A substrate segment, an aerosol-generating article and an aerosol-generating system

Abstract

The application relates to the aerosol generating technical field and provides a substrate section, an aerosol generating article and an aerosol generating system. The substrate section comprises a medium body and an outer cladding. The medium body is used to generate aerosol when heated by a heating element. The outer cladding is at least partially located on the outer circumferential surface of the medium body. When the substrate section is heated by the heating element and the outer cladding is closer to the heating element than the medium body, the shrinkage rate of the outer cladding is S1, and the shrinkage rate of the medium body is S2. S1-S2>=0%. The outer cladding is attached to the outer circumferential surface of the medium body. The shrinkage rate S1 of the outer cladding is greater than or equal to the shrinkage rate S2 of the medium body. During circumferential heating and smoking, the outer cladding and the medium body co-deform while maintaining attachment, so that the generation of gaps is avoided. A good heat conduction path is reserved between the medium body and the outer cladding. Heat can be more timely conducted to the medium body through the outer cladding, the risk of heat concentration on the outer cladding is reduced, the paper smell during smoking is reduced, the safety risk is reduced, and the phenomenon of ignition is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of aerosol generation technology, and in particular to a matrix segment, an aerosol generation product, and an aerosol generation system. Background Technology

[0002] This section is intended to provide background or context for the embodiments of this application as set forth in the claims. The description herein is not intended to be a prior art simply because it is included in this section.

[0003] In related technologies, the outer periphery of the substrate segment is wrapped with cigarette paper. The substrate segment is heated circumferentially to form an aerosol. During the heating process, neither the substrate segment nor the cigarette paper burns. Specifically, heat from the external heat source is transferred from the periphery of the cigarette paper to the center of the substrate segment, heating it just enough to release the aerosol without combustion. Thus, aerosols are released by heating the substrate segment. However, during the heat transfer from the periphery to the center, the cigarette paper is prone to sparking, i.e., scorching. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, embodiments of this application aim to provide a matrix segment, an aerosol generating article, and an aerosol generating system that can reduce arcing.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, embodiments of this application provide a matrix segment, comprising:

[0006] A medium for generating an aerosol when heated by a heating element;

[0007] An outer cladding layer, wherein the outer cladding layer is at least partially located on the outer peripheral surface of the medium;

[0008] When the matrix segment is heated by the heating element and the outer layer is closer to the heating element than the medium body, the shrinkage rate of the outer layer is S1, and the shrinkage rate of the medium body is S2, wherein S1-S2≥0%.

[0009] In some embodiments, 10% ≤ S1 - S2 ≤ 30%.

[0010] In some embodiments, the temperature at which the medium generates an aerosol when heated is 100°C to 400°C.

[0011] In some embodiments, the medium and the outer cladding are integrally formed.

[0012] In some embodiments, the outer cladding does not generate aerosols when heated.

[0013] This application provides an aerosol generating article, including a functional segment and a matrix segment as described in any one of the above, wherein the functional segment is disposed at one end of the matrix segment along the first direction.

[0014] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating article includes a coating layer that surrounds the outer periphery of the functional segment.

[0015] In some embodiments, a plane perpendicular to the first direction is used as the projection plane, and the projection of the wrapping layer coincides with the projection of the outer wrapping layer.

[0016] In some embodiments, the functional segment includes one or more of a filtering segment, a support segment, and a cooling segment.

[0017] This application also provides an aerosol generation system, including the matrix segment or the aerosol generation article described in any of the above claims. The aerosol generation system further includes an aerosol generation device with a heating element disposed on the outer periphery of the outer layer.

[0018] In the matrix segment provided in this application embodiment, at least a portion of the outer sheath is located on the outer peripheral surface of the medium. The shrinkage rate S1 of the outer sheath is greater than or equal to the shrinkage rate S2 of the medium. During the circumferential heating and suction process, the outer sheath and the medium co-deform to maintain a close fit, avoiding the generation of gaps. A good heat conduction path is maintained between the medium and the outer sheath, and heat can be conducted to the medium more promptly through the outer sheath, reducing the risk of heat concentration in the outer sheath, thereby reducing paper impurities and safety risks during suction, and reducing the occurrence of sparks. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the matrix segment in one embodiment of this application;

[0020] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure shown from another perspective;

[0021] Figure 3 for Figure 1 Cross-sectional view of the structure shown;

[0022] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an aerosol-generating article in one embodiment of this application;

[0023] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A perspective view of the structure shown;

[0024] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the functional segments and wrapping layers in one embodiment of this application.

[0025] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0026] 100. Aerosol generating product; 1. Matrix section; 11. Medium body; 12. Outer coating layer; 12a. Heated surface; 2. Functional section; 21. Filter section; 22. Support section; 23. Cooling section; 3. Coating layer. Detailed Implementation

[0027] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and technical features in the embodiments of this application can be combined with each other, and the detailed descriptions in the specific implementation should be understood as explanations of the purpose of this application and should not be regarded as undue limitations on this application.

[0028] In the embodiments of this application, "first direction" refers to the direction shown in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these directional terms are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application. The application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0029] In this application, "multiple" includes two or more.

[0030] Please see Figures 1 to 5 First, let’s introduce the basic structure of the matrix segment 1, the aerosol generating article 100 and the aerosol generating system provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0031] Please see Figures 4 to 5 This application provides an aerosol generating article 100, including a functional segment 2 and a matrix segment 1 as described in any embodiment of this application. The functional segment 2 is disposed at one end of the matrix segment 1 along a first direction.

[0032] The aerosol generation system provided in this application includes the matrix segment 1 in any embodiment of this application or the aerosol generation article 100 in any embodiment of this application. The aerosol generation system also includes an aerosol generation device with a heating element disposed on the outer periphery of the outer cladding layer 12.

[0033] The heating element is used to heat the matrix section 1 to generate an aerosol.

[0034] The heating element can convert electrical energy into heat energy, which acts on the matrix segment 1. After being heated, the matrix segment 1 can generate aerosol for user use.

[0035] For example, the aerosol generating apparatus further includes a housing and a power supply component disposed within the housing. The housing has a receiving chamber, and the power output section of the power supply component is disposed within the receiving chamber or around the side wall of the receiving chamber. When the matrix segment 1 or the aerosol generating article 100 is inserted into the receiving chamber at the part corresponding to the matrix segment 1, the power output section transmits electrical energy to the heating element in a contact or non-contact manner. The heating element receives the electrical energy and generates heat, thereby heating the matrix segment 1 and generating aerosol.

[0036] The heating element can generate heat through methods including, but not limited to, resistance heating, electromagnetic heating, infrared heating, ceramic heating, microwave heating, or laser heating. The heat generated by the heating element can be transferred to the substrate segment 1 through heat convection, heat conduction, or heat radiation. For example, resistance and electromagnetic heating primarily transfer heat to the substrate segment 1 through heat conduction or heat convection. Infrared heating, microwave heating, or laser heating primarily transfer heat to the substrate segment 1 through heat radiation. The heating element can heat the substrate segment 1 through one or more of these three methods: heat conduction, heat convection, and heat radiation.

[0037] In this embodiment, the first direction does not specifically refer to the direction in which the outer contour of the matrix segment 1 is longest. Specifically, the direction in which the aerosol-generated article 100 is inserted into the receiving chamber and the direction in which the aerosol-generated article 100 is removed from the receiving chamber are both parallel to the first direction. The length of the matrix segment 1 along the first direction may be longer, shorter, or the same as its length in other directions.

[0038] For example, if the outer contour of matrix segment 1 is cylindrical, then the first direction is the axial direction of matrix segment 1. It should be noted that even when the axial length of matrix segment 1 is less than its diameter, the first direction of matrix segment 1 is still the axial direction. As another example, when the outer contour of matrix segment 1 is cuboid, the first direction is still the direction defined above, that is, the direction in which the aerosol-generated product 100 is placed and removed from the receiving chamber. The first direction of matrix segment 1 can be any of the length, width, or height of the cuboid.

[0039] In this embodiment, the matrix segment 1 is generally cylindrical. The cylindrical shape can be a cylinder (i.e., the cross-sectional shape is circular), a prism (i.e., the cross-sectional shape is polygonal), an elliptical cylinder (i.e., the cross-sectional shape is elliptical), etc., and is not limited here.

[0040] It should be noted that, unless otherwise stated, in the embodiments of this application, the cross-section is a plane perpendicular to the first direction.

[0041] For example, one end of the aerosol generating article 100 along a first direction faces the user. For ease of description, the two ends of the first direction are defined as the proximal lip end and the distal lip end. The proximal lip end refers to the end of the aerosol generating article 100 that is closer to the user when using it, and the distal lip end refers to the end of the aerosol generating article 100 that is farther away from the user when using it. During use, the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating article 100 is delivered to the user after flowing through the functional section 2 under the action of suction negative pressure. That is, the functional section 2 is downstream of the matrix section 1 along the first direction, i.e., the proximal lip end.

[0042] Functional segment 2 can provide at least one of the following functions: filtration, adsorption, aroma enhancement, dilution, cooling, and resistance adjustment.

[0043] Filtration function refers to the function of filtering out at least some of the particulate matter in aerosols.

[0044] Adsorption function refers to the ability to adsorb at least some impurities in aerosols. It can be understood that these impurities are substances that remove the active ingredients from the aerosol; the active ingredients are those that need to be provided to the user.

[0045] The aroma-enhancing function refers to the function of adding aroma-producing components to aerosols.

[0046] The dilution function refers to the function of reducing the concentration of active ingredients in aerosols.

[0047] Cooling function refers to the function of reducing the temperature of aerosols.

[0048] The suction resistance adjustment function refers to the function of reducing or increasing suction resistance. In this way, the flow rate and distribution of aerosols can be controlled, and the suction resistance and aerosol uniformity can be optimized.

[0049] Research in related technologies has revealed that during the heating and smoking process, the shrinkage rate of the typical matrix segment is 10%-30%, while the shrinkage rate of cigarette paper is less than 1%. The shrinkage rate of the matrix segment is much greater than that of cigarette paper. This results in gaps between the matrix segment and the cigarette paper during smoking, which reduces the heat transfer efficiency of the cigarette paper to the matrix segment. Consequently, heat is concentrated on the cigarette paper, greatly increasing the risk of paper-related odors and safety hazards during smoking, and easily causing sparking, i.e., burning of the cigarette paper.

[0050] Please see Figures 1 to 3This application provides a matrix segment 1, which includes a medium 11 and an outer layer 12. The medium 11 is used to generate an aerosol when heated by a heating element. The outer layer 12 is at least partially located on the outer peripheral surface of the medium 11. When the matrix segment 1 is heated by the heating element and the outer layer 12 is closer to the heating element than the medium 11, the shrinkage rate of the outer layer 12 is S1, and the shrinkage rate of the medium 11 is S2, wherein S1-S2≥0%.

[0051] The outer cladding layer 12 is closer to the heating element than the medium body 11. The heat generated by the heating element is first transferred to the outer cladding layer 12 and then to the medium body 11. The matrix segment 1 is heated circumferentially.

[0052] For example, the medium 11 may extend along a first direction, and at least a portion of the outer cladding 12 may conform to the outer peripheral surface of the medium 11, wherein the outer peripheral surface of the outer cladding 12 is a heated surface 12a.

[0053] In the example where the medium 11 extends along a first direction, the circumferential direction is the direction surrounding the straight line extending along the first direction. The outer peripheral surface of the medium 11 is the outer surface of the medium 11 surrounding the straight line extending along the first direction. The outer peripheral surface of the cladding 12 is the outer surface of the cladding 12 surrounding the straight line extending along the first direction.

[0054] The outer layer 12 can fit the outer peripheral surface of the medium 11; in other words, there is no gap between the outer layer 12 and the outer peripheral surface of the medium 11.

[0055] The heated surface 12a faces the heating element to receive heat from it. In other words, the outer peripheral surface of the outer cladding 12 faces the heating element and receives heat from it. Thus, the heating element is disposed on the outer periphery of the outer cladding 12, and the heat generated by the heating element is first transferred to the outer cladding 12 and then to the medium 11, with the matrix segment 1 being circumferentially heated.

[0056] The heating element is disposed on the outer periphery of the outer layer 12. For example, the heating element may be attached to the outer periphery of the outer layer 12, or there may be a gap between the heating element and the outer periphery of the outer layer 12.

[0057] Shrinkage rate is the percentage of shrinkage to the original size before shrinkage. Shrinkage refers to the difference between the original and original sizes. Specifically, the original diameter before shrinkage is the initial diameter of matrix segment 1 before aerosol release, defined as Da; the diameter after shrinkage is the remaining diameter of matrix segment 1 after aerosol release, defined as Db; the shrinkage rate is defined as S, then S = (Da - Db) / Da * 100%.

[0058] The shrinkage rate of the outer layer 12 is S1, the diameter of the outer layer 12 before shrinkage is Da1, and the diameter of the outer layer 12 after shrinkage is Db1. Then S1 = (Da1 - Db1) / Da1 * 100%.

[0059] The shrinkage rate of medium 11 is S2, the diameter of outer cladding 12 before shrinkage is Da2, and the diameter of outer cladding 12 after shrinkage is Db2. Then S2 = (Da2 - Db2) / Da2 * 100%.

[0060] It is understood that the diameter of the outer cladding layer 12 refers to the maximum distance between two points of the projected shape of the outer cladding layer 12 with a plane perpendicular to the first direction as the projection plane. The diameter of the medium body 11 refers to the maximum distance between two points of the projected shape of the medium body 11 with a plane perpendicular to the first direction as the projection plane.

[0061] Taking a cylindrical shape for both the dielectric 11 and the outer cladding 12 as an example, the projected shape of the dielectric 11 is circular, and the diameter of the dielectric 11 is the diameter of the projected shape of the circle. The projected shape of the outer cladding 12 is also circular, and the diameter of the outer cladding 12 is the diameter of the projected shape of the circle. The outer circumferential surface of the dielectric 11 is the cylindrical surface of the cylindrical dielectric 11. The outer circumferential surface of the outer cladding 12 is the cylindrical surface of the cylindrical outer cladding 12.

[0062] The matrix segment 1 provided in this application embodiment has an outer sheath 12 located at least partially on the outer peripheral surface of the medium body 11. During the heating process of the matrix segment 1, the shrinkage rate S1 of the outer sheath 12 is greater than or equal to the shrinkage rate S2 of the medium body 11. During the circumferential heating and suction process, the outer sheath 12 and the medium body 11 co-deform and remain in close contact, avoiding the generation of gaps. A good heat conduction path is maintained between the medium body 11 and the outer sheath 12, and heat can be conducted to the medium body 11 more promptly through the outer sheath 12, reducing the risk of heat concentration in the outer sheath 12, thereby reducing paper impurities and safety risks during suction, and reducing the occurrence of sparks.

[0063] In some embodiments, 10% ≤ S1 - S2 ≤ 30%. In other words, the difference between the shrinkage rate S1 of the outer cladding layer 12 and the shrinkage rate S2 of the medium 11 is between 10% and 30%.

[0064] In this embodiment, the difference between the shrinkage rate S1 of the outer layer 12 and the shrinkage rate S2 of the medium 11 is between 10% and 30%. During the heating and suction process, the outer layer 12 and the medium 11 can remain in close contact and have a good heat conduction path between them. This can further reduce the generated impurities and also take into account the manufacturing difficulty. To a certain extent, it avoids the process difficulty caused by the large difference between the shrinkage rates of the outer layer 12 and the medium 11.

[0065] In some embodiments, the medium 11 may be generally a cylindrical structure extending axially along a first direction.

[0066] In some embodiments, the medium 11 includes plant materials, auxiliary materials, smoke-generating materials, adhesive materials, and fragrance materials.

[0067] Plant-based raw materials are used to generate aerosols upon heating. Additive raw materials provide skeletal support for the plant-based raw materials. Smoke-generating raw materials are used to produce a large amount of smoke upon heating. Binder raw materials are used to bind the component raw materials. Fragrance raw materials provide characteristic aromas. Thus, the plant-based and smoke-generating raw materials ensure aerosol generation, while the fragrance raw materials enhance aroma release during inhalation, improving the user experience. Additive raw materials not only improve the flowability of the mixture but also give the medium 11 a porous structure, facilitating aerosol extraction and flow. Binder raw materials ensure that the plant-based powder and additives form a stable mixture, preventing a loose structure.

[0068] In one embodiment, the plant-based raw materials are one or more combinations of tobacco leaves, tobacco fragments, tobacco stems, tobacco dust, and aromatic plants, which are powdered after being crushed. The plant-based raw materials are the core source of the aroma, and the endogenous substances in them can provide users with physiological satisfaction. Endogenous substances, such as alkaloids, enter the bloodstream and promote the pituitary gland to produce dopamine, thereby achieving physiological satisfaction.

[0069] In one embodiment, the auxiliary raw material can be one or more combinations of inorganic fillers, lubricants, and emulsifiers. The inorganic fillers include one or more combinations of heavy calcium carbonate, light calcium carbonate, zeolite, attapulgite, talc, and diatomaceous earth. The inorganic fillers can provide skeletal support for the plant material, and also have micropores, which can increase the porosity of the medium 11, thereby increasing the aerosol release rate.

[0070] Lubricants include one or more of the following: candelilla wax, carnauba wax, shellac, sunflower wax, rice bran, beeswax, stearic acid, and palmitic acid. Lubricants can increase the flowability of plant-based powders, reduce friction between powder particles, resulting in a more uniform overall density of the powder. They can also reduce the pressure required during extrusion molding and decrease die wear.

[0071] Emulsifiers include one or more combinations of polyglycerol fatty acid esters, Tween-80, and polyvinyl alcohol. Emulsifiers can, to some extent, slow down the loss of aroma compounds during storage, increase their stability, and improve the sensory quality of the product.

[0072] In one embodiment, the smoke-generating agent raw material may include one or more combinations of: monohydric alcohol (such as menthol); polyhydric alcohol (such as propylene glycol, glycerol, triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and tetraethylene glycol); esters of polyhydric alcohols (such as triacetin, triethyl citrate, a mixture of diacetin, triethyl citrate, methyl benzoate, and triglyceride); monocarboxylic acid; dicarboxylic acid; polycarboxylic acid (such as lauric acid and myristic acid) or aliphatic esters of polycarboxylic acids (such as dimethyl dodecanoate, dimethyl tetradecanoate, erythritol, 1,3-butanediol, tetraethylene glycol, triethyl citrate, propylene carbonate, ethyl lauryl carbonate, triacetin, mesoerythritol, a mixture of diacetin, diethyl octanoate, triethyl citrate, methyl benzoate, phenylacetic acid, ethyl vanillate, triglyceride, and lauryl acetate).

[0073] In one embodiment, the adhesive raw material achieves close contact with the component raw material through interfacial wetting, generating intermolecular attraction and thus serving to bind the component raw materials, such as powders and liquids. The adhesive raw material can be one or more combinations of natural plant extracts and non-ionic modified viscous polysaccharides, including tamarind polysaccharides, guar gum, and modified cellulose (such as carboxymethyl cellulose). The adhesive is used to bind particles together, preventing them from easily falling apart, and also improves the water resistance of the medium 11, while being harmless to the human body.

[0074] In one embodiment, the flavoring ingredient is used to provide characteristic aromas, such as hay, roasted sweetness, or solid or liquid substances of nicotine. The flavoring ingredient may include one or more combinations of tobacco, aromatic plant extracts, extracts, essential oils, and absolutes; the flavoring ingredient may also include monomeric aroma substances, such as one or more combinations of megastigmatrienone, neophytadiene, geraniol, nerol, etc.

[0075] In some embodiments, the outer coating layer 12 can generate an aerosol when heated. For example, the outer coating layer 12 may include plant materials, additive materials, smoke-generating materials, adhesive materials, and fragrance materials, etc. In this way, the outer coating layer 12 can be used to replenish the aerosol volume.

[0076] In some embodiments, the outer coating 12 and the medium 11 can produce aerosols with the same flavor. For example, the outer coating 12 and the medium 11 can be made from the same plant-based and flavoring ingredients.

[0077] In some embodiments, the outer coating layer 12 and the medium 11 can also produce aerosols with different flavors. For example, the outer coating layer 12 and the medium 11 can be made from different plant materials or flavoring materials.

[0078] In some embodiments, the outer layer 12 does not generate aerosols when heated. For example, the outer layer 12 does not contain plant-based or smoke-generating agents. In this way, the outer layer 12 can isolate the medium 11 from the containment chamber of the aerosol generating device, reducing the risk of aerosols adhering to the walls of the containment chamber and causing contamination.

[0079] The outer layer 12 may have some of the same components as the medium 11. This is beneficial for the outer layer 12 and the medium 11 to be integrally formed. Taking co-extrusion as an example, the outer layer 12 may have some of the same components as the medium 11. The interaction force and expansion force between the materials are the same, which is beneficial for the outer layer 12 and the medium 11 to be co-extruded and formed, thereby improving the yield.

[0080] In some embodiments, a first component is added to the medium 11 and / or the outer coating 12 to reduce shrinkage. The first component includes at least one of chitosan, cellulose, cellulose derivatives, carbon nanofibers, ceramics, talc, and metal composites.

[0081] As an example, the first component includes one of chitosan, cellulose, cellulose derivatives, carbon nanofibers, ceramics, talc, and metal complexes.

[0082] As an example, the first component includes multiple components such as chitosan, cellulose, cellulose derivatives, carbon nanofibers, ceramics, talc, and metal complexes. "Multiple components" includes two or more components.

[0083] Taking chitosan as an example, the chitosan molecular chain contains a large number of hydroxyl (-OH) and amino (-NH2) groups, which can form strong hydrogen bonds with water molecules or other polar substances, reducing volume shrinkage during heating and suction. Therefore, chitosan can reduce the amount of shrinkage, thereby reducing the shrinkage rate.

[0084] Taking cellulose as an example, cellulose molecular chains are rich in hydroxyl groups (-OH), which can form a three-dimensional network structure through intermolecular hydrogen bonds. During heating and suction, this restricts the free movement of molecular chains and reduces volume shrinkage caused by water loss. In embodiments where the first component includes cellulose and chitosan, cellulose and chitosan can form a denser network structure through chemical cross-linking or physical entanglement, further inhibiting shrinkage and deformation.

[0085] In this embodiment, the first component has good safety profile and can inhibit shrinkage, reduce the amount of shrinkage, and thus reduce the shrinkage rate. Therefore, if the shrinkage rate of the medium 11 is too large and needs to be reduced, the first component is added to the medium 11; if the shrinkage rate of the outer layer 12 is too large and needs to be reduced, the first component is added to the outer layer 12. In this way, the shrinkage rates of the medium 11 and the outer layer 12 can be adjusted, thereby adjusting the difference between the shrinkage rates of the medium 11 and the outer layer 12.

[0086] In some embodiments, the difference between the shrinkage rate of the medium 11 and the shrinkage rate of the outer layer 12 can be adjusted by adjusting the relative proportions of the first component in the medium 11 and the first component in the outer layer 12. That is, both the medium 11 and the outer layer 12 contain the first component, but different relative proportions of the first component in the medium 11 and the first component in the outer layer 12 can result in different shrinkage rates.

[0087] In some embodiments, a second component is added to the medium 11 and / or the outer coating 12 to increase the shrinkage rate. The second component includes at least one of arabinose, xylose, sucrose, and fructose.

[0088] As an example, the second component includes one of arabinose, xylose, sucrose, and fructose.

[0089] As an example, the second component includes a variety of arabinose, xylose, sucrose, and fructose.

[0090] Taking arabinose as an example, the hydroxyl structure of arabinose gives it strong hygroscopicity. Furthermore, arabinose may undergo caramelization to generate viscous substances, which exacerbates the shrinkage stress of the medium 11 or the outer coating 12 and increases the shrinkage rate.

[0091] Taking xylose as an example, the hydroxyl structure of xylose gives it strong hygroscopicity. Xylose can increase the shrinkage rate by adjusting the rate of water release, thereby aggravating the shrinkage stress of the medium 11 or the outer coating 12.

[0092] In this embodiment, the second component has good safety profile and can promote shrinkage, increase the amount of shrinkage, and thus increase the shrinkage rate. Therefore, if the shrinkage rate of the medium 11 is too small and needs to be increased, the second component is added to the medium 11; if the shrinkage rate of the outer layer 12 is too small and needs to be increased, the second component is added to the outer layer 12. In this way, the shrinkage rates of the medium 11 and the outer layer 12 can be adjusted, thereby adjusting the difference between the shrinkage rates of the medium 11 and the outer layer 12.

[0093] In some embodiments, the difference between the shrinkage rate of the medium 11 and the shrinkage rate of the outer coating 12 can be adjusted by adjusting the relative proportions of the second component in the medium 11 and the second component in the outer coating 12. That is, both the medium 11 and the outer coating 12 contain the second component, but different relative proportions of the second component in the medium 11 and the second component in the outer coating 12 can result in different shrinkage rates.

[0094] In some embodiments, the temperature at which the medium 11 generates an aerosol when heated is 100°C to 400°C.

[0095] For example, the temperature at which the medium 11 generates aerosol when heated can be any one of the following values ​​or a range between two points: 100°C, 110°C, 120°C, 150°C, 160°C, 200°C, 250°C, 280°C, 300°C, 350°C, 370°C, and 400°C.

[0096] In this embodiment, the temperature at which the medium 11 generates aerosol is 100℃~400℃. On the one hand, the temperature of the medium 11 is moderate, and the effective components of the medium 11 can be released, thereby generating a more sufficient amount of aerosol, making the shrinkage process basically controllable and uniform. On the other hand, the generated aerosol can be reduced to an acceptable temperature for the lips in a shorter stroke, reducing problems such as "burning the lips".

[0097] The active ingredient is the ingredient that needs to be provided to the user. The active ingredients in aerosols include, but are not limited to, at least one of nicotine, flavoring substances, glycerin, propylene glycol, and plant polysaccharides.

[0098] In some embodiments, the dielectric body 11 and the outer cladding layer 12 are integrally formed. In other words, the dielectric body 11 and the outer cladding layer 12 are manufactured using an integral forming process.

[0099] In this embodiment, the medium 11 and the outer sheath 12 are integrally molded. On the one hand, this reduces the assembly and fixing processes between the medium 11 and the outer sheath 12, improving production efficiency. On the other hand, since the substrate segment 1 remains an integral structure during use, such as when heated and sucked up or after heating stops, the medium 11 is less likely to disintegrate and fall off, reducing the risk of the medium 11 detaching from the outer sheath 12. Furthermore, this facilitates the outer sheath 12 to adhere to the outer peripheral surface of the medium 11, improving the yield rate.

[0100] In some embodiments, the medium 11 and the outer cladding 12 are formed using one of the following processes: co-extrusion, die casting, and injection molding.

[0101] Co-extrusion of media 11 and outer coating 12 is a processing method in which the materials of media 11 and outer coating 12 are jointly processed through the interaction between the barrel and the screw of the extrusion device. The materials of media 11 and outer coating 12 are heated and plasticized and pushed towards the discharge port by the extrusion screw, and formed by the extrusion die.

[0102] Die casting of the medium 11 and the outer cladding 12 involves hot pressing the materials of the medium 11 and the outer cladding 12 within a die casting mold.

[0103] Injection molding of the medium 11 and the outer coating 12 involves the material of the medium 11 and the material of the outer coating 12 being cooled and solidified within the injection mold.

[0104] In this embodiment, the medium 11 and the outer coating 12 are formed into an integral structure by co-extrusion, die casting or injection molding, which can improve the bonding strength of the interface between the medium 11 and the outer coating 12, and has the characteristics of relatively short production cycle and high yield.

[0105] In some embodiments, functional segment 2 and matrix segment 1 are mechanically connected or chemically bonded.

[0106] The mechanical connection between functional segment 2 and matrix segment 1 means that functional segment 2 and matrix segment 1 can be fixed by physical structure or mechanical interlocking force, without relying on intermolecular forces or chemical reactions.

[0107] Mechanical connections include, but are not limited to, riveting, snap-fitting, etc.

[0108] The chemical bonding between functional segment 2 and matrix segment 1 refers to the formation of molecular-level bonds at the material interface through chemical bonds (covalent bonds, ionic bonds, or hydrogen bonds). For example, chemical bonding can be achieved through cross-linking reactions or the formation of an interfacial layer through molecular interdiffusion.

[0109] Chemical bonding includes, but is not limited to, adhesives, double-sided tapes, tapes, or solvent bonding. Solvent bonding refers to bonding achieved by dissolving the surface and then curing it.

[0110] Adhesives include, but are not limited to, epoxy resins, instant adhesives, or hot melt adhesives.

[0111] In this embodiment, the functional segment 2 and the matrix segment 1 are connected by mechanical means or by chemical bonding. Mechanical means have the characteristics of good connection strength, while chemical bonding has the characteristics of strong interfacial bonding and good stability.

[0112] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 4 to 6 The aerosol generating article 100 includes a coating layer 3, which is wrapped around the outer periphery of the functional segment 2. For example, the coating layer 3 is wrapped around the outer peripheral surface of the filter segment 21.

[0113] It is understandable that the outer periphery of the matrix segment 1 may not have the encapsulating layer 3. That is to say, the outer periphery of the outer encapsulating layer 12 does not have the encapsulating layer 3.

[0114] In this embodiment, the wrapping layer 3 can protect the functional segment 2 and reduce the contact between the functional segment 2 and external objects.

[0115] For example, the coating layer 3 can be a single layer, depending on the design requirements and manufacturing process of the aerosol-generated article 100. The coating layer 3 can be two or more layers.

[0116] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6With a plane perpendicular to the first direction as the projection plane, the projection of the wrapping layer 3 coincides with the projection of the outer wrapping layer 12. In other words, the end face of the wrapping layer 3 facing the distal lip abuts against the end face of the outer wrapping layer 12 facing the proximal lip.

[0117] In this embodiment, the outer periphery of the outer layer 12 does not have a wrapping layer 3, and the end face of the wrapping layer 3 facing the distal lip abuts against the end face of the outer layer 12 facing the proximal lip. The projected shape of the wrapping layer 3 is the same as the projected shape of the outer layer 12. In this way, the wrapping layer 3 will basically not contact the medium 11, which can reduce the risk of the wrapping layer 3 blocking the aerosol generated by the medium 11, and can also reduce the risk of the wrapping layer 3 increasing the diameter of the aerosol-generating article 100.

[0118] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 With a plane perpendicular to the first direction as the projection plane, the projection of the medium 11 coincides with the projection of the functional segment 2. This facilitates the connection between the functional segment 2 and the medium 11 and provides support for the medium 11.

[0119] The number of functional segments 2 is unlimited; there can be one or more functional segments 2. In embodiments where there are multiple functional segments 2, the wrapping layer 3 can wrap around the outer periphery of all functional segments 2. In this way, the wrapping layer 3 can also fix all functional segments 2 into a whole.

[0120] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 Functional segment 2 includes one or more of the following: filter segment 21, support segment 22, and cooling segment 23.

[0121] For example, functional segment 2 includes one of filter segment 21, support segment 22 and cooling segment 23.

[0122] For example, functional segment 2 includes two of the following: filter segment 21, support segment 22, and cooling segment 23.

[0123] For example, functional segment 2 includes three of the following: filter segment 21, support segment 22, and cooling segment 23.

[0124] Filter section 21 can block substances of the target particle size and also adjust the suction resistance. For example, filter section 21 can filter large-diameter particles similar to powder. Aerosols filtered through filter section 21 have a higher particle size uniformity and a smoother taste.

[0125] The support segment 22 can withstand the temperature from the aerosol in the matrix segment 1 and maintain its shape. The support segment 22 serves a supporting function.

[0126] The cooling section 23 is used to lower the temperature of the aerosol, thus making the aerosol suitable for user application.

[0127] In this embodiment, the filter section 21 provides a filtration function, the support section 22 provides a support function, and the cooling section 23 provides a cooling function. The functional section 2 can include at least one of the filter section 21, the support section 22, and the cooling section 23 as needed to improve the user experience.

[0128] As an example, functional segment 2 includes a filtering segment 21 and a cooling segment 23, which are arranged sequentially from the proximal lip end to the distal lip end. A wrapping layer 3 is wrapped around the outer periphery of both the filtering segment 21 and the cooling segment 23. In this way, the wrapping layer 3 fixes the filtering segment 21 and the cooling segment 23 into a whole.

[0129] As an example, functional segment 2 includes a filter segment 21, a support segment 22, and a cooling segment 23, which are arranged sequentially from the proximal lip end to the distal lip end. A wrapping layer 3 is wrapped around the outer periphery of the filter segment 21, the support segment 22, and the cooling segment 23. In this way, the wrapping layer 3 fixes the filter segment 21, the support segment 22, and the cooling segment 23 into a whole.

[0130] The structural shape of the filter section 21, cooling section 23 and support section 22 is not limited, and at least one of the filter section 21, cooling section 23 and support section 22 can adopt a corrugated structure.

[0131] For example, the cooling section 23 can form a hollow channel that passes through both ends of the cooling section 23 along the first direction.

[0132] In some embodiments, the medium 11 has micropores.

[0133] Micropores refer to pores with a hydraulic diameter of no more than 100 μm. Micropores can increase the surface area of ​​the medium 11, which facilitates heat transfer and improves heating efficiency. They also facilitate the gradual release of aerosols generated by the medium far from the airway into the airway through the micropores, thereby improving the extraction efficiency of the effective components of the medium 11.

[0134] It should be noted that the hydraulic diameter refers to the ratio of four times the cross-sectional area to the perimeter. The cross-section refers to the section perpendicular to the streamlines of the fluid. For example, if the cross-sectional shape is a regular square, the hydraulic diameter is the ratio of four times the cross-sectional area to the perimeter of the square. Similarly, if the cross-sectional shape is circular, the hydraulic diameter is the diameter of the circular cross-section.

[0135] It is understandable that the flow cross-section of a microorifice can be a regular shape, such as a circle, ellipse, or polygon (e.g., square, rhombus, or pentagon). The flow cross-section of a microorifice can also be irregular in shape.

[0136] In some embodiments, there are multiple micropores, and at least some of the micropores are connected to form a microchannel. Aerosols can flow through the microchannels.

[0137] In one embodiment, the medium 11 has an air passage that passes through at least one end face of the medium 11 along a first direction.

[0138] The air passage is a hole or groove with a hydraulic diameter greater than 100 μm. In this way, the aerosol generated by the medium 11 can enter the air passage, be collected and guided by the air passage, and improve the utilization rate of the active ingredient.

[0139] In some embodiments, the airway passes through both ends of the medium 11 along a first direction. Thus, airflow can flow from one end of the medium 11 along the airway to the other end. Aerosols can flow more smoothly through the airway, allowing for orderly delivery of aerosols with less flow resistance and better controllability, effectively improving aerosol extraction efficiency and enhancing the suction experience.

[0140] The shape of the flow cross-section of the airway is not limited. For example, the shape of the flow cross-section of the airway can be a regular shape such as a circle, ellipse, oval, polygon, or fan, or it can be an irregular shape.

[0141] In one embodiment, the number of airways can be one or more.

[0142] The arrangement of airways is not limited. For example, multiple airways can be arranged in a straight line, along a curve, in a two-dimensional matrix, in multiple nested rings, in concentric circles, etc.

[0143] In one embodiment, the airway may be formed inside the medium 11.

[0144] In one embodiment, the air passage may be formed on the outer peripheral surface of the medium 11. That is, the air passage has a groove-shaped structure that opens towards the outer cladding 12. The groove-shaped structure can reduce the flow velocity of the air passage located at the center of the medium 11, so that the medium 11 achieves uniform and slow release during heating, and has the effect of improving the extraction of effective components in the edge parts of the medium 11 and improving the uniformity during the suction process.

[0145] In some embodiments, the medium 11 is a particle aggregate, with micropores between the particles, and multiple micropores interconnecting to form microchannels. For example, the cross-sectional area and length of the microchannels are naturally formed by the material components, and the expansion of the material components can form microchannels. Aerosols can flow through the microchannels. Thus, the micropores not only increase the surface area of ​​the medium 11, facilitating heat transfer and improving heating efficiency, but also facilitate aerosol flow.

[0146] It should be noted that the microchannels described in this application are different from air channels. Microchannels are disordered, meaning they are randomly generated. Disorder means they are difficult to generate in an orderly manner according to a design. Air channels, on the other hand, are ordered, meaning they are mainly manufactured based on design and are predictable. The air channels described in this application are pores in a macroscopic sense, while microchannels are pores in a microscopic sense. The cross-sectional area and length of air channels are much larger than those of microchannels. Air channels are mainly manufactured based on design; for example, they are manufactured using molds such as die-cutting molds. Therefore, the cross-sectional area and length of air channels can be changed according to design requirements. The size of microchannels, however, is determined by the gaps between particles. For example, if the material is granular, the extruded medium 11 has microchannels. The cross-sectional area and length of the microchannels are naturally formed through the extrusion process and the material composition. The expansion of the material after it flows out of the die can form microchannels.

[0147] In some embodiments, the medium 11 has microchannels and airways, with the microchannels communicating with the airways. When heated, the medium 11 releases aerosols, which are collected in the airways through the microchannels. Aerosols released by the medium material exposed to the airways (i.e., the material located on the inner surface of the airways) can be directly released into the airways. Aerosols between adjacent airways can also flow between each other through the microchannels and be transported to the proximal end, i.e., the end where the functional segment 2 is located, under the action of suction negative pressure.

[0148] In this application, comparison experiments were conducted with two comparative examples and six embodiments of this application, as detailed below:

[0149] The matrix segments of the two comparative examples and the six embodiments of this application were placed in the same test environment for testing. The same heating element was used to circumferentially heat the matrix segments and the heating temperature was the same. The medium 11 of the two comparative examples and the six embodiments was exactly the same. The two comparative examples used cigarette paper made of cellulose acetate. The outer layer 12 of the six embodiments had different proportions of chitosan.

[0150] Comparative Example 1

[0151] In Comparative Example 1, the shrinkage rate of the cigarette paper was 30% less than that of the matrix section, resulting in a larger gap between the cigarette paper and the matrix section during smoking.

[0152] Comparative Example 2

[0153] In Comparative Example 2, the shrinkage rate of the cigarette paper was 10% smaller than that of the matrix segment, resulting in a smaller gap between the cigarette paper and the matrix segment during smoking.

[0154] Example 1 of this application

[0155] In the first embodiment of this application, S1-S2 = 0%, that is, the shrinkage rate of the outer layer 12 is equal to the shrinkage rate of the medium 11, and no gap is generated between the outer layer 12 and the medium 11 during the suction process.

[0156] Example 2 of this application

[0157] In Embodiment 2 of this application, S1-S2 = 10%, that is, the shrinkage rate of the outer layer 12 is 10% greater than the shrinkage rate of the medium 11, and no gap is generated between the outer layer 12 and the medium 11 during the suction process.

[0158] Example 3 of this application

[0159] In Embodiment 3 of this application, S1-S2 = 30%, that is, the shrinkage rate of the outer layer 12 is 30% greater than the shrinkage rate of the medium 11, and no gap is generated between the outer layer 12 and the medium 11 during the suction process.

[0160] Example 4 of this application

[0161] In Embodiment 4 of this application, S1-S2 = 50%, that is, the shrinkage rate of the outer layer 12 is 50% greater than the shrinkage rate of the medium 11, and no gap is generated between the outer layer 12 and the medium 11 during the suction process.

[0162] Example 5 of this application

[0163] In Embodiment 5 of this application, S1-S2 = 70%, that is, the shrinkage rate of the outer layer 12 is 70% greater than the shrinkage rate of the medium 11, and no gap is generated between the outer layer 12 and the medium 11 during the suction process.

[0164] Example 6 of this application

[0165] In Embodiment Six of this application, S1-S2 = 90%, that is, the shrinkage rate of the outer layer 12 is 90% greater than the shrinkage rate of the medium 11, and no gap is generated between the outer layer 12 and the medium 11 during the suction process.

[0166] For the above comparative tests, Table 1 records the contents of paper impurities, formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and acrolein generated in the above comparative examples and the embodiments of this application. Please refer to Table 1 for details.

[0167] Table 1

[0168]

[0169] It should be noted that in Table 1, the paper impurity score has a maximum score of 10. The lighter the paper impurity, the higher the score. Paper impurities include formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, acrolein, etc., and it is a comprehensive evaluation index.

[0170] According to Table 1, and based on Comparative Examples 1, 2, and Example 1 of this application, it can be seen that the difference between the shrinkage rate of the outer layer 12 and the shrinkage rate of the medium 11 is increased to 0%, paper impurities are reduced, and the contents of formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and acrolein are significantly decreased, resulting in a significant reduction in safety risks. According to Examples 1 to 6 of this application, when the difference between the shrinkage rate of the outer layer 12 and the shrinkage rate of the medium 11 is 0% or more, there are no gaps between the outer layer 12 and the medium 11 during the suction process, and the paper impurities and safety risks are comparable.

[0171] In the description of this application, the references to terms such as "in one embodiment," "in some embodiments," "in other embodiments," "in yet another embodiment," or "exemplarily," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the embodiments of this application. In this application, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in a suitable manner in any one or more embodiments or examples. Furthermore, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine the different embodiments or examples described in this application, as well as the features of the different embodiments or examples.

[0172] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit the application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application are included within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A matrix segment, characterized in that, include: A medium for generating an aerosol when heated by a heating element; An outer cladding layer, wherein the outer cladding layer is at least partially located on the outer peripheral surface of the medium; When the matrix segment is heated by the heating element and the outer layer is closer to the heating element than the medium body, the shrinkage rate of the outer layer is S1, and the shrinkage rate of the medium body is S2, wherein S1-S2≥0%.

2. The matrix segment according to claim 1, characterized in that, 10% ≤ S1 - S2 ≤ 30%.

3. The matrix segment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The temperature at which the medium generates aerosols when heated is between 100℃ and 400℃.

4. The matrix segment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The medium and the outer cladding are integrally formed.

5. The matrix segment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer cladding layer does not produce aerosols when heated.

6. An aerosol-generating product, characterized in that, It includes a functional segment and a matrix segment as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the functional segment is disposed at one end of the matrix segment along a first direction.

7. The aerosol-generating product according to claim 6, characterized in that, The aerosol-generating article includes a coating layer that wraps around the outer periphery of the functional segment.

8. The aerosol-generating product according to claim 7, characterized in that, Using a plane perpendicular to the first direction as the projection plane, the projection of the wrapping layer coincides with the projection of the outer wrapping layer.

9. The aerosol-generating product according to claim 6, characterized in that, The functional sections include one or more of the following: a filtration section, a support section, and a cooling section.

10. An aerosol generation system, characterized in that, The aerosol generation system includes the matrix segment as described in any one of claims 1 to 5 or the aerosol generation article as described in any one of claims 6 to 9, and further includes an aerosol generation device having a heating element disposed on the outer periphery of the outer layer.

Images