Structural segment for an aerosol-generating article, use of polyhydroxy antioxidant to reduce nitrosamine content of aerosol-generating articles, and aerosol-generating article

Abstract

The present application provides a structural segment for an aerosol generating article, use of a polyhydroxy antioxidant to reduce the nitrosamine content of an aerosol generating article, and an aerosol generating article. The structural segment of the present application includes a skeleton component; a solvent component; a binder component; and a polyhydroxy antioxidant including one or more compounds containing at least one phenolic hydroxyl group. An aerosol generating article employing the structural segment of the present application has improved safety.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of tobacco technology, and in particular to a structural segment for aerosol-generated articles, the use of a polyhydroxy antioxidant to reduce the nitrosamine content of aerosol-generated articles, and aerosol-generated articles. Background Technology

[0002] Heated non-combustible aerosol generators primarily produce aerosols by heating an aerosol-generating matrix with an electric heating element. Although the aerosol-generating matrix itself is not combusted, it contains tobacco raw materials. Therefore, the aerosols produced by heated non-combustible aerosol generators are similar to those produced by traditional cigarette combustion. Tobacco-specific nitrosamines (TSNAs) are a class of carcinogenic or potentially carcinogenic compounds found only in tobacco and cigarette smoke. These mainly include N-nitrosonornicotinic acid (NNN), 4-(N-methylnitrosamine)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK), N-nitrosoneonicotinic acid (NAT), and N-nitrosopseudoestiphene (NAB). NNN and NNK are classified as Group 1 carcinogens by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), while NAT and NAB are classified as Group 3 carcinogens. With the deepening research into health issues, reducing the release of TSNAs from mainstream heated non-combustible aerosol generators remains a hot topic.

[0003] Therefore, it is necessary to develop a new type of aerosol-generating product to solve at least one of the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, the purpose of this application is to provide a structural segment for aerosol-generating articles, the use of a polyhydroxy antioxidant to reduce the nitrosamine content of aerosol-generating articles, and an aerosol-generating article. The structural segment of this application, used as a component of an aerosol-generating article, can reduce the nitrosamine content in the flue gas generated during the use of the aerosol-generating article, thereby improving the safety of the aerosol-generating matrix.

[0005] The first aspect of this application provides a structural segment for aerosol-generating articles, the structural segment comprising: a skeleton component; a solvent component; a binder component; and a multi-hydroxyl antioxidant, the multi-hydroxyl antioxidant comprising one or more compounds containing at least one phenolic hydroxyl group.

[0006] In some embodiments, the polyhydroxy antioxidant includes one or more of caffeic acid, gallic acid, methyl gallate, ethyl gallate, propyl gallate, chlorogenic acid, catechin, epicatechin, epigallocatechin, epicatechin gallate, gallocatechin gallate, gallocatechin and theaflavins.

[0007] In some embodiments, the content of the polyhydroxy antioxidant is 0.02%-20% based on the total weight of the structural segments.

[0008] In some embodiments, the skeleton component includes one or more of cellulose, starch, and plant components.

[0009] In some embodiments, the cellulose includes one or more of microcrystalline cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, and hydroxypropyl cellulose.

[0010] In some embodiments, the starch includes one or more of amylose, amylopectin, and sodium octenyl succinate.

[0011] In some embodiments, the plant component is selected from one or more of tobacco raw materials, tobacco fragments, tobacco stems, tobacco dust, and aromatic plants.

[0012] In some embodiments, the content of the skeleton component is 4%-98% based on the total weight of the structural segments.

[0013] In some embodiments, the solvent component includes one or more of water, ethanol, propylene glycol, and glycerol.

[0014] In some embodiments, the solvent component content is 0.01%-50% based on the total weight of the structural segments.

[0015] In some embodiments, the adhesive component includes one or more of polysaccharide adhesives, protein adhesives, and polymer adhesives.

[0016] In some embodiments, the polysaccharide binder includes one or more of gluconol, xanthan gum, peach gum, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, and glucomannan.

[0017] In some embodiments, the protein-based adhesive includes one or more of gelatin, soy protein, wheat protein, and recombinant protein.

[0018] In some embodiments, the polymeric adhesive includes one or more of polyvinyl alcohol and polyenol ether.

[0019] In some embodiments, the content of the adhesive component is 0.01%-95% based on the total weight of the composition.

[0020] In some embodiments, the structural segment is manufactured using a one-piece molding process.

[0021] In some embodiments, the structural segment includes micropores.

[0022] In some embodiments, the structural segment further includes at least one air passage that extends through at least one end of the structural segment along its length.

[0023] A second aspect of this application provides the use of a polyhydroxy antioxidant to reduce the nitrosamine content in aerosol-generating articles, said polyhydroxy antioxidant comprising one or more compounds containing at least one phenolic hydroxyl group.

[0024] In some embodiments, the polyhydroxy antioxidant is selected from one or more of caffeic acid, gallic acid, methyl gallate, ethyl gallate, propyl gallate, chlorogenic acid, catechin, epicatechin, epigallocatechin, epicatechin gallate, gallocatechin gallate, gallocatechin gallate, gallocatechin and theaflavins.

[0025] A third aspect of this application provides an aerosol generating article, the aerosol generating article comprising the above-described structural segments.

[0026] In some embodiments, the structural segment is used as one or more of the following: a pre-plug segment, a cooling segment, a support segment, and a filter segment for aerosol generation articles.

[0027] The structural segment of this application includes a multi-hydroxyl antioxidant, which includes a compound having at least one phenolic hydroxyl group, wherein the phenolic hydroxyl group has high reactivity and can undergo redox reactions with nitrosamines in aerosols, thereby reducing the content of nitrosamines in aerosols and improving the safety of aerosol-generated products. Attached Figure Description

[0028] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a structural segment in one embodiment of this application, along a direction perpendicular to the length direction.

[0029] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a structural segment in another embodiment of this application along a direction perpendicular to the length direction.

[0030] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a structural segment in a direction perpendicular to the length direction, according to another embodiment of this application.

[0031] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an aerosol-generating article according to an embodiment of this application.

[0032] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an aerosol-generating article according to another embodiment of this application.

[0033] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an aerosol-generating article according to another embodiment of this application.

[0034] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an aerosol-generating article according to another embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0035] The technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the embodiments of this application. It should be understood that the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0036] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise specified, the terminology used herein should be understood as having the meaning commonly used in the art. Therefore, unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains. In the event of any conflict, this specification shall prevail.

[0037] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of this application, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a method or apparatus that includes a list of elements includes not only the elements expressly stated, but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to implementing the method or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other related elements in the method or apparatus that includes that element.

[0038] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," and "third" used in the embodiments of this application are merely to distinguish similar objects and do not represent a specific ordering of objects. It is understood that "first," "second," and "third" can be interchanged in a specific order or sequence where permitted. It should be understood that the objects distinguished by "first," "second," and "third" can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of this application described herein can be implemented in an order other than those described herein.

[0039] To reduce the release of tobacco-specific nitrosamines in aerosol-generated products and improve their smoking safety, tobacco researchers both domestically and internationally have conducted extensive studies. Hunan Tobacco disclosed a metal oxide-modified activated carbon fiber for reducing nitrosamines and phenols in cigarette smoke. Fujian Tobacco disclosed a composite binary structure consisting of titanate nanowire composite particles added to cellulose acetate for reducing nitrosamines in cigarette aerosols. However, similar methods of adsorbing harmful components in aerosols by adding materials to the filter section are expensive and relatively difficult to industrialize. Furthermore, methods for reducing TSNA content in aerosols by adding substances capable of chemically reacting with TSNAs in the aerosol to structural components of heat-not-combustible aerosol-generating products are rarely reported. Therefore, a novel aerosol-generating product capable of reducing TSNA content in aerosols is needed.

[0040] In view of this, the first aspect of this application provides a structural segment for aerosol-generating articles, the structural segment comprising a skeleton component; a solvent component; a binder component; and a multi-hydroxyl antioxidant, the multi-hydroxyl antioxidant comprising one or more compounds containing at least one phenolic hydroxyl group.

[0041] In this application, a "structural segment" refers to a structure having numerous microscopic air passages and / or at least one macroscopic air passage. The structural segments in this application are used as components in aerosol-generating articles. This application does not specifically limit the shape and structure of the structural segments; those skilled in the art can adjust the shape and structure of the structural segments according to their specific applications.

[0042] In this application, the structural segment is described as a "porous structure," which refers to a structure with high porosity. This ensures efficient aerosol generation, and the interconnected pores form a three-dimensional network structure, which helps reduce suction resistance. In this application, the "porous structure" is a microporous structure. Micropores are formed by the gaps between the components of the composition after molding. These micropores are irregular and belong to the category of pores in a microscopic sense. The size of the micropores is determined by the gaps between the powder components after molding.

[0043] The structural segment of this application includes the aforementioned components. The skeleton component provides a basic supporting framework structure for the structural segment, enabling the components to be molded. The solvent component helps to ensure uniform mixing of the components. Furthermore, some solvent components can also act as smoke generators in aerosol-generated articles, increasing the amount of smoke. The binder component achieves close contact through wetting at the interfaces of the various component materials, generating intermolecular attraction, thereby binding the powders, liquids, etc., of the component materials and enhancing the mechanical strength and stability of the structural segment.

[0044] The structural segment of this application includes a multi-hydroxyl antioxidant, which comprises a compound having at least one phenolic hydroxyl group. The phenolic hydroxyl group exhibits high reactivity and can undergo redox reactions with nitrosamines in aerosols, thereby reducing the content of nitrosamines in the aerosols. For example, the multi-hydroxyl antioxidant reacts with oxidants during aerosol generation (e.g., phenol to quinone, condensation reactions, etc.) to preemptively remove oxidants and prevent nicotine and nicotine precursors from being oxidized to TSNA. Alternatively, the multi-hydroxyl antioxidant can scavenge free radicals, inhibiting free radical attack on nicotine and nicotine precursors to convert into TSNA by scavenging nitrogen and oxygen free radicals (e.g., reactive oxygen species (ROS), NO) or by reacting with free radicals to generate stable compounds. Furthermore, the multi-hydroxyl antioxidant can also reduce nitrosamines.

[0045] For example, a compound having at least one phenolic hydroxyl group can be a compound having an ortho-dihydroxyphenol structure (as shown in Formula 1 below) or a compound having a meta-dihydroxyphenol structure (as shown in Formula 2 below). These compounds contain multiple (e.g., at least two) highly active phenolic hydroxyl groups, which can improve the efficiency of reaction with nitrosamines in aerosols and further reduce the content of nitrosamines.

[0046]

[0047] It is understood that the polyhydroxy antioxidant of this application and its reaction products with nitrosamines are both non-toxic and harmless substances with good stability, meet food and drug safety requirements, can coexist with food and do not affect the sensory properties of food.

[0048] In some embodiments, the polyhydroxy antioxidant includes one or more of caffeic acid, gallic acid, methyl gallate, ethyl gallate, propyl gallate, chlorogenic acid, catechin, epicatechin, epigallocatechin, epicatechin gallate, gallocatechin gallate, gallocatechin, and theaflavins. Exemplarily, caffeic acid is a compound having the structure shown in Formula 3. Gallic acid is a compound having the structure shown in Formula 4. Methyl gallate is a compound having the structure shown in Formula 5. Chlorogenic acid is a compound having the structure shown in Formula 6. Catechins are compounds having the structure shown in Formula 7. Epigallocatechin is a compound having the structure shown in Formula 8. Epigallocatechin is a compound having the structure shown in Formula 9. Epigallocatechin gallate is a compound having the structure shown in Formula 10. Gallocatechin gallate is a compound having the structure shown in Formula 11. Theaflavins are compounds having the structure shown in Formula 12. The compounds shown in Formulas 7-12 are the main components of tea polyphenols. Tea polyphenols are complexes of polyhydroxyphenolic compounds in tea, composed of more than 30 kinds of phenolic substances. The main components of tea polyphenols include flavanones, anthocyanins, flavonols, leucosterols, phenolic acids, and condensed phenolic acids. These substances contain abundant phenolic hydroxyl structures, which have strong reactivity and can react with nitrosamines in aerosols. Furthermore, the large number of phenolic hydroxyl structures means that a unit molar amount of the substance can react with more nitrosamines, which is beneficial to improving the efficiency of nitrosamine removal and thus enhancing the safety of aerosol-generated products.

[0049]

[0050]

[0051] In some embodiments, the content of the polyhydroxy antioxidant is 0.02%-20% based on the total weight of the structural segments. By keeping the content of the polyhydroxy antioxidant within the above range, it is beneficial to allow it to fully undergo an oxidation-reduction reaction with nitrosamines in the aerosol generated in the aerosol-generating product, thereby improving the effect of reducing nitrosamine concentration and enhancing the safety of the aerosol-generating product. Exemplarily, based on the total weight of the composition, the content of the functional component can be 0.02%, 0.1%, 0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, 3%, 4%, 6%, 8%, 10%, 12%, 14%, 16%, 18%, 20%, or a value within a range of any two of these values.

[0052] In some embodiments, the skeleton component is selected from one or more of cellulose, starch, and plant components. The skeleton component provides a framework for the structural segments of the aerosol-generated article, thereby facilitating the shaping of the raw material components and providing a carrier for other raw material components in the structural segments.

[0053] In some embodiments, the cellulose includes one or more of microcrystalline cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, and hydroxypropyl cellulose. Cellulose refers to a macromolecular polysaccharide composed of glucose. Cellulose has a long chain-like molecular structure, capable of forming microfibrils. These microfibrils interconnect to form a robust network structure, resulting in a skeleton with good mechanical strength and stability. Furthermore, the network structure formed by cellulose has abundant porosity, providing attachment sites for other raw material components, which is beneficial for improving the quality of aerosol-generated products. In addition, the aforementioned cellulose raw materials are widely available, inexpensive, and produce very few harmful substances during heating, further enhancing the safety of aerosol-generated products.

[0054] In some embodiments, the starch includes one or more of amylopectin, modified starch, and sodium octenyl succinate. Amylopectin refers to a polysaccharide with a dendritic branching structure; its molecules are relatively large, generally composed of several thousand glucose residues. Using starch as a backbone component is beneficial for generating a structure with numerous micropores after puffing, and the abundant hydrogen bonding cross-linking provides the structure with sufficient hardness and toughness, and the mechanical strength meets the requirements for further material processing.

[0055] In some embodiments, the plant component is selected from one or more of tobacco raw materials, tobacco fragments, tobacco stems, tobacco dust, and aromatic plants. On the one hand, the above-mentioned plant components can provide a natural supporting framework. On the other hand, endogenous substances in the plant components, such as nicotine, enter the human bloodstream, promote the pituitary gland to produce dopamine, thereby obtaining physiological satisfaction, or can provide tobacco aroma or other flavor aromas to aerosol-generated products, enhancing the user's sensory experience. In some embodiments, the aromatic plants are selected from one or more of tea leaves, thyme, osmanthus, lemon, lavender, and benzoin. Optionally, the plant component is selected from tobacco raw materials. There are no particular limitations on the form of the above-mentioned plant components, and forms commonly used in the art can be used. For example, the above-mentioned plant components can be in powder form after being crushed.

[0056] In some embodiments, the content of the skeleton component, based on the total mass of the structural segment, is 4%-98%. By keeping the content of the skeleton component within the above range, a robust and stable supporting skeleton is provided for the structural segment, and a carrier is also provided for other components in the structural segment. Exemplarily, the content of the skeleton component, based on the total mass of the structural segment, can be 4%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 98%, or a value between any two of these values.

[0057] In some embodiments, the solvent component is selected from one or more of water, ethanol, propylene glycol, and glycerol. The solvent component facilitates the uniform dispersion of the various components of the aforementioned structural segment, and the slurry formed by each component has a suitable viscosity, thereby facilitating the molding of the structural segment. This application does not impose specific limitations on the specific composition of the solvent component; those skilled in the art can adjust the specific composition of the solvent accordingly based on the function of the prepared structural segment. For example, when the solvent component includes at least one of propylene glycol or glycerol, the structural segment can be used to supplement the amount of smoke generated by aerosol products, improving the user experience.

[0058] In some embodiments, the solvent component content is 0.01%-50% based on the total weight of the structural segments. Maintaining the solvent component content within this range facilitates the formation of stable structures within the structural segments and promotes uniform dispersion of the components. Exemplarily, the solvent component content, based on the total weight of the structural segments, can be 0.01%, 0.05%, 1%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 40%, 50%, or a value within a range of any two of these values.

[0059] In some embodiments, the adhesive component includes one or more of polysaccharide adhesives, protein adhesives, and polymer adhesives. These adhesive components possess good adhesion, enabling them to bond the various components within the structural segment into a unified whole, thereby improving the mechanical strength and structural stability of the structural segment. Furthermore, these adhesive components are edible adhesives, free of substances harmful to the human body, thus enhancing the safety of aerosol-generated products.

[0060] In some embodiments, the polysaccharide binder includes one or more of gluconol, xanthan gum, peach gum, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, and glucomannan.

[0061] In some embodiments, the protein-based adhesive includes one or more of gelatin, soy protein, wheat protein, and recombinant protein.

[0062] In some embodiments, the polymeric adhesive includes one or more of polyvinyl alcohol and polyenol ether.

[0063] In some embodiments, the content of the adhesive component, based on the total weight of the structural segment, is 0.01% to 95%. Maintaining the content of the adhesive component within this range facilitates a robust and stable structure for the structural segment. Exemplarily, the content of the adhesive component, based on the total weight of the structural segment, can be 0.011%, 2%, 5%, 8%, 10%, 12%, 15%, 25%, 35%, 45%, 55%, 65%, 75%, 85%, 95%, or a value within a range of any two of these values.

[0064] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating article is selected from combustible aerosol generating articles, heated non-combustible aerosol generating articles, and / or atomized aerosol generating articles.

[0065] In some embodiments, the structural segment is fabricated using a one-piece molding process. This one-piece molding process overcomes the problems of lint, residue, and difficulty in cleaning that occur during the suction process of aerosol-generated products. This improves the user experience.

[0066] In this application, "integrated molding process" includes extrusion molding, molding, and die casting. Extrusion molding refers to a processing method in which a raw material composition is added to an extruder, and the material is simultaneously heated and plasticized by the action between the extruder barrel and screw, and continuously pushed forward by the screw through the die head to form products or semi-finished products of various cross-sections. The functional components formed by extrusion molding are strip-shaped. Because the structural segment is an integrated structure, it remains a unified medium after the aerosol-generated product is heated and absorbed or after heating ceases, preventing disintegration and falling off, thus reducing problems such as filament shedding, slag shedding, and difficulty in cleaning.

[0067] In some embodiments, the structural segment includes micropores. Micropores refer to the gaps between the components that form microscopic pores after the composition used to prepare the structural segment is molded. This facilitates the formation of aerosols.

[0068] In some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of ​​the micropore is 0.7 nm. 2 ~710μm 2 Alternatively, the hydraulic diameter of the micropores is 10 nm to 30 μm.

[0069] In some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of ​​the micropore is 1963 nm. 2 ~20μm 2 Alternatively, the hydraulic diameter of the micropores is 50 nm to 5 μm.

[0070] In some embodiments, the structural segment further includes air passages extending through at least one end of the structural segment along its length. This improves the air permeability of the structural segment.

[0071] In some embodiments, the air passage extends through opposite ends of the structural segment along its length.

[0072] In some embodiments, the interior of the structural segment has multiple air passages.

[0073] In some embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the air passage is circular, elliptical, racetrack-shaped, fan-shaped, or polygonal in a plane perpendicular to the length direction of the structural segment.

[0074] In some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of ​​the airway orifice is 0.0019 mm. 2 -30mm 2 Alternatively, the hydraulic diameter of the airway orifice is 0.05mm-6mm.

[0075] In some embodiments, the wall thickness of the spacer wall between adjacent airway openings is 10 μm to 800 μm.

[0076] In some embodiments, the structural segments serve as one or more of the following in an aerosol-generating article: a matrix segment, a pre-plug segment, a support segment, a cooling segment, a filter segment, and a flavor-carrying structural component. By using the structural segments of this application as various components in the aerosol-generating article, aerosols and tobacco characteristic aromas can be provided to the aerosol-generating article, improving the smoking experience. Furthermore, using the structural segments of this application as a pre-plug segment can alter the draw resistance of the aerosol-generating article, prevent leakage, and optimize the appearance of the cigarette. Using the structural segments of this application as a cooling segment can lower the smoke temperature, and using them as a support segment can improve the strength of the aerosol-generating article. Using them as other components in the aerosol-generating article can also optimize sensory quality and the appearance of the aerosol-generating article.

[0077] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating article is selected from combustible aerosol generating articles, heated non-combustible aerosol generating articles, and / or atomized aerosol generating articles.

[0078] A second aspect of this application provides the use of a polyhydroxy antioxidant to reduce the nitrosamine content in aerosol-generated products, wherein the polyhydroxy antioxidant includes at least one phenolic hydroxyl group. The polyhydroxy antioxidant, including at least one phenolic hydroxyl group, has strong reactivity and can undergo a redox reaction with nitrosamines in aerosols to generate non-toxic and harmless substances, thereby reducing the nitrosamine content in aerosols and improving the safety of aerosol-generated products.

[0079] In some embodiments, the polyhydroxy antioxidant is selected from one or more of caffeic acid, gallic acid, methyl gallate, ethyl gallate, propyl gallate, chlorogenic acid, catechin, epicatechin, epigallocatechin, epicatechin gallate, gallocatechin gallate, gallocatechin, and theaflavins. These substances possess multiple phenolic hydroxyl structures, which can improve the reaction efficiency with nitrosamines in aerosols, thereby further reducing the content of nitrosamines and improving the safety of aerosol-generated products.

[0080] A third aspect of this application also provides an aerosol generating article, which includes the aforementioned structural segments. Therefore, the aerosol generating article of this application can reduce the nitrosamine content in the generated aerosol, thus improving the safety of the aerosol generating article. The aerosol generating article is used in conjunction with an aerosol generating device, which includes a heating component and a power supply component. The power supply component provides electrical energy to the heating component, which converts the electrical energy into other forms of energy and applies them to the aerosol generating matrix (matrix segment), thereby heating the aerosol generating matrix to generate aerosols for the user to inhale.

[0081] The following is in conjunction with the appendix Figure 1-4 The structure of the aerosol-generating article of this application is illustrated by way of example.

[0082] In some implementations, reference Figures 1 to 2 The aerosol-generating article includes a matrix segment 20 (i.e., an aerosol-generating matrix), a functional segment 30, and an encapsulation layer (not shown in the figure). The encapsulation layer covers the circumferential exterior of the functional segment and the matrix segment.

[0083] The matrix segment 20 has two axial ends, namely a proximal lip end 20a and a distal lip end 20b. The proximal lip end 20a refers to the end of the matrix segment 20 that is closer to the user's lips when the user uses the aerosol-generated product, and the distal lip end 20b refers to the end of the matrix segment 20 that is farther away from the user's lips when the user uses the aerosol-generated product.

[0084] This application does not limit the specific structure of the functional section 30, which includes at least one of the following: the front plug section 10, the filter section 31, the support section 32, and the cooling section 33.

[0085] The coating layer can protect the aerosol-generating matrix. The coating layer includes, but is not limited to, one or more of the following materials: fiber paper, metal foil, metal foil composite fiber paper, polyethylene composite fiber paper, polyethylene (PE), polybutylene terephthalate (PBAT).

[0086] In some implementations, please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2The functional section 30 includes one or more of the following: a filter section 31, a support section 32, and a cooling section 33. The functional section is located near the lip end 20a of the matrix section 20.

[0087] In some implementations, such as Figure 1 As shown, the functional section 30 includes a filter section 31, which is disposed near the lip end 20a of the matrix section 20 along its axial direction. The aerosol generated by the matrix section is transported to the filter section under suction negative pressure. The filter section is used to filter and / or adsorb some particulate matter and harmful substances in the aerosol, improving the user's suction experience and enhancing the safety of the aerosol-generated products. Furthermore, the process of the aerosol being loosened by the filter section before reaching the user can reduce the aerosol temperature, mitigating the "burning" sensation experienced when inhaling the aerosol.

[0088] In some implementations, such as Figure 2 The functional section includes a filter section 31, a support section 32, and a cooling section 33. The support section 32 is located at one end of the matrix section 20 along its axial direction, one end of the cooling section 33 is located at the end of the support section 32 away from the matrix section 20 along its axial direction, and the filter section 31 is located at the other end of the cooling section 33.

[0089] The support section 32 can connect and support the matrix section 20 and the cooling section 33 at both ends. The cooling section 33 is used to reduce the temperature of the aerosol so that the temperature of the aerosol flowing out of the filter section 31 is suitable and avoids the problem of the aerosol being "hot to the mouth".

[0090] Of course, the positions of the support section and the cooling section can also be interchanged, that is, the cooling section 33 is connected to one end of the matrix section 20 along the axis, and the two ends of the support section 32 are connected to the other end of the cooling section 33 and the filter section 31, respectively.

[0091] In some implementations, reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 The functional section 30 includes one or more of the following: a pre-plug section 10, a filter section 31, a support section 32, and a cooling section 33. One or more of the filter section 31, support section 32, and cooling section 33 are disposed at one end of the matrix section 20 along its length, and the pre-plug section is disposed at the other end of the matrix section 20 along its length. The encapsulation layer wraps around the circumferential exterior of the functional section and the matrix section. The pre-plug section improves the problem of matrix section 20 detachment. Furthermore, the pre-plug section 10 can adsorb the condensed and recirculated aerosols after the aerosol generation product stops pumping, thereby avoiding the problem of aerosols flowing downwards after condensation, causing internal contamination of the aerosol generation device and making it difficult to clean, as well as the potential for cross-contamination of flavors when pumping different flavored aerosol generation products.

[0092] In some implementations, such as Figure 3As shown, the aerosol-generating article includes a pre-plug section 10, a matrix section 20, a cooling section 33, a filter section 31, and a coating layer (not shown). The pre-plug section is located at the distal lip end 20b of the matrix section, the cooling section is located at the proximal lip end 20a of the matrix section, and the filter section is located at the other end of the cooling section away from the matrix section.

[0093] In some implementations, such as Figure 4 As shown, the aerosol-generating article includes a pre-plug section 10, a matrix section 20, a support section 32, a cooling section 33, a filter section 31, and a coating layer. The pre-plug section is located at the distal lip end 20b of the matrix section, the support section 32 is located at the proximal lip end 20a of the matrix section, and the cooling section 33 is located at the end of the support section 32 axially away from the matrix section 20. The filter section 31 is located at the end of the cooling section 33 axially away from the support section 32.

[0094] This application does not limit the structure of the functional segments and / or matrix segments. In some exemplary embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, the functional segment and / or matrix segment itself has numerous micropores, which are interconnected to form micro-channels. It can be understood that after the functional segment and / or matrix segment is formed, the gaps between its raw material components constitute micropores. These micropores are irregular and belong to the category of pores in a microscopic sense. The size of the micropores is determined by the gaps between the powder components after the powder is formed.

[0095] During the aerosol generation process, the generated aerosols can enter the microchannels of the functional section. Under the negative pressure generated by suction, the aerosols are transported to the user for inhalation through the microchannels. In addition, as the aerosols flow through the microchannels, it also helps the functional section capture some substances in the aerosols and has a cooling effect.

[0096] In some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of ​​the micropore is 0.7 nm. 2 ~710μm 2 Alternatively, the hydraulic diameter of the micropores is 10 nm to 30 μm.

[0097] In some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of ​​the micropore is 1963 nm. 2 ~20μm 2 Alternatively, the hydraulic diameter of the micropores is 50 nm to 5 μm.

[0098] In some embodiments, the pre-plug section and the filter section themselves have numerous micropores, which are interconnected to form micro-air channels.

[0099] In other exemplary embodiments, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, the functional segment and / or matrix segment include micropores and at least one airway pore, which penetrates at least one end of the structural segment along its length. The airway pore helps improve the air permeability of the functional segment and reduce suction resistance.

[0100] It should be noted that the airway pores mentioned above are pores in a macroscopic sense, while micropores are pores in a microscopic sense. The cross-sectional area of ​​an airway pore is much larger than that of a micropore, for example, at least 20 times larger.

[0101] In some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of ​​the airway pores is 20 to 60,000 times that of the micropores. This is beneficial for balancing the structural stability of the structural segment and the aerosol release rate. In some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of ​​the airway pores is 100 to 40,000 times that of the micropores.

[0102] The micro-airways are connected to the airway pores. Since the micro-airways are formed by the interconnection of micropores, the micropores are also connected to the airway pores. Furthermore, it can be understood that the interconnection between micropores can be partial, with some micropores not connected, or all micropores can be interconnected. A portion of the aerosol in the micro-airways can also be collected at the airway pores and delivered to the user's mouth under the negative pressure of suction. The airway pores help reduce the suction resistance for the user, improving the user experience. It should be noted that suction resistance is positively correlated with the flow resistance of the aerosol; the lower the flow resistance of the aerosol, the lower the perceived suction resistance, and vice versa.

[0103] In some embodiments, the airway opening extends through both ends of the functional segment and / or matrix segment along its length. This helps to reduce suction resistance for the user.

[0104] In one implementation, such as Figure 6 As shown, the functional segment and / or matrix segment has an airway opening inside. This helps to reduce the suction resistance for the user.

[0105] In some implementations, such as Figure 7 As shown, the functional segment and / or matrix segment have multiple airway pores inside. This is more conducive to reducing the suction resistance for the user.

[0106] In some embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the airway opening is circular, elliptical, racetrack-shaped, fan-shaped, or polygonal in a plane perpendicular to the length direction of the functional segment and / or matrix segment.

[0107] In some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of ​​the airway orifice is 0.0019 mm. 2 -30mm 2Alternatively, the hydraulic diameter of the air passage orifice is 0.05mm-6mm. In this application, the hydraulic diameter refers to the ratio of four times the cross-sectional area to the perimeter. In some preferred embodiments, the cross-sectional area of ​​the air passage orifice is 0.007mm². 2 ~7.1mm 2 (square millimeters). In some preferred embodiments, the hydraulic diameter of the airway orifice is 0.1 mm to 3 mm. This facilitates more uniform aerosol release and higher utilization.

[0108] In some embodiments, the wall thickness of the spacer wall between adjacent air passages is 10 μm to 800 μm. This facilitates heat penetration and diffusion, resulting in higher heat transfer efficiency, while also maintaining structural strength.

[0109] It should be noted that the matrix section included in the aerosol generating product is used to generate aerosols, while the filtration section, cooling section, support section, and fore-plug section do not generate aerosols.

[0110] In some embodiments, the structural segment is used as one or more of the following: a pre-plug segment, a cooling segment, a support segment, and a filter segment for aerosol generation articles.

[0111] This application also provides an aerosol generation system. The aerosol generation system includes an aerosol generation apparatus with a heating component and the aerosol generation article described above. Specifically, the heating component heats and atomizes the aerosol generation matrix to generate aerosols.

[0112] The present application will be described in further detail below with reference to specific embodiments. The purpose of this description is merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0113] Example

[0114] All non-tobacco raw materials used in the following examples are commercially available.

[0115] In the following examples, a screw extruder is used to extrude the raw material composition to obtain functional components.

[0116] Example 1

[0117] Weigh 20 parts by weight of gallic acid, 58 parts by weight of amylopectin, 2 parts by weight of propylene glycol, 16 parts by weight of glycerol, and 4 parts by weight of gelatin and mix them evenly. Extrude the mixture through a twin-screw extruder. The resulting structural segment is used as the front plug segment in the heat-not-burning aerosol generating product and assembled into the heat-not-burning aerosol generating product.

[0118] The content of nitrosamines in the aerosols generated by aerosol-generating products was tested according to the following test method.

[0119] Detection of nitrosamine content

[0120] The aerosol-generated product was smoked using a fully automatic rotary heated non-combustible cigarette smoking machine (Puffman-X500E-L). The smoking parameters were set as follows: 10 puffs, 55 ml volume, 2 seconds smoking time, and 30 seconds smoking interval. Total particulate matter (TSNAs) in the aerosol was captured using a glass fiber filter. TSNAs in the total particulate matter were ultrasonically extracted with ammonium acetate solution. After filtration through a microporous membrane, the extract was quantitatively analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS / MS) with an internal standard method for N-nitrosonornicotinic acid (NNN), 4-(N-methylnitrosamine)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK), N-nitrosoneonicotinic acid (NAT), and N-nitrosopseudoestiphenine (NAB).

[0121] Example 2

[0122] The structural segments were prepared by extrusion molding according to the same composition formulation as in Example 1. The structural segments were then made into cooling segments and support segments in a heat-not-combustible aerosol generating product and assembled into a heat-not-combustible aerosol generating product.

[0123] Example 3

[0124] The structural segments were prepared by extrusion molding according to the same composition formulation as in Example 1. The structural segments were then made into filter segments in a heat-not-burning aerosol generating article and assembled into a heat-not-burning aerosol generating article.

[0125] Example 4

[0126] The structural segments were prepared by extrusion molding according to the same composition formulation as in Example 1. The structural segments were then made into matrix segments for a heat-not-burning aerosol generating article and assembled into a heat-not-burning aerosol generating article.

[0127] Examples 5-6

[0128] The structural segments were prepared using a method similar to that in Example 1, and these segments were then used to create the cooling and support segments for a heat-resistant, non-combustible aerosol generating product. The products were then assembled into the heat-resistant, non-combustible aerosol generating product. The difference lies in adjusting the types and amounts of each component according to the formulations in Table 1 below.

[0129] Example 7

[0130] The structural segments were prepared using a method similar to that in Example 2, and then fabricated into filter segments for a heat-resistant, non-combustible aerosol generating product. These segments were then assembled into the heat-resistant, non-combustible aerosol generating product. The difference lies in adjusting the types and amounts of each component according to the formulations in Table 1 below.

[0131] Example 8

[0132] The structural segments were prepared using a method similar to that in Example 1, and then fabricated into the medium segment of a heat-resistant, non-combustible aerosol generating product. The products were then assembled into the heat-resistant, non-combustible aerosol generating product. The difference lies in adjusting the types and amounts of each component according to the formulations in Table 1 below.

[0133] Comparative Example 1

[0134] Commercially available heated non-combustible aerosol generating product, name: TEREA (purchased from IQOS ILUMA); model: SINNA.

[0135] Comparative Example 2

[0136] The structural segments were prepared using a method similar to that of Example 1, and these segments were then used to create a cooling section and a support section for a heat-resistant, non-combustible aerosol generating product. The products were then assembled into a heat-resistant, non-combustible aerosol generating product. The difference lies in that the types and amounts of each component were adjusted according to the formulations in Table 1 below, and the structural segment of Comparative Example 1 did not contain a polyhydroxy antioxidant.

[0137] Table 1: Composition formulations of Examples 1-9 and Comparative Example 1

[0138]

[0139]

[0140] In the table, " / " indicates that it has not been added.

[0141] The aerosol products prepared in Examples 1-8 and Comparative Examples 1-2 were tested according to the above method to measure the nitrosamine content in the generated aerosols. The test results are shown in Table 2 below.

[0142] Table 2: Test results of nitrosamine content in Examples 1-8 and Comparative Examples 1-2

[0143] sample NNN(ng / cig) NNK(ng / cig) NAT(ng / cig) NAB(ng / cig) Example 1 12.49 9.40 21.35 3.60 Example 2 12.41 9.34 21.00 3.54 Example 3 12.30 9.34 21.40 3.52 Example 4 11.87 9.32 20.32 3.51 Example 5 12.40 9.50 21.39 3.59 Example 6 12.46 9.48 21.41 3.59 Example 7 12.34 9.45 21.37 3.61 Example 8 11.84 9.29 20.45 3.51 Comparative Example 1 17.87 13.69 30.61 5.17 Comparative Example 2 18.01 13.76 30.54 6.01

[0144] The results above show that, compared with the commercially available aerosol generating product of Comparative Example 1 and the aerosol generating product of Comparative Example 2 without the addition of polyhydroxy oxidants, the introduction of polyhydroxy oxidants into the structural segments of Examples 1-8 and the use of these structural segments in the functional and matrix segments of the aerosol generating products can significantly reduce the nitrosamine content in the aerosols generated by these products, thereby improving the safety of the aerosol generating products.

[0145] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of this application and does not limit the patent scope of this application. All equivalent structural transformations made using the content of this application's specification under the inventive concept of this application, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the patent protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A structural segment for aerosol-generating products, characterized in that, The structural segment includes: Skeletal components; Solvent components; Adhesive components; and A polyhydroxy antioxidant, comprising one or more compounds containing at least one phenolic hydroxyl group.

2. The structural segment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The polyhydroxy antioxidants include one or more of caffeic acid, gallic acid, methyl gallate, ethyl gallate, propyl gallate, chlorogenic acid, catechin, epicatechin, epigallocatechin, epicatechin gallate, gallocatechin gallate, gallocatechin gallate, gallocatechin and theaflavins.

3. The structural segment according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The content of the polyhydroxy antioxidant is 0.02%-20% based on the total weight of the structural segments.

4. The structural segment composition according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The skeletal components include one or more of cellulose, starch, and plant components; Preferably, the cellulose includes one or more of microcrystalline cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, and hydroxypropyl cellulose; The amylopectin includes one or more of amylopectin, modified starch, and sodium octenyl succinate starch. The plant components are selected from one or more of the following: tobacco raw materials, tobacco leaf fragments, tobacco stems, tobacco dust, and aromatic plants; More preferably, the content of the skeleton component is 4%-98% based on the total weight of the structural segments.

5. The structural segment according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The solvent component includes one or more of water, ethanol, propylene glycol, and glycerol; Preferably, the content of the solvent component is 0.01%-50% based on the total weight of the structural segments.

6. The structural segment according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The adhesive component includes one or more of polysaccharide adhesives, protein adhesives, and polymer adhesives; Preferably, the polysaccharide binder includes one or more of the following: glucon gum, xanthan gum, peach gum, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, and glucomannan; The protein-based adhesive includes one or more of gelatin, soy protein, wheat protein, and recombinant protein; The polymeric adhesives include one or more of polyvinyl alcohol and polyenol ethers; More preferably, the content of the adhesive component is 0.01%-95% based on the total weight of the composition.

7. The structural segment according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The structural segment is manufactured using a one-piece molding process.

8. The structural segment according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The structural segment includes micropores; Preferably, the structural segment further includes at least one air passage hole, the air passage hole penetrating at least one end of the structural segment along its length.

9. The use of a polyhydroxy antioxidant to reduce the nitrosamine content in aerosol-generating products, characterized in that, The polyhydroxy antioxidant includes at least one phenolic hydroxyl group; Preferably, the polyhydroxy antioxidant is selected from one or more of caffeic acid, gallic acid, methyl gallate, ethyl gallate, propyl gallate, chlorogenic acid, catechin, epicatechin, epigallocatechin, epicatechin gallate, gallocatechin gallate, gallocatechin gallate, gallocatechin and theaflavins.

10. An aerosol-generating product, characterized in that, The aerosol-generated article comprises the structural segment according to any one of claims 1-8.

11. The aerosol-generating article according to claim 10, characterized in that, The structural segment is used as one or more of the following: a pre-plug segment, a cooling segment, a support segment, and a filter segment for aerosol-generated products.

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