Aerosol-generating articles having a matrix containing tobacco particles and first and second non-tobacco plant flavor particles

Abstract

An aerosol-generating article is provided for generating an inhalable aerosol upon heating. The aerosol-generating article includes a strip of aerosol-generating matrix comprising homogenized plant material, the homogenized plant material comprising an aerosol forming agent, a binder, and granular plant material. The granular plant material comprises at least 75% by weight of tobacco particles on a dry weight basis; and at least 5% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles on a dry weight basis, wherein the non-tobacco plant flavor particles comprise particles of a first non-tobacco plant and particles of a second non-tobacco plant different from the first non-tobacco plant, and wherein the weight ratio of the particles of the first non-tobacco plant to the particles of the second non-tobacco plant is at least 0.5. The first non-tobacco plant is peppermint.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating article comprising a strip of aerosol-generating matrix, said matrix comprising homogenized plant material from granular plant material. The granular plant material comprises tobacco particles and first and second non-tobacco plant flavor particles. The first non-tobacco plant is peppermint. This disclosure also relates to an aerosol-generating article comprising said matrix, and a system comprising said article. Background Technology

[0002] Aerosol-generating articles are known in the art in which an aerosol-generating matrix (such as a tobacco-containing matrix) is heated rather than burned. Typically, in such articles, aerosols are generated by transferring heat from a heat source to a physically separated aerosol-generating matrix or material, which may be positioned in contact with, within, around, or downstream of the heat source. During use of the aerosol-generating article, volatile compounds are released from the matrix via heat transfer from the heat source and entrained in the air drawn through the article. When the released compounds cool, they condense to form an aerosol.

[0003] Some aerosol-generating articles contain flavoring agents that are delivered to the consumer during use of the article to provide a different sensory experience, such as to enhance the flavor of the aerosol. Flavoring agents can be used to deliver taste (flavor), smell (odor), or both taste and smell to a user who inhales the aerosol. Heated aerosol-generating articles containing flavoring agents are known.

[0004] Reproducing the flavor of conventional combustible cigarettes using aerosol-generating matrices in which aerosol-generating articles are heated rather than burned presents challenges. This is partly due to the relatively low temperatures achieved during heating of such aerosol-generating articles, resulting in a different distribution of released volatile compounds. It is desirable to provide a novel aerosol-generating matrix for heated aerosol-generating articles that offers consumers improved flavor delivery. It is also desirable to provide consumers with a novel flavor experience. Furthermore, it is desirable to provide such an aerosol-generating matrix that can be readily incorporated into aerosol-generating articles and that can be manufactured using existing high-speed methods and equipment. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The inventors have provided an aerosol-generating matrix comprising a combination of two different non-tobacco plant materials to offer consumers a novel flavor experience. The ratio of the two different non-tobacco plant materials is controlled to maximize sensory balance. The matrix is ​​suitable for use with an aerosol-generating device including a heating element. Upon heating, the matrix generates an aerosol from homogenized plant materials, the aerosol comprising flavor compounds from tobacco particles, a first non-tobacco plant flavor particle, and a second non-tobacco plant flavor particle. Liquid flavor compounds are prone to evaporation loss during the manufacturing process due to their volatility. Using plant flavor particles instead of liquid flavor compounds reduces or eliminates evaporation loss of flavor compounds. Furthermore, using plant flavor particles instead of liquid flavor compounds provides improved flavor and aroma, which can be balanced with the flavors of nicotine and tobacco particles.

[0006] A first aspect of this disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating article for producing an inhalable aerosol upon heating, the aerosol-generating article comprising a strip of an aerosol-generating matrix, the aerosol-generating matrix comprising homogenized plant material, the homogenized plant material comprising an aerosol forming agent, a binder, and particulate plant material. The particulate plant material may comprise at least 75% by weight of tobacco particles and at least 5% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles, based on dry weight. The non-tobacco plant flavor particles may comprise particles of a first non-tobacco plant and particles of a second non-tobacco plant different from the first non-tobacco plant. The first non-tobacco plant may be peppermint. The weight ratio of the particles of the first non-tobacco plant to the particles of the second non-tobacco plant may be at least 0.5.

[0007] A second aspect of this disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating matrix comprising homogenized plant material, the homogenized plant material comprising an aerosol forming agent, a binder, and granular plant material. The granular plant material may comprise at least 75% by weight of tobacco particles and at least 5% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles, based on dry weight. The non-tobacco plant flavor particles may comprise particles of a first non-tobacco plant and particles of a second non-tobacco plant different from the first non-tobacco plant. The first non-tobacco plant may be peppermint. The weight ratio of the first non-tobacco plant particles to the second non-tobacco plant particles may be at least 0.5.

[0008] A third aspect of this disclosure relates to an aerosol generation system comprising: an aerosol generation article according to a first aspect of the invention; and an aerosol generation apparatus comprising a heating chamber for receiving the aerosol generation article and at least a heating element disposed at or around the periphery of the heating chamber.

[0009] According to a first aspect of the invention, an aerosol-generating article for generating an inhalable aerosol upon heating is provided, the aerosol-generating article comprising a strip of an aerosol-generating matrix, the aerosol-generating matrix comprising homogenized plant material, the homogenized plant material comprising an aerosol forming agent, a binder, and particulate plant material. The particulate plant material comprises at least 75% by weight of tobacco particles and at least 5% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles, based on dry weight. The non-tobacco plant flavor particles comprise particles of a first non-tobacco plant and particles of a second non-tobacco plant different from the first non-tobacco plant. The first non-tobacco plant is peppermint. The weight ratio of the particles of the first non-tobacco plant to the particles of the second non-tobacco plant is at least 0.5.

[0010] According to a second aspect of the invention, an aerosol-generating matrix is ​​provided, the aerosol-generating matrix comprising homogenized plant material, the homogenized plant material comprising an aerosol forming agent, a binder, and granular plant material. The granular plant material comprises at least 75% by weight of tobacco particles and at least 5% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles, based on dry weight. The non-tobacco plant flavor particles comprise particles of a first non-tobacco plant and particles of a second non-tobacco plant, different from the first non-tobacco plant. The first non-tobacco plant is peppermint. The weight ratio of the particles of the first non-tobacco plant to the particles of the second non-tobacco plant is at least 0.5.

[0011] According to a third aspect of the present invention, an aerosol generation system is provided, comprising: an aerosol generation article according to a first aspect of the present invention; and an aerosol generation apparatus, the aerosol generation apparatus comprising a heating chamber for receiving the aerosol generation article and at least a heating element disposed at or around the periphery of the heating chamber.

[0012] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating article" refers to an article in which an aerosol generating matrix is ​​heated to generate an inhalable aerosol and delivers the inhalable aerosol to a consumer.

[0013] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating matrix" refers to a matrix capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form aerosols when heated. A conventional cigarette is ignited when a user applies a flame to one end and inhales air through the other. The localized heat provided by the flame and oxygen in the air inhaled through the cigarette ignites the end of the cigarette, and the resulting combustion produces inhalable smoke. In contrast, in heated aerosol-generating articles, aerosols are generated by heating an aerosol-generating matrix such as tobacco. Known heated aerosol-generating articles include, for example, electrically heated aerosol-generating articles, and aerosol-generating articles in which aerosols are generated through heat transfer from a combustible fuel element or heat source to a physically separate aerosol-generating matrix.

[0014] As used herein, the term "bar" refers to a generally cylindrical element having a substantially circular, oval, or elliptical cross-section.

[0015] As used herein, the term "strip" refers to a generally cylindrical element having a generally polygonal cross-section, and preferably a circular, oval, or elliptical cross-section. The length of a strip may be greater than or equal to the length of a bar. Typically, the length of a strip is greater than the length of a bar. A strip may include one or more bars.

[0016] As used herein, the term "sheet" refers to a plate-like element whose width and length are substantially greater than its thickness. The width of the sheet is greater than 10 mm, preferably greater than 20 mm, 30 mm, 50 mm, 100 mm, 120 mm, 130 mm or 150 mm.

[0017] As used herein, the term "strip" describes elongated element material whose length is significantly greater than its width and thickness. The term "strip" should be considered to encompass strips, fragments, and any other homogenized plant material of similar form. Strips of homogenized plant material can be formed from sheets of homogenized plant material, for example by cutting or shredding, or by other methods, such as extrusion.

[0018] The term "tensile strength" is used throughout this specification to describe the measure of the force required to stretch a homogenized sheet of plant material until it breaks. More specifically, tensile strength is the maximum tensile force per unit width that the sheet material will withstand before breaking, and it is measured in either the longitudinal or transverse direction of the sheet material. The unit of tensile strength is Newtons per meter of material (N / m). Methods for measuring the tensile strength of sheets are well known. A suitable test description is found in the International Standard ISO 1924-2, published in 2014, entitled "Paper and Board – Determination of Tensile Properties – Part 2: Constant Rate of Elongation Method". Further details of this test method are provided under the heading "Test Methods" in this document.

[0019] As used herein, the term “aggregate” refers to homogenized plant material sheets that are rolled, folded, or otherwise compressed or contracted into a cylindrical shape substantially transverse to the axis of a rod or strip.

[0020] As used herein, the term "longitudinal" refers to the direction corresponding to the main longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article, which extends between the upstream and downstream ends of the aerosol-generating article. During use, air is drawn through the aerosol-generating article in the longitudinal direction. The term "transverse" refers to the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. As used herein, the term "length" refers to the dimension of a component in the longitudinal direction, and the term "width" refers to the dimension of a component in the transverse direction. For example, in the case of a rod or bar with a circular cross-section, the maximum width corresponds to the diameter of the circle. As used herein, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" describe the relative position of an element or portion of an element of the aerosol-generating article with respect to the direction in which the aerosol is delivered through the aerosol-generating article during use. The downstream end of the airflow path is the end where the aerosol is delivered to the user of the article.

[0021] As used herein, "dry weight" refers to the weight of a specific non-aqueous component, expressed as a percentage, relative to the total weight of all non-aqueous components in the mixture. The composition of an aqueous mixture can be expressed as "dry weight percentage." This refers to the weight of the non-aqueous component relative to the entire aqueous mixture, expressed as a percentage.

[0022] The homogenized plant material used in the articles and matrices according to the invention can be produced by various processes, including papermaking, casting, pellet regeneration, extrusion or any other suitable process.

[0023] Some processes, such as casting and papermaking, are better suited for producing sheet-like homogenized plant material. The term "cast leaf" is used herein to refer to a product obtained by a casting process, which is based on casting a slurry comprising plant particles (e.g., a mixture of tobacco particles and first and second non-tobacco plant particles), an aerosol-forming agent (e.g., glycerin), a binder (e.g., guar gum), and optionally reinforcing fibers onto a support surface such as a belt conveyor, drying the slurry, and removing the dried sheet from the support surface. Examples of casting or cast leaf processes are described, for example, in US-A-5,724,998 for the manufacture of cast leaf tobacco. In the cast leaf process, granular plant material is produced by pulverizing, grinding, or crushing portions of the plant. Particles produced from one or more plants are mixed with a liquid component (typically water) to form a slurry. Other components in the slurry may include fibers, binders, and aerosol-forming agents. The granular plant material may agglomerate in the presence of a binder. The slurry is cast onto a support surface and dried into a sheet of homogenized plant material. Preferably, the homogenized plant material used in the articles and substrates according to the invention can be produced by casting, that is, it can be in the form of cast leaves. Such homogenized plant material can include aggregated granular plant material.

[0024] A papermaking process for producing sheets of homogenized plant material includes a first step of mixing plant material and water to form a dilute suspension primarily composed of separated cellulose fibers. This first step may involve soaking and applying heat. The suspension has a lower viscosity and a higher water content than the pulp produced in a casting process. The suspension can then be separated into an insoluble portion containing a solid fibrous component and a liquid or aqueous portion containing soluble plant material. The water remaining in the insoluble fibrous portion can be drained through a screen, which acts as a sieve, allowing a web of randomly interwoven fibers to be laid out. Water can be further removed from this web by pressing with rollers, sometimes with suction or vacuum assistance. When most of the water has been removed, a generally flat and uniform sheet of plant fibers is achieved. The soluble plant material removed from the sheet can be concentrated, and the concentrated plant material can be added back to the sheet, thus producing a sheet of homogenized plant material. As described in US 3,860,012, this process has been used with tobacco to manufacture reconstituted tobacco products, also known as tobacco paper.

[0025] Other known processes applicable to the production of homogenized plant materials are, for example, clump reprocessing processes of the type described in US-A-3,894,544; and extrusion processes of the type described in GB-A-983,928. Generally, the density of homogenized plant materials produced by extrusion and clump reprocessing is greater than that produced by casting processes.

[0026] Tensile strength is a measure of the force required to stretch a sheet of material until it breaks. Papermaking processes typically produce sheets with relatively higher tensile strength than sheets produced through cast leaf, sludge reprocessing, or extrusion. In the cast leaf process, most flavorings are advantageously preserved because virtually all soluble fractions are retained in the plant material. Additionally, energy-intensive papermaking steps are avoided.

[0027] Tobacco and peppermint have distinctive, typically aromatic, scents. The flavor released by these plants is usually due to the presence of one or more flavoring agents, which are volatile compounds in the plant material that evaporate when heated. For example, the main component of peppermint essential oil is menthol (5-methyl-2-9-prop-2-yl)cyclohexyl-1-ol, chemical formula: C 10 H 20 O, Chemical Abstracts Service registration number 2216-51-5) and menthone ((2S,5R)-2-isopropyl-5-methylcyclohexanone, chemical formula: C 10 H 18(O, Chemical Abstracts Service Registry No. 89-80-5). However, peppermint flavor also includes other compounds, such as, but not limited to, menthol, 1,8-cineole, and limonene. The presence of peppermint flavor is preferably determined by measuring the menthol or menthone content of the homogenized plant material (or alternatively, the menthol or menthone content of the aerosol produced when the homogenized plant material is heated). However, the presence of peppermint flavor can also be determined by measuring the content of other compounds present in peppermint essential oil, including but not limited to those listed above.

[0028] As used herein with reference to this invention, the term "tobacco pellets" encompasses ground or pulverized tobacco leaves, ground or pulverized tobacco stems, tobacco dust, tobacco debris, and other particulate tobacco byproducts formed during the handling, processing, and transportation of tobacco. In contrast, isolated nicotine and nicotine salts are compounds derived from tobacco but are not considered tobacco for the purposes of this invention and are not included in the percentage of particulate plant material.

[0029] Particle size in this article is expressed as D-values, where D-value refers to the percentage of particles with a diameter less than or equal to a given D-value. For example, in a D90 particle size distribution, 90% of the particles have a diameter less than or equal to a given D90 value, and 10% of the particles have a diameter greater than a given D90 value. Particle size distribution can be determined by laser diffraction. For example, particle size distribution can be determined by laser diffraction using a Malvern Mastersizer 3000 laser diffractometer according to the manufacturer's instructions.

[0030] Tobacco particles can have a D90 value greater than or equal to 20 micrometers to less than or equal to 300 micrometers. This means that tobacco particles can have a distribution represented by any D90 value within a given range, i.e., D90 can be equal to 100 micrometers, or D90 can be equal to 105 micrometers, and so on, up to D90 can be equal to 300 micrometers. Preferably, tobacco particles can have a D90 value greater than or equal to 30 micrometers to less than or equal to 275 micrometers, more preferably a D90 value greater than or equal to 100 micrometers to less than or equal to 250 micrometers, and most preferably a D90 value greater than or equal to 120 micrometers to less than or equal to 200 micrometers. Tobacco particles can have a D90 value of at least 100 micrometers. The diameter of 100% of the tobacco particles can be less than or equal to 400 micrometers, more preferably less than or equal to 350 micrometers. The range of tobacco particle sizes allows these tobacco particles to be combined with first and second non-tobacco plant particles in existing cast leaf processes.

[0031] In some embodiments, tobacco may be intentionally ground to form granular tobacco material with a defined particle size distribution for use in homogenizing plant material. This provides the advantage that the size of the tobacco particles can be controlled to provide the desired particle size distribution. Therefore, the use of intentionally ground tobacco advantageously improves the uniformity of the granular tobacco material and the consistency of the homogenized tobacco material. This enables the provision of aerosol-generating articles with consistent aerosol delivery.

[0032] Furthermore, specific parts of the tobacco plant can be selected and ground to the desired size. For example, tobacco flakes can be ground to form granular tobacco material. This also helps improve the consistency of homogenized plant material compared to material formed using waste tobacco.

[0033] Tobacco pellets can be prepared from one or more tobacco plants. Any type of tobacco can be used in blends. Examples of tobacco types that can be used include, but are not limited to, sun-cured tobacco, flue-cured tobacco, Burley tobacco, Maryland tobacco, Oriental tobacco, Virginia tobacco, other specialty tobaccos, and their blends. Kasturi is a sun-cured tobacco commonly used in Kretek cigarettes. Other examples of sun-cured tobacco are Madura and Jatim. Burley is a type of tobacco that plays an important role in many tobacco blends. Burley has a distinctive flavor and aroma and also has the ability to absorb a large amount of casing.

[0034] Flue-curing is a method of drying tobacco, particularly Virginia tobacco. During the curing process, heated air circulates through densely packed tobacco leaves. In the first stage, the tobacco leaves turn yellow and wither. In the second stage, the leaf blades are completely dried. In the third stage, the leaf stalks are completely dried.

[0035] Oriental tobacco is a type of tobacco characterized by small leaves and high aromatic quality. However, its flavor is milder than that of other tobaccos, such as Burley tobacco. Therefore, a relatively small proportion of Oriental tobacco is typically used in tobacco blends.

[0036] Preferably, Kasturi tobacco and flue-cured tobacco can be used in the blend to produce tobacco pellets. Therefore, the tobacco pellets in the granular plant material can include a blend of Kasturi tobacco and flue-cured tobacco.

[0037] Although considered a non-tobacco material for the purposes of this invention, nicotine may optionally be incorporated into the matrix. Nicotine may include one or more nicotine salts selected from the following list: nicotine citrate, nicotine pyruvate, nicotine bitartrate, nicotine pectate, nicotine alginate, and nicotine salicylate. In addition to incorporating nicotine into tobacco having a low nicotine content, nicotine may also be incorporated as a tobacco substitute into matrices intended to reduce or eliminate tobacco content.

[0038] The granular plant material comprises at least 75% by weight of tobacco particles on a dry weight basis. The granular plant material may comprise at least about 80% by weight, or at least about 85% by weight, or at least about 90% by weight of tobacco particles on a dry weight basis. Preferably, the granular plant material may comprise less than or equal to about 95% by weight, or less than or equal to about 97.5% by weight of tobacco particles on a dry weight basis. The granular plant material may comprise 75% to 95% by weight, or 80% to 95% by weight, or 85% to 95% by weight, or 90% to 95% by weight of tobacco particles on a dry weight basis. The granular plant material may comprise 75% to 97.5% by weight, or 80% to 97.5% by weight, or 85% to 95% by weight, or 90% to 97.5% by weight of tobacco particles on a dry weight basis.

[0039] The non-tobacco plant flavored pellets consist of a first non-tobacco plant pellet and a second non-tobacco plant pellet. The first non-tobacco plant is peppermint.

[0040] As is well known, peppermint is actually the leaves and flowers of *Mentha x piperita*, a peppermint hybrid belonging to the genus *Mentha* in the family Lamiaceae. As used herein, the term "peppermint" encompasses particles derived from the leaves and flowers of *Mentha x piperita*, and may include whole leaves and flowers, ground or crushed leaves and flowers, or leaves and flowers that have undergone other physical processing to reduce particle size. In contrast, peppermint essential oil, menthol, and menthone are compounds derived from peppermint, but for the purposes of this invention, are not considered peppermint particles and are not included in the percentage of granular plant material.

[0041] It has been found that including peppermint particles in a homogenized plant material, in combination with tobacco particles and a second non-tobacco plant particle, in the aerosol-generating matrix provided herein provides an improved peppermint aroma during use of the aerosol-generating matrix in an aerosol-generating article, compared to adding peppermint additives such as peppermint oil. The inventors have discovered that matrices containing peppermint oil but not peppermint particles cannot deliver a balanced peppermint aroma. Furthermore, in some aerosol-generating matrices provided herein, sufficient levels of peppermint particles can be incorporated to provide the desired peppermint aroma while maintaining sufficient tobacco material to provide the desired level of nicotine to the consumer. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating matrix comprises one or more sheets of homogenized plant material formed from granular plant material. In one embodiment, the sheet of homogenized plant material may contain tobacco particles, peppermint particles, and a second non-tobacco plant particle within the same sheet. In other embodiments, the sheet of homogenized plant material may contain tobacco particles, peppermint particles, and a second non-tobacco plant particle within separate sheets.

[0042] The second non-tobacco plant is selected from star anise, lavender, clove, common sage, chamomile, rosemary, eucalyptus, ginger, dill seeds, thyme, oregano, and cumin. Preferably, the second non-tobacco plant is selected from star anise, lavender, clove, common sage, chamomile, and rosemary. More preferably, the second non-tobacco plant is selected from star anise, lavender, common sage, and chamomile. Most preferably, the second non-tobacco plant is star anise. The second non-tobacco plant can be lavender. The second non-tobacco plant can be common sage.

[0043] As used herein, the term "star anise granules" encompasses granules derived from the dried fruit of plants of the genus Illicium, preferably granules derived from star anise (Illicium verum Hooker fil. (Illiciaceae)).

[0044] In contrast, star anise oil is a distillate, while (E)-anesthelin is a compound derived from star anise. These are not considered star anise granules and are not included in the percentage of granular plant material.

[0045] As used in this article, the term "lavender granules" encompasses granules derived from the flowers of plants in the genus Lavender.

[0046] In contrast, lavender essential oil is a distillate, while linalool, linalyl acetate, eucalyptol, and camphor are compounds derived from lavender. These are not considered lavender granules and are not included in the percentage of granular plant material.

[0047] As used in this article, “clove granules” refers to granules derived from the buds and stems of the tree clove (a tree in the Myrtaceae family).

[0048] In contrast, clove oil is a distillate, and eugenol is a compound derived from cloves. These are not considered clove granules and are not included in the percentage of granular plant material.

[0049] As used in this article, “common sage granules” encompasses granules derived from the leaves of European sage.

[0050] In contrast, common sage essential oil is a distillate, while α-thujone, camphor, eucalyptol, β-caryophyllene, α-pinene, and β-pinene are compounds derived from common sage. These are not considered sage granules and are not included in the percentage of granular plant material.

[0051] As used herein, "chamomile granules" encompasses granules derived from chamomile flowers. The flowers of German chamomile, Matricaria chamomilla L., are preferred.

[0052] In contrast, chamomile essential oil is a distillate, while bisabolol and artemisinin isomers are compounds derived from chamomile.

[0053] As used in this article, the term "rosemary" encompasses the grains derived from the leaves, branches, and flowers of rosemary.

[0054] In contrast, rosemary essential oil is a distillate, and rosmarinic acid, camphor, caffeic acid, ursolic acid, caryopic acid, caryopic acid, betulinic acid, and rosmarinic acid are compounds derived from rosemary.

[0055] As used herein, the term "eucalyptus" encompasses grains derived from plants of the genus Eucalyptus, preferably from one or more of the following: E. globulus, E. radiata, E. citriodora, and E. smithii, most preferably from E. globulus, such as ground or powdered eucalyptus leaves and ground or powdered eucalyptus leaf stalks.

[0056] In contrast, eucalyptus oil is a distillate, while eucalyptol, 8-demethyleucalyptol, and eucalyptol are compounds derived from eucalyptus trees.

[0057] As used herein, the term "ginger" encompasses granules derived from the dried roots of plants of the genus Zingiber, preferably granules derived from Zingiber officinale Rosc. (Zingiberaceae).

[0058] In contrast, ginger essential oil is a distillate, and

[10] -shogaol, [8]-shogaol, [6]-shogaol and

[10] -shogaol are compounds derived from ginger.

[0059] As used in this article, the term "dill seed" encompasses the grains of seeds derived from the dill plant (Anethum graveolens). Dill is an annual herbaceous plant belonging to the genus Anethum in the family Apiaceae, widely distributed in Europe and Asia. Dill leaves and seeds are commonly used in flavorings.

[0060] In contrast, dill oil is a distillate extracted from the leaves, stems and seeds of the plant, while carvone and limonene are compounds derived from dill seeds.

[0061] As used in this article, the term "thyme" encompasses the grains derived from the leaves and flowers of the thyme plant (Thymus vulgaris).

[0062] In contrast, thyme essential oil is a distillate extracted from the thyme plant, while ursolic acid and thymol are compounds derived from thyme.

[0063] As used in this article, the term "oregano" encompasses the grains derived from the leaves of oregano (Oregano vulgare). Oregano vulgare L. is a flowering plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family, native to western and southwestern Eurasia and the Mediterranean region. Oregano is a culinary herb, and its leaves are commonly used to impart a distinctive flavor to food.

[0064] In contrast, oregano essential oil is a distillate extracted from the leaves of the oregano plant. The main flavor compounds in oregano essential oil include isothymol (carvacrol) and thymol.

[0065] As used in this article, the term "cumin" refers to the seeds derived from the dried seeds of cumin (Cuminum cyminum). Cuminum cyminum is an herbaceous plant belonging to the Apiaceae family, native to Southwest Asia and the Middle East. Cumin seeds are commonly used as a spice to impart different flavors to food.

[0066] In contrast, cumin seed oil is a distillate extracted from the seeds of the cumin plant. The main flavor compounds in cumin seed oil include cuminaldehyde and cymene.

[0067] The weight ratio of the particles of the first non-tobacco plant to the particles of the second non-tobacco plant is at least 0.5.

[0068] The weight ratio of the particles of the first non-tobacco plant to the particles of the second non-tobacco plant may be at least 0.55, preferably at least 0.6, and more preferably at least 1.0.

[0069] Even more preferably, the weight ratio of the particles of the first non-tobacco plant to the particles of the second non-tobacco plant may be at least 1.5.

[0070] Most preferably, the weight ratio of the first non-tobacco plant particles to the second non-tobacco plant particles is at least 1.75. Preferably, the weight ratio of the first non-tobacco plant particles to the second non-tobacco plant particles is less than or equal to 3.

[0071] The weight ratio of particles from two different non-tobacco plant materials is controlled to maximize the sensory balance between the first and second non-tobacco plant flavors, allowing consumers to appreciate the sensory characteristics of both flavors without either being overpowering. The granular plant material comprises at least 5% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles on a dry weight basis. The granular plant material may comprise at least about 7.5% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles on a dry weight basis, or at least about 9% by weight, or at least about 10% by weight, or at least about 13% by weight, or at least about 15% by weight. Preferably, the granular plant material comprises less than or equal to about 25% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles on a dry weight basis, or less than or equal to about 20% by weight, or less than or equal to about 15% by weight.

[0072] Granular plant materials may contain 5% to 25% by weight, or 5% to 20% by weight, or 5% to 15% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles based on dry weight. Granular plant materials may contain 7.5% to 25% by weight, or 7.5% to 20% by weight, or 7.5% to 15% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles based on dry weight. Granular plant materials may contain 9% to 25% by weight, or 9% to 20% by weight, or 9% to 15% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles based on dry weight. Granular plant materials may contain 13% to 25% by weight, or 13% to 20% by weight, or 13% to 15% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles based on dry weight. Granular plant materials may contain 15% to 25% by weight, or 15% to 20% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles based on dry weight.

[0073] The sensory balance between tobacco and non-tobacco plant flavors can be achieved by controlling the weight of tobacco and non-tobacco plant particles within the granular plant material, allowing consumers to appreciate the sensory characteristics of both tobacco and non-tobacco plant flavors without making them too intense.

[0074] The granular plant material may contain at least 3% by weight of a first non-tobacco plant particle, in this case, peppermint particles. Preferably, the granular plant material may contain at least 5% or at least 6% by weight of a first non-tobacco plant particle. An amount of at least 3%, 5%, or 6% by weight of the first non-tobacco plant particle is preferred because it ensures a sufficient quantity of the first non-tobacco plant particle for consumers to appreciate the sensory characteristics of the first non-tobacco plant flavor. When tested by a consumer evaluation panel, the sensory characteristics are statistically significant compared to non-plant-derived equivalents.

[0075] The granular plant material may contain less than or equal to 14% or less than or equal to 15% by weight of first non-tobacco plant particles on a dry weight basis. A quantity of less than or equal to 14% or less than or equal to 15% by weight of first non-tobacco plant particles is preferred because it ensures that the sensory characteristics of the first non-tobacco plant flavor are not too strong for the consumer.

[0076] The granular plant material may contain 3% to 14% by weight, or 3% to 15% by weight of a first non-tobacco plant particle, based on a dry weight. The granular plant material may contain 4% to 14% by weight, or 4% to 15% by weight, or 5% to 14% by weight, or 5% to 15% by weight, or 6% to 14% by weight, or 6% to 15% by weight of a first non-tobacco plant particle, based on a dry weight.

[0077] The granular plant material may contain at least 2% by weight of a second non-tobacco plant particle. The granular plant material may contain at least 3%, 5%, or 6% by weight of a second non-tobacco plant particle on a dry weight basis. An amount of at least 2%, 3%, 5%, or 6% by weight of the second non-tobacco plant particle is preferred because it ensures a sufficient quantity of the second non-tobacco plant particle for consumers to appreciate the sensory characteristics of the second non-tobacco plant flavor. When tested by a consumer evaluation panel, the sensory characteristics are statistically significant compared to non-plant-derived equivalents.

[0078] Preferably, the granular plant material may contain less than or equal to 8% by weight or less than or equal to 10% by weight of a second non-tobacco plant particle on a dry weight basis. An amount of less than or equal to 10% by weight or less than or equal to 8% by weight of the second non-tobacco plant particle is preferred because it ensures that the sensory characteristics of the second non-tobacco plant are not too strong for the consumer.

[0079] The granular plant material may contain 2% to 10% by weight, or 3% to 10% by weight, or 5% to 10% by weight, or 6% to 10% by weight, based on a dry weight percentage. The granular plant material may also contain 2% to 8% by weight, or 3% to 8% by weight, or 5% to 8% by weight, or 6% to 8% by weight, based on a dry weight percentage. As previously mentioned herein, the second non-tobacco plant is selected from star anise, lavender, clove, common sage, chamomile, rosemary, eucalyptus, ginger, dill seeds, thyme, oregano, and cumin. Preferably, the second non-tobacco plant is selected from star anise, lavender, clove, common sage, chamomile, and rosemary. More preferably, the second non-tobacco plant is selected from star anise, lavender, common sage, and chamomile. Most preferably, the second non-tobacco plant is star anise. The second non-tobacco plant may be lavender. The second non-tobacco plant can be common sage.

[0080] In one embodiment, the second non-tobacco plant may be star anise. In one embodiment, the granular plant material may comprise at least 2% by weight of a second non-tobacco plant granules, wherein the second non-tobacco plant is star anise. The granular plant material may also comprise at least 4% by weight of a first non-tobacco plant granules, wherein the first non-tobacco plant is peppermint. The granular plant material may also comprise at least 90% by weight of tobacco granules, based on dry weight.

[0081] In another embodiment, the granular plant material may comprise at least 3% by weight of a second non-tobacco plant particle, wherein the second non-tobacco plant is star anise. The granular plant material may also comprise at least 5% by weight of a first non-tobacco plant particle, wherein the first non-tobacco plant is peppermint. The granular plant material may also comprise at least 90% by weight of tobacco particle, based on dry weight.

[0082] In another embodiment, the granular plant material may comprise at least 4% by weight of a second non-tobacco plant particle, wherein the second non-tobacco plant is star anise. The granular plant material may also comprise at least 2% by weight of a first non-tobacco plant particle, wherein the first non-tobacco plant is peppermint. The granular plant material may also comprise at least 90% by weight of tobacco particle, based on dry weight.

[0083] In another embodiment, the granular plant material may comprise at least 3% by weight of a second non-tobacco plant particle, wherein the second non-tobacco plant is star anise. The granular plant material may also comprise at least 5% by weight of a first non-tobacco plant particle, wherein the first non-tobacco plant is peppermint. The granular plant material may also comprise at least 90% by weight of tobacco particle, based on dry weight.

[0084] In one embodiment, the granular plant material may comprise at least 3% by weight of a second non-tobacco plant particle, wherein the second non-tobacco plant is star anise. The granular plant material may also comprise at least 6% by weight of a first non-tobacco plant particle, wherein the first non-tobacco plant is peppermint. The granular plant material may also comprise at least 90% by weight of tobacco particle, based on dry weight.

[0085] In another embodiment, the granular plant material may comprise at least 6% by weight of a second non-tobacco plant particle, wherein the second non-tobacco plant is star anise. The granular plant material may also comprise at least 13% by weight of a first non-tobacco plant particle, wherein the first non-tobacco plant is peppermint. The granular plant material may also comprise at least 80% by weight of tobacco particle, based on dry weight.

[0086] In another embodiment, the second non-tobacco plant may be common sage. The granular plant material may contain at least 3% by weight of the second non-tobacco plant particles, wherein the second non-tobacco plant is common sage. The granular plant material may also contain at least 6% by weight of the first non-tobacco plant particles, wherein the first non-tobacco plant is peppermint. The granular plant material may also contain at least 90% by weight of tobacco particles, based on dry weight.

[0087] In another embodiment, the granular plant material may comprise at least 2% by weight of a second non-tobacco plant particle, wherein the second non-tobacco plant is common sage. The granular plant material may also comprise at least 4% by weight, preferably at least 5% by weight of a first non-tobacco plant particle, wherein the first non-tobacco plant is peppermint. The granular plant material may also comprise at least 90% by weight of tobacco particle, based on dry weight.

[0088] In another embodiment, the second non-tobacco plant may be lavender. The granular plant material may contain at least 3% by weight of the second non-tobacco plant particles, wherein the second non-tobacco plant is lavender. The granular plant material may also contain at least 3% by weight of the first non-tobacco plant particles, wherein the first non-tobacco plant is peppermint. The granular plant material may also contain at least 90% by weight of tobacco particles, based on dry weight.

[0089] In another embodiment, the granular plant material may comprise at least 4% by weight of a second non-tobacco plant particle, wherein the second non-tobacco plant is lavender. The granular plant material may also comprise at least 4% by weight of a first non-tobacco plant particle, wherein the first non-tobacco plant is peppermint. The granular plant material may also comprise at least 90% by weight of tobacco particle, based on dry weight.

[0090] In another embodiment, the second non-tobacco plant may be lavender. In another embodiment, the granular plant material may comprise at least 5% by weight of a second non-tobacco plant granules, wherein the second non-tobacco plant is lavender. The granular plant material may also comprise at least 5% by weight of a first non-tobacco plant granules, wherein the first non-tobacco plant is peppermint. The granular plant material may also comprise at least 90% by weight of tobacco granules, based on dry weight.

[0091] The granular plant material can have a D90 value greater than or equal to 20 micrometers to less than or equal to 300 micrometers. Preferably, the granular plant material can have a D90 value greater than or equal to 30 micrometers to less than or equal to 275 micrometers, more preferably a D90 value greater than or equal to 100 micrometers to less than or equal to 250 micrometers, and most preferably a D90 value greater than or equal to 120 micrometers to less than or equal to 200 micrometers. The granular plant material can have a D90 value of at least 100 micrometers. The diameter of 100% granular plant material can be less than or equal to 400 micrometers, more preferably less than or equal to 350 micrometers.

[0092] Non-tobacco plant flavor particles may have a D90 value greater than or equal to 20 micrometers to less than or equal to 300 micrometers. Preferably, the non-tobacco plant flavor particles may have a D90 value greater than or equal to 30 micrometers to less than or equal to 275 micrometers, more preferably greater than or equal to 100 micrometers to less than or equal to 250 micrometers, and most preferably greater than or equal to 120 micrometers to less than or equal to 200 micrometers. Non-tobacco plant flavor particles may have a D90 value of at least 100 micrometers. The diameter of 100% non-tobacco plant flavor particles may be less than or equal to 400 micrometers, more preferably less than or equal to 350 micrometers. The particle size range of non-tobacco plant flavor particles allows them to be combined with tobacco particles in existing cast leaf processes. Without being bound by theory, the particle size range of non-tobacco plant flavor particles can reduce or prevent the loss of volatile flavor essential oils from non-tobacco plant flavor particles, because excessive grinding of particles may cause volatile flavor essential oils to separate from the particles and evaporate from the relatively large surface area of ​​relatively small particles.

[0093] The first non-tobacco plant particles may have a D90 value greater than or equal to 20 micrometers to less than or equal to 300 micrometers. Preferably, the first non-tobacco plant particles may have a D90 value greater than or equal to 30 micrometers to less than or equal to 275 micrometers, more preferably a D90 value greater than or equal to 100 micrometers to less than or equal to 250 micrometers, and most preferably a D90 value greater than or equal to 120 micrometers to less than or equal to 200 micrometers. The first non-tobacco plant particles have a D90 value of at least 100 micrometers. The diameter of 100% of the first non-tobacco plant particles may be less than or equal to 400 micrometers, more preferably less than or equal to 350 micrometers. The particle size range of the first non-tobacco plant particles allows them to be combined with tobacco particles and second non-tobacco plant particles in existing cast leaf processes.

[0094] The second non-tobacco plant particles may have a D90 value greater than or equal to 20 micrometers to less than or equal to 300 micrometers. Preferably, the second non-tobacco plant particles may have a D90 value greater than or equal to 30 micrometers to less than or equal to 275 micrometers, more preferably greater than or equal to 100 micrometers to less than or equal to 250 micrometers, and most preferably greater than or equal to 120 micrometers to less than or equal to 200 micrometers. The second non-tobacco plant particles have a D90 value of at least 100 micrometers. The diameter of 100% of the second non-tobacco plant particles may be less than or equal to 400 micrometers, more preferably less than or equal to 350 micrometers. The particle size range of the second non-tobacco plant particles allows them to be combined with tobacco particles and first non-tobacco plant particles in existing cast leaf processes.

[0095] Homogenized plant materials include aerosol forming agents, binders, and granular plant materials.

[0096] Homogenized plant material may comprise at least 60% by weight, or at least 65% by weight, or at least 70% by weight, or at least 75% by weight, of granular plant material on a dry weight basis. Homogenized plant material may comprise less than or equal to 80% by weight, of granular plant material on a dry weight basis. Homogenized plant material may comprise 60% to 80% by weight, or 65% to 80% by weight, or 70% to 80% by weight, or 75% to 80% by weight, of granular plant material on a dry weight basis.

[0097] The homogenized plant material may contain at least 3% by weight, or at least 3.5% by weight, or at least 5% by weight, or at least 7.5% by weight, or at least 10% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles on a dry weight basis. The homogenized plant material may contain less than or equal to 20% by weight or less than or equal to 15% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles on a dry weight basis. The homogenized plant material may contain between 3% and 20% by weight, or between 3.5% and 20% by weight, or between 5% and 20% by weight, or between 7.5% and 20% by weight, or between 10% and 20% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles on a dry weight basis.

[0098] The homogenized plant material may contain at least 2% by weight, or at least 2.5% by weight, or at least 5% by weight of peppermint particles on a dry weight basis. The homogenized plant material may contain less than or equal to 19% by weight, or less than or equal to 15% by weight of peppermint particles on a dry weight basis. The homogenized plant material may contain between 2% and 19% by weight, or between 2.5% and 19% by weight, or between 5% and 19% by weight, or between 2% and 15% by weight, or between 2.5% and 15% by weight, or between 5% and 15% by weight of peppermint particles on a dry weight basis. As noted above, an amount of at least 2% by weight, or at least 2.5% by weight, or at least 5% by weight of peppermint particles is preferred because it ensures a sufficient quantity of peppermint particles for consumers to appreciate the sensory characteristics of peppermint. When tested by a consumer evaluation panel, the sensory characteristics were statistically significant compared to non-plant-derived equivalents. As noted above, a peppermint granule content of less than or equal to 19% by weight, or less than or equal to 15% by weight, is preferred because it ensures that the sensory characteristics of peppermint are not too strong for the consumer.

[0099] The homogenized plant material may contain at least 1%, 2%, 3%, or 4% by weight of a second non-tobacco plant particle on a dry weight basis. The homogenized plant material may contain less than or equal to 10% or 8% by weight of a second non-tobacco plant particle on a dry weight basis. The homogenized plant material may contain between 1% and 10% by weight, 2% and 10% by weight, 3% and 10% by weight, or 4% and 10% by weight of a second non-tobacco plant particle on a dry weight basis. The homogenized plant material may contain between 1% and 8% by weight, 2% and 8% by weight, 3% and 8% by weight, or 4% and 8% by weight of a second non-tobacco plant particle on a dry weight basis. As noted above, an amount of at least 1%, 2%, 3%, or 4% by weight of a second non-tobacco plant particle is preferred because it ensures a sufficient quantity of the second non-tobacco plant particle for consumers to appreciate the sensory characteristics of the second non-tobacco plant flavor. When tested by a consumer evaluation panel, the sensory characteristics were statistically significant compared to non-plant-derived equivalents. As noted above, an amount of less than or equal to 10% by weight, or less than or equal to 8% by weight, of a second non-tobacco plant is preferred, as it ensures that the sensory characteristics of the second non-tobacco plant flavor are not too strong for the consumer.

[0100] The homogenized plant material is preferably in the form of a solid or gel. However, in some embodiments, the homogenized plant material may be in a solid form that is not a gel. Preferably, the homogenized plant material is not in the form of a film.

[0101] The homogenized plant material of the aerosol-generating article or matrix according to the invention can advantageously contain all the particulate plant material that needs to be incorporated into the aerosol-generating matrix. The composition of the homogenized plant material can be advantageously tuned by blending different plant particles of desired amounts and types. This allows the aerosol-generating matrix to be formed from a single homogenized plant material, without the need for combining or mixing different blends, as is the case in the production of conventional shredded fillers. Therefore, the production of the aerosol-generating matrix can be potentially simplified.

[0102] Homogenized plant materials contain one or more aerosol forming agents. Functionally, when the homogenized plant material is heated above a specific volatilization temperature of the aerosol forming agent, the aerosol forming agent is volatile and can deliver one or more components of nicotine and flavorings in the aerosol. The aerosol forming agent can be any suitable compound or mixture of compounds that facilitates the formation of a dense and stable aerosol during use and is sufficiently resistant to thermal degradation at the operating temperature of the aerosol-generating article. Different aerosol forming agents volatilize at different temperatures. Therefore, it is possible to determine whether an aerosol forming agent remains stable at or near room temperature but at higher temperatures, such as 40-450°C. o The ability of C to volatilize between carbon atoms is used to select aerosol forming agents.

[0103] Aerosol forming agents can also possess wetting agent properties that help maintain desired levels of moisture in homogenized plant materials. In particular, some aerosol forming agents are hygroscopic materials that act as wetting agents.

[0104] Suitable aerosol forming agents and wetting agents included in homogenized plant materials are known in the art and include, but are not limited to: polyols, such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol and glycerol; esters of polyols, such as glycerol monoacetate, glycerol diacetate or glycerol triacetate; and aliphatic esters of monocarboxylic acids, dicarboxylic acids or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyl dodecanoate and dimethyl tetradecanoate.

[0105] Preferably, the homogenized plant material contains at least 10% by weight of an aerosol forming agent on a dry weight basis. For example, the homogenized plant material may have an aerosol forming agent content between about 5% by weight and about 30% by weight on a dry weight basis, such as between about 10% by weight and about 25% by weight on a dry weight basis, or between about 15% by weight and about 20% by weight on a dry weight basis. If the matrix is ​​intended for use in an aerosol generating article in an electrically operated aerosol generating system with a heating element, it may preferably contain more than 5% by weight and about 30% by weight on a dry weight basis. If the matrix is ​​intended for use in an aerosol generating article in an electrically operated aerosol generating system with a heating element, the aerosol forming agent may preferably be glycerol.

[0106] Homogenized plant materials contain one or more binders to help aggregate granular plant materials. Alternatively or additionally, homogenized plant materials may contain other additives, including but not limited to lipids, fibers, humectants, plasticizers, flavorings, fillers, aqueous and non-aqueous solvents, and combinations thereof.

[0107] The binder for granular plant material can be endogenous or exogenous. Suitable binders included in homogenized plant material as described herein are known in the art, including but not limited to: gums such as guar gum, xanthan gum, gum arabic, and locust bean gum; cellulose binders such as hydroxypropyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, and ethyl cellulose; polysaccharides such as starch; organic acids such as alginic acid; conjugate base salts of organic acids such as sodium alginate, agar, and pectin; and combinations thereof. Preferably, the binder may contain guar gum. The binder may be present in an amount of about 1% to about 10% by weight based on the dry weight of the homogenized plant material, preferably in an amount of about 2% to about 5% by weight based on the dry weight of the homogenized plant material.

[0108] The homogenized plant material may include reinforcing fibers. Suitable reinforcing fibers for inclusion in the homogenized plant material are known in the art and include fibers formed from non-tobacco plant materials: a first non-tobacco plant material and a second non-tobacco plant material, including but not limited to: cellulose fibers; cork fibers; hardwood fibers; jute fibers; and combinations thereof. Prior to inclusion in the homogenized plant material, the fibers may be treated by suitable methods known in the art, including but not limited to: mechanical pulping; refining; chemical pulping; bleaching; sulfate pulping; and combinations thereof. The fibers typically have a length greater than their width. Suitable fibers typically have a length greater than 400 µm and less than or equal to 4 mm, preferably in the range of 0.7 mm to 4 mm. The homogenized plant material may be formed from a combination of granular plant material and reinforcing fibers formed from plant materials other than tobacco: a first non-tobacco plant material and a second non-tobacco plant material. When determining the weight percentage based on the total weight of the granular plant material, the weight percentage of other fiber materials is not added to the weight of the granular plant material.

[0109] The reinforcing fiber may be present in an amount of about 2% to about 15% by weight based on the dry weight of the homogenized plant material, preferably in an amount of about 3% to about 5% by weight based on the dry weight of the homogenized plant material.

[0110] Preferably, the homogenized plant material is in the form of one or more sheets of homogenized plant material.

[0111] One or more sheets as described herein may each individually have a thickness between 100 micrometers and 600 micrometers, preferably between 100 micrometers and 400 micrometers, preferably between 150 micrometers and 300 micrometers, and most preferably between 200 micrometers and 280 micrometers. Individual thickness refers to the thickness of a single sheet, while combined thickness refers to the total thickness of all sheets constituting the aerosol generating matrix. For example, if the aerosol generating matrix is ​​formed from two individual sheets, the combined thickness is the sum of the thicknesses of the two individual sheets or the measured thicknesses when the two sheets are stacked in the aerosol generating matrix.

[0112] One or more sheets as described herein may each have an average thickness between 100 micrometers and 600 micrometers, preferably between 100 micrometers and 400 micrometers, preferably between 150 micrometers and 300 micrometers, and most preferably between 200 micrometers and 280 micrometers.

[0113] One or more sheets as described herein may each individually have a weight between approximately 100 g / m² and approximately 300 g / m².

[0114] One or more sheets, as described herein, may each individually have approximately 0.3 g / cm³. 3 Approximately 1.3 g / cm³ 3 And preferably about 0.7 g / cm³ 3 To approximately 1.0 g / cm 3 The density.

[0115] One or more sheets as described herein may each individually have a transverse peak tensile strength between 50 N / m and 400 N / m, or preferably between 150 N / m and 350 N / m, normalized to the thickness of a single sheet, wherein the thickness of the single sheet is in the range of 215 μm to 275 µm. One or more sheets as described herein may each individually have a longitudinal peak tensile strength between 100 N / m and 800 N / m, or preferably between 280 N / m and 620 N / m, normalized to the thickness of a single sheet, wherein the thickness of the single sheet is in the range of 215 μm to 275 µm. Longitudinal refers to the direction in which the sheet material will be wound onto or unwound from a spool and fed into the machine, while transverse is perpendicular to longitudinal. These tensile strength values ​​make the sheets and methods described herein particularly suitable for subsequent operations involving mechanical stress.

[0116] Providing sheets with the thickness, basis weight and tensile strength levels defined above advantageously optimizes the machinability of the sheets to form an aerosol-generating matrix and ensures that damage, such as tearing of the sheets, is avoided during high-speed processing.

[0117] Preferably, the one or more sheets may be in the form of one or more aggregated sheets. Preferably, the strip of aerosol-generating matrix comprises one or more aggregated sheets of homogenized plant material defined by the packaging.

[0118] Sheets of homogenized plant material can preferably be aggregated transversely relative to their longitudinal axis and wrapped with packaging material to form continuous strips or rods. The continuous strips can be cut into multiple discrete strips or rods. The packaging material can be paper or non-paper. Suitable paper packaging materials for specific embodiments of the invention are known in the art and include, but are not limited to: cigarette paper; and filter tip packaging. Suitable non-paper packaging materials for use in specific embodiments of the invention are known in the art and include, but are not limited to: homogenized tobacco material. Homogenized tobacco packaging materials are particularly suitable for use in embodiments in which the aerosol-generating matrix comprises one or more sheets of homogenized plant material formed from granular plant material, the granular plant material comprising a combination of first and second non-tobacco plant particles and a relatively low weight percentage of tobacco particles.

[0119] Before being aggregated or cut into pieces, the homogenized plant material sheets can be textured by pressing, embossing, perforation, or other methods. Preferably, the homogenized plant material sheets are pressed before aggregation, so that the homogenized plant material can be in the form of pressed sheets, more preferably in the form of aggregated pressed sheets. As used herein, the term "pressed sheet" refers to a sheet having a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or folds.

[0120] Alternatively, homogenized plant material can be in the form of multiple fragments, strips, or bars. Fragments, strips, or bars can be used to form rods.

[0121] In some embodiments, strips may be formed in situ within the aerosol-generating matrix due to the splitting or cracking of the sheet of homogenized plant material during the formation of the aerosol-generating matrix, for example, due to curling. The strips of homogenized plant material within the aerosol-generating matrix may be separable from each other. Alternatively, each strip of homogenized plant material within the aerosol-generating matrix may be at least partially connected along its length to one or more adjacent strips. For example, adjacent strips may be connected by one or more fibers. This can occur, for example, when strips have been formed due to the splitting of the sheet of homogenized plant material during the production of the aerosol-generating matrix, as described above.

[0122] Typically, the width of such fragments, strips, or bars is about 5 mm, or about 4 mm, or about 3 mm, or about 2 mm or less. The length of the fragments, strips, or bars can be greater than about 5 mm, between about 5 mm and about 15 mm, about 8 mm and about 12 mm, or about 12 mm. The length of the fragments, strips, or bars can be determined by the manufacturing process, thereby cutting the strips into shorter bars, and the length of the fragments, strips, or bars corresponds to the length of the bars. The fragments, strips, or bars may be fragile, especially during transportation, and may break. In such cases, some of the fragments, strips, or bars may be shorter than the length of the bars.

[0123] The multiple strips preferably extend substantially longitudinally, aligned with the longitudinal axis along the length of the aerosol-generating matrix. Preferably, the multiple strips are thus aligned substantially parallel to each other. This provides a relatively uniform and regular structure, which facilitates the insertion of internal heating elements into the aerosol-generating matrix and optimizes heating efficiency.

[0124] In one embodiment, the matrix may be in the form of a single rod of aerosol-generating matrix. Most preferably, the rod of aerosol-generating matrix may comprise one or more sheets of homogenized plant material. Preferably, the one or more sheets of homogenized plant material may be crimped such that they have a plurality of ridges or corrugations substantially parallel to the cylindrical axis of the rod. This advantageously facilitates the aggregation of the crimped sheets of homogenized plant material to form the rod. Preferably, one or more sheets of homogenized plant material may be aggregated. It should be appreciated that the rolled sheets of homogenized plant material may alternatively or additionally have a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or corrugations arranged at acute or obtuse angles to the cylindrical axis of the rod. The sheets may be rolled to such an extent that the integrity of the sheets is compromised at the plurality of parallel ridges or corrugations, thereby causing material separation and resulting in the formation of fragments, strips, or slivers of homogenized plant material.

[0125] According to a second aspect of the invention, an aerosol-generating matrix is ​​provided, the aerosol-generating matrix comprising homogenized plant material, the homogenized plant material comprising an aerosol forming agent, a binder, and granular plant material. The granular plant material comprises at least 75% by weight of tobacco particles and at least 5% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles, based on dry weight. The non-tobacco plant flavor particles comprise particles of a first non-tobacco plant and particles of a second non-tobacco plant different from the first non-tobacco plant. The first non-tobacco plant is peppermint, and the weight ratio of the particles of the first non-tobacco plant to the particles of the second non-tobacco plant is at least 0.5.

[0126] The homogenized plant material, aerosol forming agent, binder, granular plant material, tobacco particles, and first and second non-tobacco plant particles are all as described above with respect to the first aspect of the invention.

[0127] The aerosol generating matrix may have a density of less than or equal to 1000 mg / cm³. Preferably, the aerosol generating matrix may have a density of less than or equal to 900 mg / cm³. More preferably, the aerosol generating matrix may have a density of less than or equal to 800 mg / cm³.

[0128] Preferably, the aerosol generating matrix has an average density of at least 200 mg / cm³. More preferably, the aerosol generating matrix has a density of at least 300 mg / cm³. More preferably, the aerosol generating matrix has a density of at least 400 mg / cm³. More preferably, the aerosol generating matrix has a density of at least 500 mg / cm³.

[0129] For example, the aerosol generating matrix preferably has a density between 200 mg / cm³ and 1000 mg / cm³, or between 300 mg / cm³ and 950 mg / cm³, or between 400 mg / cm³ and 900 mg / cm³, or between 500 mg / cm³ and 800 mg / cm³, or between 700 mg / cm³ and 800 mg / cm³.

[0130] As used in this article, the term "density" in relation to aerosol generating matrix refers to the bulk density of the aerosol generating matrix. This can be calculated by measuring the total weight of the aerosol generating matrix and dividing it by the volume of the aerosol generating matrix strip (excluding any packaging).

[0131] Advantageously, increasing the density of the aerosol-generating matrix increases its weight. Increasing the weight of the aerosol-generating matrix thus increases the ratio of its weight to the weight of the aerosol-generating article.

[0132] The inventors of this invention have discovered that the relatively high density of the aerosol-generating matrix advantageously results in an extended user experience duration. For example, the user experience duration can be doubled. Despite the increased experience duration, the aerosol delivery of the aerosol-generated article can remain within the normal range expected by the user due to the high weight proportion of the aerosol-generating matrix in the article.

[0133] In some preferred embodiments, the strips of aerosol-generating matrix contain at least 250 milligrams of homogenized plant material.

[0134] In some preferred embodiments, the strips of the aerosol-forming matrix further include heating elements arranged to heat the homogenized plant material. The heating element may be one or more sensory elements.

[0135] In some preferred embodiments, the strips of the aerosol generating matrix have a length of less than or equal to 20 mm. More preferably, the strips of the aerosol generating matrix have a length of less than or equal to 18 mm. More preferably, the strips of the aerosol generating matrix have a length of less than or equal to 15 mm. More preferably, the strips of the aerosol generating matrix have a length of less than or equal to 14 mm. More preferably, the strips of the aerosol generating matrix have a length of less than or equal to 13 mm.

[0136] Preferably, the strips of the aerosol generating matrix have a length of at least 6 mm. More preferably, the strips of the aerosol generating matrix have a length of at least 10 mm.

[0137] For example, the strips of the aerosol generating matrix have a length between 6 mm and 20 mm, or between 6 mm and 18 mm, or between 6 mm and 15 mm, or between 6 mm and 14 mm, or between 6 mm and 13 mm, or between 10 mm and 18 mm, or between 10 mm and 15 mm, or between 10 mm and 14 mm, or between 10 mm and 13 mm.

[0138] In some preferred embodiments, the ratio of the length of the aerosol-generating matrix strip to the length of the aerosol-generating article is less than 0.4. More preferably, the ratio of the length of the aerosol-generating matrix strip to the length of the aerosol-generating article is less than 0.35. Even more preferably, the ratio of the length of the aerosol-generating matrix strip to the length of the aerosol-generating article is less than 0.3.

[0139] Preferably, the ratio of the length of the aerosol-generating matrix strip to the length of the aerosol-generating article is at least 0.15. More preferably, the ratio of the length of the aerosol-generating matrix strip to the length of the aerosol-generating article is at least 0.2. More preferably, the ratio of the length of the aerosol-generating matrix strip to the length of the aerosol-generating article is at least 0.25. More preferably, the ratio of the length of the aerosol-generating matrix strip to the length of the aerosol-generating article is at least 0.3.

[0140] For example, the ratio of the length of the aerosol-generating matrix strip to the length of the aerosol-generating article can be between 0.15 and 0.4, or between 0.2 and 0.35, or between 0.25 and 0.3, or between 0.3 and 0.4.

[0141] Preferably, the outer diameter of the aerosol generating matrix strip is approximately equal to the outer diameter of the aerosol generating article.

[0142] The outer diameter of the aerosol generating matrix strip can be calculated as the average of multiple measurements of the strip diameter taken at different locations along the length of the aerosol generating matrix strip.

[0143] Preferably, the strip of the aerosol generating matrix has an outer diameter of at least about 5 mm. More preferably, the strip of the aerosol generating matrix has an outer diameter of at least about 6 mm. Even more preferably, the strip of the aerosol generating matrix has an outer diameter of at least about 7 mm.

[0144] The strips of the aerosol generating matrix preferably have an outer diameter of about 12 mm or less. More preferably, the strips of the aerosol generating matrix have an outer diameter of about 10 mm or less. Even more preferably, the strips of the aerosol generating matrix have an outer diameter of about 8 mm or less.

[0145] In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​about 5 mm to about 12 mm, preferably about 6 mm to about 12 mm, more preferably about 7 mm to about 12 mm. In other embodiments, the outer diameter of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​about 5 mm to about 12 mm, preferably about 6 mm to about 10 mm, more preferably about 7 mm to about 10 mm. In still other embodiments, the outer diameter of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​about 5 mm to about 8 mm, preferably about 6 mm to about 8 mm, more preferably about 7 mm to about 8 mm.

[0146] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the strip of the aerosol generating matrix has an outer diameter of less than about 7.5 mm. For example, the strip of the aerosol generating matrix may have an outer diameter of about 7.2 mm.

[0147] The aerosol generating article according to the present invention may include a downstream section disposed downstream of a strip of aerosol generating matrix. The downstream section is preferably positioned immediately downstream of the strip of aerosol generating matrix. The downstream section of the aerosol generating article preferably extends between the strip of aerosol generating matrix and the downstream end of the aerosol generating article. The downstream section may include one or more elements, each of which will be described in more detail within this disclosure.

[0148] The length of the downstream section is preferably between 20 mm and 70 mm, or between 25 mm and 60 mm, or between 30 mm and 50 mm.

[0149] The downstream section may include at least one hollow tubular element disposed downstream of the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix. The hollow tubular element may advantageously provide an aerosol cooling element for the aerosol-generating article.

[0150] A hollow tubular element is disposed immediately downstream of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix. In other words, the hollow tubular element is adjacent to the downstream end of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix. The hollow tubular element may define the upstream end of a downstream section of the aerosol generating article. The downstream end of the aerosol generating article may coincide with the downstream end of the downstream section. In some embodiments, the downstream section of the aerosol generating article includes a single hollow tubular element. In other words, the downstream section of the aerosol generating article may include only one hollow tubular element. In other embodiments, as described below, the downstream section includes two or more hollow tubular elements.

[0151] In the context of this invention, hollow tubular elements provide unrestricted flow channels. This means that hollow tubular elements provide negligible RTD levels. The term "negligible RTD level" is used to describe the RTD of hollow tubular elements with a length of less than 1 mm H2O / 10 mm, preferably less than 0.4 mm H2O / 10 mm, and more preferably less than 0.1 mm H2O / 10 mm.

[0152] The RTD of the hollow tubular element is preferably less than or equal to 10 mmH2O, or less than or equal to 5 mmH2O, or less than or equal to 2.5 mmH2O, or less than or equal to 2 mmH2O, or less than or equal to 1 mmH2O.

[0153] The RTD of the hollow tubular element may be at least 0 mm H2O, or at least 0.25 mm H2O, or at least 0.5 mm H2O, or at least 1 mm H2O.

[0154] Therefore, the flow channel should not contain any components that would impede the flow of air in the longitudinal direction. Preferably, the flow channel is substantially empty, and particularly preferably, the flow channel is empty.

[0155] Preferably, the aerosol-generating article includes a ventilation zone. The ventilation zone is preferably located at a position along the downstream section of the hollow tubular element. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating article preferably includes a ventilation zone along the position of the hollow tubular element. Such a ventilation zone, or any ventilation zone, preferably extends through the outer peripheral wall of the hollow tubular element. Thus, fluid communication is established between the flow channel defined by the interior of the hollow tubular element and the external environment. The ventilation zone is further described within this disclosure.

[0156] Preferably, the hollow tubular element in the downstream section has a length between 10 mm and 50 mm, or between 15 mm and 40 mm, or between 17 mm and 25 mm.

[0157] Preferably, the wall thickness of the hollow tubular element is between 100 micrometers and 2 millimeters, or between 150 micrometers and 1.5 millimeters, or between 200 micrometers and 1.25 millimeters.

[0158] The outer diameter of the hollow tubular element is preferably approximately equal to the outer diameter of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix and approximately equal to the outer diameter of the aerosol generating article.

[0159] Preferably, the outer diameter of the hollow tubular element is between 5 mm and 12 mm, more preferably between 6 mm and 10 mm, and even more preferably between 7 mm and 8 mm. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the hollow tubular element may be less than 7 mm, for example, between 5 mm and 7 mm, or between 6 mm and 7 mm.

[0160] Preferably, the hollow tubular element may have a constant inner diameter along its length. However, the inner diameter of the hollow tubular element may vary along its length.

[0161] The hollow tubular element preferably has an inner diameter of at least 2 mm. For example, the hollow tubular element may have an inner diameter of at least 3 mm, at least 4 mm, or at least 5 mm.

[0162] The hollow tubular element preferably has an inner diameter of no more than 10 mm. For example, the hollow tubular element may have an inner diameter of no more than 9 mm, no more than 8 mm, or no more than 7 mm.

[0163] The hollow tubular element preferably has an inner diameter between 2 mm and 10 mm, between 3 mm and 9 mm, between 4 mm and 8 mm, or between 5 mm and 7 mm.

[0164] Preferably, the hollow tubular element in the downstream section may have an internal volume between 260 cubic millimeters and 800 cubic millimeters. More preferably, the hollow tubular element in the downstream section may have an internal volume between 300 cubic millimeters and 800 cubic millimeters. More preferably, the hollow tubular element in the downstream section may have an internal volume between 500 cubic millimeters and 800 cubic millimeters. More preferably, the hollow tubular element in the downstream section may have an internal volume between 700 cubic millimeters and 800 cubic millimeters.

[0165] The inner cavity or lumen of the hollow tubular element preferably has any cross-sectional shape. The inner cavity of the hollow tubular element may have a circular cross-sectional shape.

[0166] The hollow tubular element preferably comprises a paper-based material. The hollow tubular element preferably includes at least one paper layer. The paper is preferably very rigid. The paper is preferably curled paper, such as curled heat-resistant paper or curled parchment.

[0167] Preferably, the hollow tubular element comprises paperboard. The hollow tubular element is preferably a paperboard tube. The hollow tubular element is preferably formed from paperboard.

[0168] The hollow tubular element is preferably a paper tube. The hollow tubular element is preferably a tube formed by spirally wound paper. The hollow tubular element is preferably formed from multiple layers of paper. The paper preferably has a basis weight of at least 50 g / m², at least 60 g / m², at least 70 g / m², or at least 90 g / m².

[0169] Hollow tubular elements preferably comprise polymer materials. For example, hollow tubular elements preferably comprise polymer membranes. Polymer membranes preferably comprise cellulose membranes. Hollow tubular elements preferably comprise low-density polyethylene (LDPE) or polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) fibers. Hollow tubing preferably comprises cellulose acetate tows.

[0170] When the hollow tubular element contains cellulose acetate filament bundles, the cellulose acetate filament bundles preferably have a single filament denier between 2 and 4 and a total denier between 25,000 and 40,000.

[0171] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating article of the aerosol generating system according to the invention includes a ventilation zone located along a downstream section. More specifically, in those embodiments in which the downstream section includes a hollow tubular element, the ventilation zone is preferably located along the hollow tubular element.

[0172] A ventilation zone typically includes multiple perforations through the outer peripheral wall of a hollow tubular element. Preferably, the ventilation zone includes at least one row of circumferential perforations. In some embodiments, the ventilation zone includes two rows of circumferential perforations. For example, the perforations may be formed on a production line during the manufacture of the aerosol-generating article. Preferably, each row of circumferential perforations includes 8 to 30 perforations.

[0173] The aerosol generation product of the aerosol generation system of the present invention preferably has a ventilation level of at least 25%.

[0174] Throughout this specification, the term "ventilation level" is used to refer to the volume ratio of the airflow entering the aerosol-generating article via a ventilated zone (ventilation airflow) to the sum of the aerosol airflow and the ventilation airflow. A higher ventilation level results in a higher dilution of the aerosol stream delivered to the consumer. The aerosol-generating article preferably has a ventilation level of at least 25%, more preferably at least 30%, even more preferably at least 40%, and even more preferably at least 50%.

[0175] The aerosol-generating article of the present invention preferably has a ventilation level of up to 90%. Preferably, the ventilation level of the aerosol-generating article according to the present invention is less than or equal to 80%, more preferably less than or equal to 70%, and even more preferably less than or equal to 60%.

[0176] For example, the aerosol-generating articles of the present invention preferably have a ventilation level of 25% to 90%, more preferably 30% to 80%, more preferably 40% to 70%, and even more preferably 50% to 60%.

[0177] Preferably, the downstream section further includes a mouthpiece element. The mouthpiece element preferably includes a mouthpiece filter segment. The mouthpiece filter segment preferably extends to the downstream end of the downstream section. The mouthpiece filter segment is preferably located at the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The downstream end of the mouthpiece filter segment preferably defines the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article.

[0178] The cigarette filter segment is preferably located downstream of the hollow tubular element described above. The cigarette filter segment preferably extends between the downstream end of the hollow tubular element and the aerosol-generating article.

[0179] The filter segment is preferably a solid rod, which can also be described as a "plain" rod and is non-tubular. Therefore, the filter segment preferably has a substantially uniform cross-section.

[0180] The mouthpiece filter segment is preferably formed of a fibrous filter material. The fibrous filter material can be used to filter aerosols generated by an aerosol-generating matrix. Suitable fibrous filter materials will be known to those skilled in the art. Particularly preferably, at least one mouthpiece filter segment comprises a cellulose acetate filter segment formed of cellulose acetate tow.

[0181] In some preferred embodiments, the downstream section includes a single mouthpiece filter segment. In alternative embodiments, the downstream section includes two or more mouthpiece filter segments axially aligned in an end-to-end abutment relationship.

[0182] Preferably, the cigarette filter segment has a low particulate filtration efficiency.

[0183] Preferably, the cigarette filter segment is defined by a filter segment package. Preferably, the cigarette filter segment is non-ventilated, so that air does not enter the aerosol-generating article along the cigarette filter segment.

[0184] The mouthpiece filter segment is preferably connected to one or more adjacent upstream components of the aerosol-generating article by means of a tipping package.

[0185] Preferably, the cigarette filter segment has an outer diameter approximately equal to the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article. The outer diameter of the cigarette filter segment may be substantially the same as the outer diameter of the hollow tubular element.

[0186] Preferably, the outer diameter of the mouthpiece filter segment is between 5 mm and 12 mm, more preferably between 6 mm and 10 mm, and even more preferably between 7 mm and 8 mm. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the mouthpiece filter segment may be less than 7 mm, for example, between 5 mm and 7 mm, or between 6 mm and 7 mm.

[0187] As described above, the cigarette filter segment is preferably formed of a fibrous filter material. The cigarette filter segment is preferably formed of a porous material. The cigarette filter segment is preferably formed of a biodegradable material. The cigarette filter segment is preferably formed of a cellulose material such as cellulose acetate.

[0188] The cigarette filter segment can be formed from a polylactic acid-based material. The cigarette filter segment can also be formed from a bioplastic material (preferably a starch-based bioplastic material). The cigarette filter segment can be manufactured by injection molding or extrusion.

[0189] The length of the cigarette filter segment is preferably between 3 mm and 25 mm, or between 5 mm and 25 mm, or between 10 mm and 25 mm, or between 3 mm and 20 mm, or between 5 mm and 20 mm, or between 10 mm and 20 mm, or between 3 mm and 15 mm, or between 5 mm and 15 mm, or between 10 mm and 15 mm. Preferably, the length of the cigarette filter segment is about 12 mm.

[0190] In some embodiments, the downstream section further includes one or more additional hollow tubular elements.

[0191] In some embodiments, the downstream section includes a hollow tubular support element upstream of the hollow tubular element described above. Preferably, the hollow tubular support element is adjacent to the downstream end of the aerosol generating matrix strip. Preferably, the hollow tubular support element is adjacent to the upstream end of the hollow tubular element. Preferably, the hollow tubular support element and the hollow tubular element are adjacent to each other and together provide a hollow tubular section within the downstream section.

[0192] The hollow tubular support element is preferably formed from any suitable material or combination of materials. For example, the support element may be formed from one or more materials selected from: cellulose acetate; cardboard; crimped paper, such as crimped heat-resistant paper or crimped parchment; and polymeric materials, such as low-density polyethylene (LDPE). In a preferred embodiment, the support element is formed from cellulose acetate. Other suitable materials include polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) fibers. In a preferred embodiment, the hollow tubular support element comprises a hollow acetate tube.

[0193] The outer diameter of the hollow tubular support element is preferably approximately equal to the outer diameter of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix and the outer diameter of the aerosol generating article.

[0194] Preferably, the outer diameter of the hollow tubular support element is between 5 mm and 12 mm, more preferably between 6 mm and 10 mm, and even more preferably between 7 mm and 8 mm. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the hollow tubular support element may be less than 7 mm, for example, between 5 mm and 7 mm, or between 6 mm and 7 mm.

[0195] The hollow tubular support element may have a wall thickness of at least 1 mm, preferably at least 1.5 mm, and more preferably at least 2 mm.

[0196] The hollow tubular support element may have a length of 5 mm to 15 mm, preferably 6 mm to 15 mm, and more preferably 7 mm to 15 mm. In other embodiments, the support element has a length of 5 mm to 12 mm, preferably 6 mm to 12 mm, and more preferably 7 mm to 12 mm. In yet another embodiment, the support element has a length of 5 mm to 10 mm, preferably 6 mm to 10 mm, and more preferably 7 mm to 10 mm.

[0197] Preferably, the hollow tubular support element includes an outer peripheral wall having a density of less than 200 mg / cm³, more preferably less than 175 mg / cm³, more preferably less than 150 mg / cm³, more preferably less than 140 mg / cm³, and more preferably less than 130 mg / cm³.

[0198] Alternatively, or in addition to the hollow tubular support element, the downstream section may also include a downstream hollow tubular element downstream of the hollow tubular element.

[0199] The aerosol generating article according to this disclosure preferably further includes an upstream section disposed upstream of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix. The upstream section is preferably positioned immediately upstream of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix. The upstream section preferably extends between the upstream end of the aerosol generating article and the strip of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0200] The upstream section preferably includes at least one upstream element. The upstream element may be located upstream of the strip of aerosol-generating matrix. Suitable upstream elements are described in this disclosure.

[0201] The upstream end of the upstream component is preferably defined as the upstream end of the aerosol-generated product.

[0202] Upstream components can advantageously prevent direct contact with the solid aerosol generation matrix.

[0203] The upstream element preferably comprises a rod of porous material. For example, the upstream element may comprise a cellulose acetate rod.

[0204] The upstream element preferably has any desired shape. For example, the upstream element can be substantially cylindrical.

[0205] The upstream element is preferably formed from a hollow tubular segment that defines a longitudinal cavity providing an unrestricted flow channel.

[0206] The upstream element preferably has any desired cross-section. For example, the support element may have a substantially circular, oval, or elliptical cross-section.

[0207] The upstream component preferably has any desired length. For example, the upstream component may have a length between 1 mm and 10 mm, between 1 mm and 8 mm, or between 1 mm and 6 mm. For example, the upstream component may have a length between 2 mm and 10 mm, between 2 mm and 8 mm, or between 2 mm and 6 mm. The upstream component may have a length between 3 mm and 10 mm, between 3 mm and 8 mm, or between 3 mm and 6 mm.

[0208] The longitudinal cavity of the hollow tubular segment preferably has any desired diameter. For example, the longitudinal cavity of the hollow tubular segment may have a diameter between 5 mm and 10 mm, between 6 mm and 9 mm, or between 7 mm and 8 mm. The longitudinal cavity of the hollow tubular segment may have a diameter substantially the same as the width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0209] Preferably, the hollow tubular segment has a wall thickness of less than 2 mm, more preferably less than 1.5 mm, and even more preferably less than about 1.25 mm.

[0210] The aerosol-generating article preferably has an overall length of 40 mm to 80 mm, or 40 mm to about 70 mm, or 40 mm to about 60 mm, or 45 mm to about 80 mm, or about 45 mm to about 70 mm, or 45 mm to 60 mm, or 50 mm to 80 mm, or 50 mm to about 70 mm, or about 50 mm to about 60 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, the overall length of the aerosol-generating article is about 45 mm.

[0211] The aerosol-generating article preferably has an outer diameter of about 5 mm to about 12 mm, or about 6 mm to about 12 mm, or about 7 mm to about 12 mm, or about 5 mm to about 10 mm, or about 6 mm to about 10 mm, or about 7 mm to about 10 mm, or about 5 mm to about 8 mm, or about 6 mm to about 8 mm, or about 7 mm to about 8 mm. In other embodiments, the aerosol-generating article has an outer diameter of less than 7 mm.

[0212] Before the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the aerosol-generating apparatus, the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article can be substantially uniform along its entire length. Alternatively, different portions of the aerosol-generating article can have different outer diameters. In particular, after the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the aerosol-generating apparatus, the strips of the aerosol-generating matrix can have different outer diameters.

[0213] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol generating article further includes a paper package defining at least a portion of the strip and hollow tubular element that define the aerosol generating matrix. Preferably, one or more other components of the aerosol generating article are each defined by their own package.

[0214] The paper packaging material preferably has a weight per square meter of at least 15 gsm, more preferably at least 20 gsm, and more preferably at least 30 gsm. The paper packaging material may have a weight per square meter of less than or equal to 70 gsm, preferably less than or equal to 50 gsm, and more preferably less than or equal to 40 gsm. The paper packaging material may have a weight per square meter of 15 gsm to 70 gsm, preferably 20 gsm to 50 gsm, and more preferably 30 gsm to 40 gsm. In a preferred embodiment, the paper packaging material may have a weight per square meter of 39 gsm.

[0215] The paper packaging material may have a thickness of at least 25 micrometers, preferably at least 30 micrometers, and more preferably at least 35 micrometers. The paper packaging material may have a thickness of less than or equal to 100 micrometers, preferably less than or equal to 60 micrometers, and more preferably less than or equal to 50 micrometers. The paper packaging material may have a thickness of 25 to 100 micrometers, preferably 30 to 60 micrometers, and more preferably 35 to 50 micrometers. In a preferred embodiment, the paper packaging material may have a thickness of 45 micrometers.

[0216] Preferably, the paper packaging is a substantially non-porous packaging.

[0217] Preferably, at least one component of the aerosol-generating article is packaged in a hydrophobic packaging.

[0218] The term "hydrophobic" refers to a surface exhibiting water-repellent properties. A useful method for determining this is to measure the water contact angle. The water contact angle is the angle through which a liquid passes when a liquid / vapor interface encounters a solid surface, as conventionally measured. It quantifies the wettability of a solid surface by a liquid via Young's equation. Hydrophobicity, or the water contact angle, can be determined using the TAPPI T558 test method, and the results are presented as interfacial contact angles and reported in degrees, ranging from near zero to near 180 degrees.

[0219] In a preferred embodiment, the hydrophobic packaging is a packaging comprising a paper layer having a water contact angle of about 30 degrees or greater, and preferably about 35 degrees or greater, or about 40 degrees or greater, or about 45 degrees or greater.

[0220] For example, the paper layer may include a layer containing PVOH (polyvinyl alcohol) or silicon on its inner surface. PVOH may be applied to the paper layer as a surface coating, or the paper layer may include a surface treatment containing PVOH or silicon.

[0221] Preferably, the aerosol-generating article further includes a spout packaging that defines at least a portion of the mouthpiece element and the hollow tubular element.

[0222] Preferably, the tipping paper has a length between 20 mm and 30 mm.

[0223] Preferably, the receiving packaging has a thickness of less than 50 micrometers.

[0224] The packaging may contain sweeteners. Sweeteners may be located on the outer surface of the packaging. Sweeteners may be located at the downstream end of the packaging.

[0225] The suction resistance (RTD) of the aerosol generating matrix strip is preferably less than about 30 mmH2O. More preferably, the RTD of the aerosol generating matrix strip is less than about 25 mmH2O. More preferably, the RTD of the aerosol generating matrix strip is less than about 20 mmH2O. More preferably, the RTD of the aerosol generating matrix strip is less than about 15 mmH2O.

[0226] The RTD of the aerosol generating matrix strip is preferably at least about 5 mm H2O. More preferably, the RTD of the aerosol generating matrix strip is at least about 10 mm H2O.

[0227] In some embodiments, the RTD of the aerosol generating matrix strip is about 5 mm H2O to about 30 mm H2O, preferably about 10 mm H2O to about 25 mm H2O, and more preferably about 10 mm H2O to about 20 mm H2O. In other embodiments, the RTD of the aerosol generating matrix strip is about 10 mm H2O to about 15 mm H2O.

[0228] In certain preferred embodiments of the invention, it may be desirable to minimize the RTD of upstream components. This may be the case, for example, for articles intended to be inserted into the cavity of an aerosol generation device such that the aerosol generation matrix is ​​externally heated, as described herein. For such articles, it is desirable to provide the lowest possible RTD so that the majority of the consumer's RTD experience is provided by the aerosol generation device rather than the article itself.

[0229] The RTD of the upstream element is preferably less than or equal to about 10 mm H2O. More preferably, the RTD of the upstream element is less than or equal to about 5 mm H2O. Even more preferably, the RTD of the upstream element is less than or equal to about 2.5 mm H2O. Even more preferably, the RTD of the upstream element is less than or equal to about 2 mm H2O.

[0230] The RTD of the upstream element may be at least 0.1 mm H2O, or at least about 0.25 mm H2O, or at least about 0.5 mm H2O.

[0231] In some embodiments, the RTD of the upstream element is about 0.1 mm H2O to about 10 mm H2O, preferably about 0.25 mm H2O to about 10 mm H2O, and more preferably about 0.5 mm H2O to about 10 mm H2O. In other embodiments, the RTD of the upstream element is about 0.1 mm H2O to about 5 mm H2O, preferably about 0.25 mm H2O to about 5 mm H2O, and more preferably about 0.5 mm H2O to about 5 mm H2O. In yet another embodiment, the RTD of the upstream element is about 0.1 mm H2O to about 2.5 mm H2O, preferably about 0.25 mm H2O to about 2.5 mm H2O, and more preferably about 0.5 mm H2O to about 2.5 mm H2O. In yet another embodiment, the RTD of the upstream element is about 0.1 mm H2O to about 2 mm H2O, preferably about 0.25 mm H2O to about 2 mm H2O, and more preferably about 0.5 mm H2O to about 2 mm H2O. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the RTD of the upstream element is approximately 1 mm H2O.

[0232] Preferably, the RTD of the upstream element is less than about 2 mm H2O / mm length, more preferably less than about 1.5 mm H2O / mm length, more preferably less than about 1 mm H2O / mm length, more preferably less than about 0.5 mm H2O / mm length, more preferably less than about 0.3 mm H2O / mm length, and more preferably less than about 0.2 mm H2O / mm length.

[0233] Preferably, the combined RTD of the upstream section or its upstream element and the strip of the aerosol generating matrix is ​​less than about 15 mm H2O, more preferably less than about 12 mm H2O, and even more preferably less than about 10 mm H2O.

[0234] The RTD characteristics of the downstream section can be attributed entirely or largely to the RTD characteristics of the mouthpiece element in the downstream section. In other words, the RTD of the mouthpiece element in the downstream section can completely define the RTD of the downstream section.

[0235] The RTD of the mouthpiece element can be at least about 0 mm H2O. The RTD of the mouthpiece element can be at least about 3 mm H2O. The RTD of the mouthpiece element can be at least about 4 mm H2O. The RTD of the mouthpiece element can be at least about 6 mm H2O.

[0236] The RTD of the mouthpiece element may not exceed approximately 12 mm H2O. The RTD of the mouthpiece element may not exceed approximately 11 mm H2O. The RTD of the mouthpiece element may not exceed approximately 10 mm H2O.

[0237] The RTD of the mouthpiece element can be greater than or equal to about 0 mm H2O and less than about 12 mm H2O. Preferably, the RTD of the mouthpiece element can be greater than or equal to about 3 mm H2O and less than about 12 mm H2O. The RTD of the mouthpiece element can be greater than or equal to about 0 mm H2O and less than about 11 mm H2O. Even more preferably, the RTD of the mouthpiece element can be greater than or equal to about 4 mm H2O and less than about 11 mm H2O. Even more preferably, the RTD of the mouthpiece element can be greater than or equal to about 6 mm H2O and less than about 10 mm H2O. Preferably, the RTD of the mouthpiece element can be about 8 mm H2O.

[0238] Aerosol-generating articles may have an RTD of at least 40 mmH2O. Aerosol-generating articles may have an RTD of at least 50 mmH2O. Aerosol-generating articles may have an RTD of at least 55 mmH2O.

[0239] Aerosol-generating articles may have an RTD of less than or equal to 60 mmH2O. Aerosol-generating articles may have an RTD of less than or equal to 65 mmH2O. Aerosol-generating articles may have an RTD of less than or equal to 75 mmH2O.

[0240] Aerosol-generating articles may have an RTD between 40 mmH2O and 75 mmH2O. Aerosol-generating articles may have an RTD between 50 mmH2O and 65 mmH2O. Aerosol-generating articles may have an RTD between 55 mmH2O and 60 mmH2O.

[0241] As described above, the aerosol generation system may include the aerosol generation article as described above and an aerosol generation apparatus configured to heat the aerosol generation article, the aerosol generation apparatus including a heating chamber for receiving the aerosol generation article and at least a heating element disposed at or around the periphery of the heating chamber.

[0242] The heating chamber may extend between an upstream end and an inlet or downstream end. The upstream end of the heating chamber may be a closed end, and the inlet or downstream end may be an open end. The aerosol-generating article may be inserted into the heating chamber through the open end. The heating chamber may be cylindrical in shape to conform to the same shape as the aerosol-generating article.

[0243] The phrase "received within" can refer to the fact that a component or element is wholly or partially received within another component or element. For example, the phrase "aerosol generating article received in a heating chamber" means that the aerosol generating article is wholly or partially received within the heating chamber of the aerosol generating article. When the aerosol generating article is received in a heating chamber, the aerosol generating article may be adjacent to the upstream end of the heating chamber. When the aerosol generating article is received in a heating chamber, the aerosol generating article may be substantially close to the upstream end of the heating chamber. The upstream end of the heating chamber may be defined by an end wall.

[0244] The length of the heating chamber may be equal to or greater than the length of the aerosol-forming matrix section. The length of the heating chamber may also be equal to or greater than the combined length of the upstream section or element and the aerosol-forming matrix section. Preferably, the length of the heating chamber is such that at least 75% of the length of the aerosol-forming matrix section is inserted into or received within the aerosol-forming apparatus when the aerosol-generating article is received. This maximizes the length of the aerosol-forming matrix that can be heated during use, thereby optimizing aerosol generation from the aerosol-forming matrix and reducing tobacco waste.

[0245] The length of the heating chamber can be between 15 mm and 80 mm. Preferably, the length of the heating chamber is between 20 mm and 70 mm. More preferably, the length of the heating chamber is between 25 mm and 60 mm. Even more preferably, the length of the device is between 25 mm and 50 mm.

[0246] The length of the heating chamber can be between 25 mm and 29 mm. Preferably, the length of the heating chamber is between 25 mm and 29 mm. More preferably, the length of the heating chamber is between 26 mm and 29 mm. Even more preferably, the length of the heating chamber is 27 mm or 28 mm.

[0247] The diameter of the heating chamber can be between 4 mm and 10 mm. The diameter of the heating chamber can be between 5 mm and 9 mm. The diameter of the heating chamber can be between 6 mm and 8 mm. The diameter of the heating chamber can be between 6 mm and 7 mm.

[0248] The diameter of the heating chamber can be substantially equal to or larger than the diameter of the aerosol-generating article. Alternatively, the diameter of the heating chamber can be the same as the diameter of the aerosol-generating article to ensure a tight fit.

[0249] At least one heating element may be any suitable type of heating element. In some embodiments, the device includes only one heating element. In some embodiments, the device includes multiple heating elements. The heater may include at least one resistance heating element. Preferably, the heater includes multiple resistance heating elements.

[0250] During use, the at least one heating element can be controlled to operate within a defined operating temperature range below the maximum operating temperature. Preferably, the operating temperature range is between approximately 150 degrees Celsius and approximately 300 degrees Celsius within the heating chamber (or device cavity). The operating temperature range of the at least one heating element can be between approximately 150 degrees Celsius and approximately 250 degrees Celsius.

[0251] Preferably, the operating temperature range of the at least one heating element is between about 150 degrees Celsius and about 200 degrees Celsius. More preferably, the operating temperature range of the at least one heating element is between about 180 degrees Celsius and about 200 degrees Celsius.

[0252] The invention is defined in the claims. However, a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples is provided below. Any one or more features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0253] Example 1. An aerosol generating article for generating an inhalable aerosol upon heating, the aerosol generating article comprising: a strip of an aerosol generating matrix, the aerosol generating matrix comprising homogenized plant material, the homogenized plant material comprising an aerosol forming agent, a binder, and particulate plant material, the particulate plant material comprising:

[0254] At least 75% by weight of tobacco particles on a dry weight basis; and

[0255] The non-tobacco plant flavored particles comprise at least 5% by weight on a dry weight basis, wherein the non-tobacco plant flavored particles comprise particles of a first non-tobacco plant and particles of a second non-tobacco plant different from the first non-tobacco plant, wherein the first non-tobacco plant is peppermint, and wherein the weight ratio of the particles of the first non-tobacco plant to the particles of the second non-tobacco plant is at least 0.5.

[0256] EX 2. The aerosol-generating article according to EX 1, wherein the weight ratio of the particles of the first non-tobacco plant to the particles of the second non-tobacco plant is at least 0.55, preferably at least 0.6, more preferably at least 1.0, and even more preferably at least 1.5.

[0257] EX 3. An aerosol-generated article according to EX 1 or 2, wherein the weight ratio of the particles of the first non-tobacco plant to the particles of the second non-tobacco plant is at least 1.75.

[0258] EX 4. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding EX, wherein the weight ratio of the particles of the first non-tobacco plant to the particles of the second non-tobacco plant is less than or equal to 3.

[0259] EX 5. An aerosol-generated article according to any of the preceding EX, wherein the particulate plant material comprises at least 9% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles on a dry weight basis.

[0260] EX 6. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding EX, wherein the second non-tobacco plant is selected from star anise, lavender, clove, common sage and chamomile, rosemary, eucalyptus, ginger, dill seeds, thyme, oregano and cumin.

[0261] EX 7. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding EX, wherein the second non-tobacco plant is selected from star anise, lavender, clove, common sage, chamomile and rosemary.

[0262] EX 8. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding EX, wherein the second non-tobacco plant is selected from star anise, lavender, common sage and chamomile.

[0263] EX 9. An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX 6 to 8, wherein the second non-tobacco plant is star anise or lavender.

[0264] EX 10. An aerosol-generating article according to EX 9, wherein the second non-tobacco plant is star anise, and the granular plant material comprises at least 2% by weight of star anise granules on a dry weight basis.

[0265] EX 11. An aerosol-generated article according to EX 9 or 10, wherein the second non-tobacco plant is star anise, and the granular plant material comprises at least 3% by weight of star anise granules on a dry weight basis.

[0266] EX 12. An aerosol-generating article according to EX 9, wherein the second non-tobacco plant is lavender, and the particulate plant material comprises at least 3% by weight of lavender particles on a dry weight basis.

[0267] EX 13. An aerosol-generating article according to any one of EX 6 to 8, wherein the second non-tobacco plant is common sage.

[0268] EX 14. An aerosol-generated article according to EX 13, wherein the particulate plant material comprises at least 2% by weight of common sage particles on a dry weight basis.

[0269] EX 15. An aerosol-generated article according to EX 13 or 14, wherein the particulate plant material comprises at least 3% by weight of common sage particles on a dry weight basis.

[0270] EX 16. An aerosol-generated article according to any of the preceding EX, wherein the homogenized plant material comprises at least 3% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles.

[0271] EX 17. An aerosol-generated article according to any of the preceding EX, wherein the homogenized plant material comprises less than or equal to 20% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles.

[0272] EX 18. An aerosol-generated article according to any of the preceding EX, wherein the homogenized plant material comprises at least 2% by weight peppermint particles.

[0273] EX 19. An aerosol-generated article according to any of the preceding EX, wherein the non-tobacco plant flavor particles have a D90 value of at least 100 micrometers.

[0274] EX 20. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding EX, wherein the non-tobacco plant flavor particles have a D90 value of greater than or equal to 120 micrometers to less than or equal to 200 micrometers.

[0275] EX 21. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding EX, wherein the aerosol-generating matrix comprises one or more sheets of the homogenized plant material.

[0276] EX 22. An aerosol-generated article according to any of the preceding EX, wherein the homogenized plant material is in the form of a cast leaf.

[0277] EX 23. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding EX, wherein the homogenized plant material comprises at least 60% by weight of particulate plant material.

[0278] EX 24. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding EX, wherein the homogenized plant material comprises less than or equal to 80% by weight of particulate plant material.

[0279] EX 25. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding EX, wherein the homogenized plant material comprises at least 10% by weight of an aerosol forming agent.

[0280] EX 26. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding EX, wherein the homogenized plant material further comprises reinforcing fibers.

[0281] EX 27. An aerosol-generated article according to EX 26, wherein the homogenized plant material has reinforcing fibers ranging from 2% to 15% by weight on a dry weight basis.

[0282] EX 28. An aerosol-generated article according to any of the preceding EX, wherein the homogenized plant material comprises a binder at a weight percentage of 1% to 10% by weight on a dry weight basis.

[0283] EX 29. An aerosol-generated article according to any of the preceding EX, wherein the binder comprises guar gum.

[0284] EX 30. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding EX, wherein the aerosol-generating matrix comprises one or more sheets of the homogenized plant material, and wherein each sheet has an average thickness between 100 micrometers and 400 micrometers.

[0285] EX 31. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding EX, wherein the aerosol-generating matrix comprises one or more sheets of the homogenized plant material, and wherein each sheet has a weight per square meter between 100 g / m² and 300 g / m².

[0286] EX 32. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding EX, wherein the aerosol-generating matrix comprises one or more sheets of the homogenized plant material, and wherein each sheet has a transverse peak tensile strength between 150 N / m and 350 N / m.

[0287] EX 33. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding EX, wherein the aerosol-generating matrix comprises one or more sheets of the homogenized plant material, and wherein each sheet has a longitudinal peak tensile strength between 100 N / m and 800 N / m.

[0288] EX 34. An aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding EX, wherein the strip of the aerosol generating matrix further comprises a receptor.

[0289] EX 35. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding EX, wherein the density of the aerosol-generating matrix is ​​at least 500 mg / cm³.

[0290] EX 36. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding EX, wherein the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix contains at least 250 milligrams of homogenized plant material.

[0291] EX 37. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding EX, wherein the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix has a suction resistance of less than 30 mm H2O.

[0292] EX 38. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding EX, wherein the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix has a length of less than or equal to 14 mm.

[0293] EX 39. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding EX, wherein the strip of the aerosol-generating matrix comprises one or more aggregated sheets of the homogenized plant material defined by the packaging.

[0294] EX 40. An aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding EX, further comprising an upstream section disposed upstream of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix, the upstream section comprising at least one upstream element.

[0295] EX 41. An aerosol-generating article according to EX 40, wherein the upstream element has a length between 2 mm and 8 mm.

[0296] EX 42. An aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding EX, further comprising a downstream section disposed downstream of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix, the downstream section comprising at least one hollow tubular element adjacent to the downstream end of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0297] EX 43. An aerosol-generating article according to EX 42, further comprising a ventilation zone disposed at the location of the hollow tubular element along the downstream section.

[0298] EX 44. An aerosol-generating article according to EX 42, wherein the hollow tubular element in the downstream section has a length between 17 mm and 25 mm.

[0299] EX 45. An aerosol-generating article according to EX 42, wherein the downstream section further includes a mouthpiece element.

[0300] EX 46. An aerosol-generating article according to EX 45, wherein the mouthpiece element comprises at least one mouthpiece filter segment formed of fibrous filter material.

[0301] EX 47. An aerosol-generated article according to EX 45 or EX 46, wherein the length of the mouthpiece element is between 3 mm and 15 mm.

[0302] EX 48. An aerosol generating article according to EX 42, further comprising a paper package defining at least a portion of the strip defining the aerosol generating matrix and the hollow tubular element, wherein the paper package has a thickness of less than or equal to 100 micrometers.

[0303] EX 49. An aerosol-generated article according to EX 48, wherein the paper packaging has a thickness of less than or equal to 50 micrometers.

[0304] EX 50. An aerosol-generated article according to EX 48 or EX 49, wherein the paper packaging has a weight per square meter of less than or equal to 50 g / m².

[0305] EX 51. An aerosol-generating matrix, the aerosol-generating matrix comprising: homogenized plant material, the homogenized plant material comprising an aerosol forming agent, a binder, and granular plant material, the granular plant material comprising:

[0306] At least 75% by weight of tobacco particles on a dry weight basis; and

[0307] The non-tobacco plant flavored particles comprise at least 5% by weight on a dry weight basis, wherein the non-tobacco plant flavored particles comprise particles of a first non-tobacco plant and particles of a second non-tobacco plant different from the first non-tobacco plant, wherein the first non-tobacco plant is peppermint, and wherein the weight ratio of the particles of the first non-tobacco plant to the particles of the second non-tobacco plant is at least 0.5.

[0308] EX 52. The aerosol-generating matrix according to EX 51, wherein the weight ratio of the particles of the first non-tobacco plant to the particles of the second non-tobacco plant is at least 0.55, preferably at least 0.6, more preferably at least 1.0, even more preferably at least 1.5, and most preferably at least 1.75.

[0309] EX 53. An aerosol generation system, the aerosol generation system comprising:

[0310] Aerosol-generating articles according to any one of EX 1 to EX 52; and

[0311] Aerosol generating apparatus, the aerosol generating apparatus comprising:

[0312] A heating chamber for receiving the aerosol-generated article; and

[0313] At least a heating element is provided, which is disposed at or around the periphery of the heating chamber. Attached Figure Description

[0314] The examples will now be described further with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:

[0315] Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an aerosol-generated article according to a first aspect of the present invention;

[0316] Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an aerosol-generated article according to a second aspect of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0317] Figure 1 The aerosol generating article 1 shown includes an aerosol generating matrix strip 12, a downstream section 14 located downstream of the aerosol generating matrix strip 12, and an upstream section 16 located upstream of the aerosol generating matrix strip 12. Figure 1 As shown, the aerosol generating article 1 has an upstream end 48 and a downstream end 20. The aerosol generating article 1 may have an overall length of 45 mm and an outer diameter of 7.2 mm.

[0318] The aerosol generating article 1 also includes an elongated receptor element 44 within the strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix. More specifically, the receptor element 44 is arranged substantially longitudinally within the aerosol generating matrix so as to be generally parallel to the longitudinal direction of the strip 12. Figure 1 As shown in the figure, the receptor element 44 is positioned at the radial center within the strip and extends effectively along the longitudinal axis of the strip 12.

[0319] The receptor element 44 extends from the upstream end of the strip 12 to the downstream end. In fact, the receptor element 44 has a length that is substantially the same as that of the strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0320] exist Figure 1 In one embodiment, the receptor element 44 is provided in the form of a strip and has a length of approximately 12 mm, a thickness of approximately 60 micrometers, and a width of approximately 4 mm. The upstream segment 16 includes an upstream element 46 located immediately upstream of the strip 12 of the aerosol-generating matrix, the upstream element 46 being longitudinally aligned with the strip 12. Figure 1 In this embodiment, the downstream end of the upstream element 46 is adjacent to the upstream end of the strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix. This advantageously prevents the receptor element 44 from being displaced. Furthermore, this ensures that the consumer will not accidentally come into contact with the heated receptor element 44 after use.

[0321] The downstream section 14 of the aerosol generating article 1 includes a support element 22 positioned downstream of the strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix, an aerosol cooling element 24 positioned downstream of the support element 22, and a mouthpiece element 42 positioned downstream of the aerosol cooling element 24. The support element 22 and the aerosol cooling element 24 together define an intermediate hollow section 50 of the aerosol generating article 1.

[0322] The support element 22 includes a first hollow tubular element 26. The first hollow tubular element 26 is in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube made of cellulose acetate. The first hollow tubular element 26 defines an internal cavity 28 extending from an upstream end 30 of the first hollow tubular element 20 to a downstream end 32 of the first hollow tubular element 20. The first hollow tubular element 26 may have a length of 8 mm and an outer diameter of 6.9 mm. The first hollow tubular element 26 may have an inner diameter of 1.9 mm.

[0323] The aerosol cooling element 24 includes a second hollow tubular element 34. The second hollow tubular element 34 is in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube made of cellulose acetate. The second hollow tubular element 34 defines an internal cavity 36 extending from an upstream end 38 to a downstream end 40 of the second hollow tubular element 34. The second hollow tubular element 34 may have a length of 13 mm and an outer diameter of 6.9 mm. The second hollow tubular element 34 may have an inner diameter of 3.25 mm.

[0324] like Figure 1 As shown by the vertical dashed line, the aerosol generating article 1 includes a ventilation zone 60 disposed along the second hollow tubular element 34. The ventilation zone may be disposed 2 mm upstream of the second hollow tubular element 34. The ventilation level of the aerosol generating article 1 may be 35%.

[0325] The mouthpiece element 42 is in the form of a cylindrical rod of low-density cellulose acetate. The mouthpiece element 42 may have a length of 7 mm and an outer diameter of 6.9 mm.

[0326] The strip 12 of the aerosol-generating matrix comprises homogenized plant material, which includes an aerosol-forming agent, granular plant material, and a binder. The granular plant material comprises tobacco particles and first and second non-tobacco plant particles. The first non-tobacco plant is peppermint. The second non-tobacco plant is star anise. The strip 12 of the aerosol-generating matrix may have a length of 12 mm and an outer diameter of 6.9 mm.

[0327] The upstream section 16 of the aerosol generating article 1 includes an upstream element 46 positioned immediately upstream of the strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0328] The upstream element 46 is in the form of a cylindrical cellulose acetate rod defined by a rigid packaging. The upstream element 46 may have a length of 5 mm and an outer diameter of 6.9 mm.

[0329] In use, the user inhales through the mouthpiece element 42 of the aerosol generating article 1. As the user inhales through the mouthpiece 42, air is drawn into the aerosol generating article 1 via the upstream end 48. The drawn-in air passes through the upstream element 46 and reaches the strip 12 of the aerosol generating matrix. Heating of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix releases volatile and semi-volatile compounds, which form aerosols entrained in the drawn-in air as it flows through the strip 12. The drawn-in air and the entrained aerosols pass through the central hollow section 50 of the aerosol generating article 1, where they cool and condense. The cooled aerosols then pass through the mouthpiece element 42 of the aerosol generating article 1 and reach the user's mouth.

[0330] It should be understood that Figure 1 The aerosol generating article 1 shown is only one example of an embodiment of an aerosol generating article according to the first aspect of the present invention, and other embodiments are also possible.

[0331] Figure 2 The aerosol generating article 2 shown includes an aerosol generating matrix strip 212 and a downstream section 214 located downstream of the aerosol generating matrix strip 212. Figure 2 As shown, the aerosol generating article 2 has an upstream end 248 and a downstream end 220. The aerosol generating article 2 may have an overall length of 45 mm and an outer diameter of 7.2 mm.

[0332] The downstream section 214 of the aerosol generating article 2 includes an aerosol cooling element 224 positioned downstream of the strip 212 of the aerosol generating matrix and a mouthpiece element 42 positioned downstream of the aerosol cooling element 224. The aerosol cooling element 224 defines an intermediate hollow section 250 of the aerosol generating article 2.

[0333] The aerosol cooling element 224 includes a hollow tubular element 234. The hollow tubular element 234 is in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube made of cellulose acetate. The hollow tubular element 234 defines an internal cavity 236 extending from an upstream end 238 to a downstream end 240 of the hollow tubular element 234. The hollow tubular element 234 may have a length of 18 mm and an outer diameter of 6.9 mm. The hollow tubular element 234 may have an inner diameter of 3.25 mm.

[0334] The mouthpiece element 242 is in the form of a cylindrical rod of low-density cellulose acetate. The mouthpiece element 242 may have a length of 7 mm and an outer diameter of 6.9 mm.

[0335] The strip 212 of the aerosol generating matrix comprises homogenized plant material, which includes an aerosol forming agent, granular plant material, and a binder. The granular plant material comprises tobacco particles and first and second non-tobacco plant particles. The first non-tobacco plant is peppermint. The second non-tobacco plant is star anise. The strip 212 of the aerosol generating matrix may have a length of 17 mm and an outer diameter of 6.9 mm.

[0336] In use, the user inhales through the mouthpiece element 242 of the aerosol generating article 2. As the user inhales through the mouthpiece 242, air is drawn into the aerosol generating article 1 via the upstream end 248. The drawn-out air is passed to the strip 212 of the aerosol generating matrix. Heating of the strip of the aerosol generating matrix releases volatile and semi-volatile compounds, which form aerosols entrained in the drawn-out air as it flows through the strip 212. The drawn-out air and the entrained aerosols pass through the central hollow section 250 of the aerosol generating article 1, where they cool and condense. The cooled aerosols then pass through the mouthpiece element 242 of the aerosol generating article 2 and reach the user's mouth.

[0337] The aerosol generating article 2 includes an upstream section 216 located upstream of the strip 212 of the aerosol generating matrix. The upstream section 216 of the aerosol generating article 2 includes an upstream element 346 positioned immediately upstream of the strip 212 of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0338] The upstream element 246 is in the form of a cylindrical cellulose acetate rod defined by a rigid packaging. The upstream element 246 may have a length of 5 mm, an outer diameter of 6.9 mm, and an inner diameter of 5.1 mm.

[0339] like Figure 2 As shown by the vertical dashed line, the aerosol generating article 2 includes a ventilation zone 260 disposed along the second hollow tubular element 234. The ventilation level of the aerosol generating article 1 can be 35%.

[0340] It should be understood that Figure 2 The aerosol generating article 2 shown is only one example of an embodiment of an aerosol generating article according to the second aspect of the present invention, and other embodiments are also possible.

[0341] Example

[0342] Prepare an aerosol-generating matrix having the composition detailed in Table 1 below.

[0343] Table 1

[0344]

[0345] PPM = Granular plant material; HPM = Homogenized plant material

[0346] The examples in Table 1 exhibit acceptable physical properties and balanced flavor and aroma characteristics, including peppermint, secondary non-tobacco plant, and tobacco flavors and aromas, but none of them are overpowering.

Claims

1. An aerosol-generating matrix, the aerosol-generating matrix comprising: homogenized plant material, the homogenized plant material comprising an aerosol forming agent, a binder, and granular plant material, the granular plant material comprising: At least 75% by weight of tobacco particles on a dry weight basis; and The non-tobacco plant flavored particles comprise at least 5% by weight on a dry weight basis, wherein the non-tobacco plant flavored particles comprise particles of a first non-tobacco plant and particles of a second non-tobacco plant different from the first non-tobacco plant, wherein the first non-tobacco plant is peppermint, and wherein the weight ratio of the particles of the first non-tobacco plant to the particles of the second non-tobacco plant is at least 0.

5.

2. An aerosol generating article for generating an inhalable aerosol upon heating, the aerosol generating article comprising a strip of an aerosol generating matrix, the strip of the aerosol generating matrix comprising the aerosol generating matrix according to claim 1.

3. The aerosol-generating article according to claim 2, wherein the weight ratio of the particles of the first non-tobacco plant to the particles of the second non-tobacco plant is at least 1.

5.

4. The aerosol-generating article according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the weight ratio of the particles of the first non-tobacco plant to the particles of the second non-tobacco plant is less than or equal to 3.

5. The aerosol-generated article according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the particulate plant material comprises at least 9% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles on a dry weight basis.

6. The aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the second non-tobacco plant is selected from star anise, lavender, clove, common sage, chamomile, rosemary, eucalyptus, ginger, dill seeds, thyme, oregano, and cumin.

7. The aerosol-generating article according to claim 6, wherein the second non-tobacco plant is star anise or lavender.

8. The aerosol-generating article of claim 7, wherein the second non-tobacco plant is star anise, and the particulate plant material comprises at least 3% by weight of star anise particles on a dry weight basis.

9. The aerosol-generating article according to claim 6, wherein the second non-tobacco plant is common sage.

10. The aerosol-generating article of claim 7, wherein the particulate plant material comprises at least 3% by weight of common sage particles on a dry weight basis.

11. The aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the homogenized plant material comprises at least 3% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles.

12. The aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the homogenized plant material comprises less than or equal to 20% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles.

13. The aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the homogenized plant material comprises at least 2% by weight peppermint particles.

14. The aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the non-tobacco plant flavor particles have a D90 value of at least 100 micrometers.

15. An aerosol generation system, the aerosol generation system comprising: Aerosol-generated articles according to any one of claims 2 to 14; and Aerosol generating apparatus, the aerosol generating apparatus comprising: A heating chamber for receiving the aerosol-generated product; as well as At least a heating element is provided, which is disposed at or around the periphery of the heating chamber.

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