Aerosol generating product and aerosol generating system
By preparing an aerosol generation matrix with a porous structure, the problems of uneven aerosol release and high absorption resistance in heated non-combustible aerosol generation products were solved, achieving uniform aerosol release and reducing absorption resistance, and preventing slag shedding.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- SHENZHEN FIRST UNION TECH CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-05-09
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-05
AI Technical Summary
Existing heat-not-burn aerosol products suffer from uneven aerosol release and high absorption resistance during the heating process, and are also prone to slagging.
A method for preparing an aerosol generation matrix includes preparing a fluid slurry, forming a sheet substrate and drying it, punching holes and then winding it into a matrix precursor and microwave drying it to form an aerosol generation matrix with a porous structure. The porosity is increased by micropore design and microwave drying process to reduce absorption resistance and promote uniform aerosol release.
It increases the porosity of aerosol-generated products, reduces suction resistance, ensures uniform aerosol release, prevents sludge shedding, and improves the user experience.
Smart Images
Figure CN224192912U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of heated non-combustible aerosol generation technology, and in particular to an aerosol generation product and an aerosol generation system. Background Technology
[0002] Tobacco products (such as cigarettes, cigars, etc.) produce tobacco smoke by burning tobacco during use. Efforts are being made to replace these tobacco-burning products by creating products that release compounds without combustion.
[0003] Examples of such products are heating devices that release compounds by heating rather than burning materials. For example, the material may be tobacco or other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine. Known tobacco or other non-tobacco products are produced by doping or mixing aerosol-forming agents such as glycerin, flavorings, and binders into tobacco or non-tobacco materials, which generate an aerosol for the user to inhale when heated. Known tobacco or other non-tobacco products are produced by preparing tobacco materials or other non-tobacco plant tissues into granules or sheets, loading aerosol-forming agents, flavorings, and binders onto these granules or sheets, and then pressing and winding them into a cylindrical shape using cigarette-making equipment. Utility Model Content
[0004] One embodiment of this application provides a method for preparing an aerosol generation matrix, the method comprising:
[0005] Obtain the raw materials for preparing the aerosol generating matrix, and prepare the raw materials into a flowable slurry;
[0006] The slurry is formed into a sheet substrate with a predetermined thickness, and the sheet substrate is subjected to a first drying treatment.
[0007] The sheet substrate is perforated to form a plurality of first micropores arranged in a predetermined direction on the sheet substrate;
[0008] The perforated sheet substrate is made into a matrix precursor with a predetermined shape, and the matrix precursor is subjected to a second drying process; the second drying process may include microwave drying.
[0009] In some embodiments, the distribution density of the first micropores on the sheet substrate is between 1 and 4 per 50 square millimeters;
[0010] And / or, the thickness of the sheet substrate is between 0.5 and 5 mm.
[0011] In some embodiments, the first micropore extends substantially through the sheet substrate along the thickness direction of the sheet substrate;
[0012] And / or, the plurality of first micropores are arranged substantially in an array on the sheet substrate;
[0013] And / or, the size of the plurality of first micropores is currently between 0.1 and 2.0 mm.
[0014] In some embodiments, the second drying process includes:
[0015] The matrix precursor is first microwave dried at a first temperature and a first vacuum degree;
[0016] The matrix precursor, after the first microwave drying, is subjected to a second microwave drying at a second temperature and a second vacuum.
[0017] In some embodiments, the first temperature is lower than the second temperature;
[0018] And / or, the first temperature is between 25 and 55°C;
[0019] And / or, the second temperature is between 60 and 90°C.
[0020] In some embodiments, the first vacuum degree is less than the second vacuum degree;
[0021] And / or, the first vacuum degree is between 25 and 55 negative kPa;
[0022] And / or, the second vacuum degree is between 65 and 90 negative kPa.
[0023] In some embodiments, the moisture content of the sheet substrate after the first drying treatment is between 15 and 30 wt%; and / or, the moisture content of the matrix precursor after the first microwave drying is between 8 and 15 wt%.
[0024] In some embodiments, the matrix precursor is cylindrical or cylindrical, and the matrix precursor is obtained by winding the perforated sheet substrate.
[0025] Another embodiment of this application also proposes an aerosol-generating article, comprising:
[0026] An aerosol generating matrix is configured to generate aerosols when heated; the aerosol generating matrix is prepared according to the aerosol generating matrix preparation method described above.
[0027] The above methods for preparing aerosol generation matrices can increase porosity, reduce absorption resistance, facilitate the uniform release of aerosols during use, and prevent slag shedding during the preparation of aerosol generation matrices.
[0028] Another embodiment of this application also proposes an aerosol-generating article, comprising:
[0029] An aerosol generating matrix is arranged along the axial direction of the aerosol generating article and is configured to generate aerosols when heated; the aerosol generating matrix is a porous structure with micropores inside, and the aerosol generating matrix has a plurality of first micropores arranged in an orderly manner in the radial direction and a plurality of second micropores presented in a disordered manner; the first micropores and the second micropores are connected.
[0030] In some embodiments, the volume occupied by the first micropore in the aerosol generating matrix is smaller than the volume occupied by the second micropore.
[0031] In some embodiments, the number of the first micropores may be between 1 and 15.
[0032] In some embodiments, the diameter of the first micropore is between 0.1 and 2.0 mm.
[0033] In some embodiments, the total porosity of the aerosol-generating matrix is between 40% and 85%.
[0034] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating matrix further includes:
[0035] An air channel extends axially through the aerosol-generating matrix; the air channel is substantially along the central axis of the aerosol-generating matrix.
[0036] In some embodiments, the diameter of the air channel is between 1.0 and 4.0 mm.
[0037] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating matrix includes: plant tissue, fiber, aerosol forming agent, adhesive, fragrance, and water.
[0038] In some embodiments, the first micropore extends along the radial direction of the aerosol generating matrix to the inner surface of the air channel, thereby communicating with the air channel.
[0039] In some embodiments, the water content of the aerosol generating matrix is between 4 and 12 wt%.
[0040] Another embodiment of this application also proposes an aerosol generation system, comprising:
[0041] The aerosol-generating products described above; and,
[0042] Heating device, including:
[0043] A chamber for receiving the aerosol-generated product;
[0044] A heater is configured to at least heat the aerosol generating matrix of the aerosol generating article.
[0045] The above aerosol generating products have an aerosol generating matrix with increased porosity, reduced absorption resistance, and facilitate uniform release of aerosols during use. Attached Figure Description
[0046] One or more embodiments are illustrated by way of example with reference numerals in the accompanying drawings. These illustrations do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments. Elements with the same reference numerals in the drawings are denoted as similar elements. Unless otherwise stated, the figures in the drawings are not to be limited by scale.
[0047] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an aerosol-generated article provided in one embodiment;
[0048] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram illustrating the preparation of a medium aerosol generating matrix in one embodiment, showing the formation of a sheet-like substrate with a predetermined thickness on a substrate using a slurry.
[0049] Figure 3 Yes Figure 2 A schematic diagram showing the process of punching holes in a sheet-like substrate to form several predetermined first micropores.
[0050] Figure 4 Yes Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a sheet substrate after perforation being wound into a matrix precursor according to a predetermined shape;
[0051] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an aerosol-generated product being heated in a heating device. Detailed Implementation
[0052] To facilitate understanding of this application, a more detailed description of this application will be provided below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.
[0053] One embodiment of this application proposes a heated aerosol generating article comprising multiple elements assembled in the form of strips, which is capable of generating aerosols when heated.
[0054] For example Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an aerosol-generating article 1000 according to one embodiment. Figure 1As shown, the aerosol generating article 1000 includes an upstream end 1100 and a downstream end 1200 facing away from each other; as used herein, the terms 'upstream' and 'downstream' are used to describe the relative positions of elements or portions of elements of the aerosol generating article 1000 with respect to the direction in which a user draws air from the aerosol generating article 1000 during its use. Downstream can be a direction closer to the user's drawing direction, while upstream is correspondingly a direction away from the user; and, the upstream direction can be the direction in which external air enters the aerosol generating article 1000, and the downstream direction can be the direction in which an airflow containing aerosol exits from the aerosol generating article 1000, for example... Figure 1 The direction is indicated by the middle arrow R12. During use, the aerosol generated by heating within the aerosol generating article 1000 passes through the downstream end 1200 and exits from the downstream end 1200 before being delivered to the user. During use, the user can suction from the downstream end 1200 to inhale the aerosol.
[0055] Among them Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, for ease of use by typical users, the aerosol generating article 1000 has an overall elongated cylindrical structure. Alternatively, in some other variations, the aerosol generating article 1000 may be an elongated elliptical cylinder, a square prism, a polygonal prism, etc.
[0056] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating article 1000 may mimic the appearance of a conventional, lit, and smokeable cigarette. The aerosol generating article 1000 may have an outer diameter between approximately 5 mm and 12 mm (e.g., between approximately 5 mm and 10 mm). The aerosol generating article 1000 has an overall length between approximately 40 mm and 100 mm; in alternative embodiments, the aerosol generating article 1000 has an overall length between approximately 45 mm and 55 mm.
[0057] according to Figure 1 As shown, the aerosol generating article 1000 includes multiple components arranged from the upstream end 1100 to the downstream end 1200:
[0058] The aerosol generating matrix 1130, cooling element 1120, and filter element 1110 are arranged sequentially and constrained by an external enclosure 1160 to form an aerosol generating article 1000.
[0059] In this embodiment, the aerosol-generating matrix 1130 is located near and defines the upstream end 1100. The aerosol-generating matrix 1130 is used to describe the ability to release volatile compounds upon heating, which can form aerosols. The aerosols described herein can be visible or invisible and can include vapors (e.g., fine particles of matter in a gaseous state, which are typically liquid or solid at room temperature) as well as droplets of gas and condensed vapors.
[0060] In an embodiment, the cooling element 1120 may be arranged immediately downstream of and adjacent to the aerosol generating matrix 1130. The cooling element 1120 serves two purposes: firstly, to provide downstream support for the aerosol generating matrix 1130; secondly, during use, volatile substances released from the heated aerosol generating matrix 1130 pass downstream of the aerosol generating article 1000 along the cooling element 1120, and these volatile substances can be cooled within the cooling element 1120 to form an aerosol inhaled by the user. Figure 1 In an alternative embodiment shown, the cooling element 1120 includes a cooling cavity 1121 extending along the length of the cooling element 1120. The axially extending cooling cavity 1121 ensures that the airflow through the cooling element 1120 is longitudinally directed without significant radial deviation. The cooling element 1120 can cool the temperature of the aerosol stream drawn through it by means of heat transfer. The components of the aerosol will interact with the space within the cooling element 1120 and lose thermal energy. The cooling element 1120 may comprise ceramic, metal, or organic polymer plastic, etc. In some embodiments, the temperature of the aerosol stream may decrease by more than 10 degrees Celsius as it is drawn through the cooling element 1120. In some embodiments, the temperature of the aerosol stream may decrease by more than 25 degrees Celsius or more than 30 degrees Celsius as it is drawn through the cooling element 1120.
[0061] Filter element 1110 is arranged immediately downstream of cooling element 1120 and defines downstream end 1200, and is adjacent to cooling element 1120 for filtering aerosols before delivery to the user. Figure 1 In the embodiments shown, the filter element 1110 comprises a conventional cellulose acetate or polypropylene tow filter core with low filtration efficiency.
[0062] Alternatively, in some other embodiments, the aerosol generating article 1000 may not include the cooling element 1120, and a cooling effect may be achieved by making the filter element 1110 longer, thereby providing heat exchange during the downstream delivery of the aerosol.
[0063] To assemble the aerosol-generating article 1000, the multiple components described above are aligned and tightly enclosed within the outer enclosure 1160. Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the outer wrapping 1160 may be conventional cigarette paper, fibrous material, organic polymer, etc.
[0064] In some embodiments, the thickness of the outer wrapping 1160 is 0.2 to 0.5 mm; more preferably, the thickness of the outer wrapping 1160 is 0.35 to 0.45 mm.
[0065] In some embodiments, the length of the aerosol generating matrix 1130 is between 10 and 20 mm.
[0066] according to Figure 1 , Figure 4 As shown, the aerosol generating matrix 1130 is an annular or tubular shape extending along the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating article 1000. In an embodiment, the aerosol generating matrix 1130 has an axially penetrating air channel 1131; the air channel 1131 is a through-hole extending through the aerosol generating matrix 1130. In an embodiment, the air channel 1131 is arranged along the central axis of the aerosol generating matrix 1130. In an embodiment, the air channel 1131 has a substantially circular cross-sectional shape; or in some variations, the air channel 1131 may also have an elliptical, triangular, quadrilateral, polygonal, or other irregular shapes, etc. In use, the air channel 1131, which defines the aerosol generating matrix 1130, can reduce the suction resistance of the aerosol generating matrix 1130 during suction.
[0067] In some embodiments, the diameter of the air channel 1131 is approximately 1.0 to 4.0 mm. In some more preferred embodiments, the diameter of the air channel 1131 is less than or equal to the radius of the aerosol generating matrix 1130. In some embodiments, for air channels 1131 with a circular or substantially near-circular cross-section, the above diameter can directly characterize the diameter of the circular cross-section; while for air channels 1131 with non-circular cross-sections, such as those with elliptical or polygonal cross-sections, the above diameter can be characterized as an equivalent circular diameter. The term "equivalent circular diameter" is a geometric parameter that equivalences a non-circular shape to the diameter of a circle of the same area for analysis or measurement purposes.
[0068] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating matrix 1130 includes:
[0069] Plant tissues, fibers, aerosol forming agents, adhesives, fragrances and flavors, and water.
[0070] In some embodiments, plant tissues include or are derived from one or more plant products or components thereof; for example, in some specific embodiments, plant tissues include leaves, bark, fibrous tissue, stems, roots, petals, fruits, etc. In the aerosol generating matrix 1130, plant tissues primarily function as active ingredients in one aspect, and in another aspect serve as carriers to provide loading for other components such as aerosol forming agents and fragrances.
[0071] For example, in some embodiments, the plant tissue includes at least tobacco or tobacco-containing material that provides an active ingredient such as nicotine; in this embodiment, the plant tissue including tobacco or tobacco-containing material is used to provide an active ingredient such as nicotine in an aerosol delivered to a user. In some embodiments, the tobacco or tobacco-containing material may include any of the following: tobacco leaves, tobacco vein fragments, flue-cured tobacco leaves, sun-cured tobacco leaves, burley tobacco leaves, aromatic tobacco leaves, tobacco stems, reconstituted tobacco leaves, homogenized tobacco, extruded tobacco, tobacco pulp, cast tobacco, and expanded tobacco. Or in yet other embodiments, the plant tissue includes other plant tissues that provide other active ingredients as alternatives to nicotine. For example, in some embodiments, the other plant tissues of these alternative tobaccos may be derived from tea, medicinal herbs, or herbal crops; medicinal herbs include one or more of the following: dandelion, apocynum venetum, jujube, wolfberry, fritillaria cirrhosa, notoginseng, malva nut, borneol, menthol, saffron, poria cocos, kudzu root, sandalwood, agastache rugosa, perilla leaf, bupleurum, isatis root, astragalus, prunella vulgaris, ginseng, white peony root, gastrodia elata, schisandra chinensis, chrysanthemum, and plantain; herbal crops include one or more of the following: tea, lotus leaf, mint, licorice, clove, gynostemma pentaphyllum, ginkgo leaf, mulberry leaf, perilla, jasmine, buckwheat tea, dandelion tea, honeysuckle, tartary buckwheat tea, and coffee.
[0072] In some embodiments, to prepare the aerosol-generating matrix 1130, for example by solidifying a slurry, plant tissue is added primarily in the form of plant tissue powder or granules. This is advantageous for mixing the plant tissue powder with other materials during preparation to form a slurry with good flowability. In some preferred embodiments, the particle size of the plant tissue powder or granules is between 40 and 800 mesh.
[0073] In some embodiments, the fibers in the aerosol generating matrix 1130 can provide loading capacity for functional ingredients such as fragrances or adhesives. In some preferred embodiments, the fibers include one or more combinations of plant fibers such as softwood pulp fibers, hardwood pulp fibers, hemp fibers, and tobacco fibers.
[0074] In some embodiments, the aerosol forming agent is used to generate an aerosol mist upon heating. In embodiments, the aerosol forming agent is one or more combinations of propylene glycol, glycerol, triacetin, triethyl citrate, isopropyl myristate, methyl stearate, glyceryl monocaprylate, polyols, and ammonium salts.
[0075] In some embodiments, flavorings are used to enhance or provide aroma to the aerosol. In some embodiments, flavorings typically include flavoring substances such as peppermint, apple, rose, peach, orange, tangerine peel, and cocoa, or fragrant liquid organic alcohols, organic oils, or organic lipids such as peppermint oil, menthol, rose oil, vanilla extract, cocoa butter, cinnamon ester, star anise oil, octyl lactone, lemon oil, agarwood oil, ethyl maltol, methylcyclopentenolone (MCP), 2-acetylpyrazine, 2,3,3-trimethylpyrazine, and cinnamon leaf oil. In use, when the aerosol generating matrix 1130 is heated, the flavorings form volatile aroma components and are carried downstream in the aerosol.
[0076] In some embodiments, the adhesive promotes the bonding of the components in the aerosol-generating matrix 1130. In some embodiments, the adhesive is selected from one or more combinations of methylcellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, guar gum, ethylcellulose, corn starch, carrageenan, konjac gum, gellan gum, xanthan gum, gum arabic, locust bean gum, and sodium alginate.
[0077] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating matrix 1130 is formed by drying and curing a matrix precursor prepared from a slurry comprising the above materials.
[0078] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating matrix 1130 includes: 15-60 parts by weight of plant tissue, 1-15 parts by weight of plant fiber, 15-75 parts by weight of adhesive, 5-65 parts by weight of aerosol forming agent, and 10-30 parts by weight of fragrance.
[0079] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating matrix 1130 further includes water. In some embodiments, the water content in the aerosol generating matrix 1130 is less than 12 wt%; for example, in some optional embodiments, the water content of the aerosol generating matrix 1130 is approximately between 4 and 12 wt%.
[0080] In some embodiments, the preparation of the aerosol generating matrix 1130 can be referred to Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the preparation process of aerosol generating matrix 1130 includes:
[0081] Step S10: Obtain raw materials and mix them evenly with water to form a fluid slurry; wherein the raw materials include: 15-60 parts by weight of plant tissue powder, 1-15 parts by weight of plant fiber, 15-75 parts by weight of adhesive, 5-65 parts by weight of aerosol forming agent, 10-30 parts by weight of fragrance and flavor, and 150-400 parts by weight of water.
[0082] In some embodiments, the viscosity of the slurry is between 1500 and 10000 mPa·s.
[0083] See Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the preparation process of aerosol generating matrix 1130 also includes:
[0084] Step S20, as follows Figure 2 As shown, a sheet substrate 1130a with a predetermined thickness is formed on a substrate 200a by means of casting or coating, and the sheet substrate 1130a is subjected to a first drying treatment.
[0085] In some embodiments, substrate 200a provides support in the slurry forming sheet substrate 1130a; in some embodiments, substrate 200a may include at least one of a metal sheet, a ceramic or glass sheet, a plastic sheet, a paper sheet, etc. In some preferred embodiments, substrate 200a is a cellulose paper with low permeability; more specifically, substrate 200a is cigarette paper or leak-proof cigarette paper.
[0086] In some embodiments, the predetermined thickness of the sheet substrate 1130a is between 0.5 and 5 mm, so that the sheet substrate 1130a is easy to wind.
[0087] In some embodiments, step S20 involves a first drying process on the sheet substrate 1130a to initially reduce the moisture content in the sheet substrate 1130a, so that the sheet substrate 1130a formed by slurry coating is initially cured and shaped to prevent the wet sheet substrate 1130a from flowing and deforming.
[0088] In some embodiments, after the first drying treatment of the sheet substrate 1130a in step S20, the moisture content of the sheet substrate 1130a decreases to 15-30 wt%.
[0089] In some embodiments, the thickness and / or volume of the sheet substrate 1130a after the first drying process in step S20 are substantially the same as before the first drying without expansion.
[0090] In some embodiments, the sheet substrate 1130a undergoes a first drying process in step S20, which can be carried out using equipment such as a plate dryer or an oven. In some embodiments, the temperature of the first drying process can be between 50 and 100°C; the time of the first drying process is 5 to 60 minutes.
[0091] See Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the preparation process of aerosol generating matrix 1130 also includes:
[0092] In step S30, a plurality of first micropores 1132a are formed on the sheet substrate 1130a by mechanical drilling.
[0093] In some embodiments, the mechanical drilling in step S30 can be performed by drilling holes in the sheet substrate 1130a using a fine wire, a fine needle, or the like to form a first microhole 1132a. In some embodiments, the first microhole 1132a is a through-hole that penetrates the sheet substrate 1130a along its thickness direction. Alternatively, in some variations, the first microhole 1132a may be a blind hole that does not completely penetrate the sheet substrate 1130a.
[0094] In some embodiments, the first micropores 1132a formed on the sheet substrate 1130a in step S30 are arranged substantially in an array. Furthermore, the distribution density of the first micropores 1132a on the sheet substrate 1130a can be approximately between 1 and 4 per 50 square millimeters. The number of first micropores 1132a on the matrix precursor 1130a is between 1 and 15.
[0095] In some embodiments, the first micropore 1132a is substantially circular; and in some embodiments, the diameter of the first micropore 1132a may be approximately between 0.1 and 2.0 mm.
[0096] See Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the preparation process of aerosol generating matrix 1130 also includes:
[0097] In step S40, the perforated sheet substrate 1130a is wound into a matrix precursor 1130b with a predetermined shape according to the desired shape of the aerosol generation matrix 1130, and the matrix precursor 1130b is dried a second time to prepare the aerosol generation matrix 1130.
[0098] exist Figure 1 and Figure 4In the illustrated embodiment, if the aerosol generating matrix 1130 is cylindrical or annular with an axially penetrating air channel 1131, then in step S40, the sheet substrate 1130a is wound into a cylindrical matrix precursor 1130b. In this embodiment, the process of winding the sheet substrate 1130a into the cylindrical matrix precursor 1130b can be performed by placing the sheet substrate 1130a on a rod-shaped or bar-shaped fixture. Specifically, after winding the sheet substrate 1130a around the rod-shaped or bar-shaped fixture, the cylindrical matrix precursor 1130b is obtained by removing or discarding the fixture. The cylindrical matrix precursor 1130b has an axially penetrating air channel 1131b for forming an air channel 1131 for aerosol generation matrix 1130 after a second drying process; and a substantially radially extending first micropore 1132b is formed on the matrix precursor 1130b by being wound from a first micropore 1132a on a sheet substrate 1130a.
[0099] In some other variations, for a columnar aerosol generating matrix 1130 that does not have an air channel 1131, step S40 is correspondingly performed by spirally winding a sheet substrate 1130a into a columnar matrix precursor 1130b.
[0100] Alternatively, in some other variations of the embodiment, for other shapes such as blocky or reciprocating folded aerosol generating matrix 1130, a matrix precursor 1130b of the desired predetermined shape can be formed by folding or stacking sheet substrate 1130a.
[0101] In some embodiments, the second drying process in step S40 may include microwave drying; specifically, it involves irradiating the matrix precursor 1130b with microwaves, directly applying microwave energy to the water molecules in the matrix precursor 1130b, causing the water molecules to absorb the microwave energy and convert it into heat energy before evaporating, thereby reducing the moisture content. The method of drying the matrix precursor 1130b by irradiating it with microwaves in step S40 has two advantages: firstly, the slower water loss rate during drying helps maintain the internal micropore structure; secondly, it promotes the volume expansion of the matrix precursor 1130b, increasing its porosity.
[0102] In some embodiments, step S40 involves a second drying process on the matrix precursor 1130b, which includes at least two microwave drying processes on the matrix precursor 1130b.
[0103] In some embodiments, the second drying process of the wound matrix precursor 1130b in step S40 includes at least:
[0104] Step S41: The wound matrix precursor 1130b is subjected to a first microwave drying at a first temperature and a first vacuum degree.
[0105] Step S42, the matrix precursor 1130b after the first microwave drying is then microwave dried a second time at a second temperature and a second vacuum.
[0106] In some embodiments, the first microwave drying and the second microwave drying can be performed in a vacuum microwave oven.
[0107] In some embodiments, the first temperature is lower than the second temperature. For example, in one embodiment, the first temperature is approximately 25–55°C; the second temperature is approximately 60–90°C. Also in one embodiment, both the first and second temperatures are lower than the minimum heating temperature required for the aerosol-generating matrix 1130 to generate aerosols. The minimum heating temperature required for the aerosol-generating matrix 1130 to generate aerosols is the temperature required in use to release volatile compounds from the aerosol-generating matrix 1130 to form an aerosol that can be inhaled by the user, and is typically greater than 200°C.
[0108] In some embodiments, the first vacuum level is less than the second vacuum level. For example, in one embodiment, the first vacuum level is approximately 25 to 55 negative kPa; the second vacuum level is approximately 65 to 90 negative kPa.
[0109] In this embodiment, the matrix precursor 1130b dries at a relatively slow rate during the first microwave drying process, preventing scorching due to rapid dehydration. Simultaneously, it gradually expands, promoting the formation of a disordered second microporous structure within the matrix. During the second microwave drying process, the dehydration efficiency of the matrix precursor 1130b is accelerated more rapidly than in the first microwave drying, while simultaneously causing the volume of the matrix precursor 1130b to expand again, further enhancing the micropore size.
[0110] In some embodiments, the time for the first microwave drying and the time for the second microwave drying can be substantially the same. For example, in an embodiment, the time for the first microwave drying is approximately 0.5 to 10 minutes; the time for the second microwave drying is approximately 0.5 to 10 minutes.
[0111] In some embodiments, the interval between the first microwave drying and the second microwave drying is 1 min to 5 min.
[0112] In some embodiments, the moisture content in the matrix precursor 1130b after a first microwave drying can be reduced to 8–15 wt%. And in some embodiments, the moisture content in the aerosol-generating matrix 1130 obtained after a second microwave drying can be reduced to the desired range of 4–12 wt%.
[0113] In some embodiments, during the second drying process of the wound matrix precursor 1130b in step S40, the volume expansion factor of the matrix precursor 1130b is approximately between 1.5 and 3 times. For example, in some specific embodiments, the cylindrical aerosol generating matrix 1130 prepared by winding a sheet substrate 1130a with a thickness of 0.5 to 5 mm into a cylindrical matrix precursor 1130b and then performing two microwave drying processes has a thickness of 1 to 10 mm.
[0114] In some embodiments, the volume expansion factor of the wound matrix precursor 1130b during the first microwave drying is greater than the volume expansion factor during the second microwave drying.
[0115] In the above preparation process of aerosol generating matrix 1130, the perforated sheet substrate 1130a is wound into matrix precursor 1130b and then microwave dried. This can prevent the sheet substrate 1130a from falling off during the winding process after drying and expansion, which is not the case when the sheet substrate 1130a is microwave dried first and then wound into aerosol generating matrix 1130. At the same time, the first micropore 1132 formed in the prepared aerosol generating matrix 1130 can improve porosity and reduce suction resistance, while also facilitating the uniform release of aerosols during use.
[0116] according to Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the aerosol generating matrix 1130 is a porous structure with micropores inside. In some embodiments, the micropores inside the aerosol generating matrix 1130 include a plurality of first micropores 1132 arranged along a predetermined direction, and a plurality of second micropores presented randomly or disorderly. The first micropores 1132 are formed or defined by first micropores 1132a obtained by mechanically perforating the sheet-like substrate 1130a during the preparation process. The second micropores are formed or defined by the pores of the raw materials used to prepare the matrix precursor 1130a, such as plant tissue, and by the expansion of the gaps between the raw materials after mixing into a slurry during the preparation process.
[0117] In some embodiments, the first micropores 1132 are orderly presented within the aerosol generating matrix 1130. Specifically, in some embodiments, the first micropores 1132 are arranged radially along the aerosol generating matrix 1130. More specifically, the first micropores 1132 extend from the outer surface of the aerosol generating matrix 1130 to the inner surface of the air channel 1131, and thus the first micropores 1132 are in communication with the air channel 1131.
[0118] In some embodiments, the first micropores 1132 formed typically have a diameter of 0.1 to 2.0 mm. In some embodiments, the number of first micropores 1132 on the aerosol generating matrix 1130 may be between 1 and 15. It is advantageous that the aerosols generated by the aerosol generating matrix 1130 can be released substantially uniformly without excessive decay when heated for a predetermined time.
[0119] In some embodiments, the volume occupied by the first micropore 1132 within the aerosol generating matrix 1130 is smaller than the volume occupied by the second micropore. In some embodiments, the ordered first micropore 1132 and the disordered second micropore are connected.
[0120] In some embodiments, the total porosity of the aerosol generating matrix 1130 may be between 40% and 85%.
[0121] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of an aerosol generation system including an aerosol generating article 1000 and a heating device is shown in one embodiment; according to Figure 5 As shown, the aerosol generating article 1000 is received in a heating device, and the aerosol generating matrix 1130 of the aerosol generating article 1000 is heated by the heating device to generate aerosol. According to Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the heating device includes:
[0122] The chamber has an opening 40; in use, the aerosol-generating article 1000 can be removably received in the chamber through the opening 40.
[0123] A heater 30, which extends at least partially within the chamber, is inserted into the aerosol generating matrix 1130 of the aerosol generating article 1000 when the aerosol generating article 1000 is received in the chamber, and heats the aerosol generating article 1000 to release a variety of volatile compounds, which are formed solely by heat treatment.
[0124] Cell 10 is used for power supply;
[0125] Circuit 20 is used to guide current between cell 10 and heater 30.
[0126] In one embodiment, the heater 30 generates an aerosol that can be inhaled by heating the aerosol generating matrix 1130 to a temperature above the minimum heating temperature required to generate an aerosol.
[0127] exist Figure 5In the illustrated embodiment, the heater 30 is generally shaped like a pin, needle, rod, column, sheet, or plate. When the aerosol generating article 1000 is received in the chamber, the heater 30 extends from the upstream end 1100 of the aerosol generating article 1000 into the aerosol generating matrix 1130 to heat it and generate an aerosol. In some embodiments, the heater 30 may have a length of approximately 10 to 18 mm and an outer diameter of approximately 2 to 4 mm.
[0128] In this embodiment, when the aerosol-generating article 1000 is received in the heating device, the heater 30 extends into the aerosol-generating matrix 1130. In use, the aerosol-generating matrix 1130 is heated to generate aerosols, which are then output downstream.
[0129] In an embodiment, when the aerosol-generating article 1000 is received in a heating device, the air passage 1131 within the aerosol-generating matrix 1130 is advantageous in reducing the resistance to insertion of the pin or needle-shaped heater 30.
[0130] In some embodiments, the heater 30 may also be configured to at least partially surround or define a chamber arrangement; for example, the heater 30 may be configured as a tubular shape that at least partially surrounds the chamber. When the aerosol generating article 1000 is received in the chamber, the heater 30 at least partially surrounds or encloses the aerosol generating article 1000 and heats it from the outer periphery of the aerosol generating article 1000. Furthermore, when the aerosol generating article 1000 is received within a heating device, it is at least partially contained and held within the heater 30, and is then heated from the outside around the aerosol generating matrix 1130 of the aerosol generating article 1000 by the heater 30, thereby causing the aerosol generating article 1000 to release a variety of volatile compounds, which are formed solely by heat treatment. In some embodiments, the tubular heater 30 may have an inner diameter of approximately 5.8 mm to 10 mm.
[0131] In some embodiments, heater 30 includes at least one of a resistance heater, induction heater, infrared heater, microwave heater, or light heater such as a laser heater.
[0132] It should be noted that the preferred embodiments of this application are given in the specification and accompanying drawings, but are not limited to the embodiments described in this specification. Furthermore, those skilled in the art can make improvements or modifications based on the above description, and all such improvements and modifications should fall within the protection scope of the appended claims.
Claims
1. An aerosol-generating product, characterized in that, include: An aerosol generating matrix is arranged along the axial direction of the aerosol generating article and is configured to generate aerosols when heated; The aerosol generating matrix is a porous structure with micropores inside. The aerosol generating matrix has a plurality of first micropores arranged in an orderly manner along the radial direction and a plurality of second micropores presented in a disordered manner; the first micropores and the second micropores are connected.
2. The aerosol-generating product as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The volume occupied by the first micropore in the aerosol generating matrix is smaller than the volume occupied by the second micropore.
3. The aerosol-generating product as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The number of the first micropores can be between 1 and 15.
4. The aerosol-generating article as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The diameter of the first micropore is between 0.1 and 2.0 mm.
5. The aerosol-generating article as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The total porosity of the aerosol-generating matrix is between 40% and 85%.
6. The aerosol-generating article as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The aerosol generation matrix also includes: An air channel extends axially through the aerosol-generating matrix; the air channel is substantially along the central axis of the aerosol-generating matrix.
7. The aerosol-generating article as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The diameter of the air channel is between 1.0 and 4.0 mm.
8. The aerosol-generating article as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The first micropore extends along the radial direction of the aerosol generating matrix to the inner surface of the air channel, and thus communicates with the air channel.
9. The aerosol-generating article as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The water content of the aerosol generating matrix is between 4 and 12 wt%.
10. An aerosol generation system, characterized in that, include: The aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 9; as well as, Heating device, including: A chamber for receiving the aerosol-generated product; A heater is configured to at least heat the aerosol generating matrix of the aerosol generating article.