight.

[0162] Preferably, the one or more water-insoluble solvents are selected from oleic acid and... (A mixture of decyl glycerol and capryloyl glycerol).

[0163] The second liquid formulation may contain nicotine.

[0164] The second liquid formulation may contain natural or synthetic nicotine.

[0165] The second liquid formulation may have a nicotine content of greater than or equal to about 0.5% by weight or greater than or equal to about 1% by weight.

[0166] In embodiments in which the second liquid formulation contains nicotine, preferably the second liquid formulation has a nicotine content of greater than or equal to about 1.5% by weight. More preferably, the second liquid formulation has a nicotine content of greater than or equal to about 2% by weight.

[0167] The second liquid formulation may have a nicotine content of greater than or equal to about 2.5% by weight.

[0168] The second liquid formulation may have a nicotine content of less than or equal to about 14% by weight or less than or equal to about 12% by weight.

[0169] Preferably, the second liquid formulation has a nicotine content of less than or equal to about 10% by weight. More preferably, the second liquid formulation has a nicotine content of less than or equal to about 8% by weight.

[0170] The second liquid formulation may have a nicotine content of less than or equal to about 7% by weight.

[0171] The second liquid formulation may have a nicotine content of about 0.5% by weight to about 14% by weight. For example, the second liquid formulation may have a nicotine content of about 0.5% by weight to about 12% by weight, about 0.5% by weight to about 10% by weight, about 0.5% by weight to about 8% by weight, or about 0.5% by weight to about 7% by weight.

[0172] The second liquid formulation may have a nicotine content between about 1% by weight and about 14% by weight. For example, the second liquid formulation may have a nicotine content between about 1% by weight and about 12% by weight, between about 1% by weight and about 10% by weight, between about 1% by weight and about 8% by weight, or between about 1% by weight and about 7% by weight.

[0173] Preferably, the second liquid formulation has a nicotine content of about 1.5% to about 14% by weight. For example, the second liquid formulation may have a nicotine content of about 1.5% to about 12% by weight, about 1.5% to about 10% by weight, about 1.5% to about 8% by weight, or about 1.5% to about 7% by weight.

[0174] More preferably, the second liquid formulation has a nicotine content of about 2% to about 14% by weight. For example, the second liquid formulation may have a nicotine content of about 2% to about 12% by weight, about 2% to about 10% by weight, about 2% to about 8% by weight, or about 2% to about 7% by weight.

[0175] The second liquid formulation may have a nicotine content of about 2.5% by weight to about 14% by weight. For example, the second liquid formulation may have a nicotine content of about 2.5% by weight to about 12% by weight, about 2.5% by weight to about 10% by weight, about 2.5% by weight to about 8% by weight, or about 2.5% by weight to about 7% by weight.

[0176] Both the first and second liquid formulations may contain nicotine.

[0177] Preferably, the second liquid formulation contains one or more flavorings.

[0178] The second liquid formulation may contain one or more nonpolar hydrophobic fragrances.

[0179] The second liquid formulation may contain one or more hydrophobic fragrances.

[0180] The second liquid formulation may contain one or more nonpolar fragrances and one or more hydrophobic fragrances.

[0181] Fragrances suitable for inclusion in the second liquid formulation include, but are not limited to, α-pinene, β-ionone, camphor, citral, citronellol, and menthol.

[0182] The second liquid formulation contains one or more flavorings, and may have a flavoring content of less than or equal to about 20% by weight or less than or equal to about 15% by weight. For example, the second liquid formulation may have a flavoring content of less than or equal to about 10% by weight, less than or equal to about 8% by weight, or less than or equal to about 6% by weight.

[0183] The amounts of the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation in the cylinder and aerosol generation system according to the invention can be selected and balanced to obtain a suitable aerosol.

[0184] The ratio of the first liquid formulation to the second liquid formulation required to generate a suitable aerosol can be controlled and balanced by changing the weight percentage of the first liquid formulation to the weight percentage of the second liquid formulation in the cylinder and aerosol generation system according to the invention.

[0185] The weight percentage ratio of the first liquid formulation to the weight percentage ratio of the second liquid formulation may be greater than or equal to about 1. For example, the weight percentage ratio of the first liquid formulation to the second liquid formulation may be greater than or equal to about 1.25, greater than or equal to about 1.5, or greater than or equal to about 1.75.

[0186] Preferably, the weight percentage ratio of the first liquid formulation to the weight percentage ratio of the second liquid formulation may be greater than or equal to about 2. For example, the weight percentage ratio of the first liquid formulation to the weight percentage ratio of the second liquid formulation may be greater than or equal to about 2.25, or the weight percentage ratio of the first liquid formulation to the weight percentage ratio of the second liquid formulation may be greater than or equal to about 2.5.

[0187] The container may include a first compartment for containing a first liquid formulation and a second compartment for containing a second liquid formulation.

[0188] The ratio of the weight percentage of the first liquid formulation to the weight percentage of the second liquid formulation required to generate a suitable aerosol can be controlled and balanced by changing the volume of the first compartment relative to the volume of the second compartment.

[0189] The first and second compartments can be arranged in series inside the cylinder.

[0190] As used herein in conjunction with the invention, "in series" means that the first and second compartments are arranged sequentially within the cylinder such that, in use, the airflow drawn through the cylinder passes through one of the first and second compartments and then through the other. Vapor is released from the first liquid formulation in the first compartment into the airflow drawn through the cylinder, and vapor is released from the second liquid formulation in the second compartment into the airflow drawn through the cylinder. The vapor released from the first liquid formulation in the airflow and the vapor released from the second liquid formulation in the airflow mix and condense to form an aerosol.

[0191] The second compartment may be located downstream of the first compartment. In such an embodiment, during use, the airflow drawn through the cylinder first passes through the first compartment and then through the second compartment.

[0192] In use, the vapor released from the first liquid formulation can be mixed with the vapor released from the second liquid formulation in the second compartment.

[0193] The cylinder may also include a third compartment downstream of the second compartment. In such an embodiment, during use, vapors released from the first liquid formulation and vapors released from the second liquid formulation may be mixed in the third compartment.

[0194] The second compartment may be located upstream of the first compartment. In such an embodiment, during use, the airflow drawn through the cylinder first passes through the second compartment and then through the first compartment.

[0195] In use, the vapor released from the second liquid formulation can be mixed with the vapor released from the first liquid formulation in the first compartment.

[0196] The cylinder may also include a third compartment downstream of the first compartment. In such an embodiment, during use, vapors released from the second liquid formulation and vapors released from the first liquid formulation may be mixed in the third compartment.

[0197] The first and second compartments can be arranged in parallel inside the tube.

[0198] As used herein in conjunction with the invention, "parallel" refers to the arrangement of a first compartment and a second compartment within the cylinder such that, during use, a first airflow drawn through the cylinder passes through the first compartment, and a second airflow drawn through the cylinder passes through the second compartment. Vapor is released from a first liquid formulation in the first compartment into the first airflow drawn through the cylinder, and vapor is released from a second liquid formulation in the second compartment into the second airflow drawn through the cylinder. The vapor released from the first liquid formulation in the first airflow and the vapor released from the second liquid formulation in the second airflow mix and condense to form an aerosol.

[0199] The cylinder may also include a third compartment downstream of the first and second compartments. In such an embodiment, during use, vapors released from the first liquid formulation in the first air stream and vapors released from the second liquid formulation in the second air stream can be mixed in the third compartment.

[0200] The cartridge may include one or more atomizers configured to generate an aerosol from a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation.

[0201] A cartridge containing a liquid nicotine formulation and one or more atomizers configured to generate an aerosol from a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation may be referred to as a "cartomiser".

[0202] The cartridge may include a single atomizer configured to generate an aerosol from a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation.

[0203] The cartridge may include two atomizers configured to generate an aerosol from a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation.

[0204] The cartridge may include one or more thermal atomizers.

[0205] As used herein in conjunction with the invention, the term "thermal atomizer" describes an atomizer configured to generate vapor from one or both of a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation by heating.

[0206] The cartridge may include a single thermal atomizer configured to heat both the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation.

[0207] The cartridge may include a first thermal atomizer configured to heat a first liquid formulation and a second thermal atomizer configured to heat a second liquid formulation.

[0208] The cartridge may include one or more thermal atomizers of any suitable type.

[0209] The one or more thermal atomizers may each include a heater and one or more liquid delivery elements configured to deliver one or both of a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation to the heater.

[0210] The cartridge may include a single thermal atomizer, the thermal atomizer including a heater configured to heat both a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation, a first liquid delivery element configured to deliver the first liquid formulation to the heater, and a second liquid delivery element configured to deliver the second liquid nicotine formulation to the heater.

[0211] The cartridge may include a first thermal atomizer and a second thermal atomizer. The first thermal atomizer includes a first heater configured to heat a first liquid formulation and a first liquid delivery element configured to deliver the first liquid formulation to the first heater. The second thermal atomizer includes a second heater configured to heat a second liquid formulation and a second liquid delivery element configured to deliver the second liquid formulation to the second heater.

[0212] The one or more liquid delivery elements may each include a capillary wick.

[0213] The one or more heaters may each include a heating coil.

[0214] Each of the one or more thermal atomizers may include an electric heater.

[0215] The one or more thermal atomizers may each include an electric heater, the electric heater including a resistance heating element.

[0216] The one or more thermal atomizers may each include an electric heater, the electric heater including an induction heating element.

[0217] The cartridge may include one or more non-thermal atomizers.

[0218] As used herein in conjunction with the invention, the term "non-thermal atomizer" describes an atomizer configured to generate vapor from one or both of a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation by means of non-heating measures.

[0219] The cartridge may include one or more non-thermal atomizers of any suitable type.

[0220] For example, the cartridge may include one or more impingement jet atomizers, one or more ultrasonic atomizers, or one or more vibrating mesh atomizers.

[0221] According to the present invention, an aerosol generation system is also provided, the aerosol generation system comprising: a first liquid formulation comprising at least one of water and one or more water-miscible solvents; a second liquid formulation comprising one or more water-immiscible solvents having a water solubility of less than or equal to about 100 mg / ml at 20°C, wherein at least one of the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation comprises nicotine; and one or more atomizers configured to generate aerosols from the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation.

[0222] The aerosol generation system may include a single atomizer configured to generate aerosols from a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation.

[0223] The aerosol generation system may include two atomizers configured to generate aerosols from a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation.

[0224] An aerosol generation system may include one or more thermal atomizers.

[0225] As used herein in conjunction with the invention, the term "thermal atomizer" describes an atomizer configured to generate vapor from one or both of a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation by heating.

[0226] The aerosol generation system may include a single thermal atomizer configured to heat both a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation.

[0227] The aerosol generation system may include a first thermal atomizer configured to heat a first liquid formulation and a second thermal atomizer configured to heat a second liquid formulation.

[0228] Aerosol generation systems may include one or more thermal atomizers of any suitable type.

[0229] The one or more thermal atomizers may each include a heater and one or more liquid delivery elements configured to deliver one or both of a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation to the heater.

[0230] The aerosol generation system may include a single thermal atomizer, the thermal atomizer including a heater configured to heat both a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation, a first liquid delivery element configured to deliver the first liquid formulation to the heater, and a second liquid delivery element configured to deliver the second liquid nicotine formulation to the heater.

[0231] The aerosol generation system may include a first thermal atomizer and a second thermal atomizer. The first thermal atomizer includes a first heater configured to heat a first liquid formulation and a first liquid delivery element configured to deliver the first liquid formulation to the first heater. The second thermal atomizer includes a second heater configured to heat a second liquid formulation and a second liquid delivery element configured to deliver the second liquid formulation to the second heater.

[0232] The one or more liquid delivery elements may each include a capillary wick.

[0233] The one or more heaters may each include a heating coil.

[0234] Each of the one or more thermal atomizers may include an electric heater.

[0235] The one or more thermal atomizers may each include an electric heater, the electric heater including a resistance heating element.

[0236] The one or more thermal atomizers may each include an electric heater, the electric heater including an induction heating element.

[0237] An aerosol generation system may include one or more non-thermal atomizers.

[0238] As used herein in conjunction with the invention, the term "non-thermal atomizer" describes an atomizer configured to generate vapor from one or both of a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation by means of non-heating measures.

[0239] Aerosol generation systems may include one or more non-thermal atomizers of any suitable type.

[0240] For example, an aerosol generation system may include one or more impingement jet atomizers, one or more ultrasonic atomizers, or one or more vibrating mesh atomizers.

[0241] The aerosol generation system may include: a cylinder containing a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation according to the invention; and an aerosol generation device including a housing defining a device cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the cylinder.

[0242] The aerosol generation system may include: a cylinder containing a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation according to the present invention; and an aerosol generation device.

[0243] Aerosol generating devices may include batteries and control electronics.

[0244] The aerosol generating device may include a housing defining a device cavity, the device cavity being configured as at least a portion of a receiving tube.

[0245] The aerosol generation system may include: a consumable cartridge containing a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation according to the present invention; and a reusable aerosol generation device.

[0246] The aerosol generation system may include: a cylinder containing a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation according to the invention and one or more atomizers configured to generate aerosols from the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation; and an aerosol generation device.

[0247] The aerosol generation system may include: a cylinder containing a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation according to the invention; and an aerosol generation device including one or more atomizers configured to generate aerosols from the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation contained in the cylinder.

[0248] To avoid ambiguity, the features described above with respect to the cylinder of the present invention may, where appropriate, also relate to the aerosol generation system of the present invention, and vice versa.

[0249] The invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the following embodiments and accompanying drawings, in which:

[0250] Figure 1a shows a schematic diagram of an aerosol generation system including an aerosol generation device and a cylinder inserted into the aerosol generation device.

[0251] Figure 1b shows a schematic diagram of the aerosol generation system of Figure 1a, wherein the cylinder is received in the aerosol generation device; and

[0252] Figure 2a A schematic diagram of a cylinder is shown, comprising a first compartment for containing a first liquid formulation and a second compartment for containing a second liquid formulation, wherein the first and second compartments are arranged in series within the cylinder; and

[0253] Figure 2bA schematic diagram of a cylinder is shown, which includes a first compartment for containing a first liquid formulation and a second compartment for containing a second liquid formulation, wherein the first and second compartments are arranged in parallel within the cylinder.

[0254] Figures 1a and 1b are schematic diagrams of an exemplary aerosol generation system according to the present invention. The aerosol generation system shown in Figures 1a and 1b is similar to that disclosed in WO 2015 / 117702 A1 and includes an aerosol generation device 10 and a cylinder 20.

[0255] The aerosol generating device 10 is portable and has a size equivalent to that of a conventional cigar or cigarette. The aerosol generating device 10 includes a main body 11 and a mouthpiece portion 12. The main body 11 houses a battery 14 and control electronics 16. The main body 11 defines a device cavity 18 configured as a receiving tube 20.

[0256] The device cavity 18 has a substantially circular cross-section and is sized to receive the tube 20. An electrical connector 19 is provided on the side of the device cavity 18 to provide electrical connection between the control electronics 16 and the battery 14 and corresponding electrical contacts provided on the tube 20.

[0257] The mouthpiece portion 12 is connected to the body 11 via a hinged connection 21 and is movable between an open position shown in FIG. 1a and a closed position shown in FIG. 1b. The mouthpiece portion 12 is positioned in the open position to allow insertion and removal of the cartridge 20 from the aerosol generating device 10 and in the closed position when the aerosol generating system is used to generate aerosols, as described below. The mouthpiece portion 12 includes multiple air inlets 13 and outlets 15. In use, the user inhales at the outlets 15 to draw air through the air inlets 13 into the mouthpiece portion 12, through the mouthpiece portion to the outlets 15, and subsequently into the user's mouth and lungs. As shown in FIG. 1a and 1b, an internal baffle 17 is provided to force the air flowing through the mouthpiece portion 12 through the cartridge 20.

[0258] Figure 1a shows the cylinder 20 just before it is inserted into the aerosol generating device 10, where arrow 1 in Figure 1a indicates the insertion direction of the cylinder 20.

[0259] Cylinder 20 contains a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation. Cylinder 20 can be replaced by the user when the first and second liquid formulations contained therein are depleted. Cylinder 20 includes a generally cylindrical housing 24 having dimensions and shape selected for reception into device cavity 18. In this example, the first liquid formulation contains 38 wt% water, 38 wt% glycerol, 19 wt% propylene glycol, 2 wt% nicotine, and 3 wt% lactic acid, while the second liquid formulation contains 85 wt% triacetylglycerol and 15 wt% flavoring.

[0260] The housing 24 has an open end to which an atomizer containing the heater assembly 30 is fixed. The heater assembly 30 includes a substrate in which holes are formed, a pair of electrical contacts fixed to the substrate and separated from each other by gaps, and a plurality of conductive heater wires that span the holes and are fixed to the electrical contacts on opposite sides of the holes.

[0261] The heater assembly 30 is covered by a removable cover 26. The removable cover 26 is liquid-impermeable and configured to be removed from the heater assembly 30 by a user before using the aerosol generation system. The removable cover 26 can be secured to the heater assembly 30 by any suitable means. Suitable methods include, but are not limited to, adhesive bonding, thermal bonding, such as laser bonding and ultrasonic welding, and combinations thereof. As shown in Figure 1a, the removable cover 26 is provided with a pull tab to facilitate removal by the user before using the aerosol generation system.

[0262] In use, with the mouthpiece portion 12 of the aerosol generating device 10 in the open position shown in FIG. 1a, the cartridge 20 is inserted into the device cavity 18 of the aerosol generating device 10, and the removable cover 26 is removed from the cartridge 10. After removing the cover 26, the heater wire is exposed through the holes in the substrate, allowing the vaporized first liquid formulation and the vaporized second liquid formulation to escape into the airflow passing through the heater assembly 30.

[0263] In this position, an electrical connector 19 located on the side of the device cavity 18 abuts against an electrical contact provided on the cylinder 20. The mouthpiece portion 12 is then moved to the closed position shown in FIG. 1b. The mouthpiece portion 12 is held in the closed position by a clamping mechanism (not shown).

[0264] In the closed position, the mouthpiece portion 12 of the aerosol generating device 10 retains the cylinder 20 in electrical contact with the electrical connector 19 provided on the side of the device cavity 18, ensuring a good electrical connection during use regardless of the orientation of the aerosol generating system. The mouthpiece portion 12 may include an annular elastomer element that engages with the surface of the cylinder 20 and is compressed between the rigid element of the mouthpiece portion 12 and the cylinder 20 when the mouthpiece portion 12 is in the closed position. This ensures a good electrical connection regardless of manufacturing tolerances. Other mechanisms may be employed to maintain a good electrical connection between the cylinder and the device.

[0265] In use, the heater assembly 30 operates by resistance heating. Current flows through the heater wire under the control of the control electronics 16 to heat the heater wire to the desired temperature range.

[0266] Figure 1b illustrates the airflow through the mouthpiece portion 12 when the aerosol generation system is in use. The mouthpiece portion 12 includes an internal baffle 17 integrally molded with the outer wall of the mouthpiece portion, ensuring that air flows over the heater assembly 30 on the cylinder 10 where the first and second liquid formulations are being vaporized as air is drawn from the air inlet 13 to the outlet 15. As the air passes through the heater assembly 30, the vaporized first and second liquid formulations are entrained in the airflow and cooled, forming an aerosol before exiting through the outlet 15. Accordingly, in use, the first and second liquid formulations pass through the heater assembly 30 by passing through the gaps between the heater filaments during their vaporization.

[0267] Figure 2a and 2b This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary cylinder according to the present invention. Figure 2a and 2b The cylinders 20 shown each include a first compartment 32 containing a first liquid formulation 34 and a second compartment 36 containing a second liquid formulation 38. The first liquid formulation 34 comprises at least one of water and one or more water-miscible solvents. The second liquid formulation 38 comprises one or more water-immiscible solvents having a water solubility of less than or equal to about 100 mg / ml at 20°C. At least one of the first liquid formulation 34 and the second liquid formulation 38 contains nicotine. Figure 2a The first compartment 32 and the second compartment 36 of the cylinder 20 shown are arranged in parallel inside the cylinder 20. Figure 2b The first compartment 32 and the second compartment 36 of the cylinder 20 shown are arranged in series inside the cylinder 20. Example

[0268] Prepare six cylinders according to the invention, each containing a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation having the compositions shown in Tables 2 to 6:

[0269]

[0270] Table 2

[0271]

[0272] Table 3

[0273]

[0274] Table 4

[0275]

[0276] Table 5

[0277]

[0278]

[0279] Table 6

Claims

1. A cylinder for use in an aerosol generation system, the cylinder comprising: A first compartment for containing a first liquid formulation, the first liquid formulation comprising at least one of water and one or more water-miscible solvents; and A second compartment for containing a second liquid formulation, the second liquid formulation comprising one or more water-immiscible solvents having a water solubility of less than or equal to 100 mg / ml at 20°C. The first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation are different liquid formulations, and at least one of the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation contains nicotine.

2. The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the first liquid formulation has a total content of water and water-miscible solvents of greater than or equal to 75% by weight.

3. The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the first liquid formulation comprises water and one or more water-miscible solvents.

4. The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the one or more water-miscible solvents are one or more water-miscible polyols selected from 1,3-butanediol, glycerol, propylene glycol and triethylene glycol.

5. The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the first liquid formulation comprises one or more water-soluble organic acids.

6. The cylinder according to claim 5, wherein the one or more water-soluble organic acids are selected from acetic acid, lactic acid, acetylpropionic acid and pyruvic acid.

7. The cartridge according to claim 5, wherein the first liquid formulation has a water-soluble organic acid content of greater than or equal to 2% by weight.

8. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the second liquid formulation has a water-immiscible solvent content of greater than or equal to 70% by weight.

9. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the one or more water-immiscible solvents are selected from polysorbate 80, glyceryl triacetate, triethyl citrate, oleic acid, and MIGLYOL®.

10. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the one or more water-immiscible solvents comprise one or more partially water-soluble solvents, the partially water-soluble solvents having a water solubility between 20 mg / ml and 100 mg / ml at 20°C.

11. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the one or more water-immiscible solvents comprise one or more water-insoluble solvents having a water solubility of less than or equal to 5 mg / ml at 20°C.

12. The tube according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the second liquid formulation comprises one or more fragrances.

13. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the ratio of the weight percentage content of the first liquid formulation to the weight percentage content of the second liquid formulation in the cartridge is greater than or equal to 2.

14. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 7, the cartridge comprising one or more atomizers configured to generate an aerosol from the first liquid formulation and the second liquid formulation.

15. An aerosol generation system, the aerosol generation system comprising: The cylinder according to any one of claims 1 to 13; and An aerosol generating apparatus, the aerosol generating apparatus comprising one or more atomizers configured to generate an aerosol from a first liquid formulation and a second liquid formulation contained in the cylinder.

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