Aerosol generating products and methods for removing moisture from them

Abstract

An aerosol generating article (1) includes: an aerosol generating matrix (2) extending in a longitudinal direction; a filter portion (3) disposed downstream of the aerosol generating matrix (2) and extending in a longitudinal direction; wherein the aerosol generating matrix (2) has a first end (2a) near the filter portion (3) and a second end (2b) opposite to the first end (2a) in the longitudinal direction; the aerosol generating article (1) further includes a device (4) for generating an electric field disposed at the aerosol generating matrix (2) to electrolyze water contained in the aerosol generating matrix (2). A method for removing moisture from the aerosol generating article (1) includes the step of applying an electric field to the aerosol generating matrix (2).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an aerosol generating article and a method for removing moisture therefrom.

[0002] For example, the present invention is applicable to heated tobacco sticks (HTS) used in heated non-burning (HNB) devices. Background Technology

[0003] Known tobacco sticks used in heated non-combustible devices include humectants (such as glycerol) to maintain appropriate moisture levels, thereby preserving the tobacco's properties over time.

[0004] Standard humectants are hygroscopic, and when tobacco sticks are used in tropical regions or stored for extended periods, they can cause a significant amount of moisture to accumulate inside the tobacco sticks.

[0005] When a tobacco stick is heated in a heated tobacco product, energy is consumed to vaporize the water contained in the tobacco stick, and the user may inhale a large amount of unpleasant vapor on the first puff.

[0006] Therefore, for many users, the first puff of a known tobacco stick can be uncomfortable. Summary of the Invention

[0007] In view of the above, the object of the present invention is to provide an aerosol generating article and a method for removing moisture therefrom, the aerosol generating article and the method for removing moisture therefrom being configured or designed to provide an improved sensory experience to its users.

[0008] This is achieved by the article of claim 1 and the method of claim 14.

[0009] According to the present invention, an aerosol generating article includes: an aerosol generating matrix extending in a longitudinal direction; a filter portion disposed downstream of the aerosol generating matrix and extending in the longitudinal direction; the aerosol generating matrix having a first end near the filter portion and a second end opposite to the first end in the longitudinal direction. The aerosol generating article further includes a device for generating an electric field disposed at the aerosol generating matrix to electrolyze water contained in the aerosol generating matrix.

[0010] When aerosol-generating products are used, water molecules contained in the aerosol-generating matrix that are exposed to the electric field generated by the device used to generate the electric field dissociate into gaseous oxygen (O2) molecules and gaseous hydrogen (H2) molecules through an electrolysis process.

[0011] In this way, gaseous oxygen and gaseous hydrogen are removed from the aerosol-generating product, so the first aspiration does not contain much vapor.

[0012] In use, the aerosol-generating product is introduced into an aerosol-generating device that heats the product. When the device for generating the electric field is activated during the preheating period of the device, the user can obtain a good sensory experience on the first inhalation because the water contained in the aerosol-generating matrix has been removed by electrolysis.

[0013] Therefore, it significantly improves the user's first-time suction experience.

[0014] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the device for generating an electric field may include a first electrode and a second electrode. Preferably, the aerosol generating matrix may be at least partially disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode.

[0015] This configuration ensures that an electric field is applied to the aerosol-generating matrix to effectively remove the water contained therein.

[0016] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the device for generating an electric field may include a first contact portion and a second contact portion, each connected to a corresponding first electrode and second electrode. Preferably, the first contact portion and the second contact portion are configured to apply a voltage.

[0017] This configuration allows for proper connection to the power supply of the aerosol generating device to apply voltage to the electrodes, thereby generating an electric field.

[0018] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the first electrode may include a conductive plate arranged orthogonally to the longitudinal direction at a first end of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0019] The conductive plates arranged orthogonally to the longitudinal direction allow the generation of a uniform electric field, thereby enabling the effective and uniform electrolysis of the water contained in the aerosol generation matrix.

[0020] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the second electrode may include at least one conductive rod disposed at a second end of the aerosol generating matrix.

[0021] This configuration allows for the simple and rapid introduction of the second electrode into the aerosol generation matrix. Therefore, it simplifies the manufacturing process of aerosol-generating articles.

[0022] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the aerosol generating article may further include a pre-plug disposed at a second end of the aerosol generating matrix. Preferably, at least one rod may pass through the pre-plug.

[0023] The front plug allows the rod to be fixedly positioned in the aerosol-generating matrix, thus generating a stable electric field.

[0024] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the first electrode may include a conductive plate arranged orthogonally to the longitudinal direction at a first end of the aerosol generating matrix, wherein the second electrode may include a conductive plate arranged orthogonally to the longitudinal direction at a second end of the aerosol generating matrix, and preferably, the conductive plates of the first electrode and the second electrode may include a plurality of spikes extending from the respective conductive plates toward the opposing conductive plates.

[0025] Due to the corona effect, the spikes connected to the conductive plate allow for a localized increase in the electric field strength. This locally enhances the electrolytic effect of the aerosol on the water contained in the matrix.

[0026] The conductive plate can mechanically support the spikes and apply an electric potential fairly to each spike.

[0027] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the first electrode and the second electrode may comprise corresponding conductive sheets arranged along a longitudinal direction on the side surface of the aerosol generating matrix. Preferably, the cross-sectional shape of the conductive sheets perpendicular to the longitudinal direction may be configured as a circumferential arc to cover the aerosol generating matrix.

[0028] This configuration allows the electrodes to encapsulate the aerosol-generated matrix in a simpler and more efficient way, thereby generating an effective electric field on the matrix.

[0029] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the conductive sheet may include a plurality of spikes extending into the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0030] Due to the corona effect, the presence of spikes connected to the conductive sheet allows for a localized increase in the electric field strength. This locally enhances the electrolytic effect of the aerosol on the water contained in the matrix.

[0031] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the first electrode may include a first cylindrical sheet arranged along a longitudinal direction on the side surface of the aerosol generating matrix, and wherein the second electrode may include a second cylindrical sheet with a diameter smaller than that of the first cylindrical sheet, and the second cylindrical sheet is arranged coaxially with the first cylindrical sheet along a longitudinal direction.

[0032] This configuration generates a strong and uniform electric field, which promotes the effective electrolysis of the water contained between the cylindrical plates.

[0033] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the first cylindrical sheet and / or the second cylindrical sheet may include a plurality of spikes extending into the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0034] Due to the corona effect, the spikes connected to the first and / or second cylindrical plates allow for a localized increase in the electric field strength. This locally enhances the electrolytic effect of the aerosol on the water contained in the matrix.

[0035] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the aerosol generating article may further include a front plug disposed at a second end of the aerosol generating matrix, and a second cylindrical piece may be disposed through the front plug.

[0036] The front plug allows the second cylindrical plate to be fixedly positioned in the aerosol generating matrix, thus generating a stable electric field.

[0037] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the aerosol generating article may further include cigarette paper that at least covers the aerosol generating matrix, wherein the first contact portion and / or the second contact portion may include a conductive portion of the cigarette paper impregnated with conductive ink.

[0038] This allows for easy and rapid creation of contact areas. Therefore, the manufacturing process for aerosol-generating articles can be simplified.

[0039] According to the present invention, a method for removing moisture from an aerosol generating article of the present invention includes the following steps: applying an electric field to an aerosol generating matrix using a device for generating an electric field to electrolyze water contained in the aerosol generating matrix; and wherein the step of applying an electric field to the aerosol generating matrix includes the step of applying a voltage between a first electrode and a second electrode.

[0040] The method of the present invention allows for a significant improvement in the user's first suction experience.

[0041] In practice, an electric field is generated to electrolyze water into gaseous oxygen and gaseous hydrogen, thereby removing water contained in the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0042] According to a preferred aspect of the present invention, the method may further include the following steps: when the current value flowing between the first electrode and the second electrode is lower than a predetermined threshold, it is determined that preheating and / or dehumidification is completed.

[0043] This allows for efficient power management. In fact, proper assessment of preheating and / or dehumidification has been completed, allowing power to be stopped from the devices used to generate the electric field when it is no longer necessary to remove water from the aerosol-generating matrix. Attached Figure Description

[0044] The present invention will now be further described with reference to preferred embodiments, in which:

[0045] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an aerosol generating article according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0046] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of an aerosol generating article according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0047] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of an aerosol generating article according to a third embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0048] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of an aerosol generating article according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0049] Figure 5 A schematic diagram showing details of an aerosol-generating article according to a first or second embodiment of the present invention is provided. Detailed Implementation

[0050] As in Figures 1 to 4 As can be seen, the aerosol generating article 1 according to the present invention includes an aerosol generating matrix 2 extending in the longitudinal direction and a filter portion 3 disposed downstream of the aerosol generating matrix 2 and extending in the longitudinal direction.

[0051] The term "downstream" refers to the airflow that passes through the aerosol-generating product 1 during use, particularly when the user inhales it.

[0052] The aerosol generating matrix 2 has a first end 2a near the filter portion 3 and a second end 2b opposite to the first end 2a in the longitudinal direction.

[0053] In other words, the filter section 3 may optionally be connected to the aerosol generating matrix 2 at the first end 2a of the aerosol generating matrix 2 via a hollow space to condense aerosols. In other words, the filter section 3 is adjacent to the first end 2a of the aerosol generating matrix 2.

[0054] The aerosol generating matrix 2 may include plant-based filler materials, including tobacco material, plant-based materials, or combinations thereof. When tobacco material is included, it may include tobacco leaves and / or stems. The tobacco material may also alternatively or in combination include reconstituted tobacco sheet material formed from granular dried tobacco leaves having an average particle size of 20 μm or more but not more than 200 μm, which is then homogenized into a sheet-processed material. For a length of 20 mm and a perimeter of 22 mm, the content of the aerosol generating matrix 2 is typically from about 200 mg to 800 mg, preferably from 250 mg to 350 mg.

[0055] Various tobacco leaves can be used to produce tobacco containing an aerosol-generating matrix to achieve the desired flavor.

[0056] Additionally, the aerosol generating matrix 2 may preferably include an aerosol forming agent, such as glycerol, propylene glycol, triacetin, 1,3-butanediol and blends thereof, the weight content of which is between about 5 wt.% or more (preferably 10 wt.% or more) and usually 50 wt.% or less, and preferably between 15 wt.% or more and 25 wt.% or less, based on the total amount of the filler material.

[0057] The aerosol generating matrix 2 is wrapped in cigarette paper 18.

[0058] The filter section 3 may include a filter plug, which may be a cellulose acetate filter or a paper filter wrapped with filter paper (not shown).

[0059] The filter section 3 is connected to the aerosol generating matrix 2 by splicing paper (not shown) wrapped around the filter section 3 and at least a portion of the aerosol generating matrix 2.

[0060] According to the present invention, the aerosol generating article 1 further includes a device 4 for generating an electric field, which is arranged at the aerosol generating matrix 2 to cause electrolysis of water contained in the aerosol generating matrix 2. The device 4 for generating the electric field may be an electric field generating element.

[0061] In detail, the electric field generated by the device 4 for generating the electric field acts on the water molecules contained in the aerosol generating matrix, and the water molecules are dissociated into gaseous oxygen (O2) molecules and gaseous hydrogen (H2) molecules through an electrolysis process. Then, the gaseous oxygen molecules and gaseous hydrogen molecules are removed from the aerosol generating product 1 by an airflow.

[0062] Preferably, the device 4 for generating an electric field includes a first electrode 5 and a second electrode 6, and the aerosol generating matrix 2 is at least partially disposed between the first electrode 5 and the second electrode 6.

[0063] By way of example only, the first electrode 5 may be a negative electrode (cathode) that produces gaseous hydrogen (H2) during electrolysis, and the second electrode 6 may be a positive electrode (anode) that produces gaseous oxygen (O2) during electrolysis.

[0064] Alternatively, the first electrode 5 can be a positive electrode (anode), and the second electrode 6 can be a negative electrode (cathode).

[0065] In addition, the device 4 used to generate an electric field may include a first contact portion 7 and a second contact portion 8.

[0066] The first contact portion 7 is connected to the first electrode 5, and the second contact portion 8 is connected to the second electrode 6.

[0067] The first contact portion 7 and the second contact portion 8 are configured to apply the voltage required to generate an electric field.

[0068] Preferably, the voltage to be applied to the first contact portion 7 and the second contact portion 8 can be 46 V to 50 V.

[0069] As an example only, the voltage to be applied to the first contact portion 7 and the second contact portion 8 could be 48 V.

[0070] The first contact portion 7 and the second contact portion 8 are configured to contact the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal (not shown) of the aerosol generating device, respectively, and the aerosol generating article of the present invention is introduced into the aerosol generating device and heated.

[0071] In this respect, the aerosol generating device may include a power source (not shown) configured to apply a voltage difference between a first electrical terminal and a second electrical terminal, and thus apply the voltage difference to the first contact portion 7 and the second contact portion 8.

[0072] The positions of the first and second electrical terminals of the aerosol generating device correspond to the positions of the first contact portion 7 and the second contact portion 8.

[0073] The first and second electrical terminals of the aerosol generating device allow voltage to be applied to the first contact portion 7 and the second contact portion 8.

[0074] The aerosol generating article 1 of the present invention further includes a front plug 11 disposed at the second end 2b of the aerosol generating matrix 2.

[0075] The front plug 11 may be made of cellulose acetate. The front plug 11 is wrapped in cigarette paper 18.

[0076] according to Figure 1 In the first embodiment of the present invention shown, the first electrode 5 includes a conductive plate 9, which is orthogonally arranged at the first end 2a of the aerosol generating matrix 2 to the longitudinal direction.

[0077] In other words, the conductive plate 9 is arranged between the aerosol generating matrix 2 and the filter section 3.

[0078] The conductive plate 9 is made of a conductive material. Preferably, the conductive plate 9 is made of metal. As an example, the conductive plate 9 is made of copper, graphite, or nickel.

[0079] Preferably, the conductive plate 9 is disc-shaped. Preferably, the diameter of the conductive plate 9 is substantially the same as the diameter of the aerosol generating matrix 2 measured in a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal direction.

[0080] Alternatively, the conductive plate 9 may have any other suitable shape and / or size, as long as it does not exceed the lateral dimension of the aerosol generating matrix 2.

[0081] The conductive plate 9 may include pores or holes for venting gaseous hydrogen (H2) and / or gaseous oxygen (O2).

[0082] In the first embodiment, preferably but not exclusively, the first contact portion 7 may include a conductive portion 19 of the cigarette paper 18 impregnated with conductive ink (see... Figure 5 ).

[0083] As an example, conductive inks may include silver particles and / or carbon particles.

[0084] The conductive ink permeates the entire thickness of the cigarette paper 18 at the conductive part 19, thereby enabling the electrical connection between the corresponding electrical terminal of the aerosol generating device and the conductive plate 9.

[0085] According to the first embodiment, the second electrode 6 includes at least one conductive rod 10 disposed at the second end 2b of the aerosol generating matrix 2.

[0086] Preferably, the second electrode 6 includes a plurality of conductive rods 10 arranged at the second end 2b of the aerosol generating matrix 2.

[0087] The conductive rod 10 is made of a conductive material. Preferably, the conductive rod 10 is made of metal. As an example, the conductive rod 10 is made of copper, graphite, or nickel.

[0088] The conductive rods 10 can be arranged parallel to each other in the longitudinal direction. This arrangement can help to ensure the uniformity of the electric field and avoid accidental contact between the rods.

[0089] Alternatively, the conductive rod 10 can be arranged in a different orientation relative to the longitudinal direction.

[0090] The conductive rods 10 may all have the same cross-section. Preferably, the conductive rods 10 may all have a circular cross-section.

[0091] The conductive rods 10 can all be of the same length. This configuration can help align the electric field vectors.

[0092] Alternatively, such as Figure 1 As shown, the conductive rods 10 can have different lengths. This configuration can help to form multiple unaligned electric field vectors, thereby enabling electrolysis to occur at many locations within the aerosol-generating matrix 2.

[0093] Preferably, at least a portion of the conductive rod 10 protrudes from the second end 2b of the aerosol generating matrix 2. To enhance the emission of gaseous hydrogen (H2) and / or gaseous oxygen (O2) from the aerosol generating matrix 2, the first electrode 5 preferably includes pores or holes, as described above. The second electrode 6 does not require the above-described structure. Accordingly, the conductive rod 10 can preferably be implemented as the second end 2b of the aerosol generating matrix 2.

[0094] Preferably, at least one conductive rod 10 is inserted through the front plug 11.

[0095] Preferably, all conductive rods 10 are inserted through the front plug 11.

[0096] Preferably, the conductive rod 10 extends along the entire length of the front plug 11 in the longitudinal direction. This ensures the mechanical support of the conductive rod 10.

[0097] The aerosol generating article 1 of the first embodiment of the present invention may further include a conductive element 20 disposed at the top end of the aerosol generating article 1.

[0098] The conductive element 20 defines the second contact portion 8.

[0099] The conductive element 20 is made of a conductive material. Preferably, the conductive element 20 is made of metal. As an example, the conductive element 20 is made of copper, graphite, or nickel.

[0100] Preferably, the conductive element 20 is a disc-shaped element arranged orthogonally to the longitudinal direction. Preferably, the conductive element 20 is arranged to contact the front plug 11.

[0101] Preferably, the conductive element 20 is arranged to contact the conductive rod 10, thereby realizing the electrical connection between the corresponding electrical terminal of the aerosol generating device and the conductive rod 10.

[0102] according to Figure 2 The second embodiment of the present invention shown is similar to the first embodiment, wherein the first electrode 5 includes a conductive plate 9 arranged orthogonally to the longitudinal direction at the first end 2a of the aerosol generating matrix 2.

[0103] Similar to the first embodiment, the first contact portion 7 of the aerosol generating article 1 in the second embodiment may include the conductive portion 19 of the cigarette paper 18 impregnated with conductive ink.

[0104] According to a second embodiment of the present invention, the second electrode 8 includes a conductive plate 12 that is substantially similar to the conductive plate 9 of the first electrode 5.

[0105] Specifically, the conductive plate 12 of the second electrode 8 is arranged orthogonally to the longitudinal direction at the second end 2b of the aerosol generating matrix 2.

[0106] Preferably, the conductive plate 12 of the second electrode 8 is arranged between the aerosol generating matrix 2 and the front plug 11.

[0107] The conductive plate 12 of the second electrode 6 is made of a conductive material. Preferably, the conductive plate 12 of the second electrode 6 is made of metal. As an example, the conductive plate 12 of the second electrode 6 is made of copper, graphite, or nickel.

[0108] Preferably, the conductive plate 12 of the second electrode 6 is disc-shaped. Preferably, the diameter of the conductive plate 12 of the second electrode 6 is substantially the same as the diameter of the aerosol generating matrix 2 measured in a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal direction.

[0109] Alternatively, the conductive plate 12 of the second electrode 6 may have any other suitable shape and / or size, as long as it does not exceed the lateral dimension of the aerosol generating matrix 2.

[0110] As in Figure 2 As can be seen, the conductive plate 9 of the first electrode 5 and the conductive plate 12 of the second electrode 6 are arranged in parallel to each other, and the aerosol generating matrix 2 is arranged between the conductive plates 9 and 12.

[0111] The second contact portion 8 of the aerosol generating article 1 in the second embodiment may include another conductive portion 19 of the cigarette paper 18 impregnated with conductive ink, similar to the conductive portion 19 defining the first contact portion 7.

[0112] According to a modification of the second embodiment of the present invention, the conductive plate 9 of the first electrode 5 and / or the conductive plate 12 of the second electrode 6 include at least one spike 13 extending from the respective conductive plates 9, 12 toward the opposing conductive plate.

[0113] Preferably, the conductive plate 9 of the first electrode 5 and / or the conductive plate 12 of the second electrode 6 include a plurality of spikes 13 extending from the respective conductive plates 9, 12 toward the opposite conductive plate.

[0114] Preferably, both the conductive plate 9 of the first electrode 5 and the conductive plate 12 of the second electrode 6 include a plurality of spikes 13 extending from the respective conductive plates 9, 12 toward the opposite conductive plate.

[0115] Spike 13 is made of a conductive material. For example, spike 13 is made of copper, graphite, or nickel.

[0116] according to Figure 3 In the third embodiment of the present invention shown, the first electrode 5 and the second electrode 6 include corresponding conductive sheets 14 and 15, which are arranged along the longitudinal direction on the side surface of the aerosol generating matrix 2.

[0117] Each conductive sheet 14, 15 extends along the longitudinal direction, and the shape of the cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction is set as a circumferential arc.

[0118] Each conductive sheet 14, 15 is arranged at a relative position on the side surface of the aerosol generating matrix 2, such that it surrounds the aerosol generating matrix 2.

[0119] The conductive sheets 14 and 15 are arranged such that their straight edges, parallel to the longitudinal direction, are adjacent to each other. However, the conductive sheets 14 and 15 do not touch each other.

[0120] Preferably, conductive sheets 14 and 15 each have the same shape and size.

[0121] Conductive sheets 14 and 15 are made of conductive materials. For example, conductive sheets 14 and 15 are made of copper, graphite, or nickel.

[0122] Conductive sheets 14 and 15 are connected to the corresponding first contact portion 7 and second contact portion 8.

[0123] For example, the first contact portion 7 and the second contact portion 8 may include corresponding conductive portions 19 of the cigarette paper 18 impregnated with conductive ink.

[0124] According to a modification of the third embodiment of the present invention, the conductive sheet 14 of the first electrode 5 and / or the conductive sheet 15 of the second electrode 6 include at least one spike 13 extending from the respective conductive sheet 14, 15 toward the opposing conductive sheet.

[0125] Preferably, the conductive sheet 14 of the first electrode 5 and / or the conductive sheet 15 of the second electrode 6 include a plurality of spikes 13 extending from the respective conductive plates 9, 12 toward the opposite conductive plate.

[0126] Preferably, both the conductive sheet 14 of the first electrode 5 and / or the conductive sheet 15 of the second electrode 6 include a plurality of spikes 13 extending from the respective conductive plates 9, 12 toward the opposite conductive plate.

[0127] According to another modification of the third embodiment of the present invention, the conductive sheet 14 of the first electrode 5 and / or the conductive sheet 15 of the second electrode 6 are micro-perforated.

[0128] In other words, the conductive sheet 14 of the first electrode 5 and / or the conductive sheet 15 of the second electrode 6 have a plurality of through holes, which are preferably evenly distributed.

[0129] Because less material is used, this allows for lower costs and a reduced environmental impact.

[0130] According to a further modification of the third embodiment of the present invention, the conductive sheet 14 of the first electrode 5 and / or the conductive sheet 15 of the second electrode 6 are micro-perforated and have a plurality of spikes 13.

[0131] Compared to the first and second embodiments, the third embodiment may be advantageous considering the emission of gaseous hydrogen (H2) and / or gaseous oxygen (O2).

[0132] according to Figure 4 In the fourth embodiment of the present invention shown, the first electrode 5 includes a first cylindrical sheet 16, which is arranged along the longitudinal direction on the side surface of the aerosol generating matrix 2.

[0133] Furthermore, the second electrode 6 includes a second cylindrical plate 17, the diameter of which is smaller than the diameter of the first cylindrical plate 16, and the second cylindrical plate is arranged coaxially with the first cylindrical plate 16 along the longitudinal direction.

[0134] In other words, the first cylindrical piece 16 and the second cylindrical piece 17 are tubular elements arranged coaxially with each other.

[0135] The first cylindrical sheet 16 and the second cylindrical sheet 17 are made of a conductive material. Preferably, the first cylindrical sheet 16 and the second cylindrical sheet 17 are made of metal. As an example, the first cylindrical sheet 16 and the second cylindrical sheet 17 are made of copper, graphite or nickel.

[0136] The first cylindrical piece 16 and the second cylindrical piece 17 can have the same length.

[0137] Preferably, the first cylindrical piece 16 and the second cylindrical piece 17 have different lengths.

[0138] Specifically, the second cylindrical piece 17 is longer than the first cylindrical piece 16.

[0139] In this case, preferably, the second cylindrical piece 17 protrudes from the aerosol-generating matrix 2 to at least partially penetrate the front plug 11.

[0140] Preferably, the second cylindrical piece 17 extends along the entire length of the front plug 11 in the longitudinal direction.

[0141] In this case, the aerosol generating article 1 of the fourth embodiment of the present invention may further include a conductive element 20 disposed at the top of the aerosol generating article 1, similar to the conductive element of the first embodiment.

[0142] The conductive element 20 defines the second contact portion 8.

[0143] The first contact portion 8 of the aerosol generating article 1 in the fourth embodiment may include the conductive portion 19 of the cigarette paper 18 impregnated with conductive ink.

[0144] According to a modification of the fourth embodiment of the present invention, the first cylindrical piece 16 and / or the second cylindrical piece 17 includes at least one spike 13 extending from the respective cylindrical pieces 16, 17 toward the opposing cylindrical piece.

[0145] Preferably, the first cylindrical piece 16 and / or the second cylindrical piece 17 includes a plurality of spikes 13 extending from the respective cylindrical pieces 16, 17 toward the opposing cylindrical piece.

[0146] Preferably, both the first cylindrical piece 16 and / or the second cylindrical piece 17 include a plurality of spikes 13 extending from the respective cylindrical pieces 16, 17 toward the opposing cylindrical piece.

[0147] According to another modification of the fourth embodiment of the present invention, the first cylindrical sheet 16 and / or the second cylindrical sheet 17 are micro-perforated.

[0148] In other words, the first cylindrical piece 16 and / or the second cylindrical piece 17 have a plurality of through holes, which are preferably evenly distributed.

[0149] Because less material is used, this allows for lower costs and a reduced environmental impact.

[0150] According to a further modification of the fourth embodiment of the present invention, the first cylindrical sheet 16 and / or the second cylindrical sheet 17 are micro-perforated and have a plurality of spikes 13.

[0151] Considering the emission of gaseous hydrogen (H2) and / or gaseous oxygen (O2), the fourth embodiment may also be beneficial, similar to the third embodiment.

[0152] The present invention also provides a method for removing moisture from the aerosol generating article 1.

[0153] As already mentioned, the method includes the following steps: generating and applying an electric field in the aerosol generating matrix 2 by means of a device 4 for generating an electric field.

[0154] In this way, the water contained in the aerosol generating matrix 2 is electrolyzed, and the water dissociates into gaseous oxygen and gaseous hydrogen, which are then removed.

[0155] Specifically, the step of generating and applying an electric field includes applying a voltage between the first electrode 5 and the second electrode 6. This applied voltage can be a battery voltage boosted by a converter or the like.

[0156] Preferably, the step of generating and applying an electric field in the aerosol generating matrix 2 is performed during the preheating step, in which the aerosol generating article 1 of the present invention is introduced into the aerosol generating device and preheated.

[0157] In other words, the step of generating and applying an electric field in the aerosol generating matrix 2 is performed before the aerosol generating device is ready for use by the user, especially before the user performs the first inhalation.

[0158] Preferably, the method of the present invention further includes the following steps: when the current value flowing between the first electrode 5 and the second electrode 6 is lower than a predetermined threshold, it is determined that preheating and / or dehumidification is completed.

[0159] This allows for precise assessment of when the initial operation of the aerosol generating device ends and when the steps of generating and applying an electric field can be stopped.

[0160] Of course, the descriptions of embodiments and examples of applying the principles acknowledged by the inventors described above are provided merely by way of example and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention claimed herein. Therefore, although detailed embodiments and examples have been described, these embodiments and examples are provided only to provide a better understanding of the invention as defined by the independent claims and should not be considered as limiting.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating article (1), comprising: -Aerosol generating matrix (2), which extends along the longitudinal direction; - Filter section (3), which is arranged downstream of the aerosol generating matrix (2) and extends along the longitudinal direction; -The aerosol generating matrix (2) has a first end (2a) near the filter portion (3) and a second end (2b) opposite to the first end (2a) in the longitudinal direction. Its features are, - A device (4) for generating an electric field, which is arranged at the aerosol generating matrix (2) to electrolyze the water contained in the aerosol generating matrix (2).

2. The aerosol generating article (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The device (4) for generating an electric field includes a first electrode (5) and a second electrode (6); wherein the aerosol generating matrix (2) is at least partially disposed between the first electrode (5) and the second electrode (6).

3. The aerosol generating article (1) according to claim 2, wherein, The device (4) for generating an electric field includes a first contact portion (7) and a second contact portion (8), which are respectively connected to a corresponding first electrode (5) and a second electrode (6); the first contact portion (7) and the second contact portion (8) are configured to apply a voltage.

4. The aerosol generating article (1) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The first electrode (5) includes a conductive plate (9) which is orthogonally arranged at the first end (2a) of the aerosol generating matrix (2) to the longitudinal direction.

5. The aerosol generating article (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, The second electrode (6) includes at least one conductive rod (10) disposed at the second end (2b) of the aerosol generating matrix (2).

6. The aerosol generating article (1) according to claim 5, further comprising: A front plug (11) is disposed at the second end (2b) of the aerosol generating matrix (2); at least one conductive rod (10) passes through the front plug (11).

7. The aerosol generating article (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The first electrode (5) includes a conductive plate (9) arranged orthogonally to the longitudinal direction at a first end (2a) of the aerosol generating matrix (2), wherein the second electrode (6) includes a conductive plate (12) arranged orthogonally to the longitudinal direction at a second end (2b) of the aerosol generating matrix (2), and the conductive plate (9) of the first electrode (5) and / or the conductive plate (12) of the second electrode (6) includes at least one spike (13) extending from the respective conductive plate (9, 12) toward the opposite conductive plate.

8. The aerosol generating article (1) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The first electrode (5) and the second electrode (6) include corresponding conductive sheets (14, 15) arranged along the longitudinal direction on the side surface of the aerosol generating matrix (2). and The conductive sheets (14, 15) are shaped as circumferential arcs perpendicular to the longitudinal direction to cover the aerosol generating matrix (2).

9. The aerosol generating article (1) according to claim 8, wherein, These conductive sheets (14, 15) include multiple spikes extending into the aerosol-generating matrix (2).

10. The aerosol generating article (1) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The first electrode (5) includes a first cylindrical sheet (16) which is arranged along the longitudinal direction on the side surface of the aerosol generating matrix (2); wherein the second electrode (6) includes a second cylindrical sheet (17) which has a smaller diameter than the first cylindrical sheet (16) and is arranged coaxially with the first cylindrical sheet (16) along the longitudinal direction.

11. The aerosol generating article (1) according to claim 10, wherein, The first cylindrical sheet (16) and / or the second cylindrical sheet (17) include a plurality of spikes extending into the aerosol generating matrix (2).

12. The aerosol generating article (1) according to claim 10 or claim 11, further comprising: A front plug (11) is disposed at the second end (2b) of the aerosol generating matrix (2); the second cylindrical piece (17) is inserted through the front plug (11).

13. The aerosol generating article (1) according to any one of claims 3 to 12, further comprising: Cigarette paper (18) at least covers the aerosol generating matrix (2); the first contact portion (7) and / or the second contact portion (8) includes a conductive portion (19) of the cigarette paper (18) impregnated with conductive ink.

14. A method for removing moisture from an aerosol-generating article (1), the aerosol-generating article (1) being any one of claims 1 to 13, the method comprising the following steps: An electric field is applied to the aerosol generating matrix (2) by means of a device (4) for generating an electric field, so that the water contained in the aerosol generating matrix (2) is electrolyzed; and The step of applying an electric field in the aerosol generating matrix (2) includes applying a voltage between the first electrode (5) and the second electrode (6).

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising the following steps: When the current flowing between the first electrode (5) and the second electrode (6) is lower than a predetermined threshold, it is determined that preheating and / or dehumidification is completed.

Images