Aerosol-generating article with heat diffuser

Abstract

There is provided a heated aerosol-generating article (100) for use with an electrically operated aerosol-generating device (200), the article having a mouth end (170) and a distal end (160) upstream of the mouth end. The article comprises a heat diffuser (110) at the distal end of the article, and an aerosol-forming substrate (126) downstream of the heat diffuser. The heat diffuser comprises a non-combustible porous body (112) for absorbing heat from an electric heating element, such that, in use, air drawn through the aerosol-generating article from the distal end to the mouth end is heated by the heat absorbed in the porous body.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese patent application No. PCT / EP2017 / 063055, Chinese application No. 201780029109.X, filed on May 30, 2017, entitled "Aerosol Generating Article with Thermal Diffuser". Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to a heated aerosol generating article for use with an aerosol generating apparatus, and to an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating article and an aerosol generating apparatus. Background Technology

[0003] One type of aerosol generation system is an electrically operated aerosol generation system. Known handheld electrically operated aerosol generation systems typically include an aerosol generation device comprising a battery, control electronics, and an electric heater for heating an aerosol generation article specifically designed for use with the aerosol generation device. In some instances, the aerosol generation article comprises an aerosol forming matrix, such as a tobacco stick or column, and when the aerosol generation article is inserted into the aerosol generation device, the heater contained within the aerosol generation device is inserted into or around the aerosol forming matrix.

[0004] In existing systems, it may be difficult to uniformly heat the aerosol forming matrix using an electric heater. This can result in some areas of the aerosol forming matrix being overheated, while others may be underheated. Both situations can make it difficult to maintain consistent aerosol properties. This may be a specific problem for aerosol-generated articles where the aerosol forming matrix is ​​a liquid aerosol forming matrix, as depletion of the aerosol forming matrix can cause one or more portions of the aerosol-generated article to overheat.

[0005] What would be desirable is to provide an aerosol-generating article that promotes uniform heating of the aerosol-forming matrix. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to a first aspect of the invention, there exists a heated aerosol generating article for use with an electrically operated aerosol generating apparatus, the article having an inlet end and a distal end upstream of the inlet end, the article comprising: a thermal diffuser at the distal end of the article; and an aerosol forming matrix downstream of the thermal diffuser, wherein the thermal diffuser comprises a non-flammable porous body for absorbing heat from an electrically heating element such that, in use, air drawn from the distal end to the inlet end by the aerosol generating article is heated by the heat absorbed in the porous body.

[0007] Advantageously, in use, the thermal diffuser absorbs heat from the heating element and transfers it to the air drawn through the diffuser, allowing the air to heat the aerosol-forming matrix downstream of the diffuser primarily through convection. This provides more uniform heating of the aerosol-forming matrix compared to existing systems where the matrix is ​​heated primarily through conduction from the heating element. For example, it reduces or prevents the appearance of localized high-temperature areas or "hot spots" in the aerosol-forming matrix that could otherwise be caused by conductive heating. This can be particularly beneficial when the aerosol-forming matrix is ​​a liquid aerosol-forming matrix, as the thermal diffuser helps prevent overheating that could otherwise result from the depletion of the aerosol-forming matrix. For example, when the aerosol-forming matrix comprises a liquid aerosol-forming matrix contained in a liquid holding medium, the thermal diffuser can help reduce or prevent overheating of either the aerosol-forming matrix or the liquid holding medium, even when the diffuser is relatively dry.

[0008] Furthermore, by providing the thermal diffuser as part of the aerosol-generating article, the thermal diffuser can be easily disposed of together with the aerosol-generating article. This is advantageous compared to systems where the thermal diffuser and aerosol-generating article are separate, because the thermal diffuser is replaced with a new one each time the article is replaced, thus preventing overuse.

[0009] As used herein, the term "heated aerosol generating article" refers to an article comprising an aerosol generating matrix that, when heated, releases volatile compounds that can form aerosols.

[0010] Preferably, the aerosol-generating article is configured to be removably connected to the aerosol-generating device. The article can be disposable or reusable.

[0011] As used herein, the term "porous" is intended to encompass materials that are inherently porous as well as substantially non-porous materials that become porous or permeable by providing multiple pores. A porous body may be formed from a column of porous material, such as ceramic or metal foam. Alternatively, a porous body may be formed from multiple solid elements having multiple openings therebetween. For example, a porous body may comprise a bundle of fibers or an interconnected filament grid. The porous material must have pores of sufficient size to allow air to pass through and be drawn through the porous body. For example, the average lateral dimension of the pores in the porous body may be less than about 3.0 mm, more preferably less than about 1.0 mm, and most preferably less than about 0.5 mm. Or, additionally, the average lateral dimension of the pores may be greater than about 0.01 mm. For example, the average lateral dimension of the pores may be between about 0.01 mm and about 3.0 mm, more preferably between about 0.01 mm and about 1.0 mm, and most preferably between about 0.01 mm and about 0.5 mm.

[0012] As used herein, the term "pore" relates to a region in a porous article that does not contain material. For example, the transverse region of a porous body would include multiple portions having material forming the body and multiple portions for the voids between these multiple material portions.

[0013] The average lateral dimension of the holes is calculated by averaging the minimum lateral dimensions of each hole. The hole diameter can be substantially constant along the length of the porous body. Alternatively, the hole diameter can vary along the length of the porous body.

[0014] As used herein, the term "lateral dimension" refers to the dimension in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the porous or aerosol-generating article.

[0015] The porosity distribution of a porous body can be essentially uniform. That is, the pores within the porous body can be distributed essentially evenly across its transverse regions. However, the porosity distribution across the transverse regions can also be varied. Specifically, the local porosity in one or more sub-regions of the transverse region can be greater than the local porosity in one or more other sub-regions of the transverse region. For example, the local porosity in one or more sub-regions of the transverse region can be 5% to 80% greater than the local porosity in one or more other sub-regions of the transverse region.

[0016] As used herein, the term "transverse region" refers to a region in a porous body that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal dimension of the porous body. For example, the porous body may be a strip, and the transverse region may be a cross-section of the strip taken at any length along the strip, or the transverse region may be an end face of the strip.

[0017] As used herein, the term "porosity" refers to the volume fraction of vacuoles in a porous article. As used herein, the term "local porosity" refers to the fraction of pores within a sub-region of a porous body.

[0018] By varying the porosity distribution, the airflow through the porous body can be altered as needed, for example, to provide improved aerosol properties. For instance, this porosity distribution can be varied according to the airflow characteristics of the aerosol generation system or the temperature distribution of the heating element, with which the thermal diffuser is intended for use.

[0019] In some instances, the local porosity can decrease progressively towards the center of the porous body. With this arrangement, the airflow through the center of the porous body is reduced relative to the outer periphery. Depending on the temperature distribution of the heating element or the airflow characteristics of the aerosol generation system, this can be advantageous for the thermal diffuser intended for use with the heating element or the aerosol generation system. For example, this arrangement can have particular benefits when used with an internal heating element positioned towards the center of the thermal diffuser during use, as it allows for increased heat transfer from the heating element to the porous body.

[0020] In other examples, the local porosity may increase towards the center of the porous body. This arrangement can increase airflow through the center of the porous body and may be advantageous depending on the temperature distribution of the heating element or the airflow characteristics of the aerosol generation system, which the thermal diffuser is intended to be used with. For example, this arrangement can have particular benefits when used with an external heating element positioned around the periphery of the thermal diffuser during use, as it enables increased heat transfer from the heating element to the porous body.

[0021] Porous bodies can be formed from thermal storage materials.

[0022] As used herein, the term "thermal storage material" refers to a material with a high heat capacity. With this arrangement, the porous body can act as a thermal storage device, allowing the heat diffuser to absorb and store heat from the heating element by drawing air through the porous body, and subsequently release heat to the aerosol-forming matrix over time.

[0023] When the porous body is formed of a heat storage material, it is preferable that the porous body is formed of a material with a specific heat capacity of at least 0.5 J / gK at 25 degrees Celsius and constant pressure, more preferably at least 0.7 J / gK, and even more preferably at least 0.8 J / gK. Because the specific heat capacity of a material effectively measures its ability to store thermal energy, forming the porous body with a material having a high heat capacity allows the porous body to provide a large heat storage for heating air drawn through a thermal diffuser, while essentially not increasing the weight of the aerosol generation system intended to be used with the thermal diffuser.

[0024] Porous bodies can be formed from any suitable one or more materials. When porous bodies are formed from thermal storage materials, suitable materials include, but are not limited to, glass fibers, glass mats, ceramics, silica, alumina, carbon, and ores, or any combination thereof.

[0025] The thermal storage material can be insulating. As used herein, the term "insulating" refers to a material with a thermal conductivity of less than 100 W / mK at 23°C and 50% relative humidity, preferably less than 40 W / mK or less than 10 W / mK. This results in a thermal diffuser with a higher thermal inertia relative to the thermal conductivity of the diffuser, reducing temperature variations in the air drawn through the porous body due to temperature fluctuations in the heating element. This produces more consistent aerosol characteristics.

[0026] The porous body may be thermally conductive. As used herein, the term "thermally conductive" means a material having a thermal conductivity of at least 10 W / mK at 23°C and 50% relative humidity, preferably at least 40 W / mK, more preferably at least 100 W / mK. When the porous body is thermally conductive, it is preferred that the porous body is formed of a material having a thermal conductivity of at least 40 W / mK at 23°C and 50% relative humidity, preferably at least 100 W / mK, more preferably at least 150 W / mK, and most preferably at least 200 W / mK.

[0027] Advantageously, this reduces the thermal inertia of the heat diffuser and allows the diffuser's temperature to adapt rapidly to changes in the heating element's temperature, such as when heating the heating element according to a heating scheme that changes over time, while also allowing for uniform heating of the air drawn through the porous body. Furthermore, due to its high thermal conductivity, the thermal resistance through the porous body will be low. This allows the temperature of the portion of the porous body furthest from the heating element to be at the same high temperature during use as the portion of the porous body closest to the heating element. This provides particularly efficient heating of the air drawn through the porous body.

[0028] When the porous body is thermally conductive, it is preferred that the porous body is formed of a material having a thermal conductivity of at least 40 W / mK at 23 degrees Celsius and 50% relative humidity, more preferably at least 100 W / mK, more preferably at least 150 W / mK, and most preferably at least 200 W / mK.

[0029] When the porous body is thermally conductive, suitable thermally conductive materials include, but are not limited to, aluminum, copper, zinc, steel, silver, thermally conductive polymers, or any combination or alloy thereof.

[0030] In some embodiments, the porous body is formed of a thermally conductive heat storage material, such as aluminum.

[0031] Because porous bodies have a high surface area to volume ratio, thermal diffusers allow for rapid and efficient heating of air drawn through them. This enables uniform heating of the air drawn through the porous body, and thus allows for more uniform heating of the aerosol-forming matrix downstream of the thermal diffuser.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, the surface area to volume ratio of the porous body is at least 20:1, preferably at least 100:1, and more preferably at least 500:1. Advantageously, this provides a compact heat diffuser while allowing heat energy to be transferred particularly efficiently from the heating element to the air drawn through the porous body. This results in faster and more uniform heating of the air drawn through the porous body, and thus more uniform heating of the aerosol-forming matrix downstream of the heat diffuser relative to the porous body having a lower surface area to volume ratio.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment, the porous body has a high specific surface area. This is a measure of the total surface area per unit mass of the body. Advantageously, this provides a low-mass heat diffuser with a large surface area, thereby enabling efficient transfer of heat energy from the heating element to the air drawn through the porous body. For example, the specific surface area of ​​the porous body can be at least 0.01 m² / g. 2 Preferably, it is at least 0.05 mg per gram. 2 More preferably, at least 0.1 mg per gram 2 The preferred ratio is at least 0.5 mg per gram. 2 .

[0034] Preferably, the porosity of the porous body is between approximately 60% of the void volume to the material volume ratio and approximately 90% of the void volume to the material volume ratio.

[0035] In some embodiments, the porous body has low suction resistance. That is, the porous body provides low resistance to the transfer of air through the thermal diffuser. In such instances, the porous body substantially does not affect the suction resistance of the aerosol generation system intended to be used with the thermal diffuser. In some embodiments, the suction resistance (RTD) of the porous body is between about 10 and 130 mm H2O, preferably between about 40 and 100 mm H2O. The RTD of a sample refers to the static pressure difference between its two ends when the sample is traversed by an airflow under steady conditions, where the volumetric flow rate is 17.5 mL / s at the output end. The RTD of a sample can be measured using the method described in ISO standard 6565:2002, where any vents are blocked.

[0036] The porous body can be configured such that an electrically heated element, forming part of the aerosol generating device, penetrates it when the thermal diffuser is coupled to the aerosol generating device. The term "penetrates" is used to mean that the heating element extends at least partially into the porous body. Thus, the heating element can be enclosed within the porous body. With this arrangement, by means of the penetration action, the heating element becomes extremely close to or in contact with the porous body. This increases heat transfer between the heating element and the porous body, and therefore increases the amount of air drawn through the porous body compared to instances where the porous body is not penetrated by the heating element.

[0037] Heating elements can be suitably shaped into needles, nails, strips, or blades that can be inserted into a thermal diffuser. Aerosol generating devices may include more than one heating element; in this specification, reference to a heating element means one or more heating elements.

[0038] A porous body can be defined as a cavity or hole used to house an electrically heated element when a thermal diffuser is connected to an aerosol generating device.

[0039] In any of the above embodiments, the porous body may be rigid.

[0040] When a thermal diffuser is connected to an aerosol generating device, the porous body can be punctured by a heating element. For example, the porous body may include foam that can be punctured by a heating element, such as polymer, metal, or ceramic foam.

[0041] In any of the above embodiments, the electric heating element may be provided as part of an aerosol generating apparatus intended to be used with a thermal diffuser, or as part of an aerosol generating article, such as as part of a thermal diffuser.

[0042] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating article may include an electrically heated element thermally coupled to a porous body. In such embodiments, the porous body is arranged to absorb heat from the heating element and transfer heat to air drawn through the porous body. With this arrangement, the heating element can be easily replaced with a replacement article.

[0043] Electric heating elements may include one or more external heating elements, one or more internal heating elements, or one or more external heating elements and one or more internal heating elements. As used herein, the term "external heating element" refers to a heating element that is located outside the article of use. As used herein, the term "internal heating element" refers to a heating element that is located at least partially inside the article of use.

[0044] One or more external heating elements may comprise an array of external heating elements arranged around the outer periphery of the heat diffuser, such as an array of external heating elements arranged on the outer surface of a porous body. In some instances, the external heating elements extend along the longitudinal direction of the article. This arrangement allows the heating elements to extend in the same direction as the article is inserted into and removed from the cavity of the aerosol generating device. This reduces interference between the heating elements and the aerosol generating device compared to devices in which the heating elements are not aligned with the length of the article. In some embodiments, the external heating elements extend along the length of the article and are spaced apart in the circumferential direction. When the heating element comprises one or more internal heating elements, the one or more internal heating elements may comprise any suitable number of heating elements. For example, a heating element may comprise a single internal heating element. The single internal heating element may extend along the longitudinal direction of the heat diffuser.

[0045] When the electric heating element forms part of the heat diffuser, the heat diffuser may further include one or more electrical contacts through which the electric heating element can be connected to a power source, such as a power source in an aerosol generating device.

[0046] The electric heating element can be a resistance heating element.

[0047] The electric heating element may include a sensor that is in thermal contact with the porous body. The electric heating element may be a sensor that forms part of a heat diffuser. Preferably, the sensor is embedded within the porous body.

[0048] When used herein, the term "receptor" refers to a material that can convert electromagnetic energy into heat. When located within a fluctuating electromagnetic field, eddy currents induced in the receptor cause it to heat up. Because the receptor is in thermal contact with the heat diffuser, the heat diffuser is heated by the receptor.

[0049] In such embodiments, the article is designed to engage with an electrically operated aerosol generating device including an induction heating source. The induction heating source or sensor generates a fluctuating electromagnetic field to heat a sensor located within the fluctuating electromagnetic field. In use, the article engages with the aerosol generating device such that the sensor is located within the fluctuating electromagnetic field generated by the sensor.

[0050] The receptor may be in the form of a nail, strip, or leaf. Preferably, the length of the receptor is between 5 mm and 15 mm, for example, between 6 mm and 12 mm, or between 8 mm and 10 mm. Preferably, the width of the receptor is between 1 mm and 5 mm, and its thickness may be between 0.01 mm and 2 mm, for example, between 0.5 mm and 2 mm. In preferred embodiments, the thickness of the receptor may be between 10 micrometers and 500 micrometers, or more preferably, between 10 and 100 micrometers. If the receptor has a constant cross-section, such as a circular cross-section, then its width or diameter is preferably between 1 mm and 5 mm.

[0051] The sensor can be formed from any material that can be inductively heated sufficiently to generate aerosols from the aerosol-forming matrix. Preferred sensors include metals or carbon. Preferred sensors may include ferromagnetic materials, such as ferrite, ferromagnetic steel, or stainless steel. Suitable sensors may be aluminum or include aluminum. Preferred sensors may be formed from 400 series stainless steel, such as grade 410, 420, or 430 stainless steel. Different materials will dissipate different amounts of energy when positioned within an electromagnetic field with similar frequency and field strength values. Therefore, the parameters of the sensor, such as material type, length, width, and thickness, can all be varied to provide the desired power dissipation within a known electromagnetic field.

[0052] Preferred sensors can be heated to temperatures exceeding 250 degrees Celsius. Suitable sensors may include a non-metallic core having a metallic layer disposed on the non-metallic core, such as metallic traces formed on the surface of a ceramic core.

[0053] The receptor may have an outer protective layer, such as a ceramic or glass protective layer encapsulating the receptor. The receptor may include a protective coating formed of glass, ceramic, or inert metal, which is formed over the core of the receptor.

[0054] A thermal diffuser may contain a single receptor. Alternatively, a thermal diffuser may include more than one receptor.

[0055] The aerosol forming matrix may be a solid aerosol forming matrix. Alternatively, the aerosol forming matrix may include solid and liquid components. The aerosol forming matrix may include tobacco. The aerosol forming matrix may include tobacco-containing materials containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds released from the matrix upon heating. The aerosol forming matrix may include non-tobacco materials. The aerosol forming matrix may include both tobacco-containing and non-tobacco-containing materials.

[0056] The aerosol forming matrix may further include an aerosol forming agent that facilitates the formation of dense and stable aerosols. Examples of suitable aerosol forming agents are glycerol and propylene glycol.

[0057] Aerosol forming matrices may include solid aerosol forming matrices. Aerosol forming matrices may include tobacco-containing materials containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds that are released from the matrix upon heating. Aerosol forming matrices may also include non-tobacco materials.

[0058] An aerosol-forming matrix may contain at least one aerosol-forming agent. As used herein, the term 'aerosol-forming agent' is used to describe any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that promotes aerosol formation when in use. Suitable aerosol-forming agents are substantially resistant to thermal degradation at the operating temperature of the aerosol-generating article. Examples of suitable aerosol-forming agents are glycerol and propylene glycol. Suitable aerosol-forming agents include, but are not limited to: polyols such as propylene 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 mono-, di-, or polycarboxylic acids such as dimethyl dodecanoate and dimethyl tetradecanoate. Preferred aerosol-forming agents are polyols or mixtures thereof, such as propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, and 1,3-butanediol, with glycerol being the most preferred. An aerosol-forming matrix may comprise a single aerosol-forming agent. Alternatively, an aerosol-forming matrix may comprise a combination of two or more aerosol-forming agents. The aerosol forming matrix may have an aerosol forming agent content of greater than 5% on a dry weight basis. The aerosol forming matrix may have an aerosol forming agent content between about 5% and about 30% on a dry weight basis. The aerosol forming matrix may have an aerosol forming agent content of about 20% on a dry weight basis.

[0059] The aerosol forming matrix may include a liquid aerosol forming matrix. The liquid aerosol forming matrix may include a nicotine solution. Preferably, the liquid aerosol forming matrix includes tobacco-containing materials, said tobacco-containing materials including volatile tobacco flavor compounds released from the liquid upon heating. The liquid aerosol forming matrix may include non-tobacco materials. The liquid aerosol forming matrix may contain water, solvents, ethanol, plant extracts, and natural or artificial flavorings. Preferably, the liquid aerosol forming matrix further includes an aerosol forming agent.

[0060] As used herein, the term "liquid aerosol forming matrix" refers to an aerosol forming matrix in liquid rather than solid form. A liquid aerosol forming matrix can be at least partially absorbed by a liquid holding medium. Liquid aerosol forming matrices include aerosol forming matrices in gel form.

[0061] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating article includes a liquid aerosol forming matrix and a liquid holding medium for holding the liquid aerosol forming matrix.

[0062] As used herein, the term "liquid holding medium" refers to a component capable of holding a liquid aerosol forming matrix in a releasable manner. The liquid holding medium may be or may include a porous or fibrous material that absorbs or otherwise retains the liquid aerosol forming matrix in contact with it, while allowing the liquid aerosol forming matrix to be released through evaporation.

[0063] Preferably, the liquid-retaining medium comprises an absorbent material, such as an absorbent polymer. Examples of suitable liquid-retaining materials include fibrous polymers and porous polymers, such as open-cell foams. The liquid-retaining medium may include fibrous cellulose acetate or fibrous cellulose polymers. The liquid-retaining medium may include porous polypropylene materials. Suitable materials capable of retaining liquids will be known to those skilled in the art.

[0064] The liquid holding medium is either located within the gas flow path of the article generated by heated aerosol or defines at least a portion of the gas flow path of the article generated by heated aerosol. Preferably, one or more orifices defined by the liquid holding medium define a portion of the gas flow path of the article generated by heated aerosol between the distal end and the orifice end of the article.

[0065] The liquid holding medium can be in the form of a tube with a central lumen. The tube wall will then be formed of or comprise a suitable liquid holding material.

[0066] Liquid aerosol forming matrix should be incorporated into the liquid holding medium immediately before use. For example, a certain amount of liquid aerosol forming matrix can be injected into the liquid holding medium immediately before use.

[0067] Articles according to the invention may include a liquid aerosol forming matrix contained within a fragile sealable container. The fragile sealable container may be located between the distal end and the midpoint of the article.

[0068] As used herein, the term "fragile seal box" refers to a seal box capable of containing a liquid aerosol forming matrix and releasing the liquid aerosol forming matrix upon breakage or rupture. A fragile seal box may be formed of or comprise a brittle material that is easily broken by a user to release its liquid aerosol forming matrix contents. For example, the seal box may be broken by external force, such as finger pressure, or by contact with a puncture or rupture element.

[0069] The fragile seal box is preferably spherical, such as spherical or oval, with a maximum size between 2 mm and 8 mm, for example, between 4 mm and 6 mm. The fragile seal box can contain a volume between 20 and 300 microliters, for example, between 30 and 200 microliters. This range allows the user to perform 10 to 150 aspirations of the aerosol.

[0070] The fragile seal box may have a brittle shell or be molded to facilitate breakage under external force. The fragile seal box may be configured to break by applying an external force. For example, the fragile seal box may be configured to break under a specific defined external force, thereby releasing a liquid aerosol forming a matrix. The shell of the fragile seal box may be configured with weak or brittle sections to facilitate breakage. The fragile seal box may be arranged to engage with a piercing element to break the seal box and release the liquid aerosol forming a matrix. Preferably, the breaking strength of the fragile seal box is between about 0.5 and 2.5 kgf, for example, between 1.0 and 2.0 kgf.

[0071] The shell of the fragile, airtight container may include a suitable polymeric material, such as a gelatinous material. The shell of the airtight container may also include a cellulose or starch material.

[0072] Preferably, the liquid aerosol forming matrix is ​​releasably contained within a fragile seal, and the article further includes a liquid retention medium located near the fragile seal for retaining the liquid aerosol forming matrix within the article after it has been released from the fragile seal.

[0073] Preferably, the liquid retention medium is capable of absorbing 105% to 110% of the total volume of liquid contained within the fragile seal. This helps prevent the liquid aerosol forming matrix from leaking from the article after the fragile seal has been broken to release its contents. Preferably, the liquid retention medium is 90% to 95% saturated after the liquid aerosol forming matrix has been released from the fragile seal.

[0074] In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol forming matrix is ​​a liquid aerosol forming matrix, and the article further includes a fragile seal containing the liquid aerosol forming matrix, and a liquid holding medium downstream of the thermal diffuser and arranged to absorb the liquid aerosol forming matrix when the fragile seal breaks.

[0075] The fragile seal box may be located within a porous support material. For example, the porous support material may be. Preferably, the porous support material is provided in the form of a liquid-holding tube, and the fragile seal box is located within the lumen of the tube.

[0076] A fragile seal box may be located within the article adjacent to the liquid holding medium, such that liquid aerosol forming matrix released from the fragile seal box can contact and be held by the liquid holding medium. The fragile seal box may be located within the liquid holding medium. For example, the liquid holding medium may include a material stud in which the seal box is embedded. Preferably, the article comprises a tubular liquid holding medium, and the fragile seal box containing the liquid aerosol forming matrix is ​​located within the lumen of the tubular liquid holding medium.

[0077] When the aerosol forming matrix is ​​a solid aerosol forming matrix, the solid aerosol forming matrix may be immediately downstream of the thermal diffuser. For example, the solid aerosol forming matrix may be against the thermal diffuser. In other embodiments, the solid aerosol forming matrix may be spaced apart from the thermal diffuser in the longitudinal direction.

[0078] In some preferred embodiments, the aerosol forming matrix is ​​a liquid aerosol forming matrix, and the article further includes a liquid holding medium for retaining the liquid aerosol forming matrix. In such embodiments, the liquid holding medium may be immediately downstream of the thermal diffuser. For example, the liquid holding medium may abut against the thermal diffuser. In other embodiments, the liquid holding medium may be spaced apart from the thermal diffuser in the longitudinal direction.

[0079] In one particular embodiment, the aerosol forming matrix is ​​a liquid aerosol forming matrix, and the article further includes a liquid holding medium for holding the liquid aerosol forming matrix, the liquid holding medium being spaced apart from the thermal diffuser in the longitudinal direction.

[0080] This arrangement reduces conductive heat transfer between the heat diffuser and the liquid holding medium. This further reduces or prevents the formation of localized high-temperature areas or "hot spots" in the liquid holding medium that could otherwise be caused by conductive heating.

[0081] The aerosol-generating article according to the invention may further include a support element, which may be located immediately downstream of the aerosol-forming matrix, or located immediately downstream of the liquid holding medium for holding the liquid aerosol-forming matrix. The support element may abut against the aerosol-forming matrix or the liquid holding medium.

[0082] The support element can be formed from any suitable material or combination of materials. For example, the support element can be formed from one or more materials selected from the group consisting of: cellulose acetate; cardboard; crimped paper, such as crimped heat-resistant paper or crimped parchment; and polymeric materials, such as low-density polyethylene (LDPE). In a preferred embodiment, the support element is formed from cellulose acetate. The support element may include a hollow tubular element. For example, the support element includes a hollow cellulose acetate tube. Preferably, the outer diameter of the support element is approximately equal to the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article.

[0083] The outer diameter of the support element can be between approximately 5 mm and approximately 12 mm, for example, between approximately 5 mm and approximately 10 mm, or between approximately 6 mm and approximately 8 mm. For example, the outer diameter of the support element can be 7.2 mm + / - 10%.

[0084] The length of the support element can be between approximately 5 mm and approximately 15 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the length of the support element is approximately 8 mm.

[0085] The aerosol cooling element can be located downstream of the aerosol forming matrix, for example, it can be located immediately downstream of and abut against the support element. The aerosol cooling element can be located immediately downstream of the aerosol forming matrix, or it can be located downstream of a liquid holding medium used to hold the liquid aerosol forming matrix. For example, the aerosol cooling element can abut against either the aerosol forming matrix or the liquid holding medium.

[0086] The total surface area of ​​the aerosol cooling element can be between approximately 300 square millimeters per millimeter of length and approximately 1000 square millimeters per millimeter of length. In a preferred embodiment, the total surface area of ​​the aerosol cooling element is approximately 500 square millimeters per millimeter of length.

[0087] Preferably, the aerosol cooling element has low suction resistance. That is, preferably, the aerosol cooling element provides low resistance to airflow through the aerosol-generated article. Preferably, the aerosol cooling element substantially does not affect the suction resistance of the aerosol-generated article.

[0088] The aerosol cooling element may include multiple longitudinally extending channels. The multiple longitudinally extending channels may be defined by a sheet material that has undergone one or more of curling, pleating, gathering, and folding to form the channels. Alternatively, the multiple longitudinally extending channels may be defined by a single sheet that has undergone one or more of curling, pleating, gathering, and folding to form the multiple channels.

[0089] In some embodiments, the aerosol cooling element may include an aggregate sheet of materials selected from the group consisting of: metal foil, polymeric materials, and substantially nonporous paper or paperboard. In some embodiments, the aerosol cooling element may include an aggregate sheet of materials selected from the group consisting of: polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polylactic acid (PLA), cellulose acetate (CA), and aluminum foil.

[0090] In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol cooling element comprises an aggregate sheet of a biodegradable material. For example, an aggregate sheet of non-porous paper or an aggregate sheet of a biodegradable polymer material, such as polylactic acid or Mater-Bi. ® Grade (commercially available starch-based copolyesters). In a particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol cooling element comprises an aggregate sheet of polylactic acid.

[0091] Aerosol cooling elements can be formed from aggregated sheets of material with a specific surface area between approximately 10 square millimeters per milligram and approximately 100 square millimeters per milligram by weight. In some embodiments, the aerosol cooling element can be formed from a specific surface area of ​​approximately 35 mm². 2 / mg of material is aggregated into sheets.

[0092] Aerosol generating articles may include a mouthpiece located at the mouth end of the aerosol generating article. The mouthpiece may be located immediately downstream of and abut against an aerosol cooling element. The mouthpiece may be located immediately downstream of an aerosol forming matrix, or located downstream of a liquid holding medium for holding a liquid aerosol forming matrix. In such embodiments, the mouthpiece may abut against either the aerosol forming matrix or the liquid holding medium. The mouthpiece may include a filter. The filter may be formed of one or more suitable filter materials. Many such filter materials are known in the art. In one embodiment, the mouthpiece may include a filter formed of cellulose acetate tow.

[0093] Preferably, the outer diameter of the mouthpiece is approximately equal to the outer diameter of the aerosol-generated article. The outer diameter of the mouthpiece can be between approximately 5 mm and approximately 10 mm, for example, between approximately 6 mm and approximately 8 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the outer diameter of the mouthpiece is 7.2 mm + / - 10%.

[0094] The length of a cigarette holder can range from approximately 5 mm to approximately 20 mm. For example, the length of a cigarette holder can be between approximately 7 mm and approximately 12 mm.

[0095] Elements of an aerosol-forming article may be surrounded by an outer packaging material, for example, in the form of a strip. The packaging material may surround at least a downstream portion of the heat diffuser. In some embodiments, the packaging material surrounds the heat diffuser along substantially its entire length. The outer packaging material may be formed of any suitable material or combination of materials. Preferably, the outer packaging material is non-porous.

[0096] The shape of an aerosol-generating article can be substantially cylindrical. The aerosol-generating article can be substantially elongated. The aerosol-generating article can have a certain length and a circumference substantially perpendicular to said length. The shape of the aerosol-forming matrix or the porous support material in which the aerosol-forming matrix is ​​absorbed during use can be substantially cylindrical. The aerosol-forming matrix or porous support material can be substantially elongated. The aerosol-forming matrix or porous support material may also have a certain length and a circumference substantially perpendicular to said length.

[0097] The outer diameter of the aerosol-generated article can be between approximately 5 mm and approximately 12 mm, for example, between approximately 6 mm and approximately 8 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the outer diameter of the aerosol-generated article is 7.2 mm + / - 10%.

[0098] The total length of the aerosol-generated article can be between approximately 30 mm and approximately 100 mm. In one embodiment, the total length of the aerosol-generated article is approximately 45 mm.

[0099] The length of the aerosol forming matrix or (if applicable) liquid holding medium may be between about 7 mm and about 15 mm. In one embodiment, the length of the aerosol forming matrix or liquid holding medium may be about 10 mm. Alternatively, the length of the aerosol forming matrix or liquid holding medium may be about 12 mm.

[0100] Preferably, the outer diameter of the aerosol forming matrix or liquid holding medium is approximately equal to the outer diameter of the aerosol forming article. The outer diameter of the aerosol forming matrix or liquid holding medium can be between approximately 5 mm and approximately 12 mm. In one embodiment, the outer diameter of the aerosol forming matrix or liquid holding medium can be approximately 7.2 mm + / - 10%.

[0101] In use, the heat diffuser preferably heats the air drawn through it to 200 to 220 degrees Celsius. Preferably, the air is cooled to about 100 degrees Celsius in an aerosol cooling element.

[0102] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a heated aerosol generating system is provided, comprising an electrically operated aerosol generating apparatus and a heated aerosol generating article according to any of the embodiments discussed above.

[0103] As used herein, the term 'aerosol generating apparatus' is associated with an apparatus that interacts with an aerosol forming matrix to generate aerosols. An electrically operated aerosol generating apparatus is an apparatus that includes one or more components for supplying energy from a power source to an aerosol forming matrix to generate aerosols.

[0104] An aerosol generating apparatus can be described as a heated aerosol generating apparatus, which is an aerosol generating apparatus that includes a heating element. The heating element or heater is used to heat the aerosol forming matrix of the aerosol generating article to generate an aerosol, or to heat the solvent separation matrix of cleaning consumables to form a cleaning solvent.

[0105] The aerosol generating device can be an electrically heated aerosol generating device, which is an aerosol generating device including a heating element. The heating element uses electrical power to heat the aerosol forming matrix of the aerosol generating product, thereby generating aerosol.

[0106] The aerosol generation apparatus of the aerosol generation system may include: a housing having a cavity for accommodating the aerosol generation article, and a controller configured to control the power supply from a power source to the electric heating element of the system.

[0107] The electric heating element may form part of the aerosol generating product, part of the aerosol generating device, or both.

[0108] In some embodiments, the electric heating element forms part of the apparatus.

[0109] An electric heating element may include one or more heating elements.

[0110] In a preferred embodiment, the electrically operated aerosol generating apparatus includes an electrically heated element and a housing having a cavity, and a heated aerosol generating article is housed in the cavity such that a heat diffuser is inserted through the electrically heated element. The heating element may suitably be shaped as a needle, nail, strip, or blade that can be inserted into the heat diffuser.

[0111] The aerosol generation system according to the present invention includes an electrically heating element. The electrically heating element may include one or more external heating elements, one or more internal heating elements, or one or more external heating elements and one or more internal heating elements. As used herein, the term "external heating element" refers to a heating element located outside the thermal diffuser when the aerosol generation system including the thermal diffuser is assembled. As used herein, the term "internal heating element" refers to a heating element located at least partially within the thermal diffuser when the aerosol generation system including the thermal diffuser is assembled.

[0112] One or more external heating elements may comprise an array of external heating elements arranged around the inner surface of the cavity. In some instances, the external heating elements extend along the longitudinal direction of the cavity. This arrangement allows the heating elements to extend in the same direction as the article is inserted into and removed from the cavity. This reduces interference between the heating elements and the heat diffuser, relative to a device in which the heating elements are not aligned with the length of the cavity. In some embodiments, the external heating elements extend along the length of the cavity and are spaced apart in the circumferential direction. When the heating element comprises one or more internal heating elements, the one or more internal heating elements may comprise any suitable number of heating elements. For example, the heating element may comprise a single internal heating element. The single internal heating element may extend along the longitudinal direction of the cavity.

[0113] Electrical heating elements may include resistive materials. Suitable resistive materials include, but are not limited to: semiconductors, such as doped ceramics, “conductive” ceramics (e.g., molybdenum disilicide), carbon, graphite, metals, metal alloys, and composite materials made of ceramic and metallic materials. Such composite materials may include doped or undoped ceramics. Examples of suitable doped ceramics include doped silicon carbide. Examples of suitable metals include titanium, zirconium, tantalum, and platinum group metals. Examples of suitable metal alloys include stainless steel, constantan, nickel-containing alloys, cobalt-containing alloys, chromium-containing alloys, aluminum-containing alloys, titanium-containing alloys, zirconium-containing alloys, hafnium-containing alloys, niobium-containing alloys, molybdenum-containing alloys, tantalum-containing alloys, tungsten-containing alloys, tin-containing alloys, gallium-containing alloys, manganese-containing alloys, and iron-containing alloys, as well as superalloys based on nickel, iron, cobalt, stainless steel, Timetal®, iron-aluminum based alloys, and iron-manganese-aluminum based alloys. Timetal® is a registered trademark of Titanium Metals Corporation, located at 1999 Broadway Suite 4300, Denver, Colorado. In composite materials, the resistive material may be embedded in, encapsulated by, or coated with an insulating material, or vice versa, depending on the energy transfer kinetics and desired external physicochemical properties. Heating elements may include a metal-etched foil acting as an insulator between two layers of inert material. In this case, the inert material may include Kapton®, polyimide, or mica foil. Kapton® is a registered trademark of DuPont, Inc., located at 1007 Market Street, Wilmington, Delaware 19898, USA.

[0114] When the electric heating element includes a sensor that is in thermal contact with the porous body of the thermal diffuser, the aerosol generating device preferably includes: a sensor arranged to generate a fluctuating electromagnetic field within the cavity; and a power supply connected to the sensor. The sensor may include one or more coils that generate the fluctuating electromagnetic field. The one or more coils may surround the cavity.

[0115] Preferably, the device is capable of generating a fluctuating electromagnetic field between 1 and 30 MHz, for example between 2 and 10 MHz, or for example between 5 and 7 MHz. Preferably, the device is capable of generating a fluctuating electromagnetic field with a field strength (H field) between 1 and 5 kA / m, for example between 2 and 3 kA / m, for example about 2.5 kA / m.

[0116] Preferably, the aerosol generating device is a portable or handheld aerosol generating device that can be comfortably held between the fingers of a single hand by a user.

[0117] The shape of the aerosol generating device can be basically cylindrical.

[0118] The length of the aerosol generating device can be between approximately 70 mm and approximately 120 mm.

[0119] The device may include a power source for supplying power to the electric heating element. The power source can be any suitable power source, such as a DC source, like a battery. In one embodiment, the power source is a lithium-ion battery. Alternatively, the power source may be a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, or a lithium-based battery, such as a lithium cobalt, lithium iron phosphate, lithium titanate, or lithium polymer battery.

[0120] The controller can be a simple switch. Alternatively, the controller can be a circuit and may include one or more microprocessors or microcontrollers.

[0121] As used herein, the terms 'upstream' and 'downstream' are used to describe the relative position of an element or part of an aerosol generating article or apparatus with respect to the direction in which air is drawn through the system during its use.

[0122] As used herein, the term 'longitudinal' is used to describe the direction between the upstream and downstream ends of an aerosol generating article or its components or an aerosol generating device, and the term 'transverse' is used to describe the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0123] As used herein, the term 'diameter' is used to describe the maximum dimension of an aerosol-generating article or its components or an aerosol-generating apparatus in the transverse direction. As used herein, the term 'length' is used to describe the maximum dimension in the longitudinal direction.

[0124] As used herein, the term 'removable coupling' is used to mean that articles and devices can be coupled and discoupled from each other without significant damage to any component. For example, an article can be removed from a device when the aerosol-forming matrix is ​​depleted.

[0125] The features described with respect to one or more aspects can also be applied to other aspects of the invention. Specifically, the features described with respect to the article of manufacture of the first aspect can also be applied to the system of the second aspect, and vice versa. Attached Figure Description

[0126] The invention will be further described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0127] Figure 1 A schematic longitudinal cross-section of an aerosol-generated article according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0128] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of an aerosol generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, the system comprising: Figure 1 Aerosol-generating products; and

[0129] Figure 3 A schematic longitudinal cross-section of an aerosol-generated article according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0130] Figure 1 The aerosol generating article 100 according to a first embodiment of the present invention is described. The aerosol generating article 100 includes four elements arranged coaxially: a heat diffuser 110, a tubular liquid holding medium 120, an aerosol cooling element 130, and a nozzle 140. Each of these four elements is substantially cylindrical and has substantially the same diameter. These four elements are arranged sequentially and surrounded by a non-porous outer packaging material 150 to form a cylindrical strip.

[0131] The aerosol generating article 100 has a distal or upstream end 160 and a proximal or oral end 170 opposite the upstream end 160, which the user inserts into his or her mouth during use. When assembled, the aerosol generating article 100 has a total length of approximately 33 mm to approximately 45 mm and a diameter of approximately 7.2 mm.

[0132] The heat diffuser 110 is located at the farthest or upstream end 160 of the aerosol generating article 100 and includes a porous body 112 in the form of a cylindrical stud in the form of a heat storage material. The porous body 112 has a cavity in the form of a groove 114 in its upstream end, the cavity being arranged to house a blade-shaped heating element, as described below. Figure 2 As discussed, the pores in the porous body 112 are interconnected to form multiple airflow channels extending from its upstream end to its downstream end through the porous body 112.

[0133] The tubular liquid holding medium 120 is located downstream of the thermal diffuser 110 and spaced apart from the thermal diffuser 110 by a distance 105 in the longitudinal direction of the article 100. This minimizes the degree to which the aerosol forming section can be heated by conduction from the thermal diffuser 110.

[0134] Article 100 further includes a fragile seal box 122 located within a cavity 124 of the liquid holding medium 120. The fragile seal box 122 contains a liquid aerosol forming matrix 126.

[0135] The tubular liquid holding medium 120 is 8 mm in length and is formed of fibrous cellulose acetate material. The liquid holding medium has a capacity to absorb 35 microliters of liquid. The lumen 124 of the tubular liquid holding medium 120 provides an airflow path through the liquid holding medium 120 and also serves to position the fragile seal cassette 122. The material of the liquid holding medium can be any other suitable fibrous or porous material.

[0136] The fragile seal box 122 is shaped as an elliptical sphere, with a long dimension aligned with the axis of the lumen 124. The elliptical shape of the seal box may mean it is more easily broken than a spherical seal box, but other shapes can be used. The seal box 122 has a shell comprising a gelatinous polymeric material surrounding a matrix formed by the liquid aerosol.

[0137] Liquid aerosol forming matrix 126 comprises propylene glycol, nicotine extract, and 20 wt% water. Various flavorings can be added as needed. Various aerosol forming agents can be used as substitutes or supplements for propylene glycol. The sealed container is approximately 4 mm in length and holds approximately 33 μL of liquid aerosol forming matrix.

[0138] The aerosol cooling element 130 is located immediately downstream of and against the liquid holding medium 120. In use, volatile substances released from the aerosol forming matrix 126 are transferred along the aerosol cooling element 130 toward the port 170 of the aerosol generating article 100. The volatile substances can be cooled within the aerosol cooling element 130 to form an aerosol for inhalation by the user. Figure 1 In the embodiments described herein, the aerosol cooling element 130 includes a coiled and aggregated sheet 132 of polylactic acid surrounded by a packaging material 134. The coiled and aggregated sheet 132 of polylactic acid defines a plurality of longitudinal channels extending along the length of the aerosol cooling element 130.

[0139] The mouthpiece 140 is located immediately downstream of and abuts against the aerosol cooling element 130. Figure 1 In the embodiments described herein, the mouthpiece 140 includes a conventional cellulose acetate tow filter 142 with low filtration efficiency.

[0140] To assemble the aerosol-generating article 100, align the four cylindrical components described above and tightly enclose them within the outer packaging material 150. Figure 1 In the embodiments described herein, the outer packaging material 150 is formed of a non-porous sheet. In other instances, the outer packaging material may include a porous material, such as cigarette paper.

[0141] Figure 2An aerosol generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The aerosol generation system includes an aerosol generation article 100 and an aerosol generation apparatus 200.

[0142] The aerosol generating apparatus 200 includes a housing 210 that defines a cavity 220 for receiving an aerosol-generated article 100. The apparatus 200 further includes a heater 230 comprising a bottom portion 232 and a heating element in the form of heater blades 234 extending into a heat diffuser 110 such that when the article 100 is received in the cavity 220, a portion of the heater blades 234 extends into a groove in the porous body 112, such that... Figure 2 As shown. The heater blade 234 includes a resistance heating trace 236 for resistance heating of the heat diffuser 110. The controller 240 controls the operation of the device 200, including the current supply from the battery 250 to the resistance heating trace 236 of the heater blade 234.

[0143] exist Figure 2 In the example shown, the fragile seal box was broken before the article 100 was inserted into the cavity 220 of the device 200. Therefore, the liquid aerosol forming matrix is ​​shown as having been absorbed into the liquid holding medium 120.

[0144] During use, controller 240 supplies current from battery 250 to resistance heating trace 236 to heat heater blades 234. The heat is then absorbed by the porous body 112 of heat diffuser 110. Air is drawn into device 200 through inlet (not shown), then through heat diffuser 110 and along aerosol generation article 100 from distal end 160 to inlet end 170 by the user. As air is drawn through porous body 112, it is heated by heat stored in porous body 112 and then passes through tubular liquid holding medium 120 to heat the liquid aerosol forming matrix in liquid holding medium 120. Preferably, the air is heated to 200 to 220 degrees Celsius by the heat diffuser. Then, preferably, the air is cooled to about 100 degrees Celsius as it is drawn through aerosol cooling element.

[0145] During the heating cycle, at least some of the one or more volatile compounds in the aerosol-forming matrix evaporate. The vaporized aerosol-forming matrix is ​​entrained in air flowing through the liquid holding medium 120 and condenses within the aerosol cooling element 130 and the mouthpiece portion 140 to form an inhalable aerosol that exits the aerosol-forming article 100 at the port 170.

[0146] Figure 3 An aerosol generating article 300 according to a second aspect of the present invention is shown. The aerosol generating article 300 has... Figure 1 The aerosol-generating articles 100 have similar structures, and where the same features exist, similar reference numerals have been used. Like Figure 1 The aerosol generating article 100 and aerosol generating article 300 include a heat diffuser 310, an aerosol cooling element 330, and a nozzle 340, which are arranged coaxially and surrounded by a non-porous outer packaging material 350 to form a cylindrical strip; however, unlike Figure 1 The aerosol-forming article 100 and the aerosol-forming article 300 comprise a solid aerosol-forming matrix packaged in a stump package 324. The solid aerosol-forming matrix is ​​in the form of a cylindrical stump 320 of homogeneous tobacco material 322 and contains an aerosol-forming agent such as glycerol. Like the liquid holding tube of the first article 100, the aerosol-forming matrix stump 320 is positioned downstream of the heat diffuser 310 and upstream of the aerosol cooling element 330, and is surrounded by packaging material 350. During use, air is drawn through the heat diffuser 310 and the aerosol-forming matrix stump 320. The use of the aerosol-forming article 300 is otherwise related to the above description. Figure 1 and 2 The arguments presented are the same.

[0147] The specific embodiments and examples described above illustrate the present invention but do not limit it. It should be understood that other embodiments of the present invention can be achieved, and the specific embodiments and examples described herein are not exhaustive.

[0148] For example, although Figure 1 and 2 The example shown illustrates that article 100 includes one fragile sealed box, but in other examples, two or more fragile sealed boxes may be provided.

[0149] Furthermore, despite Figure 2 The example shown illustrates a heating element as a heating blade arranged to extend into a heat diffuser, but the heating element may be provided as one or more heating elements extending around the outer periphery of the cavity. Alternatively or additionally, the heating element may include a sensor located within the heat diffuser. For example, a blade-shaped sensor may be located within the heat diffuser and in contact with the porous body. One or both ends of the sensor may be sharp or pointed to facilitate insertion into the heat diffuser.

Claims

1. A heated aerosol generating article for use with an electrically operated aerosol generating apparatus, the heated aerosol generating article having an opening and a distal end upstream of the opening, the heated aerosol generating article comprising: An electric heating element as part of the heated aerosol generating article; A porous body formed of ceramic is positioned toward the distal end of the heated aerosol generating article, wherein the electric heating element is thermally coupled to the porous body and the porous body is arranged to absorb heat from the electric heating element and transfer the heat to air drawn through the porous body; as well as The aerosol forms a matrix downstream of the porous body.

2. The heated aerosol generating product according to claim 1, wherein, In use, air drawn from the distal end to the inlet end by the heated aerosol-generated product is heated by the porous body.

3. The heated aerosol generating article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the aerosol forming matrix comprises a liquid aerosol forming matrix.

4. The heated aerosol generating article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the heated aerosol generating article is configured to be removably coupled to an aerosol generating device.

5. The heated aerosol generating article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the heated aerosol generating article is disposable or reusable.

6. The heated aerosol generating article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the pores in the porous body have an average lateral dimension of less than 0.5 mm.

7. The heated aerosol generating article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the pore diameter of the pores in the porous body varies along the length of the porous body.

8. The heated aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein the electric heating element is at least partially located within the porous body.

9. The heated aerosol generating article according to claim 1 or 8, wherein the electric heating element comprises one or more external heating elements, and the one or more external heating elements comprise an array of external heating elements arranged around the outer periphery of the porous body.

10. The heated aerosol generating article according to claim 1 or 8, wherein the electric heating element comprises one or more external heating elements, and the one or more external heating elements extend longitudinally along the porous body.

11. The heated aerosol generating article according to claim 1 or 8, wherein the porous body further comprises one or more electrical contacts, and the electrically heated element is connectable to a power source through the electrical contacts.

12. The heated aerosol generating article according to claim 1 or 8, wherein the electric heating element is a resistance heating element.

13. The heated aerosol generating article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the aerosol forming matrix comprises one or more of propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, glycerol, monoglyceride, di or triacetate, dimethyl dodecanoate, and dimethyl tetradecanoate.

14. The heated aerosol generating article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the aerosol forming matrix comprises one or more of glycerol and propylene glycol.

15. The heated aerosol generating article according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a liquid holding medium defining at least a portion of the airflow path through the heated aerosol generating article.

16. The heated aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein the porous body is contained in a thermal diffuser.

17. The heated aerosol generating article of claim 16, wherein the heat diffuser is arranged to absorb heat from the electric heating element such that, in use, air drawn from the distal end to the inlet end through the heated aerosol generating article is heated by the heat absorbed in the porous body.

18. The heated aerosol generating article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the porous body is formed by porous material studs.

19. The heated aerosol generating article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the porous body is formed of a heat storage material.

20. The heated aerosol generating article according to claim 19, wherein the porous body is formed of a material having a specific heat capacity of at least 0.5 J / gK at 25 degrees Celsius.

21. The heated aerosol generating article according to claim 19, wherein the porous body is formed of a material having a specific heat capacity of at least 0.7 J / gK at 25 degrees Celsius.

22. The heated aerosol generating article according to claim 19, wherein the porous body is formed of a material having a specific heat capacity of at least 0.8 J / gK at 25 degrees Celsius.

23. The heated aerosol generating article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the porous body is thermally conductive.

24. The heated aerosol generating article according to claim 23, wherein the porous body is formed of a material having a thermal conductivity of at least 40 W / mK at 23 degrees Celsius and 50% relative humidity.

25. The heated aerosol generating article according to claim 23, wherein the porous body is formed of a material having a thermal conductivity of at least 100 W / mK at 23 degrees Celsius and 50% relative humidity.

26. The heated aerosol generating article according to claim 23, wherein the porous body is formed of a material having a thermal conductivity of at least 150 W / mK at 23 degrees Celsius and 50% relative humidity.

27. The heated aerosol generating article according to claim 23, wherein the porous body is formed of a material having a thermal conductivity of at least 200 W / mK at 23 degrees Celsius and 50% relative humidity.

28. The heated aerosol generating article according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the electric heating element is coupled to the thermal diffuser.

29. The heated aerosol generating article according to claim 28, wherein the electric heating element includes a sensor embedded in the porous body.

30. The heated aerosol generating article according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the aerosol forming matrix is ​​a liquid aerosol forming matrix, and wherein the heated aerosol generating article further comprises: A fragile, sealed container for containing the liquid aerosol matrix; as well as A porous support material is located downstream of the thermal diffuser and is arranged to absorb the liquid aerosol to form a matrix when the fragile seal box breaks.

31. The heated aerosol generating article according to claim 30, wherein the fragile sealing box is located within the porous support material.

32. The heated aerosol generating article according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the thermal diffuser is spaced apart from the aerosol forming matrix in the longitudinal direction of the heated aerosol generating article.

33. A heated aerosol generation system, comprising an electrically operated aerosol generation device and a heated aerosol generation article according to any one of claims 1 to 32.

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