Aerosol-generating article and aerosol-generating system

Abstract

An aerosol-generating article and an aerosol-generating system are provided; wherein the aerosol-generating article comprises: an atomization element comprising an aerosol-forming agent configured to generate an aerosol when heated; an active functional element arranged downstream of the atomization element; the active functional element comprising an active substrate; in use, the aerosol generated by the atomization element flows downstream through the active functional element, entraining one or more volatile components released by the active substrate, and is delivered downstream; the active substrate is formed by solidification of a slurry precursor, and the active substrate is a porous structure through which air can pass. The above aerosol-generating article is advantageous in that, on the one hand, the active substrate gradually releases in use to form a slow release, which is beneficial for maintaining the uniformity of active ingredients in different puffs; on the other hand, the aerosol-forming agent and the active functional component are in different elements, which can have a larger additive amount compared to loading them all on plant tissue, which is beneficial for increasing the amount of smoke and aroma.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of heated non-combustible aerosol generation technology, and in particular to an aerosol generation product and an aerosol generation system. Background Technology

[0002] Tobacco products (such as cigarettes, cigars, etc.) produce tobacco smoke by burning tobacco during use. Efforts are being made to replace these tobacco-burning products by creating products that release compounds without combustion.

[0003] Examples of such products are heating devices that release compounds by heating rather than burning materials. For example, the material can be tobacco or other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine. Known tobacco or other non-tobacco products, by incorporating or mixing aerosol-forming agents such as glycerin, flavorings, and binders into the tobacco or non-tobacco material, generate volatile flavor components while the tobacco or non-tobacco material is heated to produce an aerosol and the active ingredient nicotine, thereby altering or enhancing the aroma of the aerosol. When aerosol-forming agents such as glycerin, flavorings, and binders are simultaneously loaded onto tobacco or non-tobacco materials, the limited loading capacity of the tobacco or non-tobacco material restricts the amount of smoke and aroma produced in the aerosol-generated product. Furthermore, when all aerosol-forming agents and flavorings are loaded into the tobacco or non-tobacco material, the release is rapid rather than uniform and continuous during the initial heating phase, reducing the uniformity between different puffs. Summary of the Invention

[0004] One embodiment of this application provides an aerosol generating article, comprising:

[0005] Atomizing elements, including aerosol forming agents, are configured to generate aerosols when heated;

[0006] An active functional element is arranged downstream of the atomizing element; the active functional element includes an active matrix; during use, when the aerosol generated by the atomizing element flows downstream through the active functional element, it carries one or more volatile components released by the active matrix and is delivered downstream; the active matrix is ​​formed by solidifying a slurry precursor, and the active matrix is ​​a porous structure through which airflow can pass.

[0007] In some embodiments, the active matrix includes plant tissue.

[0008] In some embodiments, the plant tissue includes tobacco material.

[0009] In some embodiments, the porosity of the active matrix is ​​between 40% and 75%.

[0010] In some embodiments, the active matrix further includes: fragrance and flavoring.

[0011] In some embodiments, the plant tissue includes plant tissue powder and plant tissue fibers.

[0012] In some embodiments, the flavorings include at least one of peppermint flavoring, apple flavoring, rose flavoring, peach flavoring, orange flavoring, dried tangerine peel flavoring, cocoa flavoring, peppermint oil, menthol, rose oil, vanilla extract, cocoa butter, cinnamon ester, star anise oil, octyl lactone, white lemon oil, agarwood oil, ethyl maltol, methylcyclopentenolone, 2-acetylpyrazine, 2,3,3-trimethylpyrazine, and cinnamon leaf oil.

[0013] In some embodiments, the active matrix further includes an adhesive.

[0014] In some embodiments, the active matrix further includes nicotine; the nicotine is present or added to the active matrix independently of the tobacco material.

[0015] In some embodiments, the active matrix comprises 0.01 wt% to 2 wt% nicotine.

[0016] In some embodiments, the atomizing element does not contain tobacco material and / or flavorings.

[0017] In some embodiments, the length of the active functional element is between 5 and 50 mm;

[0018] And / or, the length of the atomizing element is 5 to 20 mm.

[0019] In some embodiments, the active functional element further includes: a tubular matrix; the active matrix is ​​formed by curing a slurry precursor within the matrix and bonded to the surface of the matrix.

[0020] In some embodiments, the atomizing element and the active functional element are arranged continuously.

[0021] In some embodiments, the atomizing element further includes a carrier for loading the aerosol forming agent.

[0022] In some embodiments, the carrier is formed by spirally winding or repeatedly folding a sheet and then gathering it together.

[0023] In some embodiments, the surface of the sheet is rough;

[0024] And / or, the surface of the sheet is formed with indentations, textures, protrusions or burrs.

[0025] In some embodiments, the sheet has perforations.

[0026] In some embodiments, the areal density of the sheet is 25–80 g / m². 2 .

[0027] In some embodiments, the thickness of the sheet is 30 μm to 120 μm.

[0028] In some embodiments, an axially penetrating air channel is defined within the carrier.

[0029] In some embodiments, the atomizing element further includes:

[0030] A forming layer is used to wrap and confine the carrier from the outside to prevent the carrier, which is formed by winding or folding the sheet, from unraveling.

[0031] Another embodiment of this application also proposes an aerosol generation system, comprising:

[0032] The aerosol-generating products described above; and,

[0033] Heating device, including:

[0034] A chamber for receiving the aerosol-generated product;

[0035] A heater is configured to at least heat the atomizing element of the aerosol-generating article.

[0036] The above-mentioned aerosol-generating products, in use, on the one hand, the active matrix is ​​gradually released to form a slow release, which is beneficial for maintaining the uniformity of active ingredients in different inhalations; on the other hand, the aerosol forming agent and active functional ingredients are in different components, which can allow for a larger amount of addition compared to loading them all into plant tissue, which is beneficial for increasing the amount of smoke and aroma. Attached Figure Description

[0037] One or more embodiments are illustrated by way of example with reference numerals in the accompanying drawings. These illustrations do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments. Elements with the same reference numerals in the drawings are denoted as similar elements. Unless otherwise stated, the figures in the drawings are not to be limited by scale.

[0038] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an aerosol-generated article provided in one embodiment;

[0039] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of one embodiment of the atomizing element;

[0040] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Exploded view of the atomizing element;

[0041] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of one embodiment of the active functional element;

[0042] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the preparation of an active functional element by injecting a slurry precursor into a tubular matrix using an injection device in one embodiment.

[0043] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of aerosol-generated products being heated in a heating device;

[0044] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the active functional element in yet another embodiment;

[0045] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of an aerosol-generated article provided in yet another embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0046] To facilitate understanding of this application, a more detailed description of this application will be provided below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0047] One embodiment of this application proposes a heated aerosol generating article comprising multiple elements assembled in the form of strips, capable of generating aerosols when heated.

[0048] For example Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an aerosol-generating article 1000 according to one embodiment. Figure 1 As shown, the aerosol generating article 1000 includes an upstream end 1100 and a downstream end 1200 facing away from each other; as used herein, the terms 'upstream' and 'downstream' are used to describe the relative positions of elements or portions of elements of the aerosol generating article 1000 with respect to the direction in which a user draws air from the aerosol generating article 1000 during its use. Downstream can be a direction closer to the user's drawing direction, while upstream is correspondingly a direction away from the user; and, the upstream direction can be the direction in which external air enters the aerosol generating article 1000, and the downstream direction can be the direction in which an airflow containing aerosol exits from the aerosol generating article 1000, for example... Figure 1 The direction is indicated by the middle arrow R12. During use, the aerosol generated by heating within the aerosol generating article 1000 passes through the downstream end 1200 and exits from the downstream end 1200 before being delivered to the user. During use, the user can suction from the downstream end 1200 to inhale the aerosol.

[0049] Among them Figure 1In the illustrated embodiment, for ease of use by typical users, the aerosol generating article 1000 has an overall elongated cylindrical structure. Alternatively, in some other variations, the aerosol generating article 1000 may be an elongated elliptical cylinder, a square prism, a polygonal prism, etc.

[0050] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating article 1000 may mimic the appearance of a conventional, lit, and smokeable cigarette. The aerosol generating article 1000 may have an outer diameter between approximately 5 mm and 12 mm (e.g., between approximately 5 mm and 10 mm). The aerosol generating article 1000 also has an overall length between approximately 40 mm and 100 mm; in alternative embodiments, the aerosol generating article 1000 has an overall length between approximately 45 mm and 55 mm.

[0051] according to Figure 1 As shown, the aerosol generating article 1000 includes multiple components arranged from the upstream end 1100 to the downstream end 1200:

[0052] Atomizing element 1130, active functional element 1120, and filter element 1110. These elements are arranged sequentially and constrained by an outer enclosure 1160 to form an aerosol generating article 1000.

[0053] To assemble the aerosol-generating article 1000, the multiple components described above are aligned and tightly enclosed within the outer enclosure 1160. Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiments, the outer wrapping 1160 can be conventional cigarette paper, fibrous material, organic polymer, etc. In some embodiments, the thickness of the outer wrapping 1160 is 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm; more preferably, the thickness of the outer wrapping 1160 is 0.35 mm to 0.45 mm.

[0054] In one embodiment, the filter element 1110 is arranged near or defines the downstream end 1200 for filtration before the aerosol is delivered to the user. In a typical embodiment, the filter element 1110 defines the filter tip of the aerosol-generating article 1000. Figure 1 In the embodiments shown, the filter element 1110 comprises a conventional cellulose acetate or polypropylene tow filter element with low filtration efficiency.

[0055] In embodiments, atomizing element 1130 is used to describe atomization upon heating to produce an aerosol. The aerosol described herein can be visible or invisible and can comprise vapors (e.g., fine particles of matter in a gaseous state, which are typically liquid or solid at room temperature) as well as droplets of gas and condensed vapor. In embodiments, atomizing element 1130 primarily comprises an aerosol forming agent for producing an aerosol upon heating. In embodiments, the aerosol forming agent is one or more combinations of, such as glycerol, propylene glycol, triacetin, triethyl citrate, isopropyl myristate, methyl stearate, and glyceryl monocaprylate.

[0056] In this embodiment, the atomizing element 1130 is used only to generate aerosol and does not provide nicotine or the like; or in this embodiment, the atomizing element 1130 does not include tobacco materials and / or flavorings or fragrances.

[0057] In some embodiments, the atomizing element 1130 has a length of approximately 5 to 20 mm.

[0058] In some embodiments, the aerosol forming agent of the atomizing element 1130 typically requires loading; see further... Figures 2 to 3 As shown, the atomizing element 1130 includes:

[0059] The carrier 1131 is used to load the aerosol forming agent 1132; the aerosol forming agent 1132 is loaded or bound to the carrier 1131.

[0060] In some embodiments, for example Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the carrier 1131 is a columnar body formed by spirally winding a sheet. Alternatively, in some other variations, the carrier 1131 is a columnar body formed by first embossing the sheet and then repeatedly folding the sheet along the embossing path to form embossing patterns on the surface of the sheet.

[0061] In some embodiments, the sheet forming the carrier 1131 is a sheet made primarily from one or more of natural fibers and synthetic fibers through papermaking, air-flow forming, melt-blowing, or hydroentangling processes. In some optional embodiments, the areal density of the sheet is 25–80 g / m². 2 The thickness is 30 μm to 120 μm. In one specific embodiment, the sheet forming the carrier 1131 is paper; more specifically, for example, cardboard commonly used in the art. In an embodiment, an aerosol forming agent 1132, such as glycerol or vegetable glycerin, is loaded or bonded to one or both side surfaces of the sheet forming the carrier 1131 by means of dip coating or the like.

[0062] In some embodiments, the sheet surface forming the carrier 1131 is rough, which is advantageous for promoting the loading or bonding of the aerosol forming agent 1132 to the sheet surface. In some specific embodiments, the sheet surface forming the carrier 1131 is roughened by forming indentations or textures through processes such as hydroentangling or embossing. Alternatively, the sheet surface forming the carrier 1131 may be roughened by forming structures such as protrusions or burrs.

[0063] Alternatively, in some other embodiments, a plurality of perforations 1134 are formed on the sheet forming the carrier 1131 by means of needle punching or perforation, thereby giving the sheet forming the carrier 1131 a generally grid-like shape. Alternatively, the perforations 1134 may also pass through the aerosol forming agent 1132 loaded or bonded to the carrier 1131.

[0064] In some embodiments, the carrier 1131 is air-permeable. For example, the carrier 1131, which is made of a sheet rolled or folded, may have slits to form air channels that axially pass through the carrier 1131. For example Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the carrier 1131 includes at least two or more wound layers spirally wound from a sheet. In an embodiment, there is a gap or spacing between adjacent wound layers, thereby defining an air passage through the atomizing element 1130 axially, making the atomizing element 1130 air-permeable. In an embodiment, the draw resistance of the atomizing element 1130 can be adjusted to an acceptable range by controlling or adjusting the size of the gap between adjacent wound layers. Alternatively, in a carrier 1131 formed by folding a sheet, the gaps between adjacent folded layers form an air passage through the carrier 1131 axially.

[0065] In some embodiments, see Figures 2 to 3 As shown, the atomizing element 1130 also includes:

[0066] The forming layer 1133 may typically include a metal foil, such as aluminum foil; the forming layer 1133 is used to wrap and confine the carrier 1131 and the aerosol forming agent 1132 from the outside to prevent the columnar carrier 1131 formed by winding or folding from unraveling. For example, the forming layer 1133 is formed by winding forming paper containing aluminum.

[0067] Among them, the term "forming paper" is a standard technical term in the cigarette industry; forming paper was proposed by the State Tobacco Monopoly Administration and standardized in the "Tobacco Industry Standard of the People's Republic of China (YC / T208-2006)" and is under the jurisdiction of the National Tobacco Standardization Technical Committee (TC144).

[0068] In embodiments, the active ingredients and / or flavor components in the aerosol output by the aerosol generating article 1000 may be primarily provided by an active functional element 1120 separate from the atomizing element 1130. In some embodiments, the active functional element 1120 is arranged downstream of the atomizing element 1130. Also, the active functional element 1120 is arranged upstream of the filter element 1110. Alternatively, the active functional element 1120 is located between the atomizing element 1130 and the filter element 1110.

[0069] In use, the active matrix 1122 is separated from the atomizing element 1130 and arranged downstream of the atomizing element 1130. On the one hand, this facilitates the gradual release of the active matrix to form a slow release, which is beneficial for maintaining the uniformity of active ingredients in different inhalations. On the other hand, the aerosol forming agent and active functional ingredients are in different elements, which can increase their respective addition amounts compared to loading them all onto plant tissues such as tobacco materials. This is beneficial for increasing the amount of smoke and aroma during use.

[0070] In one embodiment, the atomizing element 1130 and the active functional element 1120 are arranged continuously within the aerosol generating article 1000. Alternatively, in some other embodiments, the atomizing element 1130 and the active functional element 1120 are arranged at intervals.

[0071] In some embodiments, the length of the active functional element 1120 is between 5 mm and 50 mm.

[0072] In the embodiments, according to Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the active functional element 1120 includes:

[0073] The tubular substrate 1121 and the active matrix 1122 formed within the substrate 1121.

[0074] In some embodiments, the substrate 1121 is a rigid paper tube, a metal tube such as an aluminum foil tube or a tin foil tube, or a ceramic tube, an organic polymer plastic tube that can withstand temperatures of at least 150°C, etc. In some specific preferred embodiments, the substrate 1121 is formed by winding a forming paper containing metallic aluminum.

[0075] In some embodiments, the active matrix 1122 includes:

[0076] Plant tissues, such as powders and / or fibers derived from plant tissues.

[0077] In some embodiments, the active matrix 1122 includes 10 to 60 wt% plant tissue.

[0078] In some embodiments, to prepare the active matrix 1122, for example, by post-injection curing of a slurry, the plant tissue is added primarily in powder form. This is advantageous for mixing the plant tissue raw material with other materials during preparation to form a slurry with good flowability. In some embodiments, to enable the plant tissue to also have a certain load-bearing capacity to load other additives such as fragrances or adhesives, the plant tissue also contains appropriate plant tissue fibers to maintain the load-bearing capacity.

[0079] In some preferred embodiments, the active matrix 1122 includes 10-50 wt% of plant tissue powder and 1-10 wt% of plant tissue fibers.

[0080] In embodiments, the plant tissue includes at least tobacco material that provides an active ingredient such as nicotine. In this embodiment, the active matrix 1122 is used to provide the active ingredient, such as nicotine, in an aerosol delivered to the user; the active matrix 1122 includes or is derived from one or more plant products or components thereof; for example, in some specific embodiments, the active matrix 1122 includes leaves, bark, fibrous tissue, stems, roots, petals, fruits, etc. of a plant; for example, in one specific embodiment, the active matrix 1122 includes or is derived from one or more plant varieties or components thereof, and the plant variety is tobacco. For example, in one specific embodiment, the active matrix 1122 includes a mixture of tobacco and plants such as traditional Chinese medicine. The active matrix 1122 may include tobacco or tobacco-containing material; for example, tobacco or tobacco-containing material may include any of the following: tobacco leaves, tobacco vein fragments, flue-cured tobacco leaves, sun-cured tobacco leaves, burley tobacco leaves, aromatic tobacco leaves, tobacco stems, reconstituted tobacco leaves, homogenized tobacco, extruded tobacco, tobacco pulp, cast tobacco, and expanded tobacco.

[0081] Alternatively, in some embodiments, the active matrix 1122 may include other plant tissues that provide other active ingredients to replace nicotine. For example, in some embodiments, these other plant tissues that replace tobacco may be derived from common Chinese herbal medicines or herbal crops; Chinese herbal medicines may include one or more of the following: Angelica sinensis, Cassia tora, Taraxacum mongolicum, Apocynum venetum, Ziziphus jujuba, Lycium barbarum, Fritillaria cirrhosa, Panax notoginseng, Malva nut, Borneol, Menthol, Saffron, Lonicera japonica, Poria cocos, Pueraria lobata, Dalbergia odorifera, Aristolochia debilis, Perilla frutescens, Bupleurum chinense, Isatis indigotica, Astragalus membranaceus, Prunella vulgaris, Ginseng, Paeonia lactiflora, Gastrodia elata, Schisandra chinensis, etc.; herbal crops may include one or more of the following: tea leaves, lotus leaves, licorice, cloves, chrysanthemum, star anise, mulberry leaves, bay leaves, Perilla frutescens, Amomum villosum, Citrus reticulata peel, Gynostemma pentaphyllum, lavender, rose, jasmine, buckwheat tea, Roselle, Lily, Fraxinus chinensis, Nardostachys jatamansi, Abrus precatorius, Saussurea costus, etc.

[0082] In some embodiments, the active matrix 1122 includes fragrances and flavorings for enhancing or providing aroma to the aerosol. In some embodiments, the proportion of fragrances and flavorings in the active matrix 1122 is 10–30 wt%. In some embodiments, the fragrances and flavorings typically include flavoring substances such as peppermint, apple, rose, peach, orange, tangerine peel, and cocoa, or fragrant liquid organic alcohols, organic oils, or organic lipids such as peppermint oil, menthol, rose oil, vanilla extract, cocoa butter, cinnamon ester, star anise oil, octyl lactone, lemon oil, agarwood oil, ethyl maltol, methylcyclopentenolone (MCP), 2-acetylpyrazine, 2,3,3-trimethylpyrazine, and cinnamon leaf oil. In this embodiment, the volatilization temperature or boiling point of the fragrance is typically between 50°C and 200°C, which is close to the temperature at which the aerosol generated by the atomizing element 1130 flows downstream through the active functional element 1120. Therefore, during use, when the aerosol generated by the atomizing element 1130 flows downstream through the active functional element 1120, the fragrance forms volatile aroma components and is carried downstream in the aerosol.

[0083] In this embodiment, the plant tissue and / or flavorings used to provide the active ingredients are separately arranged from the atomizing element 1130; wherein the flavorings are included in the active functional element 1120 and are loaded with tobacco material or plant tissue. The atomizing element 1130 does not contain tobacco material and / or flavorings.

[0084] In some embodiments, the active matrix 1122 further includes nicotine. The presence of independently added nicotine in the active matrix 1122 is advantageous for meeting the user's nicotine inhalation needs. The nicotine in the active matrix 1122, independent of the tobacco material, is typically added in a ratio of 0.01 wt% to 2 wt%; more specifically, for example, the active matrix 1122 contains 0.3 wt% nicotine.

[0085] In some embodiments, the active matrix 1122 further includes an adhesive; the adhesive promotes the bonding of the components in the active matrix 1122 during use; for example, in some specific embodiments, the adhesive is or includes at least one of gum arabic, casein, dextrin, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, starch, polyvinyl alcohol, guar gum, etc. In some embodiments, the adhesive accounts for 0.1 wt% to 10 wt% of the active matrix 1122.

[0086] In some embodiments, the active matrix 1122 further includes water. In some optional embodiments, the water content of the active matrix 1122 is less than 12 wt%; for example, in some optional embodiments, the water content of the active matrix 1122 is approximately between 5 and 12 wt%.

[0087] In some embodiments, the active matrix 1122 is porous. In these embodiments, the active matrix 1122 has a large number of micropores, thus making it porous. The porous framework of the active matrix 1122 is defined by plant tissue. In some embodiments, the porosity of the active matrix 1122 is between 40% and 75%.

[0088] In some embodiments, the active matrix 1122 is obtained by injecting or extruding an injectable slurry precursor 1122a into a matrix 1121 and then heating and curing it. See also Figure 5 , Figure 5 A schematic diagram is shown of a slurry precursor 1122a being injected into a tubular substrate 1121 via an injection device 200, such as a syringe. For example, during preparation, the slurry precursor 1122a in a paste-like form, similar to toothpaste, is injected into the substrate 1121 by the injection device 200. In some embodiments, the active matrix 1122 formed by post-injection curing is bonded to the substrate 1121. Alternatively, the active matrix 1122 and the substrate 1121 are not tearable or peelable.

[0089] In an embodiment, the slurry precursor 1122a forming the active matrix 1122 is formed by mixing the components of the active matrix 1122 described above. For example, in an embodiment, the slurry precursor 1122a may be formed by mixing plant tissues such as tobacco materials, adhesives, flavorings, nicotine, and water. In some embodiments, the dynamic viscosity of the slurry precursor 1122a is 150–500 Pa·s; this is advantageous for injecting the slurry precursor 1122a using an injection molding process.

[0090] In some embodiments, the water content in the slurry precursor 1122a is 30 wt% to 60 wt% by mass; in a more preferred embodiment, the water content is 30 wt% to 50 wt% by mass. At this water content, the slurry precursor 1122a presents as a paste-like slurry, and the components are integrated like a paste. After drying, the water evaporates, forming fine pores. Too little water will make it difficult to maintain the fluidity of the slurry precursor 1122a, while too much water is detrimental to molding.

[0091] In some embodiments, the slurry precursor 1122a injected into the tubular matrix 1121 is heated and cured by microwave heating or ultrasonic heating. Microwave or ultrasonic heating, which has penetrating power, allows the slurry precursor 1122a to be heated simultaneously from both the inside and outside, causing simultaneous swelling of the plant tissue and water evaporation. As the water evaporates and escapes, pores are formed inside the slurry precursor 1122a during curing, thus creating a loose, breathable, porous structure with internal pores.

[0092] In some embodiments, during the microwave or ultrasonic heating of the slurry precursor 1122a, the heating temperature is below 80°C. Typically, during the microwave or ultrasonic heating of the slurry precursor 1122a, the heating temperature is between 45 and 75°C; more specifically, for example, 60°C. In some embodiments, after heating the slurry precursor 1122a, the active matrix 1122 can be subjected to static drying or oven drying treatment.

[0093] In this embodiment, the filter element 1110 is further provided with:

[0094] An aerosol modifier release component 1150 includes an aerosol modifier. In some embodiments, the aerosol modifier release component 1150 is a capsule or a bursting bead; particularly, for example, a flavored capsule. In some embodiments, the aerosol modifier release component 1150 configured as a capsule has a diameter of 2.0 mm to 5.0 mm.

[0095] In some embodiments, the aerosol modifier is configured to modify the resulting aerosol, for example, by altering the taste, flavor, acidity, or olfactory or gustatory or biometabolic properties of the aerosol. The aerosol modifier may be disposed in an aerosol modifier release component 1150, such as a capsule, which releases the aerosol modifier as the aerosol flows through it.

[0096] In some embodiments, the aerosol modifier may include one or more of flavoring agents, coloring agents, and adsorbents. In some embodiments, certain characteristics of the aerosol include properties different from those of a flavored aerosol, such as sweetness or pH. For example, in some embodiments, a sweet flavoring agent imparts an increased sweetness to the aerosol delivered downstream to the user during use. As another example, in some embodiments, a pH-sensitive flavoring agent, such as dried lemon or mint, may be used to lower or raise the pH to alter the pH characteristics of the aerosol. As yet another example, in some embodiments, an adsorbent with partial component adsorption capabilities, such as a carbon adsorbent that adsorbs water vapor, is used to adsorb some of the water vapor in the aerosol delivered to the user, thereby preventing the aerosol from burning the mouth.

[0097] according to Figure 6 As shown, in use, the aerosol generating article 1000 is received by a heating device to form an aerosol generating system, and the aerosol generating article 1000 is heated by the heating device to generate aerosol. In an embodiment, the heating device includes:

[0098] The chamber has an opening 40; in use, the aerosol-generating article 1000 can be removably received in the chamber through the opening 40.

[0099] A heater 30, which extends at least partially within the chamber, is inserted into the aerosol generating article 1000 when it is received in the chamber to heat it, thereby causing the aerosol generating article 1000 to release a variety of volatile compounds, which are formed solely by heat treatment.

[0100] Cell 10 is used for power supply;

[0101] Circuit 20 is used to guide current between cell 10 and heater 30.

[0102] exist Figure 6 In the illustrated embodiment, the heater 30 is generally shaped like a pin, needle, rod, column, sheet, or plate. When the aerosol generating article 1000 is received in the chamber, the heater 30 extends from the upstream end 1100 of the aerosol generating article 1000 into the atomizing element 1130 to heat it and generate an aerosol. In some embodiments, the heater 30 may have a length of approximately 10 to 18 mm and an outer diameter of approximately 2 to 4 mm.

[0103] In this embodiment, when the aerosol generating article 1000 is received in the heating device, the heater 30 extends into the atomizing element 1130, avoiding the active functional element 1120. In use, the aerosol generated by the heating of the atomizing element 1130 carries at least one volatile component of the active matrix 1122 downstream as it flows through the active functional element 1120, before being output downstream.

[0104] Alternatively, in some other embodiments, when the aerosol generating article 1000 is received in a heating device, the heating device can simultaneously heat the atomizing element 1130 and the active functional element 1120. This is advantageous for promoting a faster release of volatile components from the active functional element 1120.

[0105] In some embodiments, the heater 30 may also be configured to at least partially surround or define a chamber arrangement; for example, the heater 30 may be configured as a tubular shape that at least partially surrounds the chamber. When the aerosol generating article 1000 is received in the chamber, the heater 30 at least partially surrounds or encloses the aerosol generating article 1000 and heats it from the outer periphery of the aerosol generating article 1000. Furthermore, when the aerosol generating article 1000 is received within a heating device, it is at least partially contained and held within the heater 30, which then surrounds and heats the aerosol generating article 1000 from the outside, thereby causing the aerosol generating article 1000 to release a variety of volatile compounds, which are formed solely by heat treatment. In some embodiments, the tubular heater 30 may have an inner diameter of approximately 5.8 mm to 10 mm.

[0106] or Figure 7 A schematic diagram of an active functional element 1120b according to yet another embodiment is shown; in this embodiment, the active functional element 1120b includes:

[0107] The tubular substrate 1121b and the active matrix 1122b located within the substrate 1121b.

[0108] according to Figure 7 As shown, the active matrix 1122b further forms multiple air channels 1123b within it through methods such as puncture and drilling. In this embodiment, the air channels 1123b are not essential.

[0109] exist Figure 7 As shown, a plurality of air channels 1123b are arranged in an orderly manner along a predetermined direction within the active matrix 1122b. In an embodiment, the plurality of air channels 1123b extend straight along the axial direction of the active matrix 1122b. Furthermore, the plurality of air channels 1123b penetrate the active matrix 1122b along the axial direction of the active matrix 1122b. The plurality of air channels 1123b may form through-holes within the active matrix 1122b prepared from porous materials; and in some embodiments, the cross-section of the air channels 1123b is circular; or in other embodiments, the air channels 1123b may also have various cross-sectional shapes such as hexagonal, quadrilateral, and triangular.

[0110] In some embodiments, a plurality of air channels 1123b are arranged in an ordered manner within the active matrix 1122b. The extension of the air channels 1123b is directed in a predetermined direction, rather than being disordered. In another embodiment, the plurality of air channels 1123b are arranged in an array within the active matrix 1122b. In yet another embodiment, air can pass through the air channels 1123b and then exit to the aerosol generating matrix 1130, such as... Figure 1 As indicated by the middle arrow R12. In this embodiment, the arrangement of several air channels 1123b within the active matrix 1122b results in the active matrix 1122b having a honeycomb structure.

[0111] exist Figure 7As shown, a plurality of air channels 1123b are substantially uniformly distributed within the active matrix 1122b. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the plurality of air channels 1123b are non-uniformly distributed within the active matrix 1122b. For example, the number / density of the plurality of air channels 1123b in the central region of the active matrix 1122b is less than or greater than the number / distribution density in the outer regions. In embodiments, corresponding to the columnar shape of the active matrix 1122b, the central region of the active matrix 1122b is substantially the region within half the diameter of the cross-section at a distance from the center of the cross-section in the radial direction; the outer portion is the region surrounding the central region. "Distribution density" can be the number of air channels 1123b contained per unit area in the cross-section; or "distribution density" can be characterized as the volume occupied by the air channels 1123b, for example, the distribution density of air channels 1123b in the central region can be characterized as the volume of air channels 1123b in the central region.

[0112] In some embodiments, the air channel 1123b has a relatively large diameter; for example, the diameter of the air channel 1123b is in the range of 0.01 mm to 1.5 mm. In an optional embodiment, the diameter of the air channel 1123b is in the range of 0.01 mm to 0.5 mm, thereby allowing air to flow smoothly.

[0113] In some embodiments, the cross-sectional area or diameter of the air passage 1123b is substantially constant and the same along the axial direction; or in some other embodiments, the cross-sectional area or diameter of the air passage 1123b is varied, for example, at least a portion of the cross-sectional area or diameter of the air passage 1123b gradually decreases along the direction near the upper end.

[0114] Alternatively, in some embodiments, the air channel 1123b is formed on the outer edge of the active matrix 1122b. For example, the outer peripheral surface of the prepared active matrix 1122b is serrated; then, a plurality of longitudinally extending protrusions are arranged on the outer peripheral surface of the active matrix 1122b, and grooves extending longitudinally through the active matrix 1122b are formed between adjacent protrusions. After preparation, the grooves on the outer peripheral surface of the active matrix 1122b define the air channel 1123b located between the substrate 1121b and the active matrix 1122b.

[0115] according to Figure 7As shown, at least one or more perforations 1124b are formed on the substrate 1121b. The perforations 1124b are formed by a process such as needle punching or needle insertion. During the needle punching process, at least a portion of the material of the substrate 1121b is bent radially inward to form at least one protrusion 1125b extending into the active matrix 1122b. This is advantageous for improving the bonding between the active matrix 1122b and the substrate 1121b. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the inner wall of the substrate 1121b has structures such as protrusions or burrs to increase the contact area between the active matrix 1122b and the substrate 1121b, thereby increasing the adhesion of the slurry. Alternatively, in some other embodiments, at least one protrusion 1125b is arranged on the inner surface of the substrate 1121b; during preparation, when the slurry precursor 1122a is injected into the substrate 1121b and cured, the protrusion 1125b extends into the active matrix 1122b formed by the slurry precursor 1122a to provide retention.

[0116] In some other embodiments, the aerosol generating article 1000 may also have more functional elements. For example... Figure 8 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of an aerosol-generating article 1000c is shown; in this embodiment, the aerosol-generating article 1000c includes a plurality of elements enclosed and confined by an outer enclosure 1160c; the plurality of elements include those arranged coaxially from an upstream end 1100c to a downstream end 1200c.

[0117] Atomizing element 1130c, active functional element 1120c, cooling element 1140c and filter element 1110c.

[0118] In an embodiment, the cooling element 1140c may be arranged immediately downstream of and adjacent to the active functional element 1120c. The cooling element 1140c serves two purposes: firstly, to provide support for the active functional element 1120c downstream; secondly, to cool the aerosol carrying the volatile components of the active functional element 1120c as it flows through the cooling element 1140c, thereby forming an aerosol suitable for user inhalation and preventing mouth burns. Figure 8In an alternative embodiment shown, the cooling element 1140c includes a cooling cavity 1141c extending along the length of the cooling element 1140c. The axially extending cooling cavity 1141c ensures that the airflow through the cooling element 1140c is longitudinally directed without significant radial deviation. The cooling element 1140c can cool the temperature of the aerosol stream drawn through it by means of heat transfer. The components of the aerosol will interact with the space within the cooling cavity 1141c and lose thermal energy. The cooling element 1140c may comprise ceramic, metal, or organic polymer plastic, etc. In some embodiments, the temperature of the aerosol stream may decrease by more than 10 degrees Celsius as it is drawn through the cooling element 1140c. In some embodiments, the temperature of the aerosol stream may decrease by more than 25 degrees Celsius or more than 30 degrees Celsius as it is drawn through the cooling element 1140c.

[0119] according to Figure 8 As shown, the aerosol-generating product 1000c also includes:

[0120] At least one or more connecting holes 1142c extend radially from the cooling chamber 1141c to the outer surface of the aerosol generating article 1000c. The connecting holes 1142c are used to connect the cooling chamber 1141c to the outside atmosphere, so as to allow outside cold air to enter the cooling chamber 1141c during suction to form heat exchange with the aerosol, thereby promoting cooling.

[0121] It should be noted that the preferred embodiments of this application are given in the specification and accompanying drawings, but are not limited to the embodiments described in this specification. Furthermore, those skilled in the art can make improvements or modifications based on the above description, and all such improvements and modifications should fall within the protection scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. An aerosol-generating product, characterized in that, include: Atomizing elements, including aerosol forming agents, are configured to generate aerosols when heated; An active functional element is arranged downstream of the atomizing element; the active functional element includes an active matrix; during use, when the aerosol generated by the atomizing element flows downstream through the active functional element, it carries one or more volatile components released by the active matrix and is delivered downstream; the active matrix is ​​formed by solidifying a slurry precursor, and the active matrix is ​​a porous structure through which airflow can pass.

2. The aerosol-generating product as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The active matrix includes plant tissue.

3. The aerosol-generating product as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The plant tissues include tobacco material.

4. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The porosity of the active matrix is ​​between 40% and 75%.

5. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The active matrix also includes: fragrances and flavorings.

6. The aerosol-generating article as described in claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The plant tissue includes plant tissue powder and plant tissue fibers.

7. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The active matrix also includes an adhesive.

8. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The active matrix further includes nicotine; the nicotine is present or added to the active matrix independently of the tobacco material.

9. The aerosol-generating article as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The active matrix includes 0.01 wt% to 2 wt% nicotine.

10. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The atomizing element contains no tobacco material and / or flavorings.

11. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The length of the active functional element is between 5 and 50 mm; And / or, the length of the atomizing element is 5 to 20 mm.

12. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The active functional element further includes: a tubular matrix; the active matrix is ​​formed by curing a slurry precursor within the matrix and bonding it to the surface of the matrix.

13. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The atomizing element and the active functional element are arranged continuously.

14. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The atomizing element further includes a carrier for loading the aerosol forming agent.

15. The aerosol-generating article as described in claim 14, characterized in that, The carrier is formed by spirally winding or repeatedly folding a sheet and then gathering it together.

16. The aerosol-generating article as described in claim 15, characterized in that, The surface of the sheet is rough; And / or, the surface of the sheet is formed with indentations, textures, protrusions or burrs.

17. The aerosol-generating article as described in claim 15, characterized in that, The sheet has perforations.

18. The aerosol-generating article as described in claim 15, characterized in that, The areal density of the sheet is 25–80 g / m³. 2 .

19. The aerosol-generating article as described in claim 15, characterized in that, The thickness of the sheet is 30μm to 120μm.

20. The aerosol-generating article as described in claim 15, characterized in that, The atomizing element also includes: A forming layer is used to wrap and confine the carrier from the outside to prevent the carrier, which is formed by winding or folding the sheet, from unraveling.

21. The aerosol-generating article as described in claim 14, characterized in that, The carrier has an axially extending air channel defined within it.

22. An aerosol generation system, characterized in that, include: Aerosol-generating articles according to any one of claims 1 to 21; as well as, Heating device, including: A chamber for receiving the aerosol-generated product; A heater is configured to at least heat the atomizing element of the aerosol-generating article.

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