Aerosol-generating article comprising a flame retardant

Abstract

An aerosol-generating article (10; 110) for producing an inhalable aerosol upon heating is provided. The aerosol-generating article (10; 110) comprises a rod of aerosol-generating substrate (12), a downstream section (14; 114) at a location downstream of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate (12), and a wrapper (70) at least surrounding the rod of aerosol-generating substrate (12). The density of the aerosol-generating substrate is greater than about 300 milligrams per cubic centimeter, and the wrapper (70) comprises a fire retardant composition comprising one or more fire retardant compounds.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol generating matrix and adapted to generate an inhalable aerosol upon heating. Background Technology

[0002] Aerosol-generating articles that involve heating rather than burning an aerosol-generating matrix, such as a tobacco-containing matrix, are known in the art.

[0003] In conventional cigarettes, the consumer applies a flame to the distal end of the cigarette while inhaling air through the proximal end. The heat locally generated by the flame and oxygen in the inhaled air ignites the distal end of the cigarette, and the combustion of the tobacco stick and surrounding packaging produces inhalable smoke. In contrast, in heated aerosol-generating articles, aerosols are generated by more gently transferring heat from a heat source to a physically separated aerosol-generating matrix or material, which may be positioned in contact with, within, around, or downstream of the heat source. During use of the aerosol-generating article, volatile compounds are released from the aerosol-generating matrix through heat transfer from the heat source and entrained in the air inhaled through the aerosol-generating article. As the released compounds cool, they condense to form an aerosol.

[0004] Numerous prior art documents disclose aerosol generating apparatuses for consuming aerosol generating articles. Such apparatuses include, for example, electrically heated aerosol generating apparatuses, wherein aerosols are generated by transferring heat from one or more electrically heated elements of the aerosol generating apparatus to an aerosol generating matrix of a heated aerosol generating article. For example, electrically heated aerosol generating apparatuses comprising an internal heating element adapted to be inserted into the aerosol generating matrix have been proposed. Alternatively, inductively heated aerosol generating articles have been proposed, comprising an aerosol generating matrix and a sensor disposed within the aerosol generating matrix.

[0005] Aerosol-generating articles, in which the tobacco-containing matrix is ​​heated without combustion, present many challenges not encountered with conventional smoking articles. The tobacco-containing matrix is ​​typically heated to significantly lower temperatures compared to the combustion front temperatures in conventional cigarettes. However, the heating temperature cannot be too low, as this can affect nicotine release from the tobacco-containing matrix and nicotine delivery to the consumer. Furthermore, to maximize heat transfer efficiency, it is generally desirable for the heat source to be located as close as possible to the aerosol-generating matrix and preferably in contact with it.

[0006] Therefore, in existing aerosol-generating articles designed to be heated by means of heating elements inserted into the aerosol-generating matrix or by means of sensors arranged within the aerosol-generating matrix, the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​typically surrounded by a packaging consisting of a combination of paper layers and metal foil, such as aluminum foil. Thus, the metal layer between the aerosol-generating matrix and the paper packaging acts as a heat shield and prevents the paper packaging from charring or carbonizing during use. This is desirable because it increases the safety of the aerosol-generating article and prevents the delivery of paper combustion or pyrolysis products to consumers during use. However, including such a metal shield complicates the manufacturing process and increases costs, and may lead to increased environmental impact of the aerosol-generating article during post-use disposal. Furthermore, since the original visual appearance of the aerosol-generating article remains essentially unchanged during use, it may be difficult to determine whether the aerosol-generating article has been used effectively. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Therefore, there is a need for a novel and improved aerosol-generating article that is easier to handle and has a reduced environmental impact, while also being suitable for preventing charring or carbonization of the article during use. Secondly, there is a general need for a novel and improved aerosol-generating article that essentially prevents the misuse of the article, ensuring that it can only be used correctly in aerosol-generating devices suitable for heating the aerosol-generating matrix and not as a regular cigarette. Furthermore, it is desirable to provide such an aerosol-generating article that can be manufactured efficiently and at high speed, preferably without requiring major modifications to existing equipment.

[0008] Therefore, it is desirable to provide new and improved aerosol-generating articles suitable for achieving at least one of the aforementioned desired results.

[0009] This disclosure relates to an aerosol generating article for producing an inhalable aerosol upon heating, the aerosol generating article comprising a strip of an aerosol generating matrix. The aerosol generating matrix may include at least one aerosol forming agent. The aerosol generating article may include a downstream section located downstream of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix. The aerosol generating article may include packaging that at least surrounds the strip of the aerosol generating matrix. The density of the aerosol generating matrix may be greater than about 300 mg / cm³. The packaging may contain a flame retardant composition comprising one or more flame retardant compounds.

[0010] According to the present invention, an aerosol generating article for generating an inhalable aerosol upon heating is provided, the aerosol generating article comprising: a strip of aerosol generating matrix; a downstream section located downstream of the strip of aerosol generating matrix; and a package at least surrounding the strip of aerosol generating matrix. The density of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​greater than about 300 mg / cm³. Furthermore, the package comprises a flame retardant composition comprising one or more flame retardant compounds.

[0011] This disclosure also relates to a method for manufacturing an aerosol-generating article for generating an inhalable aerosol upon heating. The method may include the step of providing a continuous strip of an aerosol-generating matrix, wherein the density of the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​greater than about 300 mg / cm³. The method may further include the step of surrounding the continuous strip of aerosol-generating matrix with a package comprising a flame retardant composition. The method may further include the additional step of cutting the surrounded continuous strip into discrete strips, each discrete strip being surrounded by a portion of the package comprising a flame retardant composition.

[0012] According to the present invention, a method for manufacturing an aerosol generating article for generating an inhalable aerosol upon heating is also provided, the method comprising: providing a continuous strip of an aerosol generating matrix, wherein the density of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​greater than about 300 mg / cm³; surrounding the continuous strip of the aerosol generating matrix with a packaging comprising a flame retardant composition; and cutting the surrounded continuous strip into discrete strips, each discrete strip being surrounded by a portion of the packaging comprising a flame retardant composition.

[0013] This disclosure also relates to an aerosol generation system comprising an electrically operated aerosol generation apparatus and an aerosol generation article as described above. The aerosol generation apparatus may include means for heating a strip of aerosol generation matrix to a temperature sufficient to generate aerosols from the aerosol generation matrix.

[0014] According to the present invention, an aerosol generation system is also provided, comprising an electrically operated aerosol generation apparatus and an aerosol generation article as described above, wherein the aerosol generation apparatus includes means for heating a strip of aerosol generation matrix to a temperature sufficient to generate aerosols from the aerosol generation matrix.

[0015] As briefly described above, the present invention provides an aerosol generating article for generating an inhalable aerosol upon heating, wherein the article comprises a strip of an aerosol generating matrix and a downstream section located downstream of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix. More specifically, the present invention provides an aerosol generating article for generating an inhalable aerosol upon heating at a temperature of about 100 degrees Celsius to about 800 degrees Celsius, preferably about 150 degrees Celsius to about 500 degrees Celsius, more preferably about 200 degrees Celsius to about 300 degrees Celsius.

[0016] These temperatures are significantly lower than those reached in conventional cigarettes when burning a tobacco-containing matrix, and even more significantly lower than those reached by commercially available cigarette lighters, which can reach temperatures in the range of approximately 1,000 to 2,000 degrees Celsius, or even higher.

[0017] Furthermore, the aerosol-generating article includes a strip surrounding the aerosol-generating matrix or a package consisting of both the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix and a downstream section. Compared to existing articles, the aerosol-generating matrix has a density exceeding approximately 300 mg / cm³, and the package contains a flame-retardant composition.

[0018] The inventors have discovered that by surrounding the aerosol-generating matrix with a packaging containing a flame-retardant composition—that is, a packaging containing one or more flame-retardant compounds—it is advantageous to prevent the packaging and the underlying aerosol-generating matrix from charring or burning during use. In other words, it is advantageous to substantially prevent the combustion and pyrolysis of the components of the aerosol-generating article according to the invention.

[0019] In the aerosol-generating articles according to the invention, this is ideally achieved without requiring additional layers of metal foil or other heat-shielding materials in the aerosol-generating articles. This simplifies the manufacturing process and thus reduces manufacturing costs. The disposal of the aerosol-generating articles according to the invention is also easier because there is no need to separate and recycle valuable recyclable materials, such as aluminum foil, when discarding used aerosol-generating articles. Furthermore, the inventors have discovered that by surrounding the aerosol-generating matrix with the packaging as described above, when the aerosol-generating matrix has been exposed to temperatures ranging from about 100 degrees Celsius to about 800 degrees Celsius during use, the aerosol-generating articles appear to have undergone a noticeable discoloration, with the surface of the packaging turning dark brown or blackish. Therefore, consumers can immediately determine whether the aerosol-generating articles have been previously used and whether they should be discarded.

[0020] By adjusting the amount of flame retardant compounds in the packaging (e.g., the amount per square meter of treated surface area), the degree to which the surface of the packaging is treated with the flame retardant composition, and the formulation of the flame retardant composition (i.e., the properties of one or more flame retardant compounds), the overall flame retardant properties of the packaging and aerosol-generating articles can be advantageously enhanced.

[0021] Therefore, the present invention provides an improved aerosol-generating article that substantially prevents charring and carbonization of the aerosol-generating matrix and packaging during use. This is because providing one or more flame-retardant compounds on or within the packaging, or both simultaneously on and within the packaging, substantially prevents the heat supplied to the article to generate the aerosol from causing pyrolysis or combustion of the packaging base material.

[0022] The aerosol-generating articles according to the invention are advantageously easy to dispose of and have reduced environmental impact because they do not require the inclusion of a metal foil layer as is common in existing aerosol-generating articles.

[0023] Furthermore, the aerosol-generating articles according to the invention have the additional benefit that they can only be used correctly as intended, i.e., in conjunction with a device suitable for heating the aerosol-generating matrix. In fact, unlike conventional cigarettes, the aerosol-generating articles according to the invention are essentially unignitable and cannot sustain combustion like conventional cigarettes.

[0024] According to the present invention, an aerosol generating article is provided for generating an inhalable aerosol upon heating.

[0025] The term "aerosol-generating article" is used herein to refer to an article in which an aerosol-generating matrix is ​​heated to produce an inhalable aerosol for delivery to a consumer. As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating matrix" refers to a matrix capable of releasing volatile compounds upon heating to generate an aerosol.

[0026] Conventional smoking is ignited when a user applies a flame to one end of a cigarette and inhales air through the other end. The localized heat provided by the flame and oxygen in the inhaled air ignites the cigarette end, and the resulting combustion produces inhalable smoke. In contrast, in heated aerosol-generating articles, aerosols are generated by heating a flavor-generating matrix, such as tobacco. Heated aerosol-generating articles include, for example, electrically heated aerosol-generating articles, and aerosol-generating articles in which aerosols are generated by heat transfer from a combustible fuel element or heat source to a physically separate aerosol-forming material. For example, the aerosol-generating articles according to the invention find particular application in aerosol-generating systems that include electrically heated aerosol-generating devices having internal heating elements adapted to be inserted into strips of the aerosol-generating matrix. This type of aerosol-generating article is described in the prior art (e.g., in European patent application EP 0822670).

[0027] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating apparatus" refers to an apparatus that includes a heater element that interacts with an aerosol generating matrix of an aerosol generating article to generate an aerosol.

[0028] As used herein with reference to the invention, the term "strip" is used to refer to a generally cylindrical element with a substantially circular, oval, or elliptical cross-section.

[0029] As used herein, the term "longitudinal" refers to the direction corresponding to the main longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article, which extends between the upstream and downstream ends of the aerosol-generating article. As used herein, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" describe the relative positions of an element or portion of an element of the aerosol-generating article with respect to the direction in which the aerosol is transported through the aerosol-generating article during use.

[0030] During use, air is drawn through the aerosol-generating article in the longitudinal direction. The term "transverse" refers to the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Unless otherwise stated, any reference to the "cross section" of the aerosol-generating article or a component of the aerosol-generating article refers to the transverse cross section.

[0031] The term "length" refers to the longitudinal dimension of a component of an aerosol-generating article. For example, it can be used to describe the longitudinal dimension of a strip or elongated tubular element.

[0032] The aerosol generating article according to the present invention comprises a strip of aerosol generating matrix. Furthermore, the aerosol generating article includes a downstream section located downstream of the strip of aerosol generating matrix.

[0033] In the aerosol-generating article according to the invention, at least the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​surrounded by a packaging material. This means that in the aerosol-generating article according to the invention, the same packaging material surrounding the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix may also surround at least a portion of the downstream section or provide at least a portion or both of the optional additional components of the aerosol-generating article located upstream of the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0034] Aerosol-generated articles can have an overall length of about 35 mm to about 100 mm.

[0035] Preferably, the overall length of the aerosol-generating article according to the present invention is at least about 38 mm. More preferably, the overall length of the aerosol-generating article according to the present invention is at least about 40 mm. Even more preferably, the overall length of the aerosol-generating article according to the present invention is at least about 42 mm.

[0036] In some embodiments, the overall length of the aerosol-generating article according to the invention is preferably less than or equal to 80 mm. More preferably, the overall length of the aerosol-generating article according to the invention is less than or equal to 70 mm. Even more preferably, the overall length of the aerosol-generating article according to the invention is preferably less than or equal to 60 mm. Most preferably, the overall length of the aerosol-generating article according to the invention is preferably less than or equal to 50 mm.

[0037] In a preferred embodiment, the overall length of the aerosol-generating article is about 38 mm to about 70 mm, more preferably about 40 mm to about 70 mm, and even more preferably about 42 mm to about 70 mm. In other embodiments, the overall length of the aerosol-generating article is preferably about 38 mm to about 60 mm, more preferably about 40 mm to about 60 mm, and even more preferably about 42 mm to about 60 mm. In a further embodiment, the overall length of the aerosol-generating article is preferably about 38 mm to about 50 mm, more preferably about 40 mm to about 50 mm, and even more preferably about 42 mm to about 50 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, the overall length of the aerosol-generating article is about 45 mm.

[0038] In other embodiments, the overall length of the aerosol-generated article according to the invention is preferably at least about 40 mm, more preferably about 50 mm, and even more preferably about 60 mm. In these embodiments, the overall length of the aerosol generation is preferably less than or equal to about 95 mm, more preferably less than or equal to about 90 mm, even more preferably less than or equal to about 85 mm, and most preferably less than or equal to about 80 mm.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, the overall length of the aerosol-generating article is about 40 mm to about 95 mm, preferably about 40 mm to about 90 mm, more preferably about 40 mm to about 85 mm, and even more preferably about 40 mm to about 80 mm. In other embodiments, the overall length of the aerosol-generating article is about 50 mm to about 95 mm, preferably about 50 mm to about 90 mm, more preferably about 50 mm to about 85 mm, and even more preferably about 50 mm to about 80 mm. In a further embodiment, the overall length of the aerosol-generating article is about 60 mm to about 95 mm, preferably about 60 mm to about 90 mm, more preferably about 60 mm to about 85 mm, and even more preferably about 60 mm to about 80 mm. In an even further embodiment, the overall length of the aerosol-generating article is about 70 mm to about 95 mm, preferably about 70 mm to about 90 mm, more preferably about 70 mm to about 85 mm, and even more preferably about 70 mm to about 80 mm. In one exemplary embodiment, the overall length of the aerosol-generating article is about 75 mm.

[0040] The aerosol-generating article according to the invention may have an outer diameter of at least 4 mm. Preferably, the aerosol-generating article has an outer diameter of at least 5 mm. More preferably, the aerosol-generating article has an outer diameter of at least 6 mm. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating article has an outer diameter of at least 7 mm.

[0041] Preferably, the aerosol-generating article has an outer diameter of about 12 mm or less. More preferably, the aerosol-generating article has an outer diameter of about 10 mm or less. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating article has an outer diameter of about 8 mm or less.

[0042] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating article has an outer diameter of about 4 mm to about 12 mm, preferably about 5 mm to about 12 mm, more preferably about 6 mm to about 12 mm, and even more preferably about 7 mm to about 12 mm. In other embodiments, the aerosol-generating article has an outer diameter of about 4 mm to about 10 mm, preferably about 5 mm to about 10 mm, more preferably about 6 mm to about 10 mm, and even more preferably about 7 mm to about 10 mm. In a further embodiment, the aerosol-generating article has an outer diameter of about 4 mm to about 8 mm, preferably about 5 mm to about 8 mm, more preferably about 6 mm to about 8 mm, and even more preferably about 7 mm to about 8 mm.

[0043] The strips of the aerosol generating matrix can have a length between about 5 mm and about 100 mm.

[0044] In some embodiments, the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix preferably has a length of at least about 6 mm, more preferably at least about 7 mm. In these embodiments, the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix may have a length of less than about 90 mm, and preferably less than about 70 mm, more preferably less than about 65 mm, more preferably less than about 50 mm, and most preferably less than 40 mm. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix has a length of less than about 35 mm, more preferably less than 25 mm, and even more preferably less than about 20 mm. In one embodiment, the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix may have a length of about 10 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix has a length of about 12 mm. This can be combined with the overall length of the aerosol-generating article of about 45 mm.

[0045] In other embodiments, the aerosol-generating strips preferably have a length of at least about 10 mm, more preferably at least about 20 mm, and even more preferably at least about 30 mm. In these embodiments, the length of the aerosol-generating matrix strips is preferably less than or equal to about 60 mm, more preferably less than or equal to about 50 mm, and even more preferably less than or equal to about 40 mm.

[0046] In a preferred embodiment, the length of the aerosol-generating matrix strip is from about 10 mm to about 60 mm, preferably from about 20 mm to about 60 mm, more preferably from about 30 mm to about 60 mm. In other embodiments, the length of the aerosol-generating matrix strip is from about 10 mm to about 50 mm, preferably from about 20 mm to about 50 mm, more preferably from about 30 mm to about 50 mm. In a further embodiment, the length of the aerosol-generating matrix strip is from about 10 mm to about 40 mm, preferably from about 20 mm to about 40 mm, more preferably from about 40 mm to about 60 mm. In one exemplary embodiment, the length of the aerosol-generating matrix strip is about 35 mm. This can be combined with the overall length of the aerosol-generating article of about 75 mm.

[0047] Preferably, the strips of the aerosol generating matrix have a substantially uniform cross-section along their length. Particularly preferably, the strips of the aerosol generating matrix have a substantially circular cross-section.

[0048] According to the present invention, the density of the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​greater than about 300 mg / cm³. As used herein, with respect to the aerosol-generating matrix of the aerosol-generating article according to the present invention, the term "density" refers to the "apparent density" or "bulk density" of the matrix, and is equal to the total mass of the bulk of the aerosol-generating matrix of a given volume (which is the mass of homogenized plant material, aerosol forming agent, etc., or the mass of the gel composition of a given volume) divided by the given volume of the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0049] Therefore, for example, the density of the aerosol-generating matrix determines the mass of a given volume of homogenized tobacco material and the filling efficiency of a given surface area of ​​the homogenized tobacco material. The density of homogenized tobacco material is generally determined to a large extent by the type of process used to manufacture it. Several reconstitution processes for producing homogenized tobacco material are known in the art. These processes include, but are not limited to: papermaking processes of the type described in, for example, US-A-5,724,998; casting processes of the type described in, for example, US-A-5,724,998; dough reconstitution processes of the type described in, for example, US-A-3,894,544; and extrusion processes of the type described in, for example, GB-A-983,928.

[0050] Generally, the density of homogenized tobacco material produced by extrusion and kneading processes is greater than that produced by casting processes. The density of homogenized tobacco material produced by extrusion can be greater than that produced by kneading processes.

[0051] For example, the density of the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​at least about 310 mg / cm³, or at least about 320 mg / cm³, or at least about 330 mg / cm³.

[0052] In some embodiments, the density of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​preferably at least about 350 mg / cm³. More preferably, the density of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​at least about 400 mg / cm³. Even more preferably, the density of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​at least about 450 mg / cm³. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the density of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​at least about 500 mg / cm³. Preferably, the density of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​less than or equal to about 1000 mg / cm³, more preferably less than or equal to about 900 mg / cm³, and even more preferably less than or equal to about 800 mg / cm³. For example, the density of the aerosol generating matrix can be from about 350 mg / cm³ to about 1000 mg / cm³, preferably from about 400 mg / cm³ to about 1000 mg / cm³, more preferably from about 450 mg / cm³ to about 1000 mg / cm³, and even more preferably from about 500 mg / cm³ to about 1000 mg / cm³. As another example, the density of the aerosol generating matrix can be from about 350 mg / cm³ to about 900 mg / cm³, preferably from about 400 mg / cm³ to about 900 mg / cm³, more preferably from about 450 mg / cm³ to about 900 mg / cm³, and even more preferably from about 500 mg / cm³ to about 900 mg / cm³. As yet another example, the density of the aerosol generating matrix can be from about 350 mg / cm³ to about 800 mg / cm³, preferably from about 400 mg / cm³ to about 800 mg / cm³, more preferably from about 450 mg / cm³ to about 800 mg / cm³, and even more preferably from about 500 mg / cm³ to about 800 mg / cm³.

[0053] In other embodiments, the density of the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​at least about 600 mg / cm³, preferably at least about 700 mg / cm³, more preferably at least about 800 mg / cm³, and even more preferably at least about 900 mg / cm³. In some particularly preferred embodiments, the density of the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​at least about 1 g / cm³, preferably at least about 1.1 g / cm³, more preferably at least about 1.2 g / cm³, and even more preferably at least about 1.3 g / cm³. Preferably, the density of the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​less than or equal to about 2.0 g / cm³, more preferably less than or equal to about 1.9 g / cm³, and even more preferably less than or equal to 1.8 g / cm³. In a preferred embodiment, the density of the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​less than or equal to about 1.7 g / cm³, more preferably less than or equal to about 1.6 g / cm³, and even more preferably less than or equal to about 1.5 g / cm³.

[0054] As an example, the density of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​from about 1 g / cm³ to about 1.7 g / cm³, preferably from about 1.1 g / cm³ to about 1.7 g / cm³, more preferably from about 1.2 g / cm³ to about 1.7 g / cm³, and even more preferably from about 1.3 g / cm³ to about 1.7 g / cm³. As another example, the density of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​from about 1 g / cm³ to about 1.6 g / cm³, preferably from about 1.1 g / cm³ to about 1.6 g / cm³, more preferably from about 1.2 g / cm³ to about 1.6 g / cm³, and even more preferably from about 1.3 g / cm³ to about 1.6 g / cm³. As another example, the density of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​from about 1 g / cm³ to about 1.5 g / cm³, preferably from about 1.1 g / cm³ to about 1.5 g / cm³, more preferably from about 1.2 g / cm³ to about 1.5 g / cm³, and even more preferably from about 1.3 g / cm³ to about 1.5 g / cm³.

[0055] The aerosol generation matrix can be a solid aerosol generation matrix.

[0056] In some preferred embodiments, the aerosol generating matrix comprises homogenized plant material, preferably homogenized tobacco material.

[0057] As used herein, the term "homogenized plant material" encompasses any plant material formed by the agglomeration of plant particles. For example, sheets or webs of homogenized tobacco material used as the aerosol-generating matrix of the present invention can be formed by agglomerating particles of tobacco material obtained by crushing, grinding, or grinding plant material, and optionally one or more of tobacco leaf blades and tobacco stems. Homogenized plant materials can be produced by casting, extrusion, papermaking processes, or any other suitable process known in the art.

[0058] Homogenized plant material can be provided in any suitable form. For example, homogenized plant material can be in the form of one or more sheets. As used herein with reference to the invention, the term "sheet" describes a layered element whose width and length are substantially greater than its thickness.

[0059] Alternatively, or otherwise, homogenized plant material may be in the form of multiple pellets or granules.

[0060] Alternatively or additionally, homogenized plant material may be in the form of multiple strips, bands, or fragments. As used herein, the term "strip" describes an elongated element of material whose length is substantially greater than its width and thickness. The term "strip" should be considered to include bands, fragments, and any other homogenized plant material of similar form. Bundles of homogenized plant material may be formed from sheets of homogenized plant material, for example by cutting or shredding, or by other methods, such as extrusion.

[0061] In some embodiments, strips may be formed in situ within the aerosol-generating matrix due to the splitting or cracking of the homogenized plant material sheet during the formation of the aerosol-generating matrix, for example, due to curling. The homogenized plant material strips within the aerosol-generating matrix may be separable from each other. Alternatively, each strip of homogenized plant material within the aerosol-generating matrix may be at least partially connected to one or more adjacent strips along its length. For example, adjacent strips may be connected by one or more fibers. This can occur, for example, due to the formation of strips as described above, caused by the splitting of the homogenized plant material sheet during the production of the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0062] Preferably, the aerosol generating matrix is ​​in the form of one or more sheets of homogenized plant material. In various embodiments of the invention, the one or more sheets of homogenized plant material may be produced by a casting process. In various embodiments of the invention, the one or more sheets of homogenized plant material may be produced by a papermaking process. The one or more sheets described herein may each individually have a thickness between 100 micrometers and 600 micrometers, preferably between 150 micrometers and 300 micrometers, and most preferably between 200 micrometers and 250 micrometers. Individual thickness refers to the thickness of a single sheet, while combined thickness refers to the total thickness of all sheets constituting the aerosol generating matrix. For example, if the aerosol generating matrix is ​​formed from two separate sheets, the combined thickness is the sum of the thicknesses of the two separate sheets, or, in the case of two sheets stacked in the aerosol generating matrix, the measured thickness of the two sheets.

[0063] One or more sheets as described herein may each individually have approximately 100 g / m³ 2 Approximately 300g / m 2The weight per square meter.

[0064] One or more sheets as described herein may each individually have approximately 0.3 g / cm³. 3 Approximately 1.3 g / cm³ 3 Preferably, it is about 0.7 g / cm³. 3 To approximately 1.0 g / cm³ 3 The density.

[0065] In embodiments of the invention in which the aerosol-generating matrix comprises one or more sheets of homogenized plant material, the sheets are preferably in the form of one or more aggregated sheets. As used herein, the term “aggregate” means that the homogenized plant material sheet is rolled, folded, or otherwise compressed or contracted into a cylindrical shape substantially transverse to the axis of the rod or strip.

[0066] One or more sheets of homogenized plant material may be stacked laterally relative to their longitudinal axis and surrounded by packaging to form continuous strips or rods.

[0067] One or more sheets of homogenized plant material may be advantageously curled or similarly treated. As used herein, the term “curled” means that the sheet has a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or corrugations. Alternatively, or in addition to curling, one or more sheets of homogenized plant material may be embossed, debossed, perforated, or otherwise deformed to provide texture on one or both sides of the sheet.

[0068] Preferably, each sheet of homogenized plant material can be curled such that it has multiple ridges or corrugations substantially parallel to the cylindrical axis of the rod. This treatment advantageously promotes the aggregation of the curled sheets of homogenized plant material to form the rod. Preferably, one or more sheets of homogenized plant material can be aggregated. It is understood that the curled sheets of homogenized plant material may alternatively or additionally have multiple substantially parallel ridges or corrugations arranged at acute or obtuse angles to the cylindrical axis of the rod. The sheets can be curled to such an extent that the integrity of the sheets is disrupted at the multiple parallel ridges or corrugations, causing material separation and resulting in the formation of fragments, strips, or bands of homogenized plant material.

[0069] Alternatively, one or more sheets of homogenized plant material can be cut into strips as described above. In such embodiments, the aerosol-generating matrix comprises multiple strips of homogenized plant material. These strips can be used to form rods. Typically, the width of these strips is about 5 mm, or about 4 mm, or about 3 mm, or about 2 mm or less. The length of the strips can be greater than about 5 mm, between about 5 mm and about 15 mm, about 8 mm to about 12 mm, or about 12 mm. Preferably, the strips have substantially the same length as each other. The length of the strips can be determined by the manufacturing process, thereby cutting the strips into shorter rods, and the length of the strips corresponds to the length of the rods. The strips may be brittle, which can lead to breakage, especially during transportation. In this case, some strips may be shorter than the length of the rods.

[0070] The multiple strips preferably extend substantially longitudinally, aligned with the longitudinal axis along the length of the aerosol-generating matrix. Preferably, the multiple strips are thus aligned substantially parallel to each other.

[0071] The homogenized plant material may comprise up to about 95% by weight of plant particles on a dry weight basis. Preferably, the homogenized plant material comprises up to about 90% by weight of plant particles on a dry weight basis, more preferably up to about 80% by weight of plant particles, more preferably up to about 70% by weight of plant particles, more preferably up to about 60% by weight of plant particles, and more preferably up to about 50% by weight of plant particles.

[0072] For example, homogenized plant material may include plant particles of about 2.5% to about 95% by weight, or about 5% to about 90% by weight, or about 10% to about 80% by weight, or about 15% to about 70% by weight, or about 20% to about 60% by weight, or about 30% to about 50% by weight, on a dry weight basis.

[0073] In some embodiments of the invention, the homogenized plant material is a homogenized tobacco material comprising tobacco particles. Sheets of the homogenized tobacco material used in such embodiments of the invention may have a tobacco content of at least about 40% by weight, more preferably at least about 50% by weight, more preferably at least about 70% by weight, and most preferably at least about 90% by weight, based on dry weight.

[0074] Referring to this invention, the term "tobacco pellet" describes the pellets of any plant member of the genus Nicotiana. The term "tobacco pellet" includes ground or pulverized tobacco leaves, ground or pulverized tobacco stems, tobacco dust, tobacco debris, and other particulate tobacco byproducts formed during the processing, handling, and transportation of tobacco. In a preferred embodiment, the tobacco pellets are substantially entirely derived from tobacco leaves. In contrast, isolated nicotine and nicotine salts are compounds derived from tobacco but are not considered tobacco pellets for the purposes of this invention and are not included in the percentage of particulate plant material.

[0075] Tobacco pellets can be prepared from one or more tobacco plants. Any type of tobacco can be used in the blend. Examples of tobacco types that can be used include, but are not limited to, sun-cured tobacco, flue-cured tobacco, Burley tobacco, Maryland tobacco, Oriental tobacco, Virginia tobacco, and other specialty tobaccos.

[0076] Flue-curing is a method of drying tobacco, particularly Virginia tobacco. During the curing process, heated air circulates through densely packed tobacco leaves. In the first stage, the leaves turn yellow and wilt. In the second stage, the leaf blades are completely dried. In the third stage, the stems are completely dried.

[0077] Burley tobacco plays an important role in many tobacco blends. It has a distinctive flavor and aroma and is also capable of absorbing large amounts of casing.

[0078] Oriental tobacco is a type of tobacco characterized by small leaves and high aromatic quality. However, its flavor is milder than that of other tobaccos, such as Burley tobacco. Therefore, a relatively small proportion of Oriental tobacco is typically used in tobacco blends.

[0079] Kasturi, Madura, and Jatim are all usable subtypes of sun-cured tobacco. Preferably, Kasturi tobacco and flue-cured tobacco can be used in a mixture to produce tobacco pellets. Therefore, the tobacco pellets in the granular plant material may include a mixture of Kasturi tobacco and smoked tobacco.

[0080] The tobacco pellets may have a nicotine content of at least about 2.5% by weight on a dry weight basis. More preferably, the tobacco pellets may have a nicotine content of at least about 3% by weight on a dry weight basis, even more preferably at least about 3.2% by weight, even more preferably at least about 3.5% by weight, and most preferably at least about 4% by weight.

[0081] In certain other embodiments of the invention, the homogenized plant material comprises tobacco particles combined with non-tobacco plant flavor particles. Preferably, the non-tobacco plant flavor particles are selected from one or more of the following: ginger particles, eucalyptus particles, clove particles, and star anise particles. Preferably, in such embodiments, the homogenized plant material comprises at least about 2.5% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles on a dry weight basis, wherein the remainder of the plant particles is tobacco particles. Preferably, the homogenized plant material comprises at least about 4% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles on a dry weight basis, more preferably at least about 6% by weight, more preferably at least about 8% by weight, and more preferably at least about 10% by weight. Preferably, the homogenized plant material comprises up to about 20% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles, more preferably up to about 18% by weight, and more preferably up to about 16% by weight.

[0082] The weight ratio of non-tobacco plant flavor particles to tobacco particles in the granular plant material forming the homogenized plant material can vary depending on the desired flavor characteristics and composition of the aerosols generated by the aerosol-generating matrix during use. Preferably, the homogenized plant material comprises, on a dry weight basis, a non-tobacco plant flavor particle to tobacco particle ratio of at least 1:30, more preferably at least 1:20, even more preferably at least 1:10, and most preferably at least 1:5.

[0083] The homogenized plant material preferably comprises no more than 95% by weight of granular plant material on a dry weight basis. Therefore, the granular plant material is usually combined with one or more other components to form the homogenized plant material.

[0084] The homogenized plant material may also include an adhesive to modify the mechanical properties of the granular plant material, wherein the adhesive is incorporated into the homogenized plant material during the manufacturing process as described herein. Suitable exogenous adhesives are known to those skilled in the art and include, but are not limited to: gums, such as guar gum, xanthan gum, gum arabic, and locust bean gum; cellulose adhesives, such as hydroxypropyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, and ethyl cellulose; polysaccharides, such as starch; organic acids, such as alginic acid; conjugate base salts of organic acids, such as sodium alginate, agar, and pectin; and combinations thereof. Preferably, the adhesive comprises guar gum.

[0085] The adhesive may be present in an amount of about 1% to about 10% by weight based on the dry weight of the homogenized plant material, preferably in an amount of about 2% to about 5% by weight based on the dry weight of the homogenized plant material.

[0086] Alternatively or additionally, the homogenized plant material may further comprise one or more lipids to facilitate the diffusion of volatile components (e.g., aerosol forming agents, gingerol, and nicotine), wherein the lipids are included in the homogenized plant material during manufacturing as described herein. Suitable lipids included in the homogenized plant material include, but are not limited to: medium-chain triglycerides, cocoa butter, palm oil, palm kernel oil, mango oil, shea butter, soybean oil, cottonseed oil, coconut oil, hydrogenated coconut oil, candelilla wax, carnauba wax, shellac, sunflower wax, sunflower oil, rice bran, and RevelA; and combinations thereof.

[0087] Alternatively, homogenized plant materials may further include pH adjusters.

[0088] Alternatively or additionally, the homogenized plant material may also contain fibers to modify the mechanical properties of the homogenized plant material, wherein said fibers are incorporated into the homogenized plant material during the manufacturing process as described herein. Suitable exogenous fibers for inclusion in the homogenized plant material are known in the art and include fibers formed from non-tobacco and non-ginger materials, including but not limited to: cellulose fibers; cork fibers; hardwood fibers; jute fibers; and combinations thereof. Exogenous fibers derived from tobacco and / or ginger may also be added. Any fibers added to the homogenized plant material are not considered to form part of the “granular plant material” as defined above. Prior to inclusion in the homogenized plant material, the fibers may be treated by suitable processes known in the art, including but not limited to: mechanical pulping; refining; chemical pulping; bleaching; sulfate pulping; and combinations thereof. The fibers typically have a length greater than their width.

[0089] Suitable fibers typically have a length greater than 400 micrometers and less than or equal to 4 millimeters, preferably in the range of 0.7 millimeters to 4 millimeters. Preferably, the fibers are present in an amount of about 2% to about 15% by weight, most preferably about 4% by weight, based on the dry weight of the matrix.

[0090] Alternatively or additionally, the homogenized plant material may further include one or more aerosol forming agents. Upon evaporation, the aerosol forming agent can transport other vaporized compounds, such as nicotine and flavorings, released from the aerosol-generating matrix upon heating within the aerosol. Suitable aerosol forming agents included in the homogenized plant material are known in the art and include, but are not limited to: polyols, such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and glycerol; esters of polyols, such as mono, di, or triacetic acid esters of glycerol; and fatty acid esters of mono, di, or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyl dodecanoate and dimethyl tetradecanoate.

[0091] Homogenized plant materials may have an aerosol forming agent content of between about 5% and about 30% by weight on a dry weight basis, for example, between about 10% and about 25% by weight on a dry weight basis, or between about 15% and about 20% by weight on a dry weight basis.

[0092] For example, if the matrix is ​​intended for use in an aerosol-generating article of an electrically operated aerosol-generating system with a heating element, it may preferably include an aerosol-forming agent content of between about 5% and about 30% by weight on a dry weight basis. If the matrix is ​​intended for use in an aerosol-generating article of an electrically operated aerosol-generating system with a heating element, the aerosol-forming agent is preferably glycerol.

[0093] In other embodiments, the homogenized plant material may have an aerosol forming agent content of about 1% to about 5% by weight on a dry weight basis. For example, if the matrix is ​​intended for use in an aerosol-generating article, wherein the aerosol forming agent is held in a separate reservoir from the matrix, the matrix may have an aerosol forming agent content greater than 1% and less than about 5%. In such embodiments, the aerosol forming agent volatilizes upon heating, and the flow of the aerosol forming agent contacts the aerosol-generating matrix to entrain flavor compounds from the aerosol-generating matrix in the aerosol.

[0094] In other embodiments, the homogenized plant material may have an aerosol forming agent content of about 30% to about 45% by weight. This relatively high level of aerosol forming agent is particularly suitable for aerosol-generating matrices intended to be heated at temperatures below 275 degrees Celsius. In such embodiments, the homogenized plant material preferably further comprises between about 2% and about 10% by weight of cellulose ether and between about 5% and about 50% by weight of additional cellulose by dry weight. It has been found that the combination of cellulose ether and additional cellulose provides particularly effective aerosol delivery when used for aerosol-generating matrices having an aerosol forming agent content of between 30% and 45% by weight.

[0095] Suitable cellulose ethers include, but are not limited to, methylcellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, ethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, ethyl hydroxyethylcellulose, and carboxymethylcellulose (CMC). In a particularly preferred embodiment, the cellulose ether is carboxymethylcellulose.

[0096] As used herein, the term "added cellulose" encompasses any cellulose material incorporated into the homogenized plant material that is not derived from non-tobacco plant particles or tobacco particles provided in the homogenized plant material. Thus, in addition to non-tobacco plant material or tobacco material, added cellulose is incorporated into the homogenized plant material as a separate and distinct cellulose source from any cellulose inherently provided within the non-tobacco plant particles or tobacco particles. Added cellulose typically originates from plants different from those in the non-tobacco plant particles or tobacco particles. Preferably, the added cellulose is in the form of an inert cellulose material that is sensorily inert and therefore does not substantially affect the sensory properties of the aerosols generated by the aerosol-generating matrix. For example, the added cellulose is preferably a tasteless and odorless material.

[0097] Additional cellulose may include cellulose powder, cellulose fibers, or a combination thereof.

[0098] Aerosol forming agents can act as wetting agents in aerosol generation matrices.

[0099] In some preferred embodiments of the invention, the aerosol-generating matrix comprises a gel composition containing an alkaloid compound. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol-generating matrix comprises a gel composition containing nicotine.

[0100] Preferably, the gel composition comprises an alkaloid compound; an aerosol forming agent; and at least one gelling agent. Preferably, at least one gelling agent forms a solid medium, and glycerol is dispersed in the solid medium, wherein the alkaloid is dispersed in the glycerol. Preferably, the gel composition is a stable gel phase.

[0101] Advantageously, nicotine-containing stable gel compositions provide a predictable compositional form during storage or shipment from manufacturer to consumer. Nicotine-containing stable gel compositions substantially retain their shape. Nicotine-containing stable gel compositions substantially do not release the liquid phase during storage or shipment from manufacturer to consumer. Nicotine-containing stable gel compositions allow for simple consumable design. The consumable does not need to be designed to contain liquid, thus allowing for a wider range of material and container constructions to be considered.

[0102] The gel composition described herein can be combined with an aerosol generating device to deliver nicotine aerosol to the lungs at an inhalation rate or airflow rate within the range of conventional smoking inhalation rates or airflow rates. The aerosol generating device can continuously heat the gel composition. The consumer can take multiple inhalations or "puffs," with each "puff" delivering a certain amount of nicotine aerosol. When preferably heated in a continuous manner, the gel composition is capable of delivering a high nicotine / low total particulate matter (TPM) aerosol to the consumer.

[0103] The phrase "stable gel phase" or "stable gel" refers to a gel that substantially retains its shape and quality when exposed to a variety of environmental conditions. When exposed to standard temperature and pressure while the relative humidity changes from about 10% to about 60%, a stable gel will substantially not release (sweat) or absorb moisture. For example, when exposed to standard temperature and pressure while the relative humidity changes from about 10% to about 60%, a stable gel can substantially maintain its shape and quality.

[0104] The gel composition includes an alkaloid compound. The gel composition may include one or more alkaloids.

[0105] The term "alkaloid compound" refers to any of a class of naturally occurring organic compounds containing one or more basic nitrogen atoms. Typically, alkaloids contain at least one nitrogen atom in an amine-type structure. This or other nitrogen atom in the alkaloid compound molecule can function as a base in acid-base reactions. In most alkaloid compounds, one or more of the nitrogen atoms are part of a cyclic system, such as a heterocycle. In nature, alkaloid compounds are primarily found in plants, particularly in certain flowering plant families. However, some alkaloid compounds are found in animal species and fungi. In this disclosure, the term "alkaloid compound" refers to alkaloid compounds of natural origin and synthetically produced alkaloid compounds.

[0106] The gel composition may preferably include an alkaloid compound selected from nicotine, anaphylabine, and combinations thereof.

[0107] Preferably, the gel composition includes nicotine.

[0108] The term "nicotine" refers to nicotine and nicotine derivatives, such as free nicotine base and nicotine salts.

[0109] The gel composition preferably comprises about 0.5% to about 10% by weight of an alkaloid compound. The gel composition may include about 0.5% to about 5% by weight of an alkaloid compound. Preferably, the gel composition comprises about 1% to about 3% by weight of an alkaloid compound. The gel composition may preferably include about 1.5% to about 2.5% by weight of an alkaloid compound. The gel composition may preferably include about 2% by weight of an alkaloid compound. The alkaloid compound component of the gel formulation may be the most volatile component of the gel formulation. In some aspects, water may be the most volatile component of the gel formulation, and the alkaloid compound component of the gel formulation may be the second most volatile component of the gel formulation. In some aspects, water may be the most volatile component of the gel formulation, and the alkaloid compound component of the gel formulation may be the second most volatile component of the gel formulation.

[0110] Preferably, the gel composition contains nicotine. Nicotine may be added to the composition in free alkali form or salt form. The gel composition comprises about 0.5% to about 10% by weight of nicotine, or about 0.5% to about 5% by weight of nicotine. Preferably, the gel composition comprises about 1% to about 3% by weight of nicotine, or about 1.5% to about 2.5% by weight of nicotine, or about 2% by weight of nicotine. The nicotine component of the gel formulation may be the most volatile component of the gel formulation. In some aspects, water may be the most volatile component of the gel formulation, and the nicotine component of the gel formulation may be the second most volatile component of the gel formulation.

[0111] The gel composition includes an aerosol forming agent. Ideally, the aerosol forming agent is substantially resistant to thermal degradation at the operating temperature of the associated aerosol generating device. Suitable aerosol forming agents include, but are not limited to: polyols, such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and glycerol; esters of polyols, such as mono-, di-, or triacetic acid esters of glycerol; and aliphatic esters of mono-, di-, or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyl dodecanoate and dimethyl tetradecanoate. The polyol or mixture thereof may be one or more of triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, glycerol (glycerol or propane-1,2,3-triol), or polyethylene glycol. The aerosol forming agent is preferably glycerol.

[0112] The gel composition may include a majority aerosol forming agent. The gel composition may include a mixture of water and an aerosol forming agent, wherein the aerosol forming agent forms the majority (by weight) of the gel composition. The aerosol forming agent may form at least about 50% by weight of the gel composition. The aerosol forming agent may form at least about 60% by weight, at least about 65% by weight, or at least about 70% by weight of the gel composition. The aerosol forming agent may form about 70% by weight to about 80% by weight of the gel composition. The aerosol forming agent may form about 70% by weight to about 75% by weight of the gel composition.

[0113] The gel composition may comprise a majority of glycerol. The gel composition may comprise a mixture of water and glycerol, wherein glycerol forms the majority (by weight) of the gel composition. Glycerol may form at least about 50% by weight of the gel composition. Glycerol may form at least about 60% by weight, at least about 65% by weight, or at least about 70% by weight of the gel composition. Glycerol may form about 70% by weight to about 80% by weight of the gel composition. Glycerol may form about 70% by weight to about 75% by weight of the gel composition.

[0114] The gel composition preferably includes at least one gelling agent. Preferably, the gel composition includes a gelling agent in a total amount ranging from about 0.4% to about 10% by weight. More preferably, the composition includes a gelling agent in a total amount ranging from about 0.5% to about 8% by weight. More preferably, the composition includes a gelling agent in a total amount ranging from about 1% to about 6% by weight. More preferably, the composition includes a gelling agent in a total amount ranging from about 2% to about 4% by weight. More preferably, the composition includes a gelling agent in a total amount ranging from about 2% to about 3% by weight.

[0115] The term "gelling agent" refers to a compound that, when added in an amount of about 0.3% by weight to a mixture of 50% by weight water and 50% by weight glycerol, homogeneously forms a solid medium or supporting matrix that results in gelation. Gelling agents include, but are not limited to, hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agents and ionic crosslinking gelling agents.

[0116] Gelling agents may include one or more biopolymers. Biopolymers may be formed from polysaccharides.

[0117] Biopolymers include, for example, gellan gum (natural, low-acyl gellan gum, high-acyl gellan gum, preferably low-acyl gellan gum), xanthan gum, alginate (alginic acid), agar, guar gum, etc. The composition may preferably include xanthan gum. The composition may include two biopolymers. The composition may include three biopolymers. The composition may include two biopolymers in substantially equal weight. The composition may include three biopolymers in substantially equal weight.

[0118] Preferably, the gel composition comprises at least about 0.2% by weight of a hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agent. Alternatively or additionally, the gel composition preferably comprises at least about 0.2% by weight of an ionic crosslinking gelling agent. Most preferably, the gel composition comprises at least about 0.2% by weight of both a hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agent and at least about 0.2% by weight of an ionic crosslinking gelling agent. The gel composition may comprise about 0.5% by weight to about 3% by weight of a hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agent and about 0.5% by weight to about 3% by weight of an ionic crosslinking gelling agent, or about 1% by weight to about 2% by weight of a hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agent and about 1% by weight to about 2% by weight of an ionic crosslinking gelling agent. The hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agent and the ionic crosslinking gelling agent may be present in substantially equal amounts by weight in the gel composition.

[0119] The term "hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agent" refers to a gelling agent that forms non-covalent or physical crosslinking bonds via hydrogen bonds. Hydrogen bonds are a type of electrostatic dipole-dipole attraction between molecules, rather than covalent bonds with hydrogen atoms. They arise from the attractive force between a hydrogen atom covalently bonded to a highly negatively charged atom (such as N, O, or F) and another highly negatively charged atom.

[0120] Hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agents may include one or more of galactomannan, gelatin, agarose, konjac gum, or agar. Preferably, hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agents include agar.

[0121] The gel composition preferably includes a hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agent in the range of about 0.3% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the composition includes a hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agent in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the composition includes a hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agent in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0122] The gel composition may include galactomannan in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the galactomannan may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the galactomannan may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the galactomannan may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0123] The gel composition may include gelatin in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the gelatin may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the gelatin may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the gelatin may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0124] The gel composition may include agarose in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the agarose may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the agarose may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the agarose may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0125] The gel composition may include konjac gum in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the konjac gum may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the konjac gum may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the konjac gum may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0126] The gel composition may include agar in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the agar may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the agar may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the agar may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0127] The term "ionic crosslinking gelling agent" refers to a gelling agent that forms non-covalent or physical crosslinking bonds through ionic bonds. Ionic crosslinking involves the association of polymer chains through non-covalent interactions. A crosslinked network is formed when multivalent molecules with opposite charges attract each other electrostatically to form a crosslinked polymer network.

[0128] Ionic crosslinking gelling agents may include low-acyl gellan gum, pectin, κ-carrageenan, ι-carrageenan, or alginate. Ionic crosslinking gelling agents may preferably include low-acyl gellan gum.

[0129] The gel composition may include an ionic crosslinking gelling agent in the range of about 0.3% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the composition includes an ionic crosslinking gelling agent in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the composition includes an ionic crosslinking gelling agent in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0130] The gel composition may include a low-acyl gellan gum in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the low-acyl gellan gum may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the low-acyl gellan gum may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the low-acyl gellan gum may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0131] The gel composition may include pectin in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the pectin may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the pectin may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the pectin may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0132] The gel composition may include κ-carrageenan in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, κ-carrageenan may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, κ-carrageenan may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, κ-carrageenan may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0133] The gel composition may include 1-carrageenan in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, 1-carrageenan may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, 1-carrageenan may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, 1-carrageenan may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0134] The gel composition may include alginate in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the alginate may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the alginate may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the alginate may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0135] The gel composition may comprise a hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agent and an ionic crosslinking gelling agent in a ratio of about 3:1 to about 1:3. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise a hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agent and an ionic crosslinking gelling agent in a ratio of about 2:1 to about 1:2. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise a hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agent and an ionic crosslinking gelling agent in a ratio of about 1:1.

[0136] The gel composition may also include a thickener. Thickeners combined with hydrogen-bonded crosslinking gelling agents and ionic crosslinking gelling agents appear to unexpectedly support the solid medium and maintain the gel composition, even when the gel composition includes high levels of glycerol.

[0137] The term "thickening agent" refers to a compound that, when homogenized in an amount of 0.3% by weight at 25°C, increases viscosity without causing gel formation, and the mixture retains or preserves fluidity. Preferably, the thickening agent refers to a compound that, when homogenized in an amount of 0.3% by weight at 25°C, increases viscosity at a rate of 0.1s... -1 The shear rate increases the viscosity to at least 50 cPs, preferably at least 200 cPs, preferably at least 500 cPs, preferably at least 1000 cPs, without causing gel formation, and the mixture retains or preserves fluidity. Preferably, the thickener refers to a compound that, when homogeneously added in an amount of 0.3 wt% to a mixture of 50 wt% water / 50 wt% glycerol at 25°C, increases the viscosity at a rate of 0.1 s⁻¹. -1 The shear rate causes the viscosity to increase by at least 2, 5, 10, or 100 times compared to before addition, without causing gel formation, the mixture retains or preserves the fluidity of the compound.

[0138] The viscosity values ​​described herein can be measured using a Brookfield RVT viscometer at 25°C by rotating the disc-type RV#2 spindle at a speed of 6 revolutions per minute (rpm).

[0139] The gel composition preferably includes a tackifier in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the composition includes a tackifier in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the composition includes a tackifier in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the composition includes a tackifier in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0140] The thickener may include one or more of xanthan gum, carboxymethyl cellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, methyl cellulose, gum arabic, guar gum, λ-carrageenan, or starch. Xanthan gum is a preferred thickener.

[0141] The gel composition may include xanthan gum in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, xanthan gum may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, xanthan gum may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, xanthan gum may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0142] The gel composition may include carboxymethyl cellulose in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the carboxymethyl cellulose may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the carboxymethyl cellulose may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the carboxymethyl cellulose may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0143] The gel composition may include microcrystalline cellulose in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the microcrystalline cellulose may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the microcrystalline cellulose may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the microcrystalline cellulose may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0144] The gel composition may include methylcellulose in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the methylcellulose may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the methylcellulose may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the methylcellulose may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0145] The gel composition may include gum arabic in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, gum arabic may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, gum arabic may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, gum arabic may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0146] The gel composition may include guar gum in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the guar gum may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the guar gum may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the guar gum may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0147] The gel composition may include λ-carrageenan in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, λ-carrageenan may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, λ-carrageenan may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, λ-carrageenan may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0148] The gel composition may include starch in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the starch may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the starch may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the starch may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0149] The gel composition may also include divalent cations. Preferably, the divalent cations include calcium ions, such as calcium lactate in solution. For example, divalent cations (such as calcium ions) can help form a gel in a composition including a gelling agent such as an ionic crosslinking gelling agent. Ionic effects can aid gel formation. The divalent cations may be present in the gel composition in the range of about 0.1% by weight to about 1% by weight or about 0.5% by weight.

[0150] The gel composition may also include an acid. The acid may include a carboxylic acid. The carboxylic acid may include a ketone group. Preferably, the carboxylic acid may include a ketone group having less than about 10 carbon atoms, less than about 6 carbon atoms, or less than about 4 carbon atoms, such as levulinic acid or lactic acid. Preferably, the carboxylic acid has three carbon atoms (such as lactic acid). Lactic acid surprisingly improves the stability of the gel composition even more than similar carboxylic acids. Carboxylic acids can aid in gel formation. During storage, carboxylic acids can reduce changes in the concentration of alkaloid compounds in the gel composition. During storage, carboxylic acids can reduce changes in the concentration of nicotine in the gel composition.

[0151] The gel composition may include a carboxylic acid in the range of about 0.1 wt% to about 5 wt%. Preferably, the carboxylic acid may be in the range of about 0.5 wt% to about 3 wt%. Preferably, the carboxylic acid may be in the range of about 0.5 wt% to about 2 wt%. Preferably, the carboxylic acid may be in the range of about 1 wt% to about 2 wt%.

[0152] The gel composition may include lactic acid in the range of about 0.1% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the lactic acid may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the lactic acid may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the lactic acid may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0153] The gel composition may include levulinic acid in the range of about 0.1% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, levulinic acid may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, levulinic acid may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, levulinic acid may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0154] The gel composition preferably includes some water. When the gel composition includes some water, the gel composition is more stable. Preferably, the gel composition includes at least about 1% by weight, or at least about 2% by weight, or at least about 5% by weight of water. Preferably, the gel composition includes at least about 10% by weight or at least about 15% by weight of water.

[0155] Preferably, the gel composition comprises between about 8% and 32% by weight of water. Preferably, the gel composition comprises about 15% to about 25% by weight of water. Preferably, the gel composition comprises about 18% to about 22% by weight of water. Preferably, the gel composition comprises about 20% by weight of water.

[0156] Preferably, the aerosol generating matrix comprises a gel composition of between about 150 mg and about 350 mg.

[0157] Preferably, the aerosol generating matrix comprises a porous medium carrying the gel composition. The advantage of a porous medium carrying the gel composition is that the gel composition is retained within the porous medium, which facilitates the manufacture, storage, or transport of the gel composition. It helps maintain the desired shape of the gel composition, particularly during manufacture, transport, or use.

[0158] The porous medium can be any suitable porous material capable of containing or retaining the gel composition. Ideally, the porous medium allows the gel composition to move within it. In certain embodiments, the porous medium includes natural materials, synthetic or semi-synthetic materials, or combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, the porous medium includes sheet materials, foams, or fibers, such as loose fibers; or combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, the porous medium includes woven, nonwoven, or extruded materials, or combinations thereof. Preferably, the porous medium includes cotton, paper, viscose fibers, PLA, or cellulose acetate, or combinations thereof. Preferably, the porous medium includes sheet materials, such as cotton or cellulose acetate. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the porous medium includes a sheet made of cotton fibers.

[0159] The porous medium used in this invention can be coiled or shredded. In a preferred embodiment, the porous medium is coiled. In an alternative embodiment, the porous medium comprises shredded porous medium. The coiling or shredding process can be performed before or after loading the gel composition.

[0160] Curling the sheet material has the benefit of improving the structure to allow pathways through it. The passages through the curled sheet material help load and retain the gel, and also facilitate fluid flow through the curled sheet material. Therefore, using curled sheet materials as porous media has advantages.

[0161] Chopping allows for easy absorption of the gel due to the high surface area to volume ratio of the culture medium.

[0162] In certain embodiments, the sheet is a composite material. Preferably, the sheet is porous. The sheet can aid in the fabrication of tubular elements comprising a gel. The sheet can aid in the introduction of surfactants into tubular elements comprising a gel. The sheet can help stabilize the structure of tubular elements comprising a gel. The sheet can aid in the transport or storage of the gel. Using the sheet can enable or facilitate the addition of structures to porous media, for example, by curling the sheet.

[0163] The porous medium can be a thread. This thread can include, for example, cotton, paper, or acetate filaments. The thread can also carry a gel, as with any other porous medium. An advantage of using threads as a porous medium is that it facilitates manufacturing.

[0164] The filament can be loaded with gel by any known method. The filament can be simply coated with gel, or it can be impregnated with gel. In manufacturing, the filament can be impregnated with gel and stored in preparation for inclusion in the assembly of tubular elements.

[0165] The porous medium containing the gel composition is preferably disposed within a tubular element that forms part of an aerosol-generating article. The term "tubular element" is used to describe a component suitable for an aerosol-generating article. Ideally, the longitudinal length of the tubular element may be longer than its width, but this is not necessary, as it can be part of a multi-component article where its longitudinal length is ideally longer than its width. Typically, the tubular element is cylindrical, but this is not mandatory. For example, the tubular element may have an elliptical, triangular, or rectangular polygonal or irregular cross-section.

[0166] The tubular element preferably includes a first longitudinal passage. The tubular element is preferably formed from packaging that defines the first longitudinal passage. The packaging is preferably waterproof. This waterproof property of the packaging can be achieved by using a waterproof material or by treating the material of the packaging. This can be achieved by treating one or both sides of the packaging. Water resistance helps to maintain structure, rigidity, or stiffness. This can also help prevent leakage of gels or liquids, especially when using gels with fluid structures.

[0167] In some embodiments, the strip of the aerosol generating matrix further includes a receptor element disposed within the aerosol generating matrix. In practice, in some embodiments of the aerosol generating article according to the invention, the receptor element, such as an elongated receptor, is disposed substantially within the strip of the aerosol generating matrix such that the receptor element is in thermal contact with the aerosol generating matrix.

[0168] As used herein with reference to this invention, 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 heating of the receptor. When an elongated receptor is in thermal contact with an aerosol-generating matrix, the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​heated by the receptor.

[0169] Preferably, the receptor element is in the form of an elongated receptor. When used to describe a receptor, the term "elongated" means that the length dimension of the receptor is greater than its width dimension or its thickness dimension, for example, more than twice its width dimension or its thickness dimension.

[0170] The elongated receptors are preferably arranged substantially longitudinally within the strip. This means that the length dimension of the elongated receptors is arranged approximately parallel to the longitudinal direction of the strip, for example, within + / - 10 degrees parallel to the longitudinal direction of the strip. In a preferred embodiment, the elongated receptors may be located at the radial center within the strip and extend along the longitudinal axis of the strip.

[0171] Preferably, the elongated receptor extends to the downstream end of the strip of the aerosol-generating article. In some embodiments, the receptor may extend to the upstream end of the strip of the aerosol-generating article. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the receptor has substantially the same length as the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix and extends from the upstream end of the strip to the downstream end of the strip.

[0172] The receptor is preferably in the form of a needle, strip, band or blade.

[0173] The receptor preferably has a length of about 5 mm to about 15 mm, for example about 6 mm to about 12 mm or about 8 mm to about 10 mm.

[0174] The ratio between the length of the receptor and the total length of the aerosol-generated article can be from about 0.2 to about 0.35.

[0175] In some embodiments, the ratio between the length of the receptor and the overall length of the aerosol-generating article is at least about 0.22, more preferably at least about 0.24, and even more preferably at least about 0.26. The ratio between the length of the receptor and the overall length of the aerosol-generating article is preferably less than about 0.34, more preferably less than about 0.32, and even more preferably less than about 0.3. In other embodiments, the ratio between the length of the receptor and the overall length of the aerosol-generating article is preferably from about 0.22 to about 0.34, more preferably from about 0.24 to about 0.34, and even more preferably from about 0.26 to about 0.34. In a further embodiment, the ratio between the length of the receptor and the overall length of the aerosol-generating article is preferably from about 0.22 to about 0.32, more preferably from about 0.24 to about 0.32, and even more preferably from about 0.26 to about 0.32. In a further embodiment, the ratio between the length of the receptor and the overall length of the aerosol-generating article is preferably from about 0.22 to about 0.3, more preferably from about 0.24 to about 0.3, and even more preferably from about 0.26 to about 0.3.

[0176] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the receptor and the total length of the aerosol-generated article is about 0.27.

[0177] The receptor preferably has a width of about 1 mm to about 5 mm.

[0178] The receptor may have a thickness of approximately 0.01 mm to approximately 2 mm, for example, approximately 0.5 mm to approximately 2 mm. In some embodiments, the receptor preferably has a thickness of approximately 10 micrometers to approximately 500 micrometers, more preferably approximately 10 micrometers to approximately 100 micrometers.

[0179] If the receptor has a constant cross-section, such as a circular cross-section, then it preferably has a width or diameter of about 1 mm to about 5 mm.

[0180] If the receptor is in the form of a strip or leaf, the strip or leaf is preferably rectangular in shape, and the rectangular shape has a width of preferably about 2 mm to about 8 mm, more preferably about 3 mm to about 5 mm. For example, a receptor in the form of a strip or leaf may have a width of about 4 mm.

[0181] If the receptor is in the form of a strip or leaf, the strip or leaf preferably has a rectangular shape and a thickness of about 0.03 mm to about 0.15 mm, more preferably about 0.05 mm to about 0.09 mm. For example, a receptor in the form of a strip or leaf may have a thickness of about 0.07 mm.

[0182] In a preferred embodiment, the elongated receptor is provided in the form of a strip or leaf, preferably having a rectangular shape and a thickness of about 55 micrometers to about 65 micrometers.

[0183] More preferably, the elongated receptor has a thickness of about 57 micrometers to about 63 micrometers. Even more preferably, the elongated receptor has a thickness of about 58 micrometers to about 62 micrometers. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the elongated receptor has a thickness of about 60 micrometers.

[0184] Without being bound by theory, the inventors believe that, in general, the selection of a given thickness of the receptor is also influenced by constraints set by the selected length and width of the receptor and the geometry and dimensions of the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix. For example, it is preferable to select the length of the receptor to match the length of the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix. Preferably, the width of the receptor should be selected to prevent displacement of the receptor within the matrix, while also allowing for easy insertion during manufacturing.

[0185] The inventors have discovered that it is advantageously possible, in a particularly effective and efficient manner, to generate and distribute heat throughout the aerosol-generating matrix in a sensor having a thickness within the aforementioned range, for use in supplying induction heating during use. Without wishing to be bound by theory, the inventors believe this is because such a sensor is suited to providing optimal heat generation and transfer by means of the sensor surface area and induction power. In contrast, thinner sensors may be too easily deformed and may not be able to maintain the desired shape and orientation within the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix during the manufacture of the aerosol-generating article, potentially leading to a less uniform and finely tunable heat distribution during use. Simultaneously, thicker sensors may be more difficult to cut to a precise and consistent length, and this may also affect how precisely longitudinally aligned sensors can be provided within the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix, thus potentially affecting the uniformity of heat distribution within the strip. These advantageous effects are felt particularly when the sensor extends to the downstream end of the strip of the aerosol-generating article. This is believed to be because the suction resistance (RTD) downstream of the receptor can be substantially minimized, since there is no aerosol-generating matrix within the strip at the downstream location of the receptor that could contribute to the RTD. This is particularly effectively achieved in embodiments in which the aerosol-generating article comprises a downstream section containing a hollow intermediate section. Such a hollow intermediate section substantially does not contribute to the overall RTD of the aerosol-generating article and does not directly contact the downstream end of the receptor.

[0186] Not wanting to be bound by theory, the inventors believe that the downstream portion of the aerosol generating matrix strip can, to some extent, act as a filter for the upstream portion of the aerosol generating matrix strip. Therefore, the inventors believe it is desirable to also uniformly heat the downstream portion of the aerosol generating matrix strip, enabling it to actively participate in the release of volatile aerosols and contribute to overall aerosol generation and delivery, and any potential filtration effect—which might hinder aerosol delivery to consumers—will be actively offset by the release of volatile aerosols throughout the aerosol generating matrix.

[0187] Preferably, the elongated receptor has a length that is the same as or shorter than the length of the aerosol-generating matrix. Preferably, the elongated receptor has the same length as the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0188] The receptor can be formed from any material capable of being inductively heated to a temperature sufficient to generate aerosols from the aerosol-generating matrix. Preferred receptors include metals or carbon.

[0189] Preferred sensors may comprise or be composed of ferromagnetic materials, such as ferromagnetic alloys, ferritic iron, ferromagnetic steel, or stainless steel. Suitable sensors may be aluminum or include aluminum. Preferred sensors may be made of 400 series stainless steel, such as grade 410, 420, or 430 stainless steel. Different materials will consume different amounts of energy when positioned within an electromagnetic field with similar frequency and field strength.

[0190] Therefore, the parameters of the sensor, such as material type, length, width, and thickness, can be varied within a known electromagnetic field to provide the required power consumption. Preferably, the sensor can be heated to temperatures exceeding 250 degrees Celsius.

[0191] Suitable receptors 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. 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 an inert metal on the core of the receptor material.

[0192] The receptor is arranged in thermal contact with the aerosol-generating matrix. Therefore, when the receptor heats up, the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​heated and forms an aerosol. Preferably, the receptor is arranged in direct physical contact with the aerosol-generating matrix, for example, within the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0193] The receptor can be a multi-material receptor and may include a first receptor material and a second receptor material. The first receptor material is disposed in close physical contact with the second receptor material. The second receptor material preferably has a Curie temperature below 500 degrees Celsius. The first receptor material is preferably primarily used to heat the receptor when it is placed in a fluctuating electromagnetic field. Any suitable material can be used. For example, the first receptor material may be aluminum, or it may be an iron-containing material, such as stainless steel. The second receptor material is preferably primarily used to indicate when the receptor has reached a specific temperature, which is the Curie temperature of the second receptor material. The Curie temperature of the second receptor material can be used to regulate the temperature of the entire receptor during operation. Therefore, the Curie temperature of the second receptor material should be below the ignition point of the aerosol-generating matrix. Suitable materials for the second receptor material may include nickel and certain nickel alloys.

[0194] By providing a sensor having at least first and second sensor materials, wherein the second sensor material has a Curie temperature and the first sensor material does not have a Curie temperature, or the first and second sensor materials have first and second Curie temperatures different from each other, the heating of the aerosol generating matrix and the temperature control of the heating can be separated. The first sensor material is preferably a magnetic material having a Curie temperature of 500 degrees Celsius or higher. From the viewpoint of heating efficiency, it is desirable that the Curie temperature of the first sensor material is above any maximum temperature to which the sensor should be heated. The second Curie temperature can preferably be selected as below 400 degrees Celsius, more preferably below 380 degrees Celsius, or below 360 degrees Celsius. Preferably, the second sensor material is a selected magnetic material having a second Curie temperature substantially the same as the desired maximum heating temperature. That is, preferably, the second Curie temperature is substantially the same as the temperature to which the sensor should be heated in order to generate aerosols from the aerosol generating matrix. The second Curie temperature can, for example, be in the range of 200 degrees Celsius to 400 degrees Celsius, or between 250 degrees Celsius and 360 degrees Celsius. The second Curie temperature of the second receptor material can be selected, for example, such that after being heated by a receptor at a temperature equal to the second Curie temperature, the overall average temperature of the aerosol-generating matrix does not exceed 240 degrees Celsius.

[0195] As briefly described above, in the aerosol-generating article according to the invention, the packaging material surrounding at least the strip of aerosol-generating matrix contains a flame retardant composition. In practice, the packaging material surrounding at least the strip of aerosol-generating matrix comprises a packaging base material and the flame retardant composition is applied to the packaging base material or the packaging base material is impregnated with the flame retardant composition, or both.

[0196] As used herein, the term "flame retardant composition" refers to a composition comprising one or more flame retardant compounds.

[0197] The term "flame retardant compound" is used herein to describe compounds that, when added to or otherwise incorporated into a matrix such as a paper or plastic compound, provide the matrix with varying degrees of flammability protection. In practice, flame retardant compounds can be activated in the presence of an ignition source and are adapted to prevent or slow the further development of ignition through a variety of different physical and chemical mechanisms.

[0198] Flame retardant compositions may also contain one or more non-flame retardant compounds, i.e., one or more compounds—such as solvents, excipients, fillers—that do not actively contribute to providing flammability protection to the substrate, but are used to promote the application of one or more flame retardant compounds to or into the packaging, or to both the packaging and the packaging simultaneously.

[0199] Some non-flame retardant compounds in the flame retardant composition—such as solvents—are volatile and may evaporate from the packaging during drying after the flame retardant composition has been applied to or into the packaging base material, or both. Therefore, although such non-flame retardant compounds form part of the formulation of the flame retardant composition, they may no longer be present in the packaging of the aerosol-generating article according to the invention, or they may only be detectable in trace amounts.

[0200] To incorporate a flame retardant composition into paper-based or polymer-based packaging, the flame retardant composition can be added to the pulp or polymer mixture during the packaging manufacturing process, or added to the packaging at a later stage through an application process based on sizing, pressing, spraying, printing, coating, etc. The flame retardant composition can be applied, for example, as a coating to one side or both sides of the packaging.

[0201] Many suitable flame retardant compounds are known. Some flame retardant compounds, such as mineral flame retardants, primarily act as additive flame retardants without chemically binding to the surrounding system. Most organohalogen and organophosphate compounds also do not permanently react and bind themselves to their surrounding environment. Reactive flame retardant compounds, such as certain non-halogenated products, are reactive because they integrate into the surrounding system without losing their flame-retardant efficiency. This makes these materials advantageously non-entering the environment.

[0202] The packaging base material of the package that at least surrounds the aerosol-generating matrix can be a paper packaging base material or a non-paper packaging base material. In a preferred embodiment, the packaging base material of the package that at least surrounds the aerosol-generating matrix includes paper. Suitable paper packaging base materials for specific embodiments of the invention are known in the art and include, but are not limited to: cigarette paper; and filter tip packaging. Suitable non-paper packaging base materials for specific embodiments of the invention are known in the art and include, but are not limited to, sheets of homogenized tobacco material and sheets of certain polymer materials. In some embodiments, the packaging base material may be formed of a laminate comprising multiple layers.

[0203] For example, the packaging base material may have a basis weight of at least about 20 grams per square meter. Preferably, the packaging base material has a basis weight of at least about 25 grams per square meter. More preferably, the packaging base material has a basis weight of at least about 30 grams per square meter. Even more preferably, the packaging base material has a basis weight of at least about 40 grams per square meter or at least about 50 grams per square meter. In some embodiments, the packaging base material has a basis weight of at least about 70 grams per square meter.

[0204] The packaging base material may have a basis weight of up to about 220 g / m². Preferably, the packaging base material has a basis weight of less than or equal to about 200 g / m². More preferably, the packaging base material has a basis weight of less than or equal to about 180 g / m². Even more preferably, the packaging base material has a basis weight of less than or equal to about 160 g / m².

[0205] In a preferred embodiment, the packaging base material has a basis weight of less than or equal to about 150 g / m², preferably less than or equal to about 140 g / m², even more preferably less than or equal to about 130 g / m², and most preferably less than or equal to about 120 g / m².

[0206] In some embodiments, the packaging base material may have a basis weight of about 30 g / m² to about 220 g / m², preferably about 40 g / m² to about 220 g / m², more preferably about 50 g / m² to about 220 g / m², and even more preferably about 60 g / m² to about 220 g / m². In other embodiments, the packaging base material may have a basis weight of about 30 g / m² to about 200 g / m², preferably about 40 g / m² to about 200 g / m², more preferably about 50 g / m² to about 200 g / m², and even more preferably about 60 g / m² to about 200 g / m². In a further embodiment, the packaging base material may have a basis weight of about 30 g / m² to about 180 g / m², preferably about 40 g / m² to about 180 g / m², more preferably about 50 g / m² to about 180 g / m², and even more preferably about 60 g / m² to about 180 g / m². In other embodiments, the packaging base material may have a basis weight of about 30 g / m² to about 160 g / m², preferably about 40 g / m² to about 160 g / m², more preferably about 50 g / m² to about 160 g / m², and even more preferably about 60 g / m² to about 160 g / m².

[0207] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the packaging base material may have a basis weight of about 70 g / m² to about 110 g / m², more preferably about 80 g / m² to about 110 g / m². In an even more preferred embodiment, the packaging base material may have a basis weight of about 70 g / m² to about 100 g / m², even more preferably about 80 g / m² to about 100 g / m².

[0208] In other embodiments, the packaging base material may have a basis weight of about 20 g / m² to about 120 g / m², preferably about 25 g / m² to about 120 g / m², more preferably about 30 g / m² to about 120 g / m², even more preferably about 40 g / m² to about 120 g / m², and most preferably about 50 g / m² to about 120 g / m². In a further embodiment, the packaging base material may have a basis weight of about 20 g / m² to about 100 g / m², preferably about 25 g / m² to about 100 g / m², more preferably about 30 g / m² to about 100 g / m², even more preferably about 40 g / m² to about 100 g / m², and most preferably about 50 g / m² to about 100 g / m². In a further embodiment, the packaging base material may have a basis weight of about 20 g / m² to about 80 g / m², preferably about 25 g / m² to about 80 g / m², more preferably about 30 g / m² to about 80 g / m², even more preferably about 40 g / m² to about 80 g / m², and most preferably about 50 g / m² to about 80 g / m². In an alternative embodiment, the packaging base material may have a basis weight of about 20 g / m² to about 70 g / m², preferably about 25 g / m² to about 70 g / m², more preferably about 30 g / m² to about 70 g / m², even more preferably about 40 g / m² to about 70 g / m², and most preferably about 50 g / m² to about 70 g / m².

[0209] In other embodiments, the packaging base material may have a basis weight of about 20 g / m² to about 50 g / m², preferably about 25 g / m² to about 50 g / m², more preferably about 30 g / m² to about 50 g / m², and even more preferably about 40 g / m² to about 50 g / m².

[0210] The packaging material surrounding at least the strip of aerosol-generating matrix has a total dry basis weight, which is the sum of the basis weight of the packaging base material and the weight of the flame retardant composition components present on or within the packaging base material, or simultaneously on or within the packaging base material. The weight of the flame retardant composition components present on or within the packaging material is the sum of the total weight of one or more flame retardant compounds and the weight of any residual non-flame retardant compounds. In the context of this invention, the weight of the flame retardant composition components is also expressed in grams per square meter of packaging base material.

[0211] The ratio of the total weight of one or more flame retardant compounds to the total dry basis weight of the packaging can be considered an indicator of the concentration of one or more flame retardant compounds in the packaging.

[0212] In the aerosol-generating article according to the invention, the ratio of the total weight of one or more flame retardant compounds to the total dry weight of the packaging is at least about 0.02. Preferably, the ratio of the total weight of one or more flame retardant compounds to the total dry weight of the packaging is at least about 0.03. More preferably, the ratio of the total weight of one or more flame retardant compounds to the total dry weight of the packaging is at least about 0.04. Even more preferably, the ratio of the total weight of one or more flame retardant compounds to the total dry weight of the packaging is at least about 0.05.

[0213] Preferably, the ratio of the total weight of one or more flame retardant compounds to the total dry weight of the packaging is less than or equal to about 0.20. More preferably, the ratio of the total weight of one or more flame retardant compounds to the total dry weight of the packaging is less than or equal to about 0.15. Even more preferably, the ratio of the total weight of one or more flame retardant compounds to the total dry weight of the packaging is less than or equal to about 0.10.

[0214] In some embodiments, the ratio of the total weight of one or more flame retardant compounds to the total dry weight of the packaging may be from about 0.02 to about 0.20, preferably from about 0.03 to about 0.20, more preferably from about 0.04 to about 0.20, and even more preferably from about 0.05 to about 0.20. In other embodiments, the ratio of the total weight of one or more flame retardant compounds to the total dry weight of the packaging may be from about 0.02 to about 0.15, preferably from about 0.03 to about 0.15, more preferably from about 0.04 to about 0.15, and even more preferably from about 0.05 to about 0.15. In a further embodiment, the ratio of the total weight of one or more flame retardant compounds to the total dry weight of the packaging may be from about 0.02 to about 0.10, preferably from about 0.03 to about 0.10, more preferably from about 0.04 to about 0.10, and even more preferably from about 0.05 to about 0.10.

[0215] In the aerosol-generating article according to the invention, a flame retardant composition is provided in the treated portion of the packaging. This means that the flame retardant composition has been applied to or into the corresponding portion of the packaging base material, or simultaneously applied to both the corresponding portion and the corresponding portion of the packaging base material. Therefore, in the treated portion, the packaging has a total dry basis weight greater than the dry basis weight of the packaging base material.

[0216] The treatment portion of the packaging extends over at least about 10% of the outer surface area of ​​the strip of aerosol-generating matrix surrounded by the packaging. Preferably, the treatment portion of the packaging extends over at least about 20% of the outer surface area of ​​the strip of aerosol-generating matrix surrounded by the packaging. More preferably, the treatment portion of the packaging extends over at least about 40% of the outer surface area of ​​the strip of aerosol-generating matrix. Even more preferably, the treatment portion of the packaging extends over at least about 60% of the outer surface area of ​​the strip of aerosol-generating matrix. Most preferably, the treatment portion of the packaging extends over at least about 80% of the outer surface area of ​​the strip of aerosol-generating matrix.

[0217] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the treatment portion of the packaging extends over at least about 90% of the outer surface area of ​​the strip of aerosol generating matrix. Even more preferably, the treatment portion of the packaging extends over at least about 95% of the outer surface area of ​​the strip of aerosol generating matrix. Most preferably, the treatment portion of the packaging extends substantially over the entire outer surface area of ​​the strip of aerosol generating matrix.

[0218] The length of the treatment region can be at least about 10% of the length of the aerosol-generating matrix strip. Preferably, the length of the treatment region is at least about 20% of the length of the aerosol-generating matrix strip. More preferably, the length of the treatment region is at least about 40% of the length of the aerosol-generating matrix strip. Even more preferably, the length of the treatment region is at least about 60% of the length of the aerosol-generating matrix strip. Most preferably, the length of the treatment region is at least about 80% of the length of the aerosol-generating matrix strip.

[0219] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the length of the treatment region is at least about 90% of the length of the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix. Even more preferably, the length of the treatment region is at least about 95% of the length of the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix. Most preferably, the length of the treatment region is substantially equal to the length of the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0220] At least about 10 grams of the flame retardant composition per square meter of treated surface area may be applied to the treated portion. Preferably, at least about 12 grams of the flame retardant composition per square meter of treated surface area may be applied to the treated portion. More preferably, at least about 14 grams of the flame retardant composition per square meter of treated surface area may be applied to the treated portion. Even more preferably, at least about 16 grams of the flame retardant composition per square meter of treated surface area may be applied to the treated portion. In a particularly preferred embodiment, at least about 18 grams or at least about 20 grams of the flame retardant composition per square meter of treated surface area may be applied to the treated portion.

[0221] Preferably, less than or equal to about 35 grams of flame retardant composition are applied to the treated portion per square meter of treated surface area. More preferably, less than or equal to about 30 grams of flame retardant composition are applied to the treated portion per square meter of treated surface area. Even more preferably, less than or equal to about 25 grams of flame retardant composition are applied to the treated portion per square meter of treated surface area.

[0222] In some embodiments, about 10 grams to about 35 grams of the flame retardant composition are applied to the treated portion per square meter of treated surface area. Preferably, about 12 grams to about 35 grams of the flame retardant composition are applied to the treated portion per square meter of treated surface area. More preferably, about 14 grams to about 35 grams of the flame retardant composition are applied to the treated portion per square meter of treated surface area. Even more preferably, about 16 grams to about 35 grams of the flame retardant composition are applied to the treated portion per square meter of treated surface area. In a particularly preferred embodiment, about 18 grams to about 35 grams or about 20 grams to about 35 grams of the flame retardant composition are applied to the treated portion per square meter of treated surface area.

[0223] In other embodiments, about 10 grams to about 30 grams of the flame retardant composition are applied to the treated portion per square meter of treated surface area. Preferably, about 12 grams to about 30 grams of the flame retardant composition are applied to the treated portion per square meter of treated surface area. More preferably, about 14 grams to about 30 grams of the flame retardant composition are applied to the treated portion per square meter of treated surface area. Even more preferably, about 16 grams to about 30 grams of the flame retardant composition are applied to the treated portion per square meter of treated surface area. In a particularly preferred embodiment, about 18 grams to about 30 grams or about 20 grams to about 30 grams of the flame retardant composition are applied to the treated portion per square meter of treated surface area.

[0224] In a further embodiment, about 10 grams to about 25 grams of the flame retardant composition are applied to the treated portion per square meter of treated surface area. Preferably, about 12 grams to about 25 grams of the flame retardant composition are applied to the treated portion per square meter of treated surface area. More preferably, about 14 grams to about 25 grams of the flame retardant composition are applied to the treated portion per square meter of treated surface area. Even more preferably, about 16 grams to about 25 grams of the flame retardant composition are applied to the treated portion per square meter of treated surface area. In a particularly preferred embodiment, about 18 grams to about 25 grams or about 20 grams to about 25 grams of the flame retardant composition are applied to the treated portion per square meter of treated surface area.

[0225] The treatment portion of the packaging may contain at least about 0.1 grams of one or more flame retardant compounds per square meter of the treatment portion surface area. Preferably, the treatment portion of the packaging contains at least about 0.5 grams of one or more flame retardant compounds per square meter of the treatment portion surface area. More preferably, the treatment portion of the packaging contains at least about 1.0 grams of one or more flame retardant compounds per square meter of the treatment portion surface area. Even more preferably, the treatment portion of the packaging contains at least about 2.0 grams of one or more flame retardant compounds per square meter of the treatment portion surface area. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the treatment portion of the packaging contains at least about 3.0 grams of one or more flame retardant compounds per square meter of the treatment portion surface area, or at least about 4.0 grams of one or more flame retardant compounds per square meter of the treatment portion surface area, or at least about 5.0 grams of one or more flame retardant compounds per square meter of the treatment portion surface area.

[0226] Preferably, the treated portion of the packaging contains one or more flame retardant compounds at a surface area of ​​less than or equal to about 12 grams per square meter of the treated portion. More preferably, the treated portion of the packaging contains one or more flame retardant compounds at a surface area of ​​less than or equal to about 10 grams per square meter of the treated portion. Even more preferably, the treated portion of the packaging contains one or more flame retardant compounds at a surface area of ​​less than or equal to about 8 grams per square meter of the treated portion.

[0227] In some embodiments, the treatment portion of the packaging contains one or more flame retardant compounds at a surface area of ​​about 0.5 grams to about 12 grams per square meter of the treatment portion, preferably at a surface area of ​​about 1.0 grams to about 12 grams per square meter of the treatment portion, more preferably at a surface area of ​​about 2.0 grams to about 12 grams per square meter of the treatment portion, and even more preferably at a surface area of ​​about 3.0 grams to about 12 grams per square meter of the treatment portion.

[0228] In other embodiments, the treatment portion of the packaging contains one or more flame retardant compounds at a surface area of ​​about 0.5 grams to about 10 grams per square meter of the treatment portion, preferably at a surface area of ​​about 1.0 grams to about 10 grams per square meter of the treatment portion, more preferably at a surface area of ​​about 2.0 grams to about 10 grams per square meter of the treatment portion, and even more preferably at a surface area of ​​about 3.0 grams to about 120 grams per square meter of the treatment portion.

[0229] In a further embodiment, the treatment portion of the packaging contains one or more flame retardant compounds at a surface area of ​​about 0.5 grams to about 8 grams per square meter of the treatment portion, preferably one or more flame retardant compounds at a surface area of ​​about 1.0 grams to about 12 grams per square meter of the treatment portion, more preferably one or more flame retardant compounds at a surface area of ​​about 2.0 grams to about 8 grams per square meter of the treatment portion, and even more preferably one or more flame retardant compounds at a surface area of ​​about 3.0 grams to about 8 grams per square meter of the treatment portion.

[0230] In the aerosol-generating article according to the invention, the content of one or more flame-retardant compounds in the treatment section is preferably such that the aerosol-generating article does not ignite when heated at 500 degrees Celsius using a resistance heating coil for at least 5 seconds, preferably 30 seconds. The term "non-ignitable" is used herein to specifically mean that combustion of the packaging surrounding the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​not ignited and no flame is detected.

[0231] Preferably, the aerosol-generating article according to the invention does not ignite when subjected to Health Canada's Intense regime, which includes a pre-ignition step using a resistance-heated coil and a suction method in which 55 ml is drawn at a time for 2 seconds every 30 seconds, wherein 100% of the ventilation area on the aerosol-generating article (if present) is blocked. Further details regarding the "smoking" parameter and standard test conditions are provided in ISO 3308:2000 (Common Analysis Smoking Machines—Definitions and Standard Conditions).

[0232] In some embodiments, the packaging comprises a packaging base material, and a layer comprising one or more flame retardant compounds is provided on the surface of the packaging base material facing the aerosol-generating matrix. In other embodiments, the packaging comprises a packaging base material, and a layer comprising one or more flame retardant compounds is provided on the surface of the packaging base material facing away from the aerosol-generating matrix. In a further embodiment, the packaging comprises a packaging base material, and layers comprising one or more flame retardant compounds are provided on both surfaces of the packaging base material.

[0233] Many suitable flame retardant compounds will be known to those skilled in the art. In particular, several flame retardant compounds and formulations suitable for treating cellulosic materials are known, and have been disclosed and can be used in the manufacture of packaging for aerosol-generating articles according to the invention.

[0234] In some embodiments, the flame retardant composition comprises a polymer and a mixed salt, said mixed salt being based on at least one monocarboxylic acid, dicarboxylic acid and / or tricarboxylic acid, at least one polyphosphate, pyrophosphate and / or phosphoric acid, and an alkali metal or alkaline earth metal hydroxide or salt, wherein said at least one monocarboxylic acid, dicarboxylic acid and / or tricarboxylic acid forms a carboxylate with said hydroxide or salt, and said at least one polyphosphate, pyrophosphate and / or phosphoric acid forms a phosphate with said hydroxide or salt.

[0235] Preferably, in such embodiments, the flame retardant composition further comprises an alkali metal or alkaline earth metal carbonate.

[0236] In other embodiments, the flame retardant composition comprises at least one C 10 Or higher fatty acids, tall oil fatty acids (TOFA), phosphorylated linseed oil, or cellulose modified from phosphorylated downstream corn oil. Preferably, the at least one C 10 Or higher fatty acids are selected from decanoic acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid and combinations thereof.

[0237] As briefly described above, the aerosol generating article of the present invention further includes a downstream section located downstream of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix. The downstream section may include one or more downstream elements.

[0238] According to the present invention, the downstream section of the aerosol generating article may specifically include a mouthpiece element positioned downstream of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix and longitudinally aligned with the strip of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0239] Preferably, the mouthpiece element is located at the downstream end or mouth end of the aerosol generating article and extends all the way to the mouth end of the aerosol generating article.

[0240] Preferably, the mouthpiece element includes at least one mouthpiece filter segment of a fibrous filter material for filtering aerosols generated from the aerosol generating matrix. Suitable fibrous filter materials will be known to those skilled in the art. Particularly preferably, at least one mouthpiece filter segment comprises a cellulose acetate filter segment formed from cellulose acetate tow.

[0241] In some preferred embodiments, the mouthpiece element comprises a single mouthpiece filter segment. In alternative embodiments, the mouthpiece element includes two or more mouthpiece filter segments aligned axially with each other in an adjacent-end-to-end relationship.

[0242] In some embodiments of the invention, the downstream section may include an end cavity at a downstream end of the mouthpiece element as described above. The end cavity may be defined by a hollow tubular element located at the downstream end of the mouthpiece. Alternatively, the end cavity may be defined by an outer casing of the mouthpiece element, wherein the outer casing extends from the mouthpiece element in a downstream direction.

[0243] The mouthpiece element may optionally include a flavoring agent, which may be provided in any suitable form. For example, the mouthpiece element may include one or more capsules, beads or granules of flavoring agent, or one or more strands or filaments carrying flavoring.

[0244] In some preferred embodiments, the downstream section of the aerosol-generating article further includes a support element located immediately downstream of the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix. The mouthpiece element is preferably located downstream of the support element.

[0245] 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. Other suitable materials include polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) fibers.

[0246] The support element may include a first hollow tubular segment. In a preferred embodiment, the support element includes a hollow cellulose acetate tube.

[0247] The support element is substantially arranged to align with the strip. This means that the length dimension of the support element is arranged approximately parallel to the longitudinal direction of the strip and the article, for example, within + / - 10 degrees parallel to the longitudinal direction of the strip. In a preferred embodiment, the support element extends along the longitudinal axis of the strip.

[0248] Preferably, the outer diameter of the support element is approximately equal to the outer diameter of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix and the outer diameter of the aerosol generating article.

[0249] The peripheral wall of the support element may have a thickness of at least 1 mm, preferably at least about 1.5 mm, and more preferably at least about 2 mm.

[0250] The support element may have a length between approximately 5 mm and approximately 15 mm.

[0251] Preferably, the support element has a length of at least about 6 mm, more preferably at least about 7 mm.

[0252] In a preferred embodiment, the support element has a length of less than about 12 mm, more preferably less than about 10 mm.

[0253] In some embodiments, the support element has a length of about 5 mm to about 15 mm, preferably about 6 mm to about 15 mm, and more preferably about 7 mm to about 15 mm. In other embodiments, the support element has a length of about 5 mm to about 12 mm, preferably about 6 mm to about 12 mm, and more preferably about 7 mm to about 12 mm. In yet another embodiment, the support element has a length of about 5 mm to about 10 mm, preferably about 6 mm to about 10 mm, and more preferably about 7 mm to about 10 mm.

[0254] In a preferred embodiment, the support element has a length of approximately 8 mm.

[0255] In some embodiments, the downstream section further includes an aerosol cooling element located immediately downstream of the support element. The mouthpiece element is preferably located downstream of both the support element and the aerosol cooling element. Particularly preferably, the mouthpiece element is located immediately downstream of the aerosol cooling element. For example, the mouthpiece element may be adjacent to the downstream end of the aerosol cooling element.

[0256] The aerosol cooling elements are substantially aligned with the strip. This means that the length of the aerosol cooling elements is arranged approximately parallel to the longitudinal direction of the strip and the article, for example, within + / - 10 degrees parallel to the longitudinal direction of the strip. In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol cooling elements extend along the longitudinal axis of the strip.

[0257] Preferably, the outer diameter of the aerosol cooling element is approximately equal to the outer diameter of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix and the outer diameter of the aerosol generating article.

[0258] In some embodiments, the aerosol cooling element is in the form of a hollow tubular segment that defines a cavity extending from an upstream end of the aerosol cooling element to a downstream end of the aerosol cooling element, and a ventilation zone is provided along the location of the hollow tubular segment.

[0259] As used herein, the term "hollow tubular segment" is used to refer to a generally elongated element that defines an internal cavity or airflow passage along its longitudinal axis. Specifically, the term "tubular" will be used below to refer to a tubular element having a generally cylindrical cross-section and defining at least one airflow conduit that establishes uninterrupted fluid communication between an upstream end and a downstream end of the tubular element. However, it should be understood that alternative geometries (e.g., alternative cross-sectional shapes) of the tubular element may be possible.

[0260] The hollow tubular section provides an unrestricted flow path. This means that the hollow tubular section provides a negligible level of suction resistance (RTD). Therefore, the flow path should not contain any components that would impede the flow of air in the longitudinal direction. Preferably, the flow path is substantially empty.

[0261] When used to describe aerosol cooling elements, the term "elongated" means that the aerosol cooling element has a length dimension greater than its width dimension or its diameter dimension, for example, twice or more of its width dimension or its diameter dimension.

[0262] The peripheral wall of the aerosol cooling element may have a thickness of less than about 2.5 mm, preferably less than about 1.5 mm, more preferably less than about 1250 micrometers, and even more preferably less than about 1000 micrometers. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the peripheral wall of the aerosol cooling element has a thickness of less than about 900 micrometers, preferably less than about 800 micrometers.

[0263] Aerosol cooling elements can have a length between 5 mm and 15 mm.

[0264] Preferably, the aerosol cooling element has a length of at least about 6 mm, more preferably at least about 7 mm.

[0265] In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol cooling element has a length of less than about 12 mm, more preferably less than about 10 mm.

[0266] In some embodiments, the aerosol cooling element has a length of about 5 mm to about 15 mm, preferably about 6 mm to about 15 mm, and more preferably about 7 mm to about 15 mm. In other embodiments, the aerosol cooling element has a length of about 5 mm to about 12 mm, preferably about 6 mm to about 12 mm, and more preferably about 7 mm to about 12 mm. In a further embodiment, the aerosol cooling element has a length of about 5 mm to about 10 mm, preferably about 6 mm to about 10 mm, and more preferably about 7 mm to about 10 mm.

[0267] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the aerosol cooling element has a length of less than 10 mm. For example, in one particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol cooling element has a length of 8 mm. In such embodiments, the aerosol cooling element thus has a relatively short length compared to aerosol cooling elements of prior art aerosol-generating articles. The reduction in the length of the aerosol cooling element is possible due to the optimized effectiveness of the hollow tubular segment forming the aerosol cooling element in the cooling and nucleation of the aerosol. The reduction in the length of the aerosol cooling element advantageously reduces the risk of deformation of the aerosol-generating article due to compression during use, as the aerosol cooling element typically has lower deformation resistance than a mouthpiece. Furthermore, reducing the length of the aerosol cooling element can provide cost benefits to the manufacturer, as the cost per unit length of the hollow tubular segment is typically higher than that of other components such as mouthpiece elements.

[0268] The ratio between the length of the aerosol cooling element and the length of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix can be from about 0.25 to about 1.

[0269] Aerosol cooling elements can be formed from any suitable material or combination of materials. For example, aerosol cooling elements can be formed from one or more materials selected from the group consisting of: cellulose acetate, cardboard, curled paper such as curled heat-resistant paper or curled parchment, and polymeric materials such as low-density polyethylene (LDPE). Other suitable materials include polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) fibers.

[0270] In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol cooling element is formed of cellulose acetate.

[0271] The ventilation zone includes multiple perforations through the peripheral wall of the aerosol cooling element. Preferably, the ventilation zone includes at least one row of circumferential perforations. In some embodiments, the ventilation zone may include two rows of circumferential perforations. For example, the perforations may be formed on the production line during the manufacture of the aerosol-generated article. Preferably, each row of circumferential perforations includes 8 to 30 perforations.

[0272] The aerosol-generating articles according to the present invention can have a ventilation level of at least about 5%.

[0273] Throughout this specification, the term "ventilation level" is used to refer to the volume ratio of the airflow entering the aerosol-generating article via a ventilated zone (ventilation airflow) to the sum of the aerosol airflow and the ventilation airflow. A higher ventilation level results in a higher dilution of the aerosol stream delivered to the consumer.

[0274] Preferably, the aerosol generating article according to the invention may have a ventilation level of at least about 10%, more preferably at least about 15%, and even more preferably at least about 20%. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol generating article according to the invention has a ventilation level of at least about 25%. Without wishing to be bound by theory, the inventors have found that the temperature drop caused by cooler external air entering the hollow tubular section through the ventilation zone can have a favorable effect on the nucleation and growth of aerosol particles. The rapid cooling caused by external air entering the hollow tubular section through the ventilation zone can advantageously promote the nucleation and growth of aerosol droplets. However, at the same time, the entry of external air into the hollow tubular section has the direct disadvantage of diluting the aerosol stream delivered to the consumer. The inventors have surprisingly found that when the ventilation level is within the above-mentioned range, the dilution effect on the aerosol (which can be assessed, in particular, by measuring the effect on the delivery of aerosol forming agents (such as glycerol) included in the aerosol generating matrix) is advantageously minimized.

[0275] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating article may further include an additional cooling element that defines a plurality of longitudinally extending channels to allow a high surface area to be used for heat exchange. In other words, one such additional cooling element is adapted to essentially function as a heat exchanger. The plurality of longitudinally extending channels may be defined by a sheet material that has been pleated, gathered, or folded to form the channels. Alternatively, the plurality of longitudinally extending channels may be defined by a single sheet that has been pleated, gathered, and folded to form the plurality of channels. The sheet may have been rolled up prior to pleating, gathering, or folding. Alternatively, the plurality of longitudinally extending channels may be defined by multiple sheets that have been rolled up, pleated, gathered, or folded together to form the plurality of channels. In some embodiments, the plurality of longitudinally extending channels may be defined by multiple sheets that have been rolled up, pleated, gathered, or folded together, i.e., by two or more sheets that have been incorporated into the overlay arrangement and then rolled up, pleated, gathered, or folded into one. As used herein, the term "sheet" refers to a layered element having a width and a length significantly greater than its thickness.

[0276] In other embodiments, the aerosol cooling element may be provided as a single cooling element comprising a plurality of longitudinally extending channels.

[0277] One such additional cooling element is defined and may have a total surface area between approximately 300 square millimeters per millimeter of length and approximately 1000 square millimeters per millimeter of length.

[0278] The additional cooling element preferably comprises a sheet material selected from metal foil, polymer sheets, and substantially non-porous paper or cardboard. In some embodiments, the aerosol cooling element may comprise a sheet material 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. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the additional cooling element comprises a sheet of PLA.

[0279] The aerosol generating matrix may also include an upstream section located upstream of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix. The upstream section may include one or more upstream elements. In some embodiments, the upstream section may include an upstream element disposed immediately upstream of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0280] Preferably, the aerosol-generating article of the present invention may include an upstream element located upstream of and adjacent to the aerosol-generating matrix, wherein the upstream section includes at least one upstream element. The upstream element advantageously prevents direct physical contact with the upstream end of the aerosol-generating matrix. In particular, where the aerosol-generating matrix includes receptor elements, the upstream element prevents direct physical contact with the upstream end of the receptor elements. This helps prevent displacement or deformation of the receptor elements during handling or transport of the aerosol-generating article. This, in turn, helps to maintain the shape and position of the receptor elements. Furthermore, the presence of the upstream element helps prevent any loss of the matrix.

[0281] Upstream components can also provide an improved appearance for the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article. Furthermore, if desired, upstream components can be used to provide information about the aerosol-generating article, such as the brand, flavor, contents, or details of the aerosol-generating apparatus to which the article is intended to be used.

[0282] The upstream element may be a porous rod element. Preferably, the porous rod element does not alter the suction resistance of the aerosol-generating article. Preferably, the upstream element has at least about 50% porosity in the longitudinal direction of the aerosol-generating article. More preferably, the upstream element has between about 50% and about 90% porosity in the longitudinal direction. The porosity of the upstream element in the longitudinal direction is defined by the ratio of the cross-sectional area of ​​the material forming the upstream element to the internal cross-sectional area of ​​the aerosol-generating article at the location of the upstream element.

[0283] The upstream element may be made of a porous material or may include multiple openings. For example, this can be achieved by laser perforation. Preferably, the multiple openings are homogeneously distributed across the cross-section of the upstream element.

[0284] The porosity or permeability of upstream components can be advantageously varied in order to provide the desired overall suction resistance for aerosol-generated articles.

[0285] Preferably, the RTD of the upstream element is at least about 5 mm H2O. More preferably, the RTD of the upstream element is at least about 10 mm H2O. Even more preferably, the RTD of the upstream element is at least about 15 mm H2O. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the RTD of the upstream element is at least about 20 mm H2O.

[0286] The RTD of the upstream element is preferably less than or equal to about 80 mmH2O. More preferably, the RTD of the upstream element is less than or equal to about 60 mmH2O. Even more preferably, the RTD of the upstream element is less than or equal to about 40 mmH2O.

[0287] In an alternative embodiment, the upstream element may be formed of an air-impermeable material. In such embodiments, the aerosol-generating article may be configured to allow air to flow into the strips of the aerosol-generating matrix through a suitable ventilation device disposed in the packaging.

[0288] The upstream element can be made of any material suitable for use in aerosol-generating articles. The upstream element can be made, for example, of the same material as one of the other components used in the aerosol-generating article (e.g., a mouthpiece, cooling element, or support element). Suitable materials for forming the upstream element include filter materials, ceramics, polymer materials, cellulose acetate, cardboard, zeolite, or aerosol-generating matrices. Preferably, the upstream element is formed from cellulose acetate rods.

[0289] Preferably, the upstream element is formed of a heat-resistant material. For example, preferably, the upstream element is formed of a material that can withstand temperatures up to 350 degrees Celsius. This ensures that the upstream element is not adversely affected by the heating device used to heat the aerosol generation matrix.

[0290] Preferably, the diameter of the upstream element is approximately equal to the diameter of the aerosol-generated product.

[0291] Preferably, the upstream element has a length between about 1 mm and about 10 mm, more preferably between about 3 mm and about 8 mm, and more preferably between about 4 mm and about 6 mm. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the upstream element has a length of about 5 mm. The length of the upstream element can be advantageously varied to provide the desired overall length of the aerosol-generating article. For example, in cases where it is desirable to reduce the length of one of the other components of the aerosol-generating article, the length of the upstream element can be increased to maintain the same overall length of the article.

[0292] The upstream component is preferably surrounded by packaging. The packaging surrounding the upstream component is preferably a rigid bar packaging, for example, a bar packaging having a basis weight of at least about 80 grams per square meter (gsm), or at least about 100 gsm, or at least about 110 gsm. This provides structural stiffness to the upstream component.

[0293] Preferably, in the aerosol-generating article according to the invention, the packaging is metal-free. As used herein, with respect to the invention, the term "metal" refers to metallic contents with an oxidation state of 0, i.e., metallic contents of elements in free form within the packaging. Therefore, metallic contents that may be present in ionic form or combined with another element in one or more flame retardant compounds of the flame retardant composition, such as alkali metals or alkaline earth metals, are not covered by the term "metal" as used herein.

[0294] In other words, the packaging of the aerosol-generated articles according to the present invention preferably does not contain any metals with an oxidation state of 0.

[0295] Therefore, the aerosol-generating article according to the invention advantageously does not include a metal foil serving as a heat-shielding element. In particular, the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​not surrounded by such a metal foil heat-shielding element.

[0296] As described above, the aerosol-generating article according to the present invention can be manufactured by a method comprising a first step of providing a continuous strip of aerosol-generating matrix, wherein the density of the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​greater than about 300 mg / cm³. One such method includes a second step of surrounding the continuous strip of aerosol-generating matrix with a packaging comprising a flame retardant composition, wherein the flame retardant composition comprises one or more flame retardant compounds. Furthermore, the method includes a third step of cutting the surrounded continuous strip into discrete strips, each discrete strip being surrounded by a portion of the packaging comprising the flame retardant composition.

[0297] Flame retardant compositions can be applied to at least one side of the packaging base material of a package through an application process based on sizing, pressing, spraying, printing, or coating.

[0298] In particular, the aerosol-generating article according to the invention can be used in an aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating article and an electrically operated aerosol-generating apparatus, wherein the aerosol-generating apparatus includes a heater and an elongated heating chamber configured to receive the aerosol-generating article, such that the aerosol-generating matrix of the article is heated in the heating chamber.

[0299] In some embodiments, the heater may be adapted to be inserted into the aerosol-generating matrix of the article when it is received into the heating chamber. For example, the heater may be in the form of a heating strip or a pin.

[0300] In other embodiments, the heater may include a substantially cylindrical, elongated heating element, and a heating chamber disposed around the circumferential longitudinal surface of the heater. Thus, during use, heat supplied by the heater travels radially outward from the surface of the heater into the heating chamber and the aerosol-generating article. Alternatively, however, other shapes and configurations of the heater and heating chamber may be used. The heater may include multiple independent heating elements that operate independently of each other, such that different elements can be activated at different times to heat the aerosol-generating article. For example, the heater may include multiple axially aligned heating elements that provide multiple independent heating zones along the length of the heater. Each heating element may have a length significantly smaller than the overall length of the heater. Thus, when an individual heating element is activated, it supplies heat to a portion of the aerosol-generating matrix located radially near the heating element, while substantially not heating the rest of the aerosol-generating matrix. Therefore, different portions of the aerosol-generating matrix can be heated independently and at different times.

[0301] Alternatively or additionally, the heater may include a plurality of elongated heating elements extending longitudinally at different locations around the longitudinal axis of the heater. Thus, when a single heating element is activated, it provides thermal energy to a longitudinal portion of the aerosol-generating matrix located substantially parallel to and adjacent to the heating element. This arrangement also allows for independent heating of the aerosol-generating matrix in different portions.

[0302] In some of these embodiments, which include heater elements positioned at the periphery of the heating chamber, the aerosol generation system may also include insulation disposed between the heating chamber and the exterior of the apparatus to reduce heat loss from the heated aerosol generation matrix.

[0303] In a further embodiment, the aerosol generating article includes a sensor disposed within an aerosol generating matrix, the sensor being in thermal contact with the aerosol generating matrix, and a heater in the form of an induction heating device including one or more induction coils. Electromagnetic energy released by the induction coils is absorbed by the sensor and converted into heat, which is then transferred to the aerosol generating matrix primarily through conduction. Attached Figure Description

[0304] In the following description, the invention will be further described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0305] Figure 1 A schematic side cross-sectional view of an aerosol-generating article according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown; and

[0306] Figure 2 A schematic side cross-sectional view of another aerosol-generated article according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0307] Figure 1 The aerosol generating article 10 shown includes a strip 12 of an aerosol generating matrix 12 and a downstream section 14 located downstream of the strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix. Furthermore, the aerosol generating article 10 includes an upstream section 16 located upstream of the strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix. Therefore, the aerosol generating article 10 extends from an upstream end or distal end 18 to a downstream end or port end 20.

[0308] The aerosol-generated product has an overall length of approximately 45 millimeters.

[0309] The downstream section 14 includes a support element 22 located immediately downstream of the strip 12 of the aerosol-generating matrix, the support element 22 being longitudinally aligned with the strip 12. Figure 1In one embodiment, the upstream end of the support element 18 is adjacent to the downstream end of the strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix. Additionally, the downstream section 14 includes an aerosol cooling element 24 located immediately downstream of the support element 22, the aerosol cooling element 24 being longitudinally aligned with the strip 12 and the support element 22. Figure 1 In one implementation scheme, the upstream end of the aerosol cooling element 24 is adjacent to the downstream end of the support element 22. Figure 1 In one embodiment, the support element 22 and the aerosol cooling element 24 together define the intermediate hollow section 50 of the aerosol generating article 10.

[0310] The support element 22 includes a first hollow tubular section 26. The first hollow tubular section 26 is provided in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube made of cellulose acetate. The first hollow tubular section 26 defines an inner cavity 28 extending from an upstream end 30 of the first hollow tubular section 20 to a downstream end 32 of the first hollow tubular section 20. The inner cavity 28 is substantially empty, and thus allows substantially unrestricted airflow along the inner cavity 28.

[0311] The first hollow tubular segment 26 has a length of about 8 mm, an outer diameter of about 7.25 mm, and an inner diameter of about 1.9 mm. Therefore, the thickness of the peripheral wall of the first hollow tubular segment 26 is about 2.67 mm.

[0312] The aerosol cooling element 24 includes a second hollow tubular section 34. The second hollow tubular section 34 is provided in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube made of cellulose acetate. The second hollow tubular section 34 defines an inner cavity 36 extending from an upstream end 38 of the second hollow tubular section to a downstream end 40 of the second hollow tubular section 34. The inner cavity 36 is substantially empty, and thus allows for substantially unrestricted airflow along the inner cavity 36.

[0313] The second hollow tubular segment 34 has a length of approximately 8 mm, an outer diameter of approximately 7.25 mm, and an inner diameter of approximately 3.25 mm. Therefore, the thickness of the peripheral wall of the second hollow tubular segment 34 is approximately 2 mm. Therefore, the ratio between the inner diameter of the first hollow tubular segment 26 and the inner diameter of the second hollow tubular segment 34 is approximately 0.75.

[0314] The aerosol generating article 10 includes a ventilation zone 60 located along the second hollow tubular section 34. More specifically, the ventilation zone is located approximately 2 mm upstream of the second hollow tubular section 34. The ventilation level of the aerosol generating article 10 is approximately 25%.

[0315] exist Figure 1 In one embodiment, the downstream section 14 further includes a mouthpiece element 42 located downstream of the intermediate hollow section 50. More specifically, the mouthpiece element 42 is positioned immediately downstream of the aerosol cooling element 24. Figure 1As shown in the figure, the upstream end of the mouthpiece element 42 is adjacent to the downstream end 40 of the aerosol cooling element 18.

[0316] The mouthpiece element 42 is provided in the form of a cylindrical filter segment of low-density cellulose acetate. The mouthpiece element 42 has a length of about 12 mm and an outer diameter of about 7.25 mm.

[0317] Section 12 includes one of the above-mentioned types of aerosol-generating matrices. The density of the aerosol-generating matrices is approximately 600 mg / cm³.

[0318] The strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix has an outer diameter of about 7.25 mm and a length of about 12 mm.

[0319] The aerosol generating article 10 also includes an elongated receptor 44 within the strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix. More specifically, the receptor 44 is arranged substantially longitudinally within the aerosol generating matrix so as to be generally parallel to the longitudinal direction of the strip 12. Figure 1 As shown in the figure, the receptor 44 is positioned at the radial center within the strip and effectively extends along the longitudinal axis of the strip 12. More specifically, the receptor 44 is in thermal contact with the aerosol-generating matrix. The receptor 44 extends from the upstream end to the downstream end of the strip 12. In fact, the receptor 44 has substantially the same length as the strip 12 of the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0320] exist Figure 1 In one implementation, the receptor 44 is provided in the form of a strip and has a length of about 12 mm, a thickness of about 60 micrometers, and a width of about 4 mm.

[0321] The upstream section 16 includes an upstream element 46 located immediately upstream of the strip 12 of the aerosol-generating matrix, the upstream element 46 being longitudinally aligned with the strip 12. Figure 1 In this embodiment, the downstream end of the upstream element 46 is adjacent to the upstream end of the strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix. This advantageously prevents the sensor 44 from being removed. Furthermore, this ensures that the consumer will not accidentally come into contact with the heated sensor 44 after use.

[0322] The upstream element 46 is supplied in the form of a cylindrical cellulose acetate rod surrounded by a rigid packaging. The upstream element 46 has a length of approximately 5 mm. The RTD of the upstream element 46 is approximately 30 mm H2O.

[0323] like Figure 1 As shown in the figure, the aerosol generating article 10 also includes a packaging 70 surrounding the strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix. The packaging 70 comprises a packaging base material having a basis weight of approximately 90 grams per square meter. Furthermore, the packaging 70 comprises a flame retardant composition containing one or more flame retardant compounds.

[0324] More specifically, a flame retardant composition is provided at least in the treatment portion 72 of the packaging (extending between the proximal and distal ends of the strip 12 of the aerosol-generating matrix). The treatment portion 72 contains approximately 3.5 grams of one or more flame retardant compounds per square meter of the treatment portion 72 surface area. Therefore, the treatment portion 72 of the packaging 70 has a total basis weight greater than the basis weight of the packaging base material. Figure 1 In one embodiment, the processing portion 72 has a length substantially matching the length of the strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix, and extends substantially over the entire outer surface area of ​​the strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0325] Figure 2 The aerosol generating article 110 shown in the figure has the same characteristics as... Figure 1 The aerosol generating article 10 shares many characteristics with it, and the differences between it and the aerosol generating article 10 will be described below.

[0326] like Figure 2 As shown, the aerosol generating article 110 includes a strip 12 of an aerosol generating matrix 12 and a modified downstream section 114 located downstream of the strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix. Furthermore, the aerosol generating article 110 does not include an upstream section.

[0327] Similar to the downstream section 14 of the aerosol generating article 10, the modified downstream section 114 of the aerosol generating article 110 includes a support element 22 located immediately downstream of the strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix, the support element 22 being longitudinally aligned with the strip 12, wherein the upstream end of the support element 22 is adjacent to the downstream end of the strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0328] Additionally, the modified downstream section 114 includes an aerosol cooling element 124 located immediately downstream of the support element 22, the aerosol cooling element 124 being longitudinally aligned with the strip 12 and the support element 22. More specifically, the upstream end of the aerosol cooling element 124 is adjacent to the downstream end of the support element 22.

[0329] In contrast to the downstream section 14 of the aerosol generating article 10, the modified downstream section 114's aerosol cooling element 124 includes a plurality of longitudinally extending channels that provide low or substantially zero resistance to airflow. More specifically, the aerosol cooling element 124 is formed of a preferably non-porous sheet material selected from metal foil, polymer sheets, and substantially non-porous paper or paperboard. In particular, in Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the aerosol cooling element 124 is provided in the form of a rolled and coalesced polylactic acid (PLA) sheet. The aerosol cooling element 124 has a length of approximately 8 mm and an outer diameter of approximately 7.25 mm.

[0330] and Figure 1The implementation schemes are similar. Figure 2 The aerosol-generating article 110 also includes a packaging 70 surrounding the strip 12 of the aerosol-generating matrix. The packaging 70 comprises a packaging base material having a basis weight of approximately 90 grams per square meter. Furthermore, the packaging 70 comprises a flame retardant composition containing one or more flame retardant compounds.

[0331] More specifically, a flame retardant composition is provided at least in the treatment portion 72 of the packaging (extending between the proximal and distal ends of the strip 12 of the aerosol-generating matrix). The treatment portion 72 contains approximately 3.5 grams of one or more flame retardant compounds per square meter of the treatment portion 72 surface area. Therefore, the treatment portion 72 of the packaging 70 has a total basis weight greater than the basis weight of the packaging base material. Figure 1 In one embodiment, the processing portion 72 has a length substantially matching the length of the strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix, and extends substantially over the entire outer surface area of ​​the strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating article for producing an inhalable aerosol upon heating, the aerosol generating article comprising: A strip of aerosol generating matrix, the aerosol generating matrix comprising at least one aerosol forming agent, wherein the aerosol generating matrix has an aerosol forming agent content of at least 10% on a dry weight basis; An upstream element, located upstream of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix, wherein the upstream element is made of a filter material; The downstream section is located downstream of the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix; and Packaging material, the packaging material surrounding at least a portion of the upstream element and the strip of the aerosol generating matrix; The density of the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​greater than 300 mg / cm³; and The packaging contains a flame retardant composition, which contains one or more flame retardant compounds.

2. The aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein the density of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​greater than 350 mg / cm³.

3. The aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein the density of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​greater than 400 mg / cm³.

4. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix comprises an aggregated sheet of homogenized tobacco material.

5. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the aerosol generating matrix comprises a gel composition, the gel composition comprising at least one gelling agent, an alkaloid compound, and an aerosol forming agent.

6. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the strip of the aerosol generating matrix further comprises a receptor element disposed within the aerosol generating matrix.

7. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the packaging comprises a packaging base material and a layer comprising a flame retardant composition provided on a surface of the packaging base material facing the aerosol-generating matrix, a surface of the packaging base material facing away from the aerosol-generating matrix, or both.

8. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the flame retardant composition comprises a polymer and a mixed salt, the mixed salt being based on at least one monocarboxylic acid, dicarboxylic acid and / or tricarboxylic acid, at least one polyphosphate, pyrophosphate and / or phosphoric acid, and an alkali metal or alkaline earth metal hydroxide or salt, wherein the at least one monocarboxylic acid, dicarboxylic acid and / or tricarboxylic acid forms a carboxylate with the hydroxide or salt, and the at least one polyphosphate, pyrophosphate and / or phosphoric acid forms a phosphate with the hydroxide or salt.

9. The aerosol-generating article according to claim 8, wherein the flame retardant composition further comprises an alkali metal or alkaline earth metal carbonate.

10. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the flame retardant composition comprises at least one C 10 Or higher fatty acids, tall oil fatty acids (TOFA), phosphorylated flaxseed oil, and cellulose modified from phosphorylated downstream corn oil.

11. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the strip of the aerosol generating matrix has a length of less than 40 mm.

12. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the strip of the aerosol generating matrix has a length of at least 10 millimeters.

13. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the overall length of the aerosol-generating article is less than 70 mm.

14. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the packaging does not contain metal.

15. A method for manufacturing an aerosol-generating article for generating an inhalable aerosol upon heating, the method comprising: A continuous strip of aerosol generating matrix is ​​provided, wherein the density of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​greater than 300 mg / cm³, the aerosol generating matrix contains at least one aerosol forming agent, and wherein the aerosol generating matrix has an aerosol forming agent content of at least 10% on a dry weight basis. A continuous strip of the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​surrounded by a packaging containing a flame retardant composition comprising one or more flame retardant compounds; The continuous strip to be surrounded is cut into discrete strips, each discrete strip being surrounded by a portion of the packaging containing the flame retardant composition; A downstream section is provided at a location downstream of each discrete strip of the aerosol-generating matrix; and An upstream element is provided, the upstream element being located upstream of each discrete strip of the aerosol generating matrix, wherein each upstream element is made of a filter material, and wherein the packaging surrounds at least a portion of the upstream element.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the layer of the flame retardant composition is applied to at least one side of the packaging base material of the packaging by an application process based on sizing pressing, spraying, printing or coating.

17. An aerosol generation system comprising an electrically operated aerosol generation apparatus and an aerosol generation article according to any one of claims 1 to 14, the aerosol generation apparatus comprising means for heating a strip of the aerosol generation matrix to a temperature sufficient to generate aerosols from the aerosol generation matrix.

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