Aerosol generating medium particle, preparation method thereof and aerosol generating product

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention provides an aerosol generating medium particle, a preparation method thereof and an aerosol generating product. The preparation method of the aerosol generating medium particles comprises the steps that a base material is prepared, the base material is provided with a plurality of containing holes, and at least part of the containing holes form openings in the outer surface of the base material; preparing a slurry, wherein the slurry comprises a hydrophobic material, fibers, and a fuming medium and / or an aroma enhancement medium; the outer surface of the base material is coated with the slurry, so that at least one part of the fuming medium and / or the aroma enhancement medium in the slurry enters the containing holes, and at least one part of the hydrophobic powder and the fibers are left on the outer surface of the base material to form the hydrophobic coating. According to the aerosol generating medium particles, the preparation method thereof and the aerosol generating product, the process is simple, the carrying capacity of the fuming medium and / or the aroma enhancing medium can be improved, the probability that the fuming medium is affected with damp and mildews during storage is reduced, and / or the aroma enhancing medium is limited to volatilize to the outside during storage; moreover, the gradual release of smoke and / or fragrance can be realized, and the smoking experience is improved.

Description

Aerosol generating medium particles and their preparation methods, aerosol generating products Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments of this application relate to the field of aerosol generation technology, and in particular to an aerosol generation medium particle, a method for preparing the same, and an aerosol generation product. Background Technology

[0002] Aerosol generating matrix can form aerosols by ignition or by heating without combustion. In the heated but non-combustible aerosol generating matrix, the aerosol generating matrix is ​​heated by an external heat source to a level sufficient to release aerosols. The aerosol generating matrix does not burn; instead, it is loaded with a smoke-generating agent, and aerosols are released by heating the aerosol generating matrix during use.

[0003] There may be a shelf-life period between the aerosol generating matrix leaving the factory and its actual use. During the storage period, the aerosol generating matrix provided in the relevant technology may experience problems such as the smoke-generating medium becoming damp and moldy and / or the aroma-enhancing medium volatilizing, resulting in a poor suction experience when the aerosol generating matrix is ​​actually used. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, the embodiments of this application aim to provide aerosol generating medium particles, a method for preparing the same, and aerosol generating articles.

[0005] The first aspect of this application provides a method for preparing aerosol generating medium particles. The method includes: preparing a substrate having a plurality of accommodating pores, at least a portion of which forms openings on the outer surface of the substrate; preparing a slurry comprising a hydrophobic material, fibers, and a smoke-generating medium and / or a flavoring medium; coating the slurry onto the outer surface of the substrate, such that at least a portion of the smoke-generating medium and / or the flavoring medium in the slurry enters the accommodating pores, and at least a portion of the hydrophobic material and the fibers remain on the outer surface of the substrate to form a hydrophobic coating, the hydrophobic coating at least partially covering the openings of the accommodating pores, thereby obtaining aerosol generating medium particles.

[0006] In some embodiments, the preparation of the substrate includes: cutting a porous material to form a plurality of substrates with a maximum diameter of 1-5 mm; and / or the preparation of the substrate further includes: sieving the cut porous material.

[0007] In some embodiments, the porous material includes at least one of the following: rush pith, bamboo fungus, freeze-dried plants, and plants that have undergone foaming treatment; and / or the preparation substrate further includes: deodorizing the porous material; and / or the preparation substrate further includes: foaming the porous material.

[0008] In some embodiments, the hydrophobic material comprises hydrophobic plant powder; and / or the fiber comprises broadleaf fiber; and / or the fuming medium comprises glycerin; and / or the flavoring medium comprises at least one of a flavoring agent, a nicotine preparation, and a cooling agent.

[0009] In some embodiments, the preparation of the slurry includes: mixing 30-35 parts by weight of hydrophobic plant powder, 55-60 parts of glycerin, 5-10 parts of broadleaf fiber solution, 10-15 parts of fragrance, and 1-2 parts of nicotine preparation and / or cooling agent to form the slurry, wherein the broadleaf fiber solution is an aqueous solution with a mass fraction of 2.5%.

[0010] In some embodiments, coating the slurry onto the outer surface of the substrate includes: coating the slurry onto the outer surface of the substrate under a vacuum of less than or equal to 0.1 MPa to form a coating with a thickness of 0.3-1.2 mm.

[0011] In some embodiments, the method further includes drying the material after the slurry has been coated on the outer surface of the substrate at a temperature of 85-120°C.

[0012] A second aspect of this application provides an aerosol generating medium particle, comprising: a substrate having a plurality of receiving pores, at least a portion of which forms openings on the outer surface of the substrate; a slurry shell layer comprising a hydrophobic material, fibers, and a smoke-generating medium and / or a flavoring medium; the slurry shell layer covering the outer surface of the substrate, at least a portion of which fills the receiving pores, and at least a portion of which, the hydrophobic material and the fibers remain on the outer surface of the substrate to form a hydrophobic coating, the hydrophobic coating at least partially covering the openings of the receiving pores.

[0013] In some embodiments, the ratio of the maximum diameter of the substrate to the minimum thickness of the hydrophobic coating is 2-10.

[0014] In some embodiments, the ratio of the total mass of the smoke-generating medium and / or the flavor-enhancing medium filling the receiving hole to the mass of the substrate is 2-15.

[0015] A third aspect of this application provides an aerosol generating medium segment, including the aerosol generating medium particles described in the second aspect of this application.

[0016] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating medium segment includes a sheet-like matrix having a granular layer, and the aerosol generating medium particles are disposed on the granular layer.

[0017] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating medium segment is constructed as a wound structure formed by winding the sheet-like matrix.

[0018] A fourth aspect of this application provides an aerosol generating article, the aerosol generating article comprising the aerosol generating medium particles described in the second aspect of this application and / or the aerosol generating medium segment described in the third aspect of this application.

[0019] The aerosol generating medium particles and their preparation method, aerosol generating medium segment, and aerosol generating product of the present application embodiments can increase the loading of smoke-generating medium and / or aroma-enhancing medium, reduce the probability of smoke-generating medium becoming damp and moldy during storage and / or limit the volatilization of aroma-enhancing medium to the outside during storage, and can achieve the gradual release of smoke and / or aroma, resulting in a better smoking experience. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 is a flowchart of the preparation method of aerosol generating medium particles according to an embodiment of this application;

[0021] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating medium particles according to an embodiment of this application;

[0022] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the sheet-like matrix according to an embodiment of this application;

[0023] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a sheet-like matrix according to another embodiment of this application;

[0024] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a sheet-like matrix according to another embodiment of this application;

[0025] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a sheet-like matrix according to another embodiment of this application;

[0026] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a sheet-like matrix according to another embodiment of this application;

[0027] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a sheet-like matrix according to another embodiment of this application;

[0028] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of the aerosol generating medium segment in an embodiment of this application;

[0029] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the aerosol-generated article according to an embodiment of this application.

[0030] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0031] 10. Aerosol generating medium particles; 1. Substrate; 11. Receiving hole; 11a. Opening; 2. Smoke generating medium; 3. Flavor enhancing medium; 4. Hydrophobic coating; 20. Sheet matrix; 21. Particle layer; 22. Base layer; 221. Substrate layer; 222. Cast layer; 23. Coating layer; 24. Coating layer; 100. Aerosol generating medium section; 200. Filtration section; 300. Cooling section; 400. Pre-plug section; 500. Sealing component; 600. Outer coating layer; 1000. Aerosol generating product. Detailed Implementation

[0032] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the invention.

[0033] The specific technical features described in the specific embodiments can be combined in any suitable manner without contradiction. For example, different combinations of specific technical features can form different embodiments and technical solutions. To avoid unnecessary repetition, the various possible combinations of the specific technical features in this invention will not be described separately.

[0034] In the following description, the terms "first," "second," etc., are used merely to distinguish different objects and do not indicate that the objects have the sameness or relationship. It should be understood that the directional descriptions "above," "below," "outside," and "inside" refer to the orientation under normal use conditions, while "left" and "right" refer to the left and right directions shown in the corresponding diagrams, which may or may not be the left and right directions under normal use conditions.

[0035] It should be noted that the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Unless otherwise specified, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes that element. "A plurality of" means two or more.

[0036] Unless otherwise specified, the numerical ranges in this application include the endpoint values.

[0037] The embodiments of this application first provide a method for preparing aerosol generating medium particles. Referring to FIG1, the method includes the following steps.

[0038] Step S101: Prepare a substrate having multiple receiving holes that form openings on the outer surface of the substrate.

[0039] Step S102: Prepare a slurry, which includes a hydrophobic material, a limiting agent, and a fuming medium and / or a flavoring medium.

[0040] Step S103: The slurry is coated on the outer surface of the substrate, so that at least a portion of the smoking medium and / or aroma-enhancing medium in the slurry enters the receiving hole, and at least a portion of the hydrophobic powder and fiber remain on the outer surface of the substrate to form a hydrophobic coating, the hydrophobic coating at least partially covering the opening of the receiving hole to obtain aerosol generating medium particles.

[0041] In step S101, the specific structure of the substrate is not limited. For example, the substrate can be spherical particles, strip particles, polyhedral particles, irregular particles, etc. The receiving holes of the substrate can be through holes, blind holes, or a combination of through holes and blind holes; there are no restrictions on this.

[0042] The substrate can be obtained by processing the porous material through methods such as cutting, shaping, and sieving. The porous material here can be a natural porous material, that is, a material with multiple pores that has not undergone artificial processing or has minimal artificial processing, such as rush pith or bamboo fungus. Alternatively, the porous material can be a material formed from natural materials through foaming processes, such as foamed bamboo. Or, the porous material can be a synthetic material. This embodiment does not impose any limitations on this.

[0043] In step S102, the hydrophobic material can be a type of material that repels water; it can be a natural hydrophobic material or a synthetic hydrophobic material. The fiber can be a natural fiber or a synthetic fiber. The fuming medium can include, but is not limited to, glycerin. The flavoring medium can include, but is not limited to, fragrances, nicotine preparations, cooling agents, etc. A suitable solvent can be used to dissolve the above substances to form a slurry.

[0044] In this embodiment, the slurry may include only a smoke-generating medium and not a flavor-enhancing medium. In this case, the aerosol-generating medium particles can be used in conjunction with other aerosol-generating matrices or other structures (such as popping beads) that have flavor-enhancing functions. Alternatively, the slurry may include only a flavor-enhancing medium and not a smoke-generating medium. In this case, the aerosol-generating medium particles can be used in conjunction with other aerosol-generating matrices or other structures that have smoke-generating functions. Of course, the slurry can also contain both a smoke-generating medium and a flavor-enhancing medium simultaneously.

[0045] In step S103, the slurry is coated onto the outer surface of the substrate. It is understood that the smoking medium and / or aroma-enhancing medium themselves have good fluidity and small volume. Therefore, after the slurry is coated onto the outer surface of the substrate, at least a portion of the smoking medium and / or aroma-enhancing medium can flow into the receiving pores. On the other hand, the hydrophobic material and the limiting material themselves have large volume and poor fluidity. Therefore, at least a portion of the hydrophobic material and the limiting material can remain on the outer surface of the substrate and form a hydrophobic coating after drying.

[0046] Figure 2 shows aerosol generating medium particles prepared by the above method, which include a substrate 1, a smoke-generating medium 2 and / or an aroma-enhancing medium 3, and a hydrophobic coating 4. The substrate 1 has a plurality of receiving holes 11, the receiving holes 11 forming openings 11a on the outer surface of the substrate 1, the smoke-generating medium 2 and / or the aroma-enhancing medium 3 being disposed within the receiving holes 11, and the hydrophobic coating 4 being located on the outer side of the substrate 1 and at least partially covering the openings 11a of the receiving holes 11.

[0047] As mentioned above, in related technologies, problems such as dampness and mold growth of the smoke-generating medium and / or volatilization of the aroma-enhancing medium may occur during the storage of the aerosol generating matrix, resulting in a poor suction experience when the aerosol generating matrix is ​​actually used.

[0048] In the method for preparing aerosol generating medium particles according to the embodiments of this application, a smoke-generating medium and / or a flavoring medium are placed in the receiving holes of the substrate, and a hydrophobic coating is used to at least partially cover the opening of the receiving holes. The hydrophobic coating can restrict the movement of water vapor between the external environment and the receiving holes, thereby reducing the probability that water vapor in the external environment will enter the receiving holes and cause the smoke-generating medium to become damp and moldy, and / or restricting the flavoring medium in the receiving holes from volatilizing into the external environment, thereby improving the inhalation experience of the prepared aerosol generating medium particles.

[0049] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the porous structure of the substrate allows it to have a high loading capacity for the smoke-generating medium and / or the aroma-enhancing medium, thereby increasing the amount of smoke and / or the aroma during the inhalation process, thus improving the inhalation experience of the aerosol-generating medium particles.

[0050] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the accommodating pores of the substrate have a certain adsorption force for the smoke-generating medium and / or the aroma-enhancing medium, and the hydrophobic coating also has a certain blocking force. When the aerosol generating medium particles are actually heated, as the substrate heats up, the smoke-generating medium and / or the aroma-enhancing medium will continuously migrate towards the opening of the accommodating pores. The traction force of heat conduction competes with the adsorption force of the substrate itself and the blocking force of the hydrophobic coating. By controlling this competition, the gradual release of smoke and aroma can be achieved, thereby increasing the number of puffs and the consistency of each puff, and thus improving the puffing experience of the aerosol generating medium particles.

[0051] On the other hand, in this embodiment, simply coating the mixed slurry onto the outer surface of the substrate is sufficient to adsorb the smoke-generating medium and / or aroma-enhancing medium into the receiving pores and form a hydrophobic coating on the outer surface of the substrate, without the need for prior adsorption and subsequent coating of the hydrophobic coating. This process is simpler, more efficient, and less costly. Furthermore, it reduces the amount of smoke-generating medium and / or aroma-enhancing medium evaporating from the receiving pores during production, thereby further increasing the loading capacity of the prepared aerosol-generating medium particles.

[0052] In summary, the preparation method of the aerosol generating medium particles in this embodiment has a simple process and high production efficiency. The prepared aerosol generating medium particles can increase the loading of the smoke generating medium and / or the aroma enhancing medium, reduce the probability of the smoke generating medium becoming damp and moldy during storage and / or limit the volatilization of the aroma enhancing medium to the outside world during storage, and can realize the gradual release of smoke and / or aroma, resulting in a better smoking experience.

[0053] The aerosol generating medium particles prepared by the method of this embodiment can be applied to any suitable aerosol generating article. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating article refers to the aerosol generating medium segment. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating article refers to a cigarette structure including an aerosol generating medium segment and a functional segment.

[0054] Taking the application of aerosol generating medium particles in aerosol generating medium segments as an example, aerosol generating medium particles can be directly filled into packaging paper to form an aerosol generating medium segment. Alternatively, aerosol generating medium particles can be filled into packaging paper together with other structural forms of aerosol generating matrices (such as aerosol generating matrix fragments or aerosol generating matrix strips) to form an aerosol generating medium segment. Or, aerosol generating medium particles can be adsorbed onto one or both surfaces of an aerosol generating sheet, and then rolled up to form an aerosol generating medium segment.

[0055] In some embodiments, the preparation of the substrate in step S101 specifically includes: cutting the porous material to form multiple substrates with a maximum diameter of 1-5 mm, such as 1 mm, 1.5 mm, 2 mm, 2.5 mm, 3 mm, 3.5 mm, 4 mm, 4.5 mm, 5 mm, etc. The aerosol generating medium particles actually prepared in this embodiment have a small volume. When these aerosol generating medium particles are actually applied to aerosol generating products, it helps to increase the filling amount, thereby improving the suction experience of the aerosol generating products.

[0056] The specific shape of the substrate is not limited; it can be spherical, strip-shaped, cylindrical, irregular, etc. The maximum diameter here specifically refers to the maximum distance between any two points on the outer surface of the substrate. In other words, the maximum diameter refers to the diameter of the circumscribed sphere of the substrate. For example, if the substrate is a spherical particle, the maximum diameter is the maximum diameter of the substrate; if the substrate is a cylindrical particle, the maximum diameter is the maximum diameter of the cylindrical particle's axial length and radial cross-section.

[0057] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the maximum diameters of the multiple substrates formed by cutting the porous material can be substantially the same, such as the difference in maximum diameter not exceeding 0.1mm, 0.2mm, 0.3mm, 0.4mm, 0.5mm, 0.8mm, 0.7mm, etc. Various different types of porous materials can be selected to cut and form the substrates. The maximum diameter range of the substrates formed by cutting different porous materials can be the same or different (for example, the maximum diameter of the substrate formed by cutting one porous material is 1-2mm, and the maximum diameter of the substrate formed by cutting another porous material is 2-4mm), and there is no limitation in this regard.

[0058] In some embodiments, the porous material includes at least one of the following: rush pith, bamboo fungus, freeze-dried plants, and foamed plants. As an example, the freeze-dried plants can be freeze-dried fruits, vegetables, etc., and the foamed plants can be foamed bamboo. It should be noted that since the aerosol generating medium particles need to be heated during actual use, in order to minimize the generation of unpleasant odors during heating, when selecting vegetables and fruits as porous materials, varieties with lower sugar content should be chosen whenever possible.

[0059] In this embodiment, the porous material is selected from natural plants. Compared with artificially synthesized porous materials, it can further reduce the preparation cost of aerosol generating medium particles and reduce the possibility that aerosol generating medium particles will produce unpleasant odors and / or harmful gases when heated.

[0060] In some embodiments, the preparation of the substrate in step S101 further includes: deodorizing the porous material. In this embodiment, the specific means of deodorizing the porous material are not limited, such as steaming, baking, washing, or using chemical methods to remove the fragrance. The deodorization treatment can be performed before or after cutting the porous material; there is no limitation on this.

[0061] In this embodiment, deodorizing the porous material can remove some of the fragrance carried by the porous material itself (such as bamboo), reducing the occurrence of fragrances that users do not want.

[0062] In some embodiments, the preparation of the substrate in step S101 further includes: sieving the cut porous material.

[0063] In this embodiment, sieving the cut porous material helps improve the consistency of the prepared aerosol generating medium particles, which helps improve the suction experience when the aerosol generating medium particles are actually applied to aerosol generating products.

[0064] It should be noted that, as mentioned above, various porous materials can be used to cut and form the substrate in step S101. In this embodiment, different pore sizes of filter screens can be used to screen the materials after cutting different porous materials, or filter screens with the same pore size can be used.

[0065] In some embodiments, the hydrophobic material comprises hydrophobic plant powder. The hydrophobic plants herein may include, but are not limited to, honeysuckle, mulberry leaves, chrysanthemum, dandelion, kudzu root, ophiopogon japonicus, almond, hyacinth bean, and lycium bark.

[0066] It is understandable that hydrophobic plant powders are natural plant materials, which can further reduce the preparation cost of aerosol generating medium particles and further reduce the possibility that aerosol generating medium particles will produce unpleasant odors and / or harmful gases when heated. On the other hand, using powdered hydrophobic materials helps to appropriately improve the fluidity of the slurry, making it easier to coat it evenly on the outer surface of the substrate.

[0067] In some other embodiments, synthetically produced hydrophobic powders may also be used as hydrophobic materials.

[0068] In some embodiments, the fiber includes broadleaf fiber, and the broadleaf plants mentioned herein include, but are not limited to, poplar, Eucalyptus grandis, and mulberry branches.

[0069] It is understandable that broadleaf plant fibers are natural plant materials, which can further reduce the preparation cost of aerosol generating medium particles and further reduce the possibility that aerosol generating medium particles will produce unpleasant odors and / or harmful gases when heated.

[0070] In some embodiments, as mentioned above, the smoke-generating medium may include glycerin. The flavoring medium may include at least one of a flavoring agent, a nicotine preparation, and a cooling agent.

[0071] In some embodiments, the preparation of the slurry in step S102 specifically includes: mixing 30-35 parts by weight of hydrophobic plant powder, 55-60 parts of glycerin, 5-10 parts of broadleaf fiber solution, 10-15 parts of fragrance, and 1-2 parts of nicotine preparation and / or cooling agent to form a slurry, wherein the broadleaf fiber solution is an aqueous solution with a mass fraction of 2.5%.

[0072] In this embodiment, the slurry with the above-mentioned proportions has good fluidity, allowing it to be uniformly coated on the outer surface of the substrate and enabling the smoke-generating medium and aroma-enhancing medium to flow into the pores as much as possible, thereby increasing the loading of aerosol-generating medium particles. It should be noted that any other suitable proportions can also be used to prepare the slurry.

[0073] In some embodiments, the preparation of slurry in step S102 further includes crushing the hydrophobic plants and sieving them through a 160-200 mesh sieve to obtain hydrophobic plant powder.

[0074] In this embodiment, the herbal powder obtained by sieving through a 160-200 mesh sieve has a more uniform particle size, which can further improve the fluidity of the slurry and the uniformity of the thickness of the final insulating coating.

[0075] In some embodiments, step S103, which involves coating the slurry onto the outer surface of the substrate, specifically includes coating the slurry onto the outer surface of the substrate under a vacuum of less than or equal to 0.1 MPa to form a coating with a thickness of 0.3-1.2 mm.

[0076] As an example, in this embodiment, the slurry can be coated onto the outer surface of the substrate under a vacuum of 0.085-0.095 MPa to form a coating with a thickness of 0.5-1 mm.

[0077] In this embodiment, the slurry is coated onto the outer surface of the substrate in a vacuum environment. Thus, during the coating process, the pores will be under negative pressure, and the smoking medium and / or aroma-enhancing medium in the slurry can flow into the pores more rapidly under pressure, thereby further increasing the medium loading of the aerosol generating medium particles.

[0078] In some embodiments, the method further includes drying the material after the slurry has been coated onto the outer surface of the substrate at 85-120°C. As an example, in this embodiment, the drying process can be performed at 105-110°C.

[0079] In this embodiment, the drying process accelerates the drying of the slurry, thereby accelerating the formation of the hydrophobic coating and reducing the possibility of the fuming medium and / or flavoring medium becoming damp or volatilizing before the hydrophobic coating forms. Furthermore, this temperature range itself does not cause the fuming medium to generate smoke, nor does it trigger a large-scale volatilization of the flavoring medium.

[0080] Of course, in some other embodiments, drying can be carried out at a low temperature (such as 0-20°C) or the material can be allowed to air dry naturally.

[0081] The preparation method of aerosol generating medium particles mentioned above will be described in more detail below with reference to a specific embodiment.

[0082] To prepare the substrate, the porous material is cut and sieved to obtain a substrate with a maximum diameter of 1-5 mm. The porous material includes one or more of the following: rush pith, bamboo fungus, low-sugar freeze-dried fruit, low-sugar freeze-dried vegetables, and bamboo that has undergone foaming and deodorization treatment.

[0083] Hydrophobic plants are pulverized and sieved through a 160-200 mesh sieve to obtain hydrophobic plant powder. The hydrophobic plants include at least one of honeysuckle, mulberry leaves, chrysanthemum, dandelion, kudzu root, ophiopogon japonicus, apricot kernel, hyacinth bean, and lycium bark.

[0084] Broadleaf plants were prepared into a 2.5% (w / w) aqueous solution of broadleaf fiber, including at least one of poplar, Eucalyptus grandis, and mulberry branches.

[0085] Prepare the slurry by weight of 30-35 parts hydrophobic plant powder, 55-60 parts glycerin, 5-10 parts broadleaf fiber solution, 10-15 parts fragrance, and 1-2 parts nicotine preparation and / or cooling agent. The solvent for the fragrance is mainly propylene glycol and a small amount of alcohol.

[0086] Under a vacuum of 0.085-0.095 MPa, the slurry is coated onto the outer surface of the substrate to form a coating with a thickness of 0.5-1 mm. The material is then dried at 105-110°C for 30-35 min, allowing at least a portion of the glycerin, fragrance, nicotine preparation and / or cooling agent to enter the pores of the substrate, while at least a portion of the hydrophobic plant powder and broad-leaved fiber remain on the substrate surface to form a hydrophobic coating, thereby obtaining aerosol generating medium particles.

[0087] Experiments show that the aerosol generating medium particles prepared using the method described in this application have a glycerol loading of over 55% (dry basis), and the product's moisture absorption and weight gain during its shelf life is less than 5%. Furthermore, the cost is more than 20% lower than that of aerosol generating matrix sheets or particles in related technologies. Aerosol generating products prepared using these particles can have more than 20 puffs, an average smoke volume greater than 5.5 mg / puff, and a puff-by-puff consistency RSD of less than 20%.

[0088] Embodiments of this application also provide aerosol generating medium particles, which are prepared by the aerosol generating medium particle preparation method described in any of the above embodiments. The aerosol generating medium particles of this application embodiment possess all the advantages of the aerosol generating medium particle preparation methods described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0089] Embodiments of this application also provide an aerosol generating medium particle, comprising: a substrate having a plurality of receiving pores, at least some of which form openings on the outer surface of the substrate; a slurry shell layer comprising a hydrophobic material, fibers, and a smoke-generating medium and / or a flavoring medium; the slurry shell layer covering the outer surface of the substrate, at least some of the smoke-generating medium and / or flavoring medium filling the receiving pores, and at least some of the hydrophobic material and fibers remaining on the outer surface of the substrate forming a hydrophobic coating, the hydrophobic coating at least partially covering the openings of the receiving pores.

[0090] In this embodiment, the hydrophobic coating in the aerosol generating medium particles can restrict the movement of water vapor between the external environment and the receiving hole, thereby reducing the probability of water vapor in the external environment entering the receiving hole and causing the smoke generating medium to become damp and moldy, and / or restricting the evaporation of the aroma-enhancing medium in the receiving hole to the external environment, thereby improving the inhalation experience of the aerosol generating medium particles.

[0091] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the porous structure of the substrate allows it to have a high loading capacity for smoke-generating media and / or aroma-enhancing media (taking rush as an example, it can adsorb 3-5 times its own weight in smoke-generating media and / or aroma-enhancing media), thereby increasing the amount of smoke and / or the aroma during the inhalation process, thus improving the inhalation experience.

[0092] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the pores of the substrate have a certain adsorption capacity for the smoke-generating medium and / or aroma-enhancing medium, and the hydrophobic coating also has a certain blocking force. When the aerosol-generating medium particles are actually heated, as the substrate heats up, the smoke-generating medium and / or aroma-enhancing medium will continuously migrate towards the opening of the pores. The traction force of heat conduction competes with the adsorption force of the substrate itself and the blocking force of the hydrophobic coating. By controlling this competitive relationship, the gradual release of smoke and aroma can be achieved, thereby increasing the number of puffs and the consistency of each puff, and thus improving the vaping experience. As an example, this competitive relationship can be adjusted by adjusting the material of the substrate (different materials have different adsorption capacities), the structural form of the hydrophobic coating, and the heating intensity during actual use.

[0093] In summary, the aerosol generating medium particles of this embodiment can increase the loading of the smoke-generating medium and / or the aroma-enhancing medium, reduce the probability of the smoke-generating medium becoming damp and moldy during storage and / or limit the volatilization of the aroma-enhancing medium to the outside during storage, and can achieve the gradual release of smoke and / or aroma, resulting in a better smoking experience.

[0094] In some embodiments, the maximum diameter of the substrate is 1-5 mm, such as 1 mm, 1.5 mm, 2 mm, 2.5 mm, 3 mm, 3.5 mm, 4 mm, 4.5 mm, 5 mm, etc. Specifically, the maximum diameter refers to the maximum distance between any two points on the outer surface of the substrate; in other words, the maximum diameter refers to the diameter of the circumscribed sphere of the substrate. For example, if the substrate is a spherical particle, the maximum diameter is the maximum diameter of the substrate; if the substrate is a cylindrical particle, the maximum diameter is the higher of the axial length and the maximum diameter of the radial section of the cylindrical particle.

[0095] In this embodiment, the aerosol generating medium particles have a small volume, which helps to increase the filling amount when the aerosol generating medium particles are actually applied to aerosol generating products, thereby improving the suction experience of aerosol generating products.

[0096] In some embodiments, the substrate is formed by cutting a porous material. This reduces the difficulty of substrate preparation, thereby reducing the preparation cost of aerosol generating media particles.

[0097] In some embodiments, the porous materials include rush pith, bamboo fungus, freeze-dried plants, and foamed plants. For example, freeze-dried plants can be freeze-dried fruits, vegetables, etc., and foamed plants can be foamed bamboo. It should be noted that since the aerosol generating medium particles need to be heated during actual use, to minimize the generation of unpleasant odors during heating, when selecting vegetables and fruits as porous materials, varieties with lower sugar content should be chosen whenever possible. It should also be noted that the aroma carried by some plants (such as bamboo) may be unnecessary for the actual aerosol generating medium particles during absorption; therefore, when selecting such varieties of plants as porous materials, deodorization treatment can be performed on them.

[0098] In this embodiment, the porous material is selected from natural plants. Compared with artificially synthesized porous materials, it can further reduce the preparation cost of aerosol generating medium particles and reduce the possibility that aerosol generating medium particles will produce unpleasant odors and / or harmful gases when heated.

[0099] In some embodiments, the ratio of the maximum diameter of the substrate to the minimum thickness of the hydrophobic coating is 2-10. It is understood that the thickness of the hydrophobic coating may be different at different locations, and the minimum thickness of the hydrophobic coating refers to the thickness at the thinnest location of the hydrophobic coating. In some embodiments, the minimum thickness of the hydrophobic coating is 0.5-1 mm, and the maximum diameter of the substrate is 1-5 mm.

[0100] In some embodiments, the ratio of the total mass of the smoke-generating medium and / or flavoring medium filling the receiving holes to the mass of the substrate is 2-15. That is, the substrate adsorbs 2-15 times its own weight in smoke-generating medium and / or flavoring medium, a load that helps improve the vaping experience. In some embodiments, specifically, the ratio of the total mass of the smoke-generating medium and / or flavoring medium filling the receiving holes to the mass of the substrate is 3-10.

[0101] Embodiments of this application also provide an aerosol generating medium segment. Referring to FIG3, the aerosol generating medium segment 100 includes aerosol generating medium particles 10 as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0102] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating medium segment 100 includes a sheet matrix 10, the sheet matrix 10 having a particle layer 21, and aerosol generating medium particles 10 disposed on the particle layer 21.

[0103] In this embodiment, aerosol generating medium particles are disposed on the particle layer 21 of the sheet matrix 20. This allows for control over the distribution of aerosol generating medium particles 10, which helps reduce displacement caused by factors such as vibration during transportation, storage, or use, thereby improving the stability of the aerosol generating product's suction resistance.

[0104] In this embodiment, the particle layer 21 can be a single layer or multiple layers, and there is no limitation on this.

[0105] In some other embodiments, aerosol generating medium particles can be directly filled into the packaging paper to form an aerosol generating medium segment.

[0106] In some embodiments, referring to FIG3, the sheet-like matrix 20 includes a base layer 22 stacked with the particle layer 21. The specific type of the base layer 22 is not limited, but it can provide support for the particle layer 21 and further improve the orderly distribution of the aerosol generating medium particles 10.

[0107] In some embodiments, referring to FIG4, the base layer 22 includes a substrate layer 221, which includes nonwoven fabric and / or metal foil.

[0108] In other words, the substrate layer 221 can be non-woven fabric, metal foil, or both non-woven fabric and metal foil.

[0109] Here, the metal foil not only provides support but also facilitates heat transfer, thereby improving atomization efficiency and rapid smoke output, and ultimately enhancing the vaping experience.

[0110] Non-woven fabric can carry fragrance and increase breathability; in addition, non-woven fabric also has the functions of cushioning and elasticity, which is beneficial to the cooperation between the heating component and the aerosol generating medium section 100.

[0111] In other embodiments, referring to FIG5, the substrate layer 22 includes a cast layer 222, which is configured to be formed by casting a cast slurry. The cast layer 222 can be heated and atomized to generate an aerosol.

[0112] Both the cast layer 222 and the granular layer 21 can be heated and atomized to generate aerosols, which is conducive to the rapid explosion of smoke and a large amount of smoke. Furthermore, the aerosols generated by the cast layer 222 and the granular layer 21 can mix and interact with each other, which can increase the comfort of the aerosols and improve the inhalation quality.

[0113] In other embodiments, referring to FIG6, the substrate layer 22 includes a substrate layer 221 and a cast layer 222, the cast layer 222 being located between the substrate layer 221 and the particle layer 21.

[0114] In some embodiments, referring to FIG7, the sheet matrix 20 further includes a coating layer 23, wherein at least one of the granular layers 21 is provided with the coating layer 23 on the side away from the base layer 10.

[0115] When the particle layer 21 is multi-layered, a coating layer may be provided on the side of one particle layer 21 away from the base layer 22, or a coating layer may be provided on the side of the two outermost particle layers 21 away from the base layer 22.

[0116] In this embodiment, by providing a coating layer 23 on the surface of the particle layer 21, it is further beneficial to improve the problem of aerosol generating medium particles 10 falling off the particle layer 21. In addition, during the winding process of the sheet matrix 1, the coating layer can also provide a certain support, thereby improving the roundness and production efficiency of the aerosol generating medium segment 100.

[0117] The specific type of the covering layer 23 is not limited here. Exemplarily, the covering layer 23 includes non-woven fabric and / or metal foil. That is, the covering layer 23 can be non-woven fabric, metal foil, or both.

[0118] The specific type of metal foil is not limited here; for example, it could be aluminum foil.

[0119] In some embodiments, the covering layer 23 includes a metal foil. The metal foil facilitates heat transfer, thereby improving atomization efficiency and rapid smoke extraction, and thus enhancing the vaping experience.

[0120] For example, the thickness of the metal foil is 0.01mm-0.015mm.

[0121] In some embodiments, the covering layer 23 comprises a nonwoven fabric. The nonwoven fabric can carry fragrance and increase breathability; in addition, the nonwoven fabric also has a cushioning and elastic effect, which is beneficial to the cooperation between the heating component and the aerosol generating medium section 100.

[0122] For example, the weight of the nonwoven fabric is 12g-20g.

[0123] Specifically, the nonwoven fabric is pre-treated under a closed system and a positive pressure of 0.1MPa-0.2MPa to absorb 0.5-1.5 times its own weight in fragrance, and the covering layer is fixed to the base layer 10 with quick-drying tobacco adhesive or degreased cotton thread.

[0124] In some embodiments, the covering layer 23 includes a cotton layer.

[0125] In some embodiments, referring to FIG8, the sheet matrix 20 includes a coating layer 24, which is configured to be formed by coating a cast slurry onto the surface of the granular layer 21. The coating layer 24 can be heated and atomized to generate an aerosol.

[0126] In this embodiment, by providing a coating layer 24 on the surface of the particle layer 21, it is further beneficial to improve the problem of the aerosol generation medium particles 10 falling off the particle layer 21. In addition, the coating layer is formed by coating the surface of the particle layer 21 with cast slurry. The coating layer can be heated and atomized to generate aerosol. This is beneficial to increase the amount of smoke in large-aperture smoke, and make the smoke burst fast, the amount of smoke large and the consistency good throughout the entire smoking process.

[0127] For example, the thickness of the coating layer 24 is 0.2mm-0.4mm. After the cast paste is coated on the surface of the particle layer 21, the coating layer is dried in hot air at 60℃-80℃ for 30min-60min to obtain the coating layer.

[0128] In some embodiments, referring to FIG9, the aerosol generating medium segment 100 is configured as a wound structure formed by winding the sheet-like matrix 20. This further enhances the ordered distribution of the aerosol generating medium particles 10.

[0129] In this embodiment, the specific direction in which the sheet-like matrix 20 is wound is not limited. For example, the sheet-like matrix 20 can be wound in the forward direction so that, in the radial cross-section of the aerosol generating medium segment 100, the particle layer 21 is located inside the base layer 22 (towards the center of the cross-section). Alternatively, the sheet-like matrix 20 can be wound in the reverse direction so that, in the radial cross-section of the aerosol generating medium segment 100, the particle layer 21 is located outside the base layer 22 (away from the center of the cross-section). It should be noted that "forward" and "reverse" here refer to any direction that can achieve the corresponding winding effect.

[0130] There is no limit to the specific number of layers of the sheet-like matrix.

[0131] For example, the sheet-like matrix 20 can be wound into a single layer, meaning that there is no overlapping area of ​​the sheet-like matrix 20 along the radial direction of the aerosol generating medium section 100. Of course, there can be an overlapping area at the connection between the first and last ends of the sheet-like matrix 20 to improve the reliability of the connection between the first and last ends. By setting the number of winding layers of the sheet-like matrix 20 to a single layer, it is beneficial to improve the heating efficiency, thereby improving the mist output efficiency and ensuring good mist output consistency.

[0132] For example, in an embodiment where the sheet matrix 20 has a single winding layer, the thickness of the base layer 22 can be increased, and the particle size of the aerosol generating medium particles 10 can be enlarged. This allows for circumferential heating to improve heating efficiency. Furthermore, it enables the formation of stable air channels within the sheet matrix 20, thereby improving the stability of the suction resistance.

[0133] Alternatively, the sheet-like matrix 20 may have multiple winding layers. In this embodiment, "multiple layers" refers to two or more layers. Here, the number of winding layers of the sheet-like matrix 20 can be, for example, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or more. Exemplarily, in an embodiment where the sheet-like matrix 1 has multiple winding layers, the thickness of the base layer 22 can be reduced, and the particle size of the aerosol generating medium particles 10 can be decreased, making it suitable for different heating methods. In this embodiment, by setting the number of winding layers of the sheet-like matrix 1 to multiple layers, stable air channels can be formed between adjacent layers, thereby improving the stability of the suction resistance.

[0134] Embodiments of this application also provide an aerosol generating article comprising aerosol generating medium particles as described in any of the above embodiments, and / or aerosol generating medium segments as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0135] In some embodiments, referring to FIG10, the aerosol generating article includes a functional segment, an outer wrapping layer 600, and an aerosol generating medium segment 100, the aerosol generating medium segment 100 extending along a first direction. Exemplarily, the first direction is the direction shown as L in FIG10.

[0136] It should be noted that the aerosol generating article extends in the same direction as the aerosol generating medium section 100. That is, the aerosol generating article also extends along the first direction.

[0137] The functional section is located at one end of the aerosol generating medium section 100 along the first direction. The functional section includes a cooling section 300 and a filtration section 200, with the cooling section 300 located between the filtration section 200 and the aerosol generating medium section 100. An outer wrapping layer 600 wraps around the outer periphery of the functional section and the aerosol generating medium section 100.

[0138] The aerosol generating product is used in conjunction with an aerosol generating device having a heating component. Specifically, the heating component heats and atomizes the aerosol generating medium section 100 to generate aerosol, and the user draws the filtered aerosol through the filter section 200.

[0139] There are various heating methods for the heating components. For example, heating methods include center heating and peripheral heating. Center heating refers to the heating component being inserted into the aerosol generating medium section 100 to bake and heat the aerosol generating medium section 100 from the inside out. Peripheral heating refers to the heating component being positioned around the aerosol generating product to bake and heat the aerosol generating medium section 100 from the outside in. These heating methods can specifically include resistance heating, electromagnetic induction heating, infrared heating, microwave heating, laser heating, air heating, electric field heating, carbon source heating, plasma heating, etc., and are not specifically limited here.

[0140] The cooling section 300 is located between the filtration section 200 and the aerosol generating medium section 100 to cool the aerosol before the filtration section 200 filters it, thereby reducing the temperature of the aerosol and alleviating the "burning" sensation when users inhale the aerosol.

[0141] It should be noted that the aerosol generating product relies on the aerosol generating medium section 100 to generate aerosols, while the functional section does not generate aerosols.

[0142] The material of the outer wrapping layer 600 is not limited, for example, including but not limited to one or more combinations of materials such as fiber paper, metal foil, infrared radiation layer, metal foil composite fiber paper, polyethylene composite fiber paper, PE, PBAT, etc.

[0143] The outer wrapping layer 600 can be in the form of a hollow tube. The aerosol generating medium section 100 and the functional section can be arranged sequentially in the hollow tube-shaped outer wrapping layer 600. The outer wrapping layer 600 can also be a splicing paper. The aerosol generating medium section 100 and the functional section are combined into an integrated structure through the splicing paper.

[0144] The first direction is the arrangement direction of the aerosol generating medium section 100, the cooling section 300 and the filtration section 200. The aerosol generating product is inserted into the aerosol generating device along the first direction, and the aerosol generating product is also taken out of the aerosol generating device along the first direction. The length of the aerosol generating medium section 100 along the first direction can be longer, shorter or the same as the length in other directions.

[0145] For example, when the outer contour of the aerosol generating medium segment 100 is cylindrical, the first direction is the axial direction of the aerosol generating medium segment 100. It should be noted that the axial length of the aerosol generating medium segment 100 can be less than its diameter.

[0146] For example, when the aerosol generating medium section 100 has a rectangular outline, the first direction is still the direction defined above, that is, the arrangement direction of the aerosol generating medium section 100, the cooling section 300 and the filtration section 200, or the direction in which the aerosol generating product is placed or removed on the aerosol generating device. The first direction of the aerosol generating medium section 100 can be any of the length, width and height of the rectangular prism.

[0147] In the description of this application, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the embodiments of this application. In this application, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Furthermore, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine different embodiments or examples described in this application, as well as features of different embodiments or examples.

[0148] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit the application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A method for preparing aerosol generating medium particles, characterized in that, The method includes: preparing a substrate having a plurality of accommodating holes, at least a portion of which form openings on the outer surface of the substrate; preparing a slurry comprising a hydrophobic material, fibers, and a smoke-generating medium and / or a flavoring medium; coating the slurry onto the outer surface of the substrate, such that at least a portion of the smoke-generating medium and / or the flavoring medium in the slurry enters the accommodating holes, and at least a portion of the hydrophobic material and the fibers remain on the outer surface of the substrate to form a hydrophobic coating, the hydrophobic coating at least partially covering the openings of the accommodating holes to obtain aerosol-generating medium particles.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The preparation of the substrate includes: cutting a porous material to form a plurality of substrates with a maximum diameter of 1-5 mm; and / or the preparation of the substrate further includes: sieving the cut porous material.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The porous material includes at least one of the following: rush pith, bamboo fungus, freeze-dried plants, and plants that have undergone foaming treatment; And / or the preparation of the substrate further includes: deodorizing the porous material; and / or the preparation of the substrate further includes: foaming the porous material.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The hydrophobic material includes hydrophobic plant powder; and / or the fiber includes broadleaf fiber; and / or the fuming medium includes glycerin; and / or the flavoring medium includes at least one of flavoring, nicotine preparation and cooling agent.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The preparation of the slurry comprises, by weight, mixing 30-35 parts of hydrophobic plant powder, 54-60 parts of glycerin, 5-10 parts of broadleaf fiber solution, 10-15 parts of fragrance, and 1-2 parts of nicotine preparation and / or cooling agent to form the slurry, wherein the broadleaf fiber solution is an aqueous solution with a mass fraction of 2.5%.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The step of coating the slurry onto the outer surface of the substrate includes: coating the slurry onto the outer surface of the substrate under a vacuum of less than or equal to 0.1 MPa to form a coating with a thickness of 0.3-1.2 mm.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The method further includes drying the material after the slurry is coated on the outer surface of the substrate at 85-120°C.

8. An aerosol generating medium particle, characterized in that, include: A substrate having a plurality of receiving holes, at least some of which form openings on the outer surface of the substrate; A slurry shell layer, the slurry shell layer comprising a hydrophobic material, fibers, and a smoke-generating medium and / or a flavoring medium; the slurry shell layer covers the outer surface of the substrate, at least a portion of the smoke-generating medium and / or the flavoring medium fills the receiving hole, and at least a portion of the hydrophobic material and the fibers remain on the outer surface of the substrate to form a hydrophobic coating, the hydrophobic coating at least partially covering the opening of the receiving hole.

9. The aerosol generating medium particles according to claim 8, characterized in that, The ratio of the maximum diameter of the substrate to the minimum thickness of the hydrophobic coating is 2-10.

10. The aerosol generating medium particles according to claim 8, characterized in that, The ratio of the total mass of the smoke-generating medium and / or the flavor-enhancing medium filling the receiving hole to the mass of the substrate is 2-15.

11. An aerosol generating medium section, characterized in that, The aerosol generating medium segment includes aerosol generating medium particles as described in any one of claims 8-10.

12. The aerosol generating medium section according to claim 11, characterized in that, The aerosol generating medium segment includes a sheet-like matrix, the sheet-like matrix having a granular layer, and the aerosol generating medium particles disposed on the granular layer.

13. The aerosol generating medium section according to claim 12, characterized in that, The aerosol generating medium segment is constructed as a wound structure formed by winding the sheet-like matrix.

14. An aerosol-generating product, characterized in that, The aerosol generating article comprises aerosol generating medium particles according to any one of claims 8-10, and / or aerosol generating medium particles according to any one of claims 11-13.

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