Aerosol-generating material

Abstract

There is provided an aerosol-generating material comprising a vegetable material wherein the aerosol-generating material is in the form of a sheet or cut sheet having one or more homogeneous properties selected from the group consisting of thickness, permeability, density, surface roughness or visual appearance. There is also provided an article for use in a non-combustible aerosol supply system comprising an aerosol-generating section, the aerosol-generating section comprising an aerosol-generating material; and a method of manufacturing an aerosol-generating material.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to aerosol-generating materials, methods for manufacturing aerosol-generating materials, and consumables containing aerosol-generating materials. Background Technology

[0002] Aerosol supply products generate aerosols that are inhaled by the user during use. For example, tobacco heating devices heat aerosol-generating materials such as tobacco to form aerosols by heating rather than burning the substrate. Aerosol supply products typically include an aerosol-generating section or area that generates aerosols during use, and a mouthpiece through which the aerosol reaches the user's mouth.

[0003] Such products suffer from the problem of non-homogeneous aerosol-generating materials, for example, in terms of density and thickness. Furthermore, common methods for preparing such aerosol-generating materials into sheets result in sheets or fragments with rough surfaces, which can negatively impact the airflow through the product. The surface roughness of the sheet can also vary on each side, further leading to inconsistent airflow. These characteristics provide users with inconsistent flavor delivery, and therefore there is a need to improve these properties in aerosol-generating materials.

[0004] Aerosol-generating materials can be made by extruding a mixture of their components. The advantage is a lower water content, which correspondingly allows for less drying (e.g., in terms of drying time or temperature) to prepare the aerosol-generating material. However, this presents the problem of poor homogeneity control in the aerosol-generating material. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to a first aspect of the invention, an aerosol generating material is provided, wherein the aerosol generating material is in the form of a sheet or shredded material having one or more homogeneous properties selected from the group consisting of: thickness, permeability, density, surface roughness, or visual appearance.

[0006] According to a second aspect of the invention, an aerosol-generating material comprising botanical material is provided, wherein the aerosol-generating material is in the form of a sheet or shredded material having one or more homogeneous properties selected from the group consisting of: thickness, permeability, density, surface roughness, or visual appearance.

[0007] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material has a concentration of from about 150 to about 210 g / m³. 2 areadensity.

[0008] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material has a concentration of from about 0.2 to about 1 g / cm³. 3 The volume density.

[0009] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material includes a first surface and a second surface, wherein the first surface and the second surface have substantially the same surface roughness.

[0010] In some embodiments, the first and second surfaces have an average roughness (Ra) of about 15 μm to about 20 μm according to ISO standard 4287.

[0011] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material has a thickness from about 0.15 mm to about 0.35 mm.

[0012] In some implementations, the thickness varies by no more than 10% over a region of the sheet.

[0013] In some embodiments, the air permeability (air permeability, air permeability time, air infiltration time) of the aerosol generating material is between 5 and 40 s / 100 cm. 3 between.

[0014] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material has a tensile strength of at least 3 N / 15 mm.

[0015] In some implementations, the plant material is in particle form.

[0016] In some implementations, the particles have a D90 of about 320 to about 350 μm.

[0017] In some implementations, the aerosol-generating material does not contain tobacco material.

[0018] In some implementations, the plant material includes rooibos tea.

[0019] In some implementations, the aerosol-generating material contains water.

[0020] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material contains about 6.5% to about 9.5% water by weight.

[0021] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material comprises about 50% to about 80% by weight of plant-based material.

[0022] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material comprises at least one binder.

[0023] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material contains about 10% to about 25% by weight of binder.

[0024] According to a third aspect of the invention, an article is provided for use in a non-combustible aerosol supply system, the non-combustible aerosol supply system comprising an aerosol generating section containing the aerosol generating material of the first or second aspect.

[0025] In some embodiments, the pressure drop across the article is about 40 to about 120 mmWg.

[0026] In some implementations, the pressure drop over the aerosol generation section is approximately 100 to approximately 500 mmWg.

[0027] In some implementations, the aerosol generating material is in the form of shredded material.

[0028] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, a method for producing an aerosol-generating material according to any of the foregoing claims is provided, comprising the following steps: A first composition is formed, the first composition comprising a first binder and an aerosol forming agent; A second composition is formed, the second composition comprising tobacco material, filler and optional second binder; The first composition and the second composition are combined to form a mixture of the first composition and the second composition; Extruded mixtures; and The extruded mixture is rolled using at least one roller to form an aerosol-generating material.

[0029] In some implementations, the rolling step uses four rolling mills.

[0030] In some implementations, the rollers are separated by up to about 0.5 mm. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein sheet 1 refers to an aerosol generating material in sheet form produced using a band casting process, and sheets 2 and 3 refer to the claimed aerosol generating materials in sheet form, and: Figure 1 A diagram showing the thickness of the sheet along this area of ​​the sheet is shown.

[0032] Figure 2 A graph showing the average surface roughness (Ra) of the first and second surfaces of sheet 1 and sheet 2 is presented.

[0033] Figure 3 A graph showing the average surface roughness (Rz) of the first and second surfaces of sheet 2 and sheet 3 is presented.

[0034] Figure 4 A graph showing the average surface roughness (RSm) of the first and second surfaces of sheet 1 and sheet 2 is presented.

[0035] Figure 5 The air permeability data for sheet 1 and sheet 2 are shown.

[0036] Figure 6 This is a graph of data collected from a light intensity meter.

[0037] Figure 7 Showing from Figure 6 The table containing the data.

[0038] Figure 8 An exemplary process for manufacturing aerosol-generating materials is illustrated.

[0039] Figure 9 It is a perspective view of an article intended for use with a non-flammable aerosol supply device; and

[0040] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 The image shows a side cross-sectional view of the article.

[0041] Figure 11 This is a simplified schematic diagram of an exemplary roller press. Detailed Implementation

[0042] This invention relates to aerosol generating materials with improved homogeneity. As used herein, the term "homogeneous" means substantially uniform composition or properties.

[0043] In a first aspect of the invention, an aerosol-generating material comprising plant-based material is provided, wherein the aerosol-generating material is in the form of a sheet or shredded material having one or more homogeneous properties selected from the group consisting of: thickness, permeability, density, surface roughness, or visual appearance.

[0044] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a sheet or shredded material. The sheet or shredded material has a first surface and a second surface, which are located on opposite sides of the sheet.

[0045] Aerosol-generating materials are materials that can generate aerosols, for example, when heated, irradiated, or otherwise powered. Aerosol-generating materials can be in the form of solids, liquids, or semi-solids (such as gels), and may or may not contain active substances and / or flavorants.

[0046] Aerosol-generating materials may contain one or more active substances and / or flavoring agents, one or more aerosol-forming agent materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0047] The aerosol-generating material may comprise a binder such as a gelling agent and an aerosol-forming agent. Optionally, a substance to be delivered and / or a filler may also be present. Optionally, a solvent such as water may also be present, and one or more other components of the aerosol-generating material may be soluble in the solvent or insoluble in the solvent. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of plant-based materials. Specifically, in some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of tobacco.

[0048] Aerosol-generating materials may include or be in the form of aerosol-generating membranes. Aerosol-generating membranes may contain binders such as gelling agents and aerosol-forming agents. Optionally, a substance to be delivered and / or fillers may also be present. Aerosol-generating membranes may be substantially free of plant-based materials. Specifically, in some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of tobacco.

[0049] The aerosol-generating membrane can have a thickness of about 0.015 mm to about 1 mm. For example, the thickness can be in the range of about 0.05 mm, 0.1 mm or 0.15 mm to about 0.5 mm or 0.3 mm.

[0050] Aerosol-generating membranes can be continuous. For example, the membrane can comprise or be a continuous sheet of material. The sheet can be in the form of wrapper, which can be aggregated to form an aggregated sheet, or it can be shredded to form shredded material. Shredded material can include one or more strands or strips of aerosol-generating material.

[0051] Aerosol-generating membranes can be discontinuous. For example, an aerosol-generating membrane may include one or more separated portions or regions of aerosol-generating material, such as points, strips, or lines that can be supported on a support. In such embodiments, the support may be planar or non-planar.

[0052] Aerosol-generating membranes can be formed by combining a binder, such as a gelling agent, with a solvent, such as water, an aerosol forming agent, and one or more other components, such as one or more substances to be delivered, to form a slurry, and then heating the slurry to evaporate at least some of the solvent to form an aerosol-generating membrane.

[0053] The slurry can be heated to remove at least about 60 wt%, 70 wt%, 80 wt%, 85 wt%, or 90 wt% of the solvent.

[0054] Aerosol-generating materials may include or may be "amorphous solids". In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material includes an aerosol-generating membrane that is an amorphous solid. The amorphous solid may be a "monolithic solid". The amorphous solid may be substantially non-fibrous. In some embodiments, the amorphous solid may be a dried gel. An amorphous solid is a solid material that can retain some fluid, such as a liquid, within it. In some embodiments, the amorphous solid may, for example, comprise from about 50 wt%, 60 wt%, or 70 wt% to about 90 wt%, 95 wt%, or 100 wt% of amorphous solids.

[0055] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material comprises plant-based material. In some embodiments, the plant-based material includes or consists of one or more botanical materials or their components, derivatives, or extracts. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material does not contain plant-based material.

[0056] As used herein, the term "plant material" includes any material derived from a plant or plant material, including but not limited to extracts, leaves, bark, fibers, stems, roots, seeds, flowers, fruits, pollen, shells, husks, etc. In some embodiments, plant material is plant-derived material or plant material that has been cut into smaller pieces, for example, plant-derived material or plant material may be ground, pulverized, diced, sliced, or otherwise segmented to reduce the size of the pieces. In some embodiments, plant material is plant-derived material or plant material in particulate form as described herein.

[0057] Alternatively, the material may contain active compounds naturally occurring in plant materials, obtained through synthesis. The material may be in the form of liquid, gas, solid, powder, dust, pulverized particles, granules, small particles, fragments, strips, sheets, etc.

[0058] Exemplary plant materials include tobacco, eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, fennel, lemongrass, peppermint, spearmint, rooibos tea, chamomile, flax, ginger, ginkgo, hazelnut, hibiscus, bay leaf, licorice, matcha, yerba mate, orange peel, papaya, rose, sage, tea (such as green or black tea), thyme, clove, cinnamon, coffee, aniseed, basil, bay leaf, cardamom, coriander, fennel, nutmeg, oregano, and chili pepper. Rosemary, saffron, lavender, lemon peel, mint, juniper berries, elderflower, vanilla, holly, perilla, turmeric, turmeric root, sandalwood, coriander leaves, bergamot, orange blossom, myrtle, blackcurrant, valerian, allspice, nutmeg, damiensis, marjoram, olive, lemon balm, lemon basil, chives, caraway, verbena, tarragon, geranium, mulberry, ginseng, theanine, theacrine, maca, ashwagandha, damiana, guarana, chlorophyll, baobab, or any combination thereof. Mint can be selected from the following varieties: wild mint (Mentha Arventis), cultivated mint (Mentha cv), Egyptian mint (Mentha niliaca), peppermint (Mentha piperita), cultivated lemon peppermint (Mentha piperitacitrata cv), cultivated peppermint (Mentha piperita cv), spearmint (Mentha spicatacrispa), heartleaf mint (Mentha cardifolia), longleaf mint (Memtha longifolia), pineapple mint (Mentha suaveolens variegata), lip mint (Mentha pulegium), cultivated spearmint (Menthaspicata cv), and roundleaf mint (Mentha suaveolens).

[0059] In some implementations, the plant material is selected from eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, and fennel.

[0060] Plant-based materials can be non-tobacco plant-based materials. "Non-tobacco plant-based materials" refers to plant-based materials other than tobacco. Using non-tobacco plant-based materials can enhance the sensory characteristics of aerosols produced by the aerosol-generating materials produced through this process. For example, when rooibos tea, fennel, star anise, and / or peppermint are used in aerosol-generating materials, non-tobacco plant-based materials can produce particularly neutral aroma characteristics. Because the aroma characteristics of non-tobacco plant-based materials are relatively neutral, relatively neutral aerosols can be formed. Furthermore, when one or more of these plant-based materials are used in combination with active ingredients such as nicotine, users can more easily perceive the sensory characteristics brought about by that active ingredient. For example, aroma can be enhanced when combined with flavorings such as menthol, spearmint, and / or peppermint, berry fruits, citrus fruits, and / or tropical fruits, or any combination of these flavorings.

[0061] In some implementations, the plant-based material is rooibos tea. This offers the following advantages: rooibos tea provides the right texture and density, but does not contain nicotine. Advantageously, rooibos tea also does not contain caffeine.

[0062] Combining one or more non-tobacco plant-based materials with an active ingredient allows users to more easily perceive the sensory properties of the active ingredient (such as nicotine or menthol) compared to tobacco-based aerosol-generating materials. Therefore, when the aerosol-generating material is heated to produce an aerosol, users are more likely to notice any changes in the consistency (compatibility, viscosity) of the aerosol-generating material. Thus, it is desirable to ensure that both the non-tobacco plant-based materials and the active ingredient are homogeneously mixed throughout the aerosol-generating material to obtain a product with consistent aerosol properties.

[0063] The aerosol-generating materials produced by the process described in this article exhibit homogeneous properties, and therefore the aerosols generated by these aerosol-generating materials are relatively uniform.

[0064] In some embodiments, the plant-based material is tobacco. Therefore, in some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material contains tobacco. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material does not contain tobacco. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material not containing tobacco is substantially free of tobacco.

[0065] As used herein, the term "tobacco material" refers to material derived from plants of the genus *Nicotiana*. The choice of *Nicotiana* plants is not limited, and the types of one or more tobacco species used may vary. The term "tobacco material" may include one or more of tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, or tobacco substitutes. Tobacco material may include one or more of ground tobacco, tobacco fiber, cut tobacco, extruded tobacco, tobacco leaves, tobacco stems, reconstituted tobacco, and / or tobacco extracts. As used herein, "tobacco leaf" refers to cut lamina tobacco.

[0066] In some embodiments, the tobacco material is selected from flue-cured or Virginia tobacco, Burley tobacco, sun-cured tobacco, Maryland tobacco, smoldering tobacco, smoldering tobacco, air-dried tobacco, Indian air-dried tobacco, red Russian tobacco, and yellow tobacco, as well as mixtures thereof, and various other rare or specialty tobaccos, green or cured. Tobacco material produced by any other type of tobacco treatment (which can alter the flavor of the tobacco, such as fermented tobacco or genetically modified or hybridized techniques) is also within the scope of this disclosure. For example, it is conceivable to genetically engineer or hybridize tobacco plants to increase or decrease the production of components, characteristics, or properties.

[0067] In some embodiments, the tobacco material is sun-cured tobacco, selected from Indian Kurnool tobacco and Oriental tobacco, including Izmir tobacco, Basma tobacco, Samsun tobacco, Katerini tobacco, Prelip tobacco, Komotini tobacco, Xanthi tobacco, and Yambol tobacco. In some embodiments, the tobacco material is dark-colored air-cured tobacco, selected from Passanda tobacco, Cubano tobacco, Jatin tobacco, and Besuki tobacco. In some embodiments, the tobacco material is light-colored air-cured tobacco, selected from North Wisconsin tobacco and Galpao tobacco.

[0068] In some embodiments, the tobacco material is selected from Brazilian tobacco, including Mata Fina and Bahia tobacco. In some embodiments, the tobacco material is selected from criollo, Piloto Cubano, Olor, Green River, Isabela DAC, White Pata, Eluru, Jatim, Madura, Kasturi, Connecticut Seed, Broad Leaf, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Italian dry air cured, Paraguayan dry air cured, and One Sucker tobacco.

[0069] Tobacco materials may include or consist of: reconstituted tobacco, tobacco sheets (tobacco lamina), paper reconstituted tobacco, extruded tobacco, tape-cast reconstituted tobacco, or a combination of reconstituted tobacco with another form of tobacco such as tobacco sheets or tobacco pellets.

[0070] In some implementations, the aerosol-generating material may contain more than one plant-based material. This provides consumers with the advantage of tasting different plant-based materials.

[0071] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material comprises at least about 10 wt% plant-based material. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material comprises at least 40 wt%, at least about 50 wt%, at least about 60 wt%, at least about 75 wt%, at least about 95 wt%, or at least about 99 wt% plant-based material. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially composed of plant-based material.

[0072] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material comprises up to about 10 wt% plant-based material. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material does not contain plant-based material.

[0073] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material comprises up to about 60 wt%, up to about 75 wt%, up to about 80 wt%, up to about 95 wt%, and up to about 99 wt% of plant-based material.

[0074] For example, by weight of the aerosol-generating material, plant-based material may be present in amounts of approximately 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, or 90%. By weight of the aerosol-generating material, plant-based material may be present in amounts ranging from approximately 50% to approximately 80%.

[0075] The plant-based material content can be selected to provide users with a positive flavor and a suitable texture in the aerosol-generating material. The plant-based material content affects the elasticity and tensile strength in the aerosol-generating material, the first aerosol-generating material, and / or the second aerosol-generating material.

[0076] Plant-based materials can be in particulate or granular form. In some embodiments, the plant-based material is a powder or can be ground. Alternatively or additionally, the plant-based material may comprise strips, strands, or fibers of the plant-based material. For example, the plant-based material may comprise particles, granules, fibers, strips, and / or strands of the plant-based material. In some embodiments, the plant-based material consists of particles or granules of the plant-based material. Plant-based material particles offer the advantage that the particle size distribution of the sheet and the resulting physical properties, as described herein, can be more easily controlled.

[0077] In embodiments where the plant material is particulate plant material, each particle of the particulate plant material may have a maximum size. As used herein, the term "maximum size" refers to the longest straight-line distance from the surface of a plant material particle or any point on the particle surface to any other surface point on the same tobacco particle or particle surface. The maximum size of the particles of the particulate plant material can be measured using a scanning electron microscope (SEM).

[0078] In some embodiments, the maximum size of each particle of the plant material is up to about 500 μm, up to about 450 μm, up to about 400 μm, or up to about 350 μm. In some embodiments, the maximum size of each particle of the plant material is at least about 320 μm, up to about 350 μm, up to about 400 μm, or up to about 500 μm. In some embodiments, the maximum size of each particle of the plant material is about 320 to 350 μm.

[0079] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may contain a portion of plant-based material particles having a maximum size of up to approximately 80 μm. In some embodiments, this particle portion constitutes 10% of the total plant-based material composition of the aerosol-generating material. It has been found that the following embodiments enjoy the advantage of increased tensile strength: wherein the aerosol-generating material contains up to 10% of a plant-based material particle portion having a maximum size of up to approximately 80 μm. The D90 can be selected based on the density of the aerosol-generating material. For example, a lower density allows for the use of a smaller D90.

[0080] The inventors have discovered, as described herein, that a smaller particle size distribution (PSD) is associated with a less rough surface in sheets or shredded materials. It is believed that a smaller PSD can be manipulated and flattened using rollers to produce a more uniform and smoother surface.

[0081] Furthermore, the inventors have discovered that the particle size of the plant-based material affects the tensile strength. Smaller PSD is associated with higher tensile strength and higher aerosol-generating material density. D90 can be selected to optimize the tensile strength of the aerosol-generating material. The tensile strength of the material may be affected by the amount (wt%) and / or type of plant-based material. Therefore, the inventors have discovered that D90 can be selected to maintain the desired tensile strength of the aerosol-generating material while still varying the amount and / or type of plant-based material.

[0082] The inventors have discovered that the particle size distribution (D90) can be controlled to achieve the desired areal density of aerosol-generating materials, as well as sheets, shredded materials, or products made from them. The areal density of the material can be expressed in GSM (grams per square meter or g / m²). 2 Measurements can be taken. For example, a lower particle size distribution (D90) is associated with a higher areal density. This higher areal density can reduce the fill-value of plant-based materials when aerosol-generating materials are incorporated into articles used in non-flammable aerosol supply systems.

[0083] The particle swarm of plant material can have a particle size distribution (D90) of at least about 100 μm. In some embodiments, the particle swarm of plant material has a particle size distribution (D90) of at least about 200 μm, at least about 250 μm, at least about 300 μm, and at least about 320 μm. In some embodiments, the particle swarm of plant material has a particle size distribution (D90) of up to about 500 μm, up to about 450 μm, up to about 400 μm, and up to about 350 μm. In some embodiments, the particle swarm of plant material has a particle size distribution (D90) of about 320 to 350 μm. The particle size distribution can be measured using a particle size and shape analyzer such as a Camsizer, and the particle size distribution of the plant material particles can be determined using sieve analysis.

[0084] In some embodiments, the sheet or shredded material has a homogeneous or substantially homogeneous thickness. As used herein, the term thickness is defined by the distance between the first and second surfaces of the sheet or shredded material.

[0085] In some embodiments, the term homogeneous thickness may refer to a uniform thickness over a region of the aerosol-generating material. In some embodiments, the thickness varies by no more than about 10% over a region of the sheet. In some embodiments, the thickness varies by no more than about 20%, about 15%, about 10%, about 8%, or no more than about 5% over a region of the sheet. In some embodiments, the region of the sheet or shredded material is at least a portion of the sheet or shredded material. In some embodiments, a portion of the sheet may occupy at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 99% of the area of ​​the sheet or shredded material.

[0086] In some embodiments, the thickness of the aerosol-generating material is from about 0.15 to about 0.35 mm. In some embodiments, the thickness of the aerosol-generating material is from about 0.18 to about 0.32 mm, from about 0.2 to about 0.3 mm, or from about 0.24 to about 0.28 mm. The thickness of the sheet can be determined using the national standard method specified in GB / T 451.3 "Determination of Thickness of Paper and Paperboard". In some embodiments, the thickness of the sheet or shredded material can be determined according to ISO 534 - Paper and Paperboard, which involves the determination of thickness, density, and specific volume. In some embodiments, the thickness of the sheet or shredded material can be determined according to ISO 3402 - Tobacco and Tobacco Products, which involves the atmosphere used for conditioning and testing.

[0087] The thickness can be selected to provide suitable plasticity and tensile strength.

[0088] The inventors have determined that if the sheet or shredded material of the aerosol generating material is too thick, the heating efficiency can be affected. This can adversely affect power consumption in use, such as the power consumption for releasing flavorings from the aerosol generating material. Conversely, if the aerosol generating material is too thin, it may be difficult to manufacture and handle; very thin materials may be more difficult to cast and may be fragile, affecting aerosol formation in use.

[0089] Improved sheet thickness homogeneity provides the advantage of consistent sheet or diced material thickness, which improves the consistency of flavor agent delivery. More consistent sheet or diced material thickness also makes processing the final product faster and cheaper during article manufacturing.

[0090] To avoid being constrained by a single theory, the thickness can be easily controlled by changing the distance between the rollers when the material is rolled. Furthermore, more than one roller press can be used to progressively reduce the thickness and provide tight control over the thickness of sheets or shredded materials.

[0091] Compared to other methods of manufacturing aerosol-generating materials, rolling or slicing sheets improves the homogeneity of the material. For example, a known method for manufacturing aerosol-generating materials, often referred to as "belt casting," involves preparing a slurry, forming the slurry into a layer, flattening the layer using a doctor blade, and drying it. The use of rollers ensures a uniformly flattened material; however, the use of a doctor blade is known to provide a textured or rough surface. The thickness of materials produced by this method is also inconsistent.

[0092] Figure 1 A graph showing the sheet thickness along its length is shown. The material was measured using a micrometer and the thickness was measured repeatedly. Sheet 1 is an aerosol-generating material produced using a "belt casting method," and sheet 2 is a sheet of a claimed aerosol-generating material. Clearly, sheet 2 has a more homogeneous and consistent thickness than sheet 1. The best-fit line (linear regression fit) for sheet 2 has a lower gradient than that for sheet 1. This indicates a consistent improvement in sheet thickness over time and across the measurement area of ​​the sheet, with lower variance.

[0093] The thickness of sheet or shredded material is also considered to affect its areal density and the mass-to-volume ratio of the material. That is, increasing the thickness of sheet or shredded material can decrease its areal density. Conversely, decreasing the thickness of sheet or shredded material can increase its areal density. Therefore, the more homogeneous the thickness, the more homogeneous the density. For the avoidance of ambiguity, the reference to areal density used herein refers to the average areal density calculated for a given strip, strand, block, or sheet of aerosol-generating material, by measuring the surface area and weight of the given strip, strand, block, or sheet of aerosol-generating material.

[0094] It has been observed that the thickness is at least from about 0.15 mm to about 0.35 mm and the g / m³ is from about 150 g / m³. 2 Approximately 200 g / m 2 Sheets or shredded materials with a low areal density are less prone to tearing, splitting, or otherwise deforming during their manufacture. A thickness of at least about 100 μm can have a positive impact on the overall structural integrity and strength of the sheet or shredded material. For example, the material can have good tensile strength and is therefore relatively easy to process. Advantageously, the inventors have found that homogeneous tensile strength reduces the likelihood of splitting or deforming at specific locations with smaller thicknesses or densities.

[0095] In some embodiments, the sheet or shredded material has a homogeneous or substantially homogeneous areal density, bulk density, and / or volume density.

[0096] In some embodiments, the term homogeneous density may refer to the consistent areal density and / or bulk density over a region of the aerosol-generating material. In some embodiments, the variation in areal density and / or bulk density over a region of the sheet may not exceed 10%. In some embodiments, the variation in areal density and / or bulk density over a region of the sheet may not exceed 8% or 5%. In some embodiments, the region of the sheet or shredded material is at least a portion of the sheet or shredded material. In some embodiments, a portion of the sheet may constitute at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 99% of the area of ​​the sheet or shredded material.

[0097] Advantageously, the claimed aerosol-generating material has a homogeneous bulk density or areal density. This results in a consistent distribution of the components in the aerosol-generating material. This means that homogeneous density helps to provide consistent flavor delivery to the user.

[0098] In some embodiments, the sheet or shredded material of the aerosol generating material has a density of about 100 g / m³. 2 Approximately 300 g / m 2 Or from about 150 to about 210 g / m 2 The areal density. The sheet or shredded material can have a density ranging from approximately 110 g / m². 2 Approximately 280 g / m 2 From approximately 120 g / m 2 Approximately 260 g / m 2 From approximately 130 g / m 2 Approximately 420 g / m 2 Or from approximately 140 g / m 2 Approximately 220 g / m 2The areal density. In some embodiments, the sheet or shredded material has an areal density of about 130 g / m². 2 Approximately 290 g / m 2 From approximately 140 g / m 2 Approximately 180 g / m 2 From approximately 160 g / m 2 Approximately 210 g / m 2 The area density.

[0099] The average bulk density or grams of the aerosol-generating material in sheets or shreds can be calculated from the sheet thickness and the sheet's areal density. In some embodiments, the average bulk density or grams can be greater than about 0.4 g / cm³. 3 Approximately 0.6 g / cm 3 Or approximately 0.7 g / cm 3 In some embodiments, the average bulk density is from about 0.4 g / cm³. 3 Approximately 1 g / cm 3 From approximately 0.4 g / cm 3 To approximately 0.9 g / cm 3 From approximately 0.5 g / cm 3 To approximately 0.8 g / cm 3 From approximately 0.6 g / cm 3 To approximately 0.8 g / cm 3 Or from approximately 0.7 g / cm 3 To approximately 0.8 g / cm 3 In some embodiments, the average bulk density is from about 0.72 g / cm³. 3 To approximately 0.80 g / cm 3 , Aerosol-generating materials have a lower density compared to other aerosol-generating materials. Because of this lower density, the rods are lighter and therefore easier to handle and store.

[0100] The tensile strength of sheet or shredded material can be related to its thickness and areal density. Thicker sheets or shredded materials can have higher tensile strength than thinner ones. Sheets or shredded materials with higher density can also have higher tensile strength.

[0101] Sheets or shredded materials can have a tensile strength of at least 3 N / 15 mm. The inventors have discovered that when sheets or shredded materials have a tensile strength of less than 3 N / 15 mm, they are likely to tear, break, or otherwise deform during their manufacture and / or when subsequently incorporated into articles for use in non-flammable aerosol supply systems. Tensile strength can be measured using ISO 1924:2008. Sheets or shredded materials can also have a tensile strength of at least 4 N / 15 mm. This is advantageous because common machinery used in processing aerosol-generating materials typically imposes a minimum usage limit of 4 N / 15 mm on the material.

[0102] In some embodiments, the sheet or shredded material may have a tensile strength of up to 20 N / 15 mm.

[0103] Sheets or shreds can have a more consistent tensile strength. This reduces the likelihood of breakage when handling sheets or shreds, such as during manufacturing, packaging, or storage. If the tensile strength is too low, the aerosol-generating material can be relatively brittle. This is particularly advantageous when the aerosol-generating material is incorporated into articles used in non-flammable aerosol supply devices. Due to its homogeneous density and therefore tensile strength, the strip can maintain its integrity when the aerosol-generating material is formed into an article or when an aerosol generator is inserted into the aerosol-generating material, thereby increasing the ease with which the aerosol generator can be inserted into the material.

[0104] The sheet or shredded material of the aerosol generating material may have a burst strength of at least about 75 g, at least about 100 g, or at least about 200 g. In some embodiments, the burst strength of the sheet or shredded material of the aerosol generating material is at least 150 g.

[0105] In some embodiments, the sheet or shredded material has a homogeneous roughness. In some embodiments, the term homogeneous roughness refers to average surface roughness, calculated, for example, by measuring the average of the surface height and depth on the surface of the sheet or shredded material. In some embodiments, the term homogeneous roughness refers to a lower average surface roughness. In some embodiments, the area of ​​the sheet or shredded material is at least a portion of the sheet or shredded material. In some embodiments, a portion of the sheet may occupy at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 99% of the area of ​​the sheet or shredded material.

[0106] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is in the form of a sheet or shredded material, the sheet or shredded material comprising a first surface and a second surface, the first surface and the second surface having substantially the same surface roughness. Furthermore, the surface roughness is homogeneous over the entire area of ​​the sheet surface.

[0107] Surface roughness can be measured in a variety of ways. Average roughness (Ra), average maximum height of profile (Rz), and average spacing of profile irregularities (RSm) can be measured according to ISO standard 4287. Figures 2 to 4 A graph showing the average Ra, Rz, and RSm of the first and second surfaces of sheet 1 (aerosol generating material in sheet form made using a tape casting process) and sheet 2 (aerosol generating material in sheet form as claimed) is shown.

[0108] Figure 2 The difference in Ra between the first and second surfaces of sheet 1 is shown to be much greater than that between sheet 2. In other words, the first and second surfaces of sheet 2 are more homogeneous and more similar in roughness than the first and second surfaces of sheet 1. Furthermore, the Ra values ​​of both the first and second surfaces are lower than those of the first surface of sheet 1 (i.e., less rough and smoother).

[0109] same, Figure 3 and Figure 4 The same trends for Rz and RSm are shown respectively.

[0110] In some embodiments, the first surface and / or the second surface have an average roughness (Ra) from about 10 μm to about 30 μm according to ISO standard 4287. In some embodiments, the first surface and / or the second surface have an average roughness (Ra) from about 15 μm to about 20 μm according to ISO standard 4287.

[0111] Surface roughness can create a self-rolling surface that transfers texture to the surface of the aerosol-generating material.

[0112] The inventors also discovered that the areal density of the sheet or shredded material used to generate aerosols affects the roughness of the first and second surfaces of that sheet or shredded material. By changing the areal density, the roughness of the first and / or second surfaces can be tailored. For example, increasing the areal density is associated with smaller granulometry, which results in a smoother surface. This can reduce the roughness of both the first and second surfaces. Decreasing the areal density increases the roughness of both the first and second surfaces.

[0113] Due to the more homogeneous surface roughness, sheet or shredded materials exhibit less variation in thickness and are smoother on at least one surface. The inventors have found that this reduces turbulent airflow on at least one surface and improves airflow compared to aerosol-generating materials not manufactured using the methods described herein, and thus improves flavor delivery and user experience.

[0114] The first and / or second surfaces of the sheet or shredded material can be relatively uniform (e.g., they can be relatively smooth).

[0115] In some implementations, both the first and second surfaces are relatively smooth. This further improves airflow because both sides of the sheet or shredded material will agitate the airflow in a more similar manner. This improves the consistency of the aerosol generated from the material and provides the user with improved flavor delivery.

[0116] Sheet or shredded materials also have the advantage that their less rough surfaces are more easily bonded together in the article. It is believed that, without being limited by specific reasons, they can more easily move past each other and fit into the article due to their less rough surfaces. This increases the packing density of the aerosol-generating material. These improvements are particularly pronounced compared to other aerosol-generating materials where the first and second surfaces are not homogeneous. For example, tape casting methods for manufacturing aerosol-generating materials result in materials with a rougher first surface than other second surfaces. This is because the slurry is flattened on the web using blades before drying. Therefore, claimed aerosol-generating materials enjoy these advantages compared to such tape-cast materials.

[0117] Aerosol generating materials can have a concentration of approximately 400 mg / cm³ within the aerosol generation section. 3 and approximately 900 mg / cm 3 The packing density should be between this value and the specified value. A packing density higher than this value can make it difficult for the aerosol generator of the aerosol supply device to be inserted into the aerosol generating material, and increase the pressure drop. Below 400 mg / cm³ 3 The filler density can reduce the rigidity of the product. In addition, if the filler density is too low, the aerosol generating material may not be able to effectively grip the aerosol generator of the aerosol supply device.

[0118] The smoothness of the first and second surfaces can be affected by a variety of factors, such as their areal density and the properties of the components constituting the aerosol-generating material, such as the particle size of plant materials. Furthermore, the rollers used in the production of aerosol-generating materials flatten and smooth the material surfaces.

[0119] In some implementations, the sheet or shredded material has homogeneous permeability or air permeability.

[0120] As used herein, permeability refers to the flow of air, aerosols, or a mixture of air and aerosols, which can be generated by the aerosol-generating material when heated by an aerosol generator. As used herein, the term air permeability refers to the time required for a known volume of air, aerosols, or a mixture of air and aerosols to pass through a sheet of known area. Therefore, lower air permeability is associated with lower permeability of the aerosol-generating material.

[0121] In some embodiments, homogeneous permeability or air permeability refers to a more consistent permeability or air permeability over a sheet or fragment of the aerosol-generating material, or over a region of such sheet or fragment. In some embodiments, the region of the sheet or fragment is at least a portion of the sheet or fragment. In some embodiments, a portion of the sheet may occupy at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 99% of the area of ​​the sheet or fragment.

[0122] In some embodiments, the air permeability of the aerosol-generating material is at most about 60, at most about 50, at most about 45, at most about 40, or at most about 3 s / 100 cm. 3 In some embodiments, the air permeability of the aerosol-generating material is at least about 5, at least about 10, at least about 15, or at least about 20 s / 100 cm⁻¹. 3 In some embodiments, the air permeability of the aerosol-generating material is between 5 and 40 s / 100 cm⁻¹. 3 The air permeability can be measured using a Gurley Precision Instruments Densometer and / or a Gurley Precision Instruments Porosity Test Plate.

[0123] Aerosol-generating materials have the advantage of low permeability. Low permeability is related to the higher permeability of the aerosol-generating material. Low permeability has a positive impact on aerosol generation because more air or aerosol passes through the material in a given time. This allows more aerosols to be generated and delivered to the user.

[0124] Furthermore, lower air permeability or higher permeability is associated with improved pressure drop, thus improving the user experience. Additionally, more homogeneous air permeability or permeability is associated with improved pressure drop across material areas, providing a more consistent user experience and consistent flavor delivery.

[0125] The inventors believe that the material's lower density is associated with improved air permeability. Not wanting to be limited to a single cause, they argue that lower density leads to lower porosity, which in turn allows more air or aerosols to pass through the material.

[0126] Figure 5 The air permeability data for sheet 1 (an aerosol-generating material in sheet form produced using a tape casting process) and sheet 2 (an aerosol-generating material in sheet form for which protection is claimed) are shown. This shows the air permeability at 100 cm⁻¹. 3 The time required for air to pass through a sheet of known area is shown. Air takes less time to pass through sheet 2 than it takes to pass through sheet 1. This demonstrates improved permeability of the claimed aerosol-generating material.

[0127] In some embodiments, the visual appearance of the sheet is homogeneous. For example, the sheet has a more uniform appearance, texture, or color on a surface or over a region of its surface. In some embodiments, the first surface may have an appearance similar to that of the second surface of the sheet. For example, the first and second surfaces may have similar appearances, textures, or colors to each other. Furthermore, the visual appearance may be homogeneous over a single surface or over an entire region of each surface.

[0128] For example, sheets produced using rollers will have a uniform texture. Other sheets, such as those formed using a tape casting process, have different surface roughnesses on the first and second surfaces.

[0129] This provides the advantage of improved sheet appearance, thereby improving the perception of material quality.

[0130] Figure 6 This is a graph of data collected from a light intensity meter. A light intensity meter measures the amount of light passing through a material on a slicing machine before it is cut or sliced.

[0131] Figure 7 Showing from Figure 6 The data is presented in a table. Sheet 1 is a sheet of aerosol-generating material produced using the "belt casting method," and sheets 2 and 3 are sheets of the claimed aerosol-generating material. The standard deviation of the light intensity data for sheets 2 and 3 is lower than that for sheet 1. This indicates that the variance of the data is smaller, and sheets 2 and 3 are more homogeneous than sheet 1.

[0132] Figure 6 and Figure 7 The light transmittance of the sheet is also shown. Light transmittance is related to the thickness and density of the sheet. Figure 6 It is shown that, compared with sheet 1 (belt-cast sheet), sheets 2 and 3 (including the claimed aerosol generating material) have more consistent and homogeneous light transmittance, and therefore more consistent thickness and density.

[0133] In another aspect of the invention, an article is provided for use with a non-flammable aerosol supply system, the article comprising aerosol-generating material.

[0134] An article or consumable is an article containing or composed of aerosol-generating material, some or all of which is intended to be consumed by a user during use. The article may include one or more other components, such as an aerosol-generating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material delivery assembly, an aerosol-generating area, a housing, packaging paper, a nozzle, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier. Consumables may also include an aerosol generator, such as a heater, which releases heat during use to cause the aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol. For example, the heater may include a combustible material, a material that can be heated by electrical conduction, or a susceptor.

[0135] As used herein, the term "delivery system" is intended to cover systems that deliver at least one substance to a user, and includes: Combustible aerosol supply systems, such as cigarettes, cigarettes, and cigars, as well as tobacco for pipes or for rolling or homemade tobacco (whether based on tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco substitutes or other smokeable materials). Non-flammable aerosol supply systems that release compounds from aerosol-generating materials without burning the aerosol-generating materials, such as electronic cigarettes, heated tobacco products, and hybrid systems that use aerosol-generating materials to generate aerosols; and A non-aerosol delivery system that delivers at least one substance to a user orally, nasally, dermally, or otherwise without forming an aerosol, including but not limited to lozenges, chewing gum, patches, articles containing inhalable powder, and oral products such as oral tobacco including snus or moist snuff, wherein the at least one substance may or may not contain nicotine.

[0136] According to this disclosure, a "non-flammable" aerosol supply system is a system in which the aerosol generating material of the aerosol supply system (or its components) does not burn or ignite to facilitate the delivery of at least one substance to a user.

[0137] In some implementations, the delivery system is a non-flammable aerosol supply system, such as a powered non-flammable aerosol supply system.

[0138] In some implementations, the non-flammable aerosol supply system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vaping device or electronic nicotine delivery system (END), but it should be noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol generating material is not necessary.

[0139] In some implementations, the non-flammable aerosol supply system is an aerosol-generating material heating system, also known as a heat-not-burn system. An example of such a system is a tobacco heating system.

[0140] In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol supply system is a mixing system that uses a combination of aerosol-generating materials to generate an aerosol, one or more of which can be heated. Each aerosol-generating material may be in, for example, solid, liquid, or gel form, and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the mixing system includes liquid or gel aerosol-generating materials and solid aerosol-generating materials. The solid aerosol-generating materials may contain, for example, tobacco or non-tobacco products.

[0141] Typically, a non-flammable aerosol supply system may include a non-flammable aerosol supply device and consumables for use with the non-flammable aerosol supply device.

[0142] In some embodiments, this disclosure relates to consumables comprising aerosol-generating materials and configured for use with non-flammable aerosol supply devices. Throughout this disclosure, these consumables are sometimes referred to as articles.

[0143] In some embodiments, a non-flammable aerosol supply system, such as a non-flammable aerosol supply device, may include a power source and a controller. The power source may be, for example, an electric power source or an exothermic power source. In some embodiments, the exothermic power source comprises a carbon matrix that can be powered to distribute energy in the form of heat to aerosol-generating or heat-transferring material adjacent to the exothermic power source.

[0144] In some embodiments, a non-flammable aerosol supply system may include an area for receiving consumables, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation area, a housing, nozzles, filters, and / or aerosol modifiers.

[0145] In some embodiments, consumables for use with a non-flammable aerosol supply device may include aerosol generating material, aerosol generating material storage area, aerosol generating material delivery assembly, aerosol generator, aerosol generating area, housing, packaging paper, filter, nozzle and / or aerosol modifier.

[0146] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material is disposed in the aerosol generating section. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material is in the form of shredded material.

[0147] This invention provides the advantage of improved pressure drop in the aerosol generating section of the aerosol generating material. Advantageously, the aerosol generating material according to this disclosure can have a lower mass at the same pressure drop when incorporated into an aerosol generating article compared to other aerosol generating materials. Without wishing to be bound by any specific theory, a less rough surface can provide increased airflow around the aerosol generating material, thereby increasing the pressure drop on and / or in the section containing the material. The pressure drop is also related to improved permeability of the material.

[0148] In some embodiments, the pressure drop over the aerosol generation section is about 100 to about 500 mmWg. In some embodiments, the pressure drop over the aerosol generation section is about 100 to about 200 mmWg, about 200 to about 400 mmWg, or about 300 to about 350 mmWg.

[0149] In some embodiments, the pressure drop across the article is about 40 to about 120 mmWg, about 50 to about 100 mmWg, or about 60 to about 90 mmWg.

[0150] When used, the article can exhibit a pressure drop of from about 15 to about 40 mm H2O. In some embodiments, the aerosol generation section exhibits a pressure drop of from about 15 to about 30 mm H2O.

[0151] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating section is at most about 34 mm, at most about 28 mm, at most about 25 mm, at most about 20 mm, at most about 16 mm, or at most about 12 mm.

[0152] In some embodiments, the article is at most about 34 mm, at most about 28 mm, at most about 25 mm, at most about 20 mm, at most about 16 mm, at most about 12 mm, or at most 10 mm.

[0153] In an exemplary embodiment, Figure 9 This is a perspective view of article 1, intended for use in an aerosol delivery system. Figure 10 This is a side cross-sectional view of product 1.

[0154] Article 1 includes a nozzle 2 and an aerosol generating section 3 connected to the nozzle 2. In this example, the aerosol generating section 3 contains aerosol generating material. The aerosol generating material in the article can be in the form of a sheet or shredded material. Article 1 includes a downstream end 2b and an upstream end 2a located away from the downstream end 2b.

[0155] In this example, the aerosol-generating material is surrounded by a circumscribe 5. In this example, the circumscribe 5 is moisture-proof. The circumscribe 5 also surrounds the stopper 4. In some embodiments, the circumscribe is paper, but it can be made of alternative materials such as aluminum.

[0156] The nozzle 2 includes a cooling section 6, also referred to as a cooling element, located downstream of and adjacent to the aerosol generating material source 3. In this example, the cooling section 6 is adjacent to the aerosol generating material source. In this example, the nozzle 2 also includes a material body 7 downstream of the cooling section 6, and a hollow tubular element 8 downstream of the material body 7 at the nozzle end of the article 1.

[0157] In another aspect of the invention, a method for producing an aerosol-generating material is provided, comprising the steps of: forming a first composition comprising a first binder and an aerosol forming agent; forming a second composition comprising a plant-based material, a filler, and optionally a second binder; combining the first composition and the second composition to form a mixture of the first composition and the second composition; extruding the mixture; and rolling the extruded mixture using at least one roller to form an aerosol-generating material.

[0158] Aerosol-generating materials can be produced by any suitable method; however, the method described in this article offers specific advantages.

[0159] Figure 8 An exemplary embodiment of a method for manufacturing aerosol-generating materials is shown. A first composition comprising a binder and an aerosol-forming agent and a second composition comprising plant-based materials, fillers, and optionally a second binder are formed and mixed. In a subsequent step, the first and second compositions are mixed and extruded. The extruded mixture of the first and second compositions is then rolled and may then be dried to form a sheet of aerosol-generating material. The sheet may then be shredded to produce the aerosol-generating material, which may then be incorporated into consumables for use in non-flammable aerosol delivery systems. Optionally, the sheet is shredded.

[0160] In some embodiments, the first composition is also referred to as a "wet mixture" and comprises an aerosol forming agent or wetting agent and a binder. The first composition may also comprise other liquids or suspensions disclosed herein.

[0161] In some embodiments, the first composition may comprise an aerosol forming agent. The aerosol forming agent comprises one or more components capable of forming an aerosol. The aerosol forming agent comprises one or more of glycerol, glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, erythritol, meso-erythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, a mixture of diacetin, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenylacetate, glyceryl tribocate, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate. In some embodiments, the aerosol forming agent is glycerol, glycerol, or propylene glycol.

[0162] In some embodiments, the first composition may include a first adhesive. The adhesive is arranged to bond the components of the first composition. Once bonded with a second composition, the adhesive binds the components of the first and second compositions together to form an aerosol-generating material. The first composition may contain more than one adhesive. In such embodiments, the adhesives in the first composition may be the same or different.

[0163] The adhesive may be selected from one or more compounds, which are selected from the group consisting of: alginate, pectin, starch (and derivatives), cellulose (and derivatives), gum, silica or silicone compounds, clay, polyvinyl alcohol, and combinations thereof. For example, in some embodiments, the adhesive includes one or more of the following: alginate, pectin, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), pullulan, xanthan gum, guar gum, carrageenan, agarose, acacia gum, fumed silica, PDMS, sodium silicate, kaolin, and polyvinyl alcohol. In some cases, the adhesive comprises alginate and / or pectin or carrageenan. In some embodiments, the adhesive includes CMC.

[0164] The adhesive can be selected to impart specific properties to the first composition or the second composition, the mixture of the first composition and the second composition, and / or the aerosol-generating material.

[0165] The viscosity of an adhesive can depend on its type, concentration, and temperature. Generally, viscosity decreases with increasing temperature and increases with increasing concentration. Adhesives can contain or consist of low-viscosity, medium-viscosity, or high-viscosity adhesives. For example, low-viscosity adhesives are typically used in "thin" aqueous solutions. Medium-viscosity adhesives can be used to create syrup-like solutions. High-viscosity adhesives can be used to create mixtures similar to creams or lotions.

[0166] High-viscosity adhesives have a viscosity of about 7,000 to about 10,000 centipoise (cPs). For example, a high-viscosity adhesive can have a viscosity of 9,620 cPs. Medium-viscosity adhesives have a viscosity of about 3,000 to about 7,000 cPs. Low-viscosity adhesives have a viscosity of about 0 to about 3,000 cPs. For example, a low-viscosity adhesive can have a viscosity of about 2,315 cPs.

[0167] The adhesive may contain or be composed of CMC. Surprisingly, the choice of adhesive, and particularly the choice of its viscosity, provides a specific consistency and texture to the material. For example, higher viscosity is associated with easier processing in machinery, better machine performance, and easier formation into sheets or fragments. For instance, the material can be less sticky and less prone to breakage. This can also improve the texture of the aerosol-generating material. This advantage is particularly evident in embodiments containing or composed of CMC adhesives.

[0168] In a specific example, the adhesive is a CMC such as Gumix K-1500 F, which has a viscosity of 9620 cPs. This is a high-viscosity adhesive, and an improved texture has been noted. In another specific example, the adhesive is a CMC such as Gumix K-500, which has a viscosity of 2315 cPs.

[0169] In some embodiments, the first composition may contain a nicotine component.

[0170] "Nicotine component" refers to any suitable form of nicotine (e.g., a free base or salt) for providing oral absorption of at least a portion of the nicotine present. Typically, the nicotine component is selected from the group consisting of nicotine free bases and nicotine salts. In some embodiments, the nicotine component is nicotine in its free base form, which can be readily adsorbed onto, for example, a microcrystalline cellulose material to form a microcrystalline cellulose-nicotine carrier complex. See, for example, the discussion of nicotine in the free base form in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2004 / 0191322, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0171] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the nicotine component may be used in the form of a salt. Nicotine salts can be provided using the types of components and techniques described by Cox et al. in U.S. Patent No. 2,033,909 and by Perfetti in Beitrage Tabakforschung Int., 12:43-54 (1983), which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0172] In addition, nicotine salts are available from sources such as Pfaltz and Bauer, Inc. and K&K Laboratories (a division of ICN Biochemicals). Typically, nicotine components are selected from the group consisting of: free nicotine bases; and nicotine salts such as nicotine hydrochloride, nicotine dihydrochloride, nicotine monotartrate, nicotine bitartrate, nicotine sulfate, nicotine salicylate, and zinc nicotine chloride.

[0173] Nicotine salts can be formed using a pH adjuster, which may be included in the first composition. The pH adjuster may comprise a pH adjuster or a buffer. Examples of pH adjusters that may be used include, but are not limited to: metal hydroxides (e.g., alkali metal hydroxides, such as sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide), and other alkali metal buffers such as metal carbonates (e.g., potassium carbonate or sodium carbonate), or metal bicarbonates such as sodium bicarbonate, organic acids, or non-organic acids (including benzoic acid, lactic acid, ascorbic acid, acetic acid, etc.). In some embodiments, the pH adjuster is selected from the group consisting of benzoic acid, lactic acid, ascorbic acid, and acetic acid.

[0174] Non-limiting examples of suitable buffers include alkali metal acetates, glycine salts, phosphates, glycerol phosphates, citrates, carbonates, bicarbonates, borates, or mixtures thereof.

[0175] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the nicotine may be in the form of a nicotine resin complex, wherein the nicotine is bound to an ion exchange resin, such as nicotine polyacrylate resin (polacrilex, an ion exchange resin), which is nicotine bound to, for example, polymethacrylic acid, such as Amberlite IRP64, Purolite C115HMR, or Doshion P551. See, for example, U.S. Patent No. 3,901,248 to Lichtneckert et al., which is incorporated herein by reference. Another example is a nicotine polyacrylate carbomer complex, such as a complex formed with Carbopol 974P. In some embodiments, nicotine may be present in the form of a nicotine polyacrylate complex.

[0176] In some embodiments, the first composition, the aerosol-generating material, and / or the compositions disclosed herein may be characterized as being free of any nicotine component (e.g., any embodiment disclosed herein may be completely or substantially free of any nicotine component). "Substantially free" means that no nicotine has been intentionally added except in trace amounts that may be naturally present in, for example, plant-based materials. For example, some embodiments may be characterized as having less than 0.001% nicotine by weight, or less than 0.0001%, or even 0% nicotine by weight, calculated based on free base.

[0177] In some embodiments, water is added to the first composition to achieve a suitable consistency. The first composition may be a liquid, gel, slurry, or suspension. Water is added to provide a consistency suitable for mixing, extrusion, and rolling processes.

[0178] In some embodiments, the water content of the first mixture is about 20% to about 60%, about 25% to about 50%, about 30% to about 40%, about 28% to 33%, or about 33% to 37%. In some embodiments, the water content of the first mixture is about 28%. In some embodiments, the water content of the first mixture is about 33%. In some embodiments, the water content of the first mixture is about 37%.

[0179] The second composition, also referred to as a "dry mixture," comprises plant-based materials, fillers, and an optional second binder. The second composition may also contain other solids or gels disclosed herein. The second composition may be a solid phase.

[0180] In some embodiments, the second composition comprises a filler. The filler is typically a non-tobacco component, i.e., a component that does not contain ingredients or components derived from tobacco. The filler may comprise one or more inorganic filler materials, such as calcium carbonate, perlite, vermiculite, diatomaceous earth, colloidal silica, magnesium oxide, magnesium sulfate, magnesium carbonate, and suitable inorganic adsorbents such as molecular sieves. The filler may be a non-tobacco fiber, such as wood fiber, pulp, or wheat fiber. The filler may be a material containing cellulose or a material containing cellulose derivatives. The filler component may also be a non-tobacco cast material or a non-tobacco extruded material. In some embodiments, the filler is a cellulose material, cellulose, or CMC. In some embodiments, the filler is substantially composed of cellulose or the filler is composed of cellulose.

[0181] In some embodiments, the filler is inert and non-reactive. In some embodiments, the filler is odorless and does not affect the flavor or sensory properties of the generated aerosol. This provides the advantage that the amount and type of filler can be selected to modify the physical properties of the aerosol-generating materials without affecting the aerosol's flavor profile or user experience.

[0182] In specific embodiments that include fillers, the fillers are fibrous. For example, the filler can be a fibrous organic filler material, such as wood, wood pulp, hemp fiber, cellulose, or cellulose derivatives. It is not intended to be theoretically constrained, but it is believed that including fibrous fillers can increase the tensile strength of the formed aerosol-generating material. The use of cellulose as a filler has been found to have a particularly favorable effect on the burst strength of the aerosol-generating material.

[0183] Fillers can also contribute to the texture of the aerosol-generating material. For example, fibrous fillers such as cellulose can provide an aerosol-generating material with a relatively rough first and second surface. Conversely, non-fibrous particulate fillers such as powdered chalk can provide an aerosol-generating material with a relatively smooth first and second surface. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material comprises a combination of different filler materials. Fillers can help improve the general structural properties of the aerosol-generating material, such as its tensile strength and burst strength.

[0184] In some embodiments, the second composition may optionally include a second adhesive. In some embodiments of the invention, the first adhesive and the second adhesive are the same. In some embodiments of the invention, the first adhesive and the second adhesive are different. The adhesive may be selected from one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of alginate, pectin, starch (and derivatives), cellulose (and derivatives), gum, silica or silicone compounds, clay, polyvinyl alcohol, and combinations thereof. For example, in some embodiments, the adhesive includes one or more of alginate, pectin, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), pullulan, xanthan gum, guar gum, carrageenan, agarose, gum arabic, fumed silica, PDMS, sodium silicate, kaolin, and polyvinyl alcohol. In some cases, the adhesive includes alginate and / or pectin or carrageenan. In some embodiments, the adhesive includes CMC.

[0185] The filler component may be present in an amount of 0% to 20% by weight of the aerosol-generating material, or in an amount of 1% to 10% by weight of the aerosol-generating material. For example, the filler may be present in an amount greater than about 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, or 10% by weight of the aerosol-generating material. The filler may be present in an amount less than about 20%, 15%, 10%, 5%, or about 2% by weight of the aerosol-generating material.

[0186] In some embodiments, the filler component is present in an amount of 5% by weight of the aerosol-generating material, because the inventors have found that containing 5% filler improves the fracture strength of the aerosol-generating material and reduces its brittle nature.

[0187] The aerosol forming agent may be present in an amount from about 10% to about 25% based on the weight of the aerosol generating material, or in an amount from 1% to about 10% based on the weight of the aerosol generating material. For example, the aerosol forming agent may be present in an amount of about 10%, 12%, 15%, 18%, 20%, or 25% based on the weight of the aerosol generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol forming agent is present in an amount of about 15% based on the weight of the aerosol generating material.

[0188] The binder may be present in an amount from about 1% to about 40% by weight of the aerosol-generating material, or in an amount from 10% to about 25% by weight of the aerosol-generating material. For example, the binder may be present in an amount greater than about 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, or 10% by weight of the aerosol-generating material. The binder may be present in an amount less than about 40%, 35%, 30%, 25%, or 20% by weight of the aerosol-generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material contains about 10% to about 25% binder by weight.

[0189] The amount of binder in aerosol-generating materials is crucial because it alters the consistency of the materials and mixtures. Too much binder can result in materials that are too viscous to be processed, for example, by pumps and machines.

[0190] The first and second compositions described herein can be mixed to provide a mixture of the first and second compositions. The mixture of the first and second compositions can be formed by homogenizing the first and second compositions. The mixture of the first and second compositions can be in the form of a "dough". Advantageously, a minimal amount of water or no water needs to be added to the mixture to provide a homogeneous dough suitable for subsequent processing steps. For example, the dough can then be extruded through a die, and the homogeneous dough can pass through the die appropriately without further addition of water or with the addition of a small amount of water.

[0191] Once the mixture of the first and second compositions is formed and mixed, it can be extruded using any extrusion technology or equipment known in the art to form an aerosol-generating material.

[0192] Extrusion involves feeding a precursor composition through an orifice to produce extruded agglomerates. The process applies pressure and shear forces to the precursor composition, thereby forming agglomerated structures, which can be in the form of sheets.

[0193] Extrusion can be performed using one of the main types of extruders: screw extruders, screen and basket extruders, roll extruders, plunger extruders, and pin barrel extruders. Forming sheet structures by extrusion offers the advantage that the process combines the mixing, conditioning, homogenization, and shaping of the first and second composition mixtures together.

[0194] Other materials, such as base, diluent, solid aerosol forming agent, solid flavor modifier, expanding agent, and other additives known in the art, can be added during the extrusion process. This has the advantage of the additives being uniformly distributed in the formed aggregate structure.

[0195] The resulting extruded mixture can then be pressed using a roller press. As used herein, a roller press is a device comprising at least one roller. In embodiments where the roller press comprises one roller, the material can be pressed between the roller and another substantially flat surface. Preferably, the roller press comprises two rollers through which the material can move. This flattens the material. The space between the rollers can define the thickness of the aerosol-generating material.

[0196] One of the drawbacks associated with using extrusion to form aerosol-generating materials is the control over their density. For example, the mixture can expand after extrusion. Roll forming offers the advantage of flattening the material to control density and thickness. Furthermore, roll forming provides improved homogeneity properties as described herein.

[0197] Mixing and extrusion processes improve the homogeneity of the composition within the material, while rolling processes have an additional and synergistic effect in improving the homogeneity of the material's physical properties.

[0198] The inventors have discovered that extruding the mixture prior to the rolling process allows the production of aerosol-generating materials to proceed continuously because this controls the amount of material entering the rolling mill. In some embodiments, the extruded material is in the form of small particles, which are then fed into at least one rolling mill. Therefore, the rate at which the material enters the rolling process can be easily controlled.

[0199] In some embodiments, the extruded mixture may be processed by more than one roller press, such that the extruded mixture is rolled more than once. In some embodiments, the extruded mixture is rolled at least once, twice, three times, or four times. In some embodiments, the extruded mixture is rolled up to once, twice, three times, or four times.

[0200] The more rollers used to flatten the mixture, the more homogeneous the produced material becomes, resulting in the advantages associated with homogeneity described in this article.

[0201] Roll forming also offers improved control over thickness. For example, more than one roll forming machine can be used to continuously roll the material multiple times to achieve the desired thickness. This can be compared to belt casting, where the final thickness of the material is limited by the rate at which the slurry is added to the equipment and the rate at which the doctor blade flattens it.

[0202] exist Figure 9 An exemplary roller press is schematically illustrated. The roller press 102 includes two rollers 106. Each roller 106 has a space 103 through which material 101 moves, thereby flattening the material. Therefore, the thickness of the material is defined by the distance between the rollers at the space 103.

[0203] The space 103 can be adjusted to produce sheets of the required thickness. In embodiments where more than one roller is used, the space 103 in each successive roller can become progressively smaller. This results in the material being slowly flattened during the process and the thickness of the material being reduced to the required thickness. This improves the homogeneity of the sheet and reduces the stress on the material as it moves through the rolling process.

[0204] In some embodiments, the rollers are separated by about 0.5, about 0.45, about 0.4, about 0.35, about 0.3, about 0.2, about 0.25, about 0.2, or about 0.15 mm. In some embodiments, the rollers are separated by at most about 0.5, at most about 0.45, at most about 0.4, at most about 0.35, at most about 0.3, at most about 0.2, at most about 0.25, at most about 0.2, or at most about 0.15 mm.

[0205] In some implementations, the distance between the rollers varies in different roller presses. For example, the distance between the rollers may gradually decrease to gradually flatten the material and control its thickness.

[0206] In some embodiments, the rollers are smooth. This provides the advantage of providing sheets with reduced roughness and increased smoothness. In embodiments where more than one roller press is used, repeated rolling of the material can further improve smoothness and reduce roughness.

[0207] In embodiments involving a roll press that includes two rollers, both the first and second surfaces of the sheet can benefit from increased smoothness and reduced roughness. This provides the additional advantage that the first and second sides of the sheet or shredded material can be more consistent and have similar smoothness.

[0208] Following the rolling process, the aerosol-generating material is in sheet form. The resulting sheet can be dried using any suitable drying technique known in the art. For example, microwave drying, infrared drying, air drying, and oven drying are suitable techniques for drying the aerosol-generating material. The temperature of the drying step can be below 100°C, and in some embodiments of the invention, below 90°C. The drying temperature used can be up to about 25°C, about 30°C, about 40°C, about 50°C, about 60°C, about 70°C, about 80°C, about 90°C, or about 100°C.

[0209] The drying process can last for up to about 5, up to about 10, up to about 30, up to about 45, up to about 60, up to about 90, up to about 120, or up to about 360 minutes.

[0210] In some implementations, the aerosol-generating material contains water.

[0211] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material contains about 0% to about 15%, about 5% to about 10%, or about 6.5% to about 9.5% by weight.

[0212] The moisture content of the aerosol-generating materials described herein can vary depending on, for example, the temperature, pressure, and humidity conditions maintained by the composition. The moisture content can be determined using the Karl-Fisher method, a method known to those skilled in the art.

[0213] In some embodiments, the sheet may be shredded or sliced ​​to form shredded sheet. The sheet has a first surface and a second surface, the second surface being located on opposite sides of the sheet.

[0214] The shredded material may comprise one or more strips of aerosol-generating material. In some embodiments, the shredded material comprises multiple (e.g., two or more) strips of aerosol-generating material.

[0215] When shredded material comprises multiple strips of material, each strip may have the same, similar, or different dimensions. For example, shredded material may comprise a first group of strips and a second group of strips, wherein the dimensions of the strips in the first group are different from those in the second group. For example, multiple strips may comprise a first group of strips having a first size and a second group of strips having a second size different from the first size.

[0216] Sheets, shreds, or strips of material formed by shredding can be cut in the same direction as the width (e.g., in a shredding process of the transverse cutting type) to limit the cut length of the strips of aerosol-generating material.

[0217] In some embodiments, the cut length of the sheet or shredded aerosol-generating material is preferably at least 5 mm, for example at least 10 mm, or at least 20 mm. The cut length can be less than 60 mm, less than 50 mm, or less than 40 mm. The cut length can be from about 20 mm to about 25 mm.

[0218] In some embodiments, a plurality of aerosol-generating material strips are provided, and at least one of the plurality of aerosol-generating material strips has a length greater than about 10 mm. Alternatively or additionally, at least one of the plurality of aerosol-generating material strips has a length between about 10 mm and about 60 mm, or between about 20 mm and about 50 mm. Each of the plurality of aerosol-generating material strips may have a length between about 10 mm and about 60 mm or between about 20 mm and about 50 mm.

[0219] In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered may be an aerosol-generating material or a material not intended to be aerosolized. Depending on the circumstances, any material may contain one or more active ingredients, one or more flavoring agents, one or more aerosol-forming materials, and / or one or more other functional materials.

[0220] In some implementations, the substance to be delivered includes an active substance.

[0221] As used herein, active substances can be physiologically active materials, which are materials designed to achieve or enhance physiological responses. Active substances can be, for example, selected from nutritional supplements, nootropics, and psychoactive substances. Active substances can be naturally occurring or synthetically obtained. Active substances may include, for example, nicotine, caffeine, taurine, caffeine, vitamins such as B6 or B12 or C, melatonin, or components, derivatives, or combinations thereof. Active substances may also include one or more components, derivatives, or extracts of tobacco or another plant.

[0222] In one implementation, the active substance is a legally permitted recreational medicine.

[0223] In some embodiments, the active substance includes nicotine. In some embodiments, the active substance includes caffeine, melatonin, or vitamin B12.

[0224] In some implementations, the substance to be delivered includes a flavoring agent.

[0225] As used herein, the terms “flavoring agent” and “seasoning agent” refer to materials that, where permitted by local regulations, may be used in products intended for adult consumers to produce a desired taste, aroma, or other somatosensorial sensation. These can include naturally occurring flavoring agents, plant materials, extracts of plant materials, synthetic materials, or combinations thereof (e.g., tobacco, licorice, hydrangea, eugenol, Japanese white magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, maple, matcha, menthol, Japanese peppermint, anise seed, cinnamon, turmeric root, Indian spices, Asian spices, herbs, holly, cherry, berries, raspberries, cranberries, peach, apple, orange, mango, Clementine). Ingredients: cinnamon, lemon, lime, tropical fruits, papaya, rhubarb, grapes, durian, dragon fruit, cucumber, blueberry, mulberry, citrus fruits, black nightshade, bourbon whiskey, Scotch whiskey, whiskey, gin, tequila, rum, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, aloe vera, cardamom, celery, West Indian bitter orange, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, arabesque tea, naswar, areca nut, shisha, pine, honey extract, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, orange blossom, cherry blossom, cinnamon. Coriander, French brandy, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sage, fennel, wasabi, allspice, ginger, coriander, coffee, peppermint oil from any species of peppermint, eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, lemongrass, rooibos tea, flax, ginkgo leaves, hazelnuts, hibiscus, bay leaves, yerba mate, orange peel, rose, tea (such as green or black tea), thyme, juniper berries, elderflower, basil, bay leaves, fennel, oregano, chili peppers, rosemary, saffron, lemon peel, mint, perilla, turmeric, coriander leaves, myrtle, blackcurrant, valerian, peppermint, nutmeg The following ingredients are permitted: * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * ** * ...""""""""""" * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * """"" * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * """" * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

[0226] In some embodiments, the flavoring agent includes menthol, spearmint, and / or peppermint. In some embodiments, the flavoring agent includes flavoring components of cucumber, blueberry, citrus fruits, and / or red berries. In some embodiments, the flavoring agent includes eugenol. In some embodiments, the flavoring agent includes flavoring components extracted from tobacco.

[0227] In some embodiments, the flavoring agent may include a sensate, which is designed to produce a somatic sensation, typically chemically induced and perceived by stimulating the fifth cranial nerve (trigeminal nerve), in addition to or replacing aroma or taste nerves, and these sensates may include agents that provide hot, cold, tingling, or numbing effects. Suitable heat-effecting agents may be, but are not limited to, vanillyl ethyl ether, and suitable coolants may be, but are not limited to, eucalyptol and WS-3.

[0228] Example

[0229] Table 1 describes the composition of exemplary aerosol-generating materials 1 through 7. A 30% moisture loss occurred during the drying phase. The D90 of all materials is 320–350 μm.

[0230]

[0231] Table 1

[0232] Table 2 describes the components of exemplary aerosol generating materials 1 through 7. The advantage of these embodiments is that all components are 100% plant-based. This results in a more environmentally friendly product that meets user expectations. There is a 30% moisture loss during the drying stage. The D90 of all materials is 320-350 μm.

[0233]

[0234] Table 2

[0235] Table 3 describes the physical properties of exemplary sheets of aerosol-generating materials. Advantageously, the sheets of aerosol-generating materials are also consistent with each other.

[0236]

[0237] Table 3

[0238] Table 4 describes the physical properties of exemplary articles containing aerosol-generating materials. Pressure drop (PD) can be measured across the articles. In embodiments including articles with vents, the measured pressure drop may be referred to as the open pressure drop. Advantageously, the articles are also consistent with each other.

[0239]

[0240] Table 4

[0241] The various embodiments described herein are merely illustrative to aid in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as representative examples of implementation and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. It should be understood that the advantages, implementations, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects described herein should not be considered as limitations on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or on the equivalents of the claims, and other embodiments may be utilized and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. In addition to those specifically described herein, various embodiments of the invention may suitably include, consist of, or substantially consist of suitable combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, portions, steps, devices, etc. Furthermore, this disclosure may include other inventions not currently claimed but which may be claimed in the future.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating material, wherein, The aerosol generating material is in the form of a sheet or shredded material, which has one or more homogeneous properties selected from the group consisting of: thickness, permeability, density, surface roughness, or visual appearance.

2. An aerosol-generating material comprising plant-based materials, wherein, The aerosol generating material is in the form of a sheet or shredded material, which has one or more homogeneous properties selected from the group consisting of: thickness, permeability, density, surface roughness, or visual appearance.

3. The aerosol generating material according to claim 1 or 2, having a concentration of about 150 to about 210 g / m³. 2 The area density.

4. The aerosol-generating material according to any one of claims 1 to 3, having a concentration of about 0.2 to about 1 g / cm³. 3 The volume density.

5. The aerosol-generating material according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The aerosol generating material includes a first surface and a second surface, wherein the first surface and the second surface have substantially the same surface roughness.

6. The aerosol generating material according to claim 5, wherein, The first surface and the second surface have an average roughness (Ra) from about 15 μm to about 20 μm according to ISO standard 4287.

7. The aerosol generating material according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The aerosol generating material has a thickness from about 0.15 mm to about 0.35 mm.

8. The aerosol generating material according to claim 7, wherein, The thickness varies by no more than 10% over a region of the sheet.

9. The aerosol generating material according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The air permeability of the aerosol generating material is between 5 and 40 s / 100 cm. 3 between.

10. The aerosol generating material according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The aerosol-generating material has a tensile strength of at least 3 N / 15 mm.

11. The aerosol-generating material according to any one of claims 2 to 10, wherein, Plant-based materials are in particle form.

12. The aerosol-generating composition material according to claim 11, wherein, The particles have a D90 of approximately 320 to approximately 350 μm.

13. The aerosol generating material according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The aerosol generating material does not contain tobacco materials.

14. The aerosol-generating material according to any one of claims 2 to 13, wherein, The plant-based ingredients include rooibos tea.

15. The aerosol generating material according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The aerosol-generating material contains water.

16. The aerosol generating material according to claim 15, wherein, The aerosol generating material contains approximately 6.5% to approximately 9.5% water by weight.

17. The aerosol generating material according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The aerosol-generating material contains approximately 50% to approximately 80% plant-based material by weight.

18. The aerosol generating material according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The aerosol generating material includes at least one adhesive.

19. The aerosol generating material according to claim 18, wherein, The aerosol generating material contains about 5% to about 25% by weight of binder.

20. An article for use in a non-flammable aerosol supply system, the non-flammable aerosol supply system comprising an aerosol generation section, the aerosol generation section comprising an aerosol generation material according to any of the preceding claims.

21. The article of manufacture according to claim 20, wherein, The pressure drop on the article is approximately 40 to approximately 120 mmWg.

22. The article of manufacture according to claim 20, wherein, The pressure drop in the aerosol generation section is approximately 100 to approximately 500 mmWg.

23. The article of manufacture according to any one of claims 20 to 22, wherein, The aerosol generating material is in the form of shredded material.

24. A method for producing an aerosol-generating material according to any of the preceding claims, comprising the following steps: A first composition is formed, the first composition comprising a first binder and an aerosol forming agent; A second composition is formed, the second composition comprising tobacco material, filler and optional second binder; The first composition and the second composition are combined to form a mixture of the first composition and the second composition; Extrude the mixture; as well as The extruded mixture is rolled using at least one roller to form the aerosol generating material.

25. The method according to claim 24, wherein, The rolling process uses four rolling mills.

26. The aerosol-generating material according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein, The aerosol generating material is in the form of a sheet or shredded material, wherein the aerosol generating material includes a first surface and a second surface, and wherein the first surface and the second surface have substantially the same surface roughness.

27. The aerosol generating material according to claim 26, wherein, The aerosol-generating material includes plant-based materials.

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