Aerosol generating article

Abstract

An aerosol-generating article is described for use in an aerosol generating apparatus to generate an aerosol that is to be consumed by a user. The aerosol-generating article includes an aerosol-generating substrate and a delayed-release substrate. The delayed-release substrate contains an active compound encapsulated within a polymer matrix.

Description

FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating article. The invention further relates to an aerosol-generating system comprising the aerosol-generating article, and methods of using the aerosol-generating article and system.BACKGROUND

[0002] Smoking substitute systems include electronic aerosol generation systems that permit a user to simulate the act of smoking by producing an aerosol (also referred to as a "vapour") that is drawn into the lungs through the mouth (inhaled) and then exhaled.

[0003] One technology platform for a smoking substitute system is a class of products that use the "heated tobacco" ("HT") approach in which tobacco is heated or warmed to release vapour. In the HT approach the tobacco is heated but not burned, i.e. the tobacco does not undergo combustion. The HT approach recognises that burning tobacco is not necessary to release constituents from the tobacco leaf. Rather, release is achieved at temperatures of around 350 °C or less. Because HT systems do not combust the tobacco, the lower temperatures of HT systems are expected to expose the user to emissions that have fewer chemicals and / or in smaller amounts than the smoke from a combustible cigarette. HT systems are well known in the industry, and although referred to herein as HT systems, they may also be known as heated tobacco products (HTP), Heat not Burn (HNB) and smokeless systems.

[0004] The HT class of products are easily distinguishable over e-cigarettes (or vapes), which are an alternative class of smoking substitute system based on a technology platform that uses a device to heat a pod or cartridge filled with a liquid (also termed e-liquid). Here, a primary difference is that HT systems produce an aerosol predominantly from a solid substrate (e.g. tobacco leaf), whereas in e-cigarettes, the aerosol is provided from a liquid suspension.

[0005] A typical HT system includes a HT device and a HT consumable comprising the tobacco. The consumable is disposed of and replaced at the end of a smoking session. It will be appreciated that the HT system can, herein, be interchangeably referred to as a 'system' and likewise, the HT device can be interchangeably referred to as a 'device', and also the HT consumable can be interchangeably referred to as a 'consumable'. At a basic level, the consumable is inserted into the device to form a system, such that the user can operate the system to heat the consumable in a controlled manner to release flavours, aromas and other constituents whilst volatising the nicotine in the tobacco (without burning). A user can then draw on a mouthpiece of the consumable to draw air through the tobacco. The released constituents and volatised nicotine are entrained in the airflow to create an aerosol as it mixes and cools. The aerosol is then inhaled by the user. A known HT device is sold under the brand name Pulze ™< for use in combination with a HT consumable sold under the brand name iD ™< .

[0006] There is an ongoing need to improve the experience of users of HT consumable and HT systems. The present invention was developed with this in mind.SUMMARY

[0007] At its most general, the present invention provides an aerosol-generating article for use in an aerosol generating apparatus to generate an aerosol that is to be consumed by a user. For example, the present invention provides an aerosol-generating article which comprises a delayed-release substrate to provide delayed release of an active compound, such as nicotine, during a smoking session.

[0008] In a first aspect the present disclosure provides an aerosol-generating article for use in an aerosol generating apparatus to generate an aerosol that is to be consumed by a user, the aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-generating substrate and a delayed-release substrate comprising an active compound.

[0009] In some examples, the delayed-release substrate comprises the active compound encapsulated within a polymer matrix. In some examples the delayed-release substrate is configured to contact an aerosol produced by the aerosol-generating substrate and release the active compound into the aerosol.

[0010] The aerosol-generating substrate within an aerosol-generating article (e.g. HT consumable) provides fast or "immediate" onset of active compound (e.g. nicotine) delivery to a user after sufficient heating of the aerosol-generating substrate during a smoking session. However, the level of active compound within the aerosol-generating substrate will deplete through the smoking session and eventually reach a level where the user is no longer satisfied and the aerosol-generating article must be disposed of and replaced with a new aerosol-generating article. By providing a delayed-release substrate configured to contact an aerosol produced by the aerosol-generating substrate and release the active compound into the aerosol, a second, delayed onset of active compound release within a smoking session is provided. In this way, the user receives a second "hit" of active compound towards the end of a smoking session, after the level of active compound delivered from the aerosol-generating substrate has depleted, and the user experience is improved since the disappointment associated with depletion of the active compound delivery is mitigated by the second "hit" delivered by the delayed-release substrate.

[0011] A further advantage of this may be that the smoking session is extended, meaning that the user needs to replace the consumable aerosol-generating article less frequently. This is because in aerosol-generating articles without the delayed-release substrate, the consumable will be disposed of as soon as the amount of active compound delivered by the aerosol-generating substrate falls to a level which no longer delivers satisfaction to the user. However, when the delayed-release substrate is present, active compound may continue to be delivered to the user even after the amount of active compound delivered by the aerosol-generating substrate has fallen below said level. Thus the overall duration of the smoking session is increased.

[0012] Moreover, by providing a delayed-release substrate which comprises the active compound encapsulated within a polymer matrix, release of the active compound from the delayed-release substrate may be triggered by interaction of the delayed-release substrate with aerosol generated by the aerosol-generating substrate during the smoking session. For example, the polymer matrix may degrade, dissolve and / or swell thereby releasing the active compound from the delayed-release substrate. In this way, the delayed release of the active compound towards the end of the smoking session is triggered by the smoking session itself (i.e. the release of aerosol during the smoking session), eliminating any need for the user to take any action to receive the second "hit" of active compound.

[0013] In the present invention for the avoidance of doubt, the aerosol-generating substrate and the delayed-release substrate are distinct entities performing distinct functions within the aerosol-forming article. In other words, the aerosol-generating substrate and the delayed-release substrate cannot be the same entity within the aerosol-generating article (although they may be connected or attached together in such a way as to form distinct parts of a single entity performing distinct functions).

[0014] The active compound may be any suitable biologically active, volatile compound which imparts a desired physical or psychological effect on the user. The active compound may be a stimulant. The active compound may be a depressant. Suitable active compounds include nicotine, cocaine, caffeine, THC, CBD, opiates and opioids, cathine and cathinone, cannabinoids, kavalactones, mysticin, beta-carboline alkaloids, salvinorin A, together with any combinations, functional equivalents to, and / or synthetic alternatives of the foregoing.

[0015] In some examples, the active compound comprises nicotine or a nicotine salt. In this way, the aerosol-generating article may deliver the user with a delayed hit of nicotine towards the end of a smoking session. In some examples, the active compound comprises nicotine (i.e. free base nicotine). In some examples, the active compound comprises a nicotine salt.

[0016] In some examples, both the delayed-release substrate and the aerosol-generating substrate comprise the same active compound. In some examples, both the delayed-release substrate and the aerosol-generating substrate comprise the same active compound selected from nicotine, cocaine, caffeine, THC, CBD, opiates and opioids, cathine and cathinone, cannabinoids, kavalactones, mysticin, beta-carboline alkaloids, salvinorin A, together with any combinations, functional equivalents to, and / or synthetic alternatives of the foregoing. In some examples, both the delayed-release substrate and the aerosol-generating substrate comprise nicotine or a nicotine salt.

[0017] In some examples, the delayed-release substrate is located downstream of the aerosol-generating substrate within the heat-not-burn consumable. In this way, the aerosol released from the aerosol-generating substrate passes, and makes contact with, the delayed-release substrate as the aerosol moves in a downstream direction through the aerosol-generating article, thereby facilitating the release of the active compound from the delayed-release substrate, e.g. by degradation, dissolution or swelling of the polymer matrix caused by contact with the aerosol.

[0018] In some examples, the delayed-release substrate is located within a void between the aerosol-generating substrate and a filter component located downstream of the aerosol-generating substrate. In this way, the aerosol-generating article may conveniently sit within a void which exists between two components of the aerosol-generating article, which could assist in keeping the delayed-release substrate held in place within the aerosol-generating article and facilitate interaction with the aerosol after it is released from the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0019] In some examples, the delayed-release substrate is located within a hollow of a hollow bore filter. In this way, the delayed-release substrate is immobilised and is not at risk of moving to an undesired location within the aerosol-generating article, such that the effects of the release of active compound from the delayed-release substrate are more predictable.

[0020] In some examples, the delayed-release substrate is in contact with the aerosol-generating substrate. In this way, a closer interaction is facilitated between compounds volatilised from the aerosol-generating substrate, and the subsequent aerosol formed containing them, and the delayed-release substrate. Furthermore, contact with the aerosol-generating substrate may assist in immobilising the delayed-release substrate within the aerosol-generating article, especially if the delayed-release substrate is also in contact with a further component of the aerosol-generating article, e.g. a downstream filter component, thus creating a "sandwich" effect to hold the delayed-release substrate in place.

[0021] The shape of the delayed-release substrate is not particularly limited, provided that it can be suitably located within the aerosol-generating article. A variety of possible shapes can be envisaged, including but not limited to sphere, cube, cuboid, cone, pyramid, prism, cylinder, ring, torus, half-sphere, octahedron or irregular shape.

[0022] In some examples, the delayed-release substrate comprises a sphere or bead. In some examples, the delayed-release substrate consists of a single sphere or bead. In some embodiments, the delayed-release substrate may comprise several distinct entities which may be identical, substantially identical or different, for example a plurality of spheres or beads.

[0023] Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the size and number of distinct entities making up the delayed-release substrate may influence one or both of (a) the time delay between initiation of the smoking session and release of the active compound from the delayed-release substrate, and (b) the amount of active compound released from the delayed-release substrate over a given time period (i.e. the intensity of the release). As such, it is possible to tailor the user experience by selecting a particular size and / or number of entities (e.g. spheres) within the delayed-release substrate. For example, a single sphere of relatively large diameter may provide a longer time delay between initiation of the smoking session and release of the active compound from the delayed-release substrate, and / or a more gradual release of active compound once the release from the delayed-release substrate begins. On the other hand, due to the larger surface area to volume ratio, a plurality of relatively smaller spheres may provide a shorter time delay between initiation of the smoking session and release of the active compound from the delayed-release substrate, and / or a faster release of active compound once the release from the delayed-release substrate begins. Hence the user may be provided with a second "hit" of active compound which is earlier in the smoking session and / or more intense. The present invention therefore provides a tuneable user experience.

[0024] In some examples, the delayed-release substrate comprises or consists of at least two, for example at least three, at least four, at least five or at least ten distinct entities which may be identical, substantially identical or different, for example a plurality of spheres or beads.

[0025] A spherical or substantially spherical delayed-release substrate may provide optimal surface area to volume ratio, allowing for maximum interaction between the aerosol and the surface of the delayed-release substrate to efficiently release active compound from the delayed-release substrate. The delayed-release substrate may have a sphericity of at least 70%, for example at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or about 100%. Sphericity of an object is a measure of how closely the shape of the object resembles that of a perfect sphere, and is calculated as the ratio of the surface area of a sphere with the same volume to the object's surface area. The sphericity of a perfect sphere is 100%.

[0026] Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that an aerosol formed by the material which is volatilised from the aerosol-generating substrate (containing e.g. active compound and a carrier such as propylene glycol and / or glycerine, and possibly further compounds volatilised from the aerosol-generating substrate) physically and / or chemically interacts with the delayed-release substrate, e.g. the surface of the delayed-release substrate, with the ultimate effect being the release of active compound from the delayed-release substrate at some point during the smoking session. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the primary mechanism of active compound release may be the deposition of some of the aerosol onto the surface of the delayed-release substrate, which causes dissolution, degradation and / or swelling of the polymer of the delayed-release substrate, thereby releasing some of the active compound encapsulated within the delayed-release substrate. It is believed that a certain amount of prolonged interaction between the aerosol and the delayed-release substrate will be necessary before any active compound is released from the delayed-release substrate and inhaled by the user, thereby providing a delayed-release effect. In some examples, the delayed-release substrate provides not only a delayed-release effect, but also a sustained-release effect. In other words, since the dissolution, degradation and / or swelling of the delayed-release substrate will occur gradually as the smoking session continues, the active compound encapsulated within the polymer matrix of the delayed-release substrate will also be released gradually into the aerosol stream, thereby providing some sustained delivery of active compound rather than an immediate "dose dump".

[0027] In some examples, the active compound is dispersed homogeneously through the polymer matrix of the delayed-release substrate. In this way, the release of active compound into the aerosol stream as the polymer matrix dissolves, degrades and / or swells will be at a consistent level during the period of release.

[0028] The delayed-release substrate is configured to contact an aerosol produced by the aerosol-generating substrate and release the active compound into the aerosol. Generally this means that the location of the delayed-release substrate within the aerosol-generating article is such that at least part of the delayed-release substrate lies downstream of at least part of the aerosol-generating substrate. In this way, as aerosol leaves the aerosol-generating substrate and moves downstream, at least some of the aerosol will make contact with at least the part of the delayed-release substrate which is located downstream.

[0029] In some examples, the entire delayed-release substrate lies downstream of at least part of the aerosol-generating substrate. In some examples, the entire delayed-release substrate lies downstream of the entire aerosol-generating substrate, i.e. the delayed-release substrate lies downstream of the aerosol-generating substrate and either makes contact with the aerosol-generating substrate, or is displaced from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0030] In some examples, the delayed-release substrate lies immediately downstream of the aerosol-generating substrate. In other words, in some examples there are no further components of the aerosol-generating article between the delayed-release substrate and the aerosol-generating substrate (although there may be a void or gap). In this way, the aerosol generated by the aerosol-generating substrate can easily make contact with the delayed-release substrate without being diverted or obstructed by other components of the aerosol-generating article.

[0031] In some examples, the delayed-release substrate is held or supported in a fixed position within the aerosol-generating article by contact with at least two components of the aerosol-generating article. For example, the delayed-release substrate may be "sandwiched" between two separate components, thereby preventing movement of the delayed-release substrate from its chosen position. In some examples, one of the components is the aerosol-generating substrate. In some examples, one of the components is the aerosol-generating substrate and another of the components is a filter component. In some examples, one of the components is the aerosol-generating substrate and another of the components is a paper rod.

[0032] In some examples, the delayed-release substrate is held or supported within the body of the aerosol-generating substrate. For example, when the aerosol-generating substrate comprises a slit or gathered sheet of tobacco or tobacco-derived material, the delayed-release substrate may be embedded within the aerosol-generating substrate within folds of the gathered sheet or between strands of the slit sheet.

[0033] In some examples, the delayed-release substrate is configured to begin to release the active compound after a predetermined period of time after the start of a smoking session. A typical smoking session with a HT consumable may be around 5 minutes. In some examples, the delayed-release substrate is configured to begin to release the active compound after a period of time of at least 1 minute, at least 2 minutes or at least 3 minutes into the smoking session. In this way, the user benefits from an initial delivery of active compound from the aerosol-generating substrate only (an initial "hit"), and after the predetermined period of time, as the amount of active compound delivered by the aerosol-generating substrate begins to deplete, active compound begins to be delivered by the delayed-release substrate (a subsequent "hit").

[0034] In some examples, the delayed-release substrate is configured to begin to release the active compound after a period of time of from 1 minute to 5 minutes, for example from 2 minutes to 5 minutes or from 3 minutes to 5 minutes into the smoking session.

[0035] In some examples, the delayed-release substrate comprises one or more swellable polymers.

[0036] In some examples, the delayed-release substrate comprises one or more bioresorbable polymers. Bioresorbable polymers are polymers which dissolve or degrade and are absorbed within the body and which are non-toxic or substantially non-toxic, and which will swell when brought into contact with a suitable solvent / liquid (e.g. an aerosol). Since dissolution, degradation and / or swelling is the desired mechanism by which active compound is released from the delayed-release substrate, and since a user will inhale products of the aerosol-generating article, bioresorbable polymers offer a suitable choice of polymer for the polymer matrix of the delayed-release substrate.

[0037] Bioresorbable polymers which may be suitable for the polymer matrix of the delayed-release substrate include starch, polylactide, polyglycolide, Poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) or Poly(D,L-lactide) (PDLLA), Poly(L-lactide) (PLLA), Poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL), Poly L-lactide-co-glycolide (PLLGA), Poly(L-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) (PLCL), poly(-3-hydroxybutyrate), polyhyaluronic acid esters, polydioxanone, aliphatic polyesters, natural polymers, polyanhydrides, poly(ortho esters), polyphosphazenes, poly(amino acids), "pseudo"-poly(amino acids), polyalkylcyanoacrylates, polypropylene fumarate), poly(ester-ether), and poly(vinyl alcohol).

[0038] In some examples, the delayed-release substrate consists of the active compound dispersed within a single species of polymer selected from starch, polylactide, polyglycolide, Poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) or Poly(D,L-lactide) (PDLLA), Poly(L-lactide) (PLLA), Poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL), Poly L-lactide-co-glycolide (PLLGA), Poly(L-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) (PLCL), poly(-3-hydroxybutyrate), polyhyaluronic acid esters, polydioxanone, aliphatic polyesters, natural polymers, polyanhydrides, poly(ortho esters), polyphosphazenes, poly(amino acids), "pseudo"-poly(amino acids), polyalkylcyanoacrylates, polypropylene fumarate), poly(ester-ether), and poly(vinyl alcohol).

[0039] In some examples, the delayed-release substrate comprises starch. In some examples, the polymer matrix of the delayed-release substrate consists of starch. In some examples, the delayed-release substrate consists of the active compound dispersed within starch.

[0040] In some examples, the delayed-release substrate has a width of from 1 mm to 7 mm, for example from 3 mm to 5 mm. In this way, the delayed-release substrate may conveniently fit within an aerosol-generating article, e.g. enclosed within a paper wrapper which forms an outer layer of the aerosol-generating article.

[0041] In some examples, the delayed-release substrate has a width which is smaller than the internal diameter of the aerosol-generating article. In this way, a clear passage remains for an aerosol stream to pass the delayed-release substrate when the user inhales, i.e. the delayed-release substrate does not block the path of the aerosol or significantly increase the resistance to draw when the user inhales. In some examples, the delayed-release substrate has a width which is smaller than 90% of the internal diameter of the aerosol-generating article, for example smaller than 85%, smaller than 80%, smaller than 75%, smaller than 70%, smaller than 65% or smaller than 60%.

[0042] Here, "width" refers to the dimension of the delayed-release substrate which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article (i.e. perpendicular to the flow path of aerosol). For a spherical delayed-release substrate, the width is equal to its diameter. For e.g. a cylindrical delayed-release substrate which is positioned with the major axis of the cylinder parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article, the width is the diameter of the circular face of the cylinder.

[0043] In some examples, the aerosol-generating article is a heat-not-burn (HNB) consumable.

[0044] In some examples, the aerosol-generating article further comprises one or more of: a mouthpiece segment at a downstream end of the aerosol-generating article; a hollow bore filter located downstream of the aerosol-generating substrate; and a cardboard tube located downstream of the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0045] In the exemplary aspects and embodiments described herein, the aerosol-generating article can be a consumable, e.g. a HT consumable, and the aerosol-generating apparatus can be a HT device as described above. The aerosol-generating article comprises an aerosol-generating substrate which may include a solid (as opposed to liquid) substrate capable of being heated to release at least one volatile compound that can form an aerosol. It will be appreciated that tobacco leaf is one such substrate, wherein an aerosol is generated by inhaling through the heated substrate. However, those skilled in the art will be aware that aerosol-generating systems might also be easily configured to heat non-tobacco organic material such as other plant material (e.g., cannabis leaf). Consequently, the aerosol-generating article (e.g. a HT consumable) is intended at its broadest to include an aerosol-generating substrate comprising at least one volatile compound that is intended to be vaporised / aerosolised and that may provide the user with a recreational and / or medicinal effect when inhaled. Suitable chemical and / or physiologically active volatile compounds include the group consisting of: nicotine, cocaine, caffeine, THC, CBD, opiates and opioids, cathine and cathinone, cannabinoids, kavalactones, mysticin, beta-carboline alkaloids, salvinorin A, together with any combinations, functional equivalents to, and / or synthetic alternatives of the foregoing.

[0046] Consequently, the aerosol-generating substrate of the aerosol-generating article may comprise a plant material. The plant material may comprise at least one plant material selected from the list including Amaranthus dubius, Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (Bearberry), Argemone mexicana, Amica, Artemisia vulgaris, Yellow Tees, Galea zacatechichi, Canavalia maritima (Baybean), Cecropia mexicana (Guamura), Cestrum noctumum, Cynoglossum virginianum (wild comfrey), Cytisus scoparius, Damiana, Entada rheedii, Eschscholzia califomica (California Poppy), Fittonia albivenis, Hippobroma longiflora, Humulus japonica (Japanese Hops), Humulus lupulus (Hops), Lactuca virosa (Lettuce Opium), Laggera alata, Leonotis leonurus, Leonurus cardiaca (Motherwort), Leonurus sibiricus (Honeyweed), Lobelia cardinalis, Lobelia inflata (Indian-tobacco), Lobelia siphilitica, Nepeta cataria (Catnip), Nicotiana species (Tobacco), Nymphaea alba (White Lily), Nymphaea caerulea (Blue Lily), Opium poppy, Passiflora incamata (Passionflower), Pedicularis densiflora (Indian Warrior), Pedicularis groenlandica (Elephant's Head), Salvia divinorum, Salvia dorrii (Tobacco Sage), Salvia species (Sage), Scutellaria galericulata, Scutellaria lateriflora, Scutellaria nana, Scutellaria species (Skullcap), Sida acuta (Wireweed), Sida rhombifolia, Silene capensis, Syzygium aromaticum (Clove), Tagetes lucida (Mexican Tarragon), Tarchonanthus camphoratus, Tumera diffusa (Damiana), Verbascum (Mullein), Zamia latifolia (Maconha Brava) together with any combinations, functional equivalents to, and / or synthetic alternatives of the foregoing.

[0047] It will however be appreciated that in particularly suitable exemplary embodiments, the plant material is tobacco. Thus in some examples, the aerosol-generating substrate comprises tobacco or a tobacco derivative. Here, any type of tobacco may be used. This includes, but is not limited to, flue-cured tobacco, burley tobacco, Maryland Tobacco, dark-air cured tobacco, oriental tobacco, dark-fired tobacco, perique tobacco and rustica tobacco. This also includes blends of the above-mentioned tobaccos.

[0048] The tobacco may comprise one or more of leaf tobacco, stem tobacco, tobacco powder, tobacco dust, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, homogenised tobacco, shredded tobacco, extruded tobacco, cut rag tobacco and / or reconstituted tobacco (e.g., slurry recon or paper recon). In each case, the aerosol-generating substrate may be formed into a rod of material. For instance, as termed herein, a tobacco rod. The aerosol-generating substrate (e.g. tobacco rod) may be formed into a substantially cylindrical shape such that the article / consumable resembles a conventional cigarette. The aerosol-generating substrate may have a diameter of between 5 and 10 mm (e.g., between 6 and 9 mm or 6 and 8 mm e.g., around 7 mm). The aerosol-generating substrate may have an axial length of between 10 and 25 mm (e.g., between 11 and 14 mm, such as around 12 or 13 mm).

[0049] In exemplary embodiments comprising recon tobacco, the aerosol-generating substrate may comprise a gathered sheet of homogenised recon tobacco or gathered shreds / strips formed from such a sheet. Here, the plurality of strips may be substantially aligned. Moreover, the plurality of strips, parallel to one another, may be substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the rod. In addition to this, the plurality of strips may be tightly packed together.

[0050] In exemplary aspects and embodiments described herein, the aerosol-generating substrate may comprise one or more additives selected from humectants, flavourants, fillers, aqueous / non-aqueous solvents and binders. Here, the flavourant may be provided in solid or liquid form. It may be selected from one or more of menthol, liquorice, chocolate, fruit flavour (including e.g., citrus, cherry etc.), vanilla, spice (e.g., ginger, cinnamon) and tobacco flavour. The flavourant may be evenly dispersed throughout the aerosol-generating substrate or may be provided in isolated locations and / or varying concentrations throughout the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0051] Humectants are provided as vapor generators - the resulting vapor helps carry the volatile active compounds and increases visible vapor. Suitable humectants include polyhydric alcohols (e.g. propylene glycol (PG), triethylene glycol, 1 ,2-butane diol and vegetable glycerine (VG)) and their esters (e.g. glycerol mono-, di- or tri-acetate). They may be present in the combustible material of the smoking body in an amount between 5 and 50 wt %. The humectant content of the combustible material of the smoking body may have a lower limit of at least 5% by weight of the plant material, such as at least 10 wt %, such as at least 20 wt %, such as at least 30 wt %, or such as least 40 wt %. The humectant content of the combustible material of the smoking body may have an upper limit of at most 50% by weight of the plant material, such as at most 40 wt %, such as at most 30 wt %, or such as at most 20 wt %. Preferably, the humectant content is 10 to 40 wt % of the combustible material of the smoking body, such as 10 to 30 wt %.

[0052] Suitable binders are known in the art and may act to bind together the components forming the combustible material of the smoking body. Binders may comprise starches and / or cellulosic binders such as methyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose and methyl cellulose, gums such as xanthan, guar, arabic and / or locust bean gum, organic acids and their salts such as alginic acid / sodium alginate, agar and pectins. Preferably the binder content is 5 to 10 wt % of the combustible material of the smoking body e.g. around 6 to 8 wt %.

[0053] Suitable fillers are known in the art and may act to strengthen the combustible material of the smoking body. Fillers may comprise fibrous (non-tobacco) fillers such as cellulose fibers, lignocellulose fibers (e.g. wood fibers), jute fibers and combinations thereof. Preferably, the filler content is 5 to 10 wt % of the combustible material of the smoking body e.g. around 6 to 9 wt %.

[0054] The combustible material of the smoking body may comprise an aqueous and / or non-aqueous solvent. In some embodiments, the combustible material of the smoking body has a water content of between 5 and 10 wt % e.g. between 6 to 9 wt % such as between 7 to 9 wt %.

[0055] In some exemplary aspects and embodiments described herein, the aerosol-generating article can be specifically adapted for use with a HT device (either known devices or the HT devices described herein). In particular, a combustible cigarette is not specifically adapted for use with a HT device. Primarily, this is because insertion of a combustible cigarette into a HT device and subsequent operation of the HT device, would not generate an acceptable vapour for consumption by the user. In particular, an insufficient aerosol vapour would be generated. Consequently, in the exemplary embodiments of aerosol-generating articles (e.g. HT consumables) described and claimed herein, one specific adaption for use with a HT device is the incorporation of a carrier in the aerosol-generating substrate (e.g. tobacco material). Here, during use, a first vapour is produced from the tobacco material volatising the nicotine (or other active substance as described above) and a second vapour is produced from vaporisation of the carrier. Any known or suitable carrier is considered. For instance, the carrier added to the aerosol-generating substrate (e.g., the plant material such as tobacco) suitably comprises polyglcol (PG), propylene glycol, and / or vegetable glycerine (VG).

[0056] In some exemplary aerosol-generating article embodiments described herein, in addition to an aerosol-generating substrate, there may also be provided further components or elements combined with the aerosol-generating substrate as is known in the art as well as described and claimed herein. Thus, the exemplary aerosol-generating article may include an aerosol-generating substrate combined with one or more further components or elements by a wrapping paper which can include a combining paper and / or a tipping paper. The combining paper may circumscribe the aerosol-generating substrate and further components and may be glued or adhered to form a homogenous component or rod as is known in the art and as explained in the background section above. Therefore, except where incompatible, the addition or combination of features of the described and claimed aspects and embodiments of the consumables is expressly considered. Furthermore, as used herein, wrapping paper in its broadest is intended to include any suitable substrate that can be used to circumscribe the components of the aerosol-generating article to join or wrap one or more of the components. It is envisaged that suitable substrates are thin and flexible, with paper or similar materials being exemplary. Thus, as used herein, wrapping substrate is used interchangeably to reference wrapping paper in its broadest form even for instance when the aerosol-generating article paper is not combining components.

[0057] As will become apparent, the described aspects and embodiments can be suitable for use with a HT system wherein the HT consumable is intended to be used as described in the background section above. That is, the aerosol-generating article (e.g. a consumable) can be inserted into a cavity at a downstream end of the HT device. Or stated alternatively, the aerosol-generating article is insertable into the cavity in a downstream to upstream direction. Herein, such arrangements can be termed 'downstream' aerosol-generating article or consumable. Here, the aerosol-generating substrate is arranged at an upstream end and a distal, downstream end of the aerosol-generating article (e.g. the HT consumable) comprises a mouthpiece, for instance, a mouthpiece filter (e.g., a terminal filter arrangement). Here, suitably, the mouthpiece filter may comprise a monoacetate filter or a hollow bore filter. In some arrangements, the hollow bore filter may be a triple bore filter e.g., with three bores arranged in an equilateral triangle around a central axis. Alternatively or additionally, the mouthpiece filter may be comprised of cellulose acetate or polypropylene tow. Further alternatively or additionally, the mouthpiece filter element (e.g., the terminal filter element) may be comprised of activated charcoal or may be comprised of paper. In each case, the mouthpiece filter element is suitably at least partly (e.g., preferably, but not necessarily entirely) circumscribed with a plug wrap e.g., a paper plug wrap. In some arrangements of the downstream aerosol-generating articles, the mouthpiece filter may include flavourant. For instance, the mouthpiece filter can be formed with a capsule able to be fractured (fractureable) that a user can fracture to release a vapour or liquid (e.g., provided with a crush ball) as is known in the art.

[0058] In some exemplary downstream aerosol-generating articles, the mouthpiece filter (at the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article) is suitably joined to the upstream elements forming the aerosol-generating article and including at least the aerosol-generating substrate by a circumscribing tipping layer e.g., a tipping paper layer (which can be a component of the wrapping paper). The tipping paper may have an axial length longer than the axial length of the terminal filter element such that the tipping paper completely circumscribes the terminal filter element plus the wrapping layer surrounding any adjacent upstream element.

[0059] As explained, the aerosol-generating article may comprise further components and elements. For instance, in some exemplary downstream aerosol-generating articles, further elements can be arranged between the aerosol-generating substrate and the mouthpiece filter. Whereas in non-downstream embodiments which might not necessarily comprise a mouthpiece filter, the further elements may be provided to either or one side of the aerosol-generating substrate. For instance, in some embodiments, the aerosol-generating article comprises an aerosol-cooling element which is adapted to cool the aerosol generated from the aerosol-generating substrate (by heat exchange) before being inhaled by the user. That is, in some aerosol-generating articles, the cooling element regulates the temperature of vapour. In some exemplary arrangements, wherein the cooling element may suitably comprise a bore filter and a paper tube, each of the bore filter and the paper tube regulate the temperature of the vapour in use. In some arrangements, the bore filter may be a hollow bore filter. In some arrangements, the paper tube may be a spiral paper tube. In other words, the paper tube may be a continuous paper tube wound in a spiral or the paper tube may be a cardboard tube. In the exemplary embodiments, the paper tube itself may be impermeable to air but comprise a plurality of perforations e.g., formed by a laser. The plurality of perforations may be distributed circumferentially about the paper tube and correspond in number and location with the plurality of perforations of the tipping paper to provide ventilation into an internal cavity of the paper tube.

[0060] In some arrangements, as described herein, the exemplary HT consumable is configured as an upstream consumable. That is, a consumable for use with a HT device having a cavity at an upstream end for receiving the consumable, an air passage through the device to a mouthpiece at a downstream end.

[0061] Optionally, the aerosol-generating substrate may be a cylindrical rod. Here, the cylindrical rod can have opposed end faces. Each end face may be a planar face. That is, the end face is said to be a planar face along the predominant plane of the aerosol-generating substrate, even though the end face may be formed from the termination of multiple strands at the common plane. So, in the example of a tobacco rod, the tobacco rod has a planar face on each end, even though the end face may be formed from the termination of multiple strands of tobacco with voids therebetween. The cylindrical rod has a longitudinal axis, and the end faces are suitably perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0062] In a second aspect the present disclosure provides an aerosol-generating system comprising the aerosol-generating article according to the first aspect, and an aerosol-generating apparatus comprising a heater.

[0063] At its most general, the second aspect provides a heated tobacco (HT) system comprising an aerosol-generating article (e.g. a HT consumable) and an aerosol-generating apparatus (e.g. a HT device) configured with a heating zone.

[0064] The aerosol-generating apparatus may include a cavity that may be configured to receive the aerosol-generating article. The cavity may be sized and / or dimensioned to conform with the outer dimensions of the aerosol-generating article (or vice versa). For example, the cavity may have the shape of a circular bore and the aerosol-generating article has the shape of a cylinder. A diameter of the cavity may the same as or slightly larger than the diameter of the aerosol-generating article. The cavity may be a blind hole in the aerosol-generating apparatus. The cavity may be provided by a bottom wall and a side wall that connects the bottom wall to an opening or aperture of the cavity. If the aerosol-generating article is fully inserted into the cavity, all outer surfaces of the aerosol-generating article that are arranged within the cavity may contact inner walls of the cavity (e.g. the bottom wall and the side wall).

[0065] The cavity may form the opening / aperture in a housing of the aerosol-generating apparatus. The aperture and / or the cavity may be closed by a lid, a cap, or other types of closing means if the consumable is not inserted into the cavity. If the aerosol-generating article is fully inserted into the cavity (for example by abutting against the bottom wall of the cavity), a part of the consumable (e.g. one or more filters) may protrude from the cavity. The aerosol-generating article may be sized so that the one or more filters are not arranged in the cavity so that they are not heated by the aerosol-generating unit.

[0066] The aerosol-generating article may be inserted into the cavity for aerosolising one or more components the aerosol-generating substrate. For example, the tobacco portion / section of the aerosol-generating article may be inserted into the cavity to be heated by the aerosol-generating unit. The aerosol-generating unit may be configured to generate heat for heating the aerosol-generating substrate when inserted into the cavity.

[0067] The components of the aerosol-generating unit that generate the heat may be arranged in and / or on the walls of the cavity so that the heat provided by the aerosol-generating unit is generated close to the aerosol-generating substrate (e.g. the precursor). A heat insulation may be provided around the cavity for reducing heat transfer from the aerosol-generating unit towards other parts of the aerosol-generating apparatus. The walls of the cavity may be made from a material with high thermal conductivity (e.g. metal) so that the heat that is generated by the aerosol-generating unit is quickly conducted along the walls of the cavity for uniformly heating the consumable.

[0068] The aerosol-generating unit defines a heating zone, where the heating zone is an area of the cavity over which the aerosol generating unit provides or generates heat.

[0069] The longitudinal direction of the cavity may be parallel or coincide with the longitudinal direction of the aerosol-generating apparatus and / or the aerosol-generating article when inserted into the cavity.

[0070] In some examples, the aerosol generating unit includes an inside-out heater having a heating element configured to penetrate the aerosol-generating substrate of the aerosol-generating article.

[0071] In one exemplary embodiment, the aerosol-generating apparatus, optionally the heating element, includes a resistive heater comprising a rod or blade that extends into the cavity. Here, the rod or blade is intended to be inserted into the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0072] In some examples, the aerosol generating unit includes an outside-in heater arranged in or on a side wall of the cavity for heating an outer surface of the aerosol-generating article when inserted into the cavity.

[0073] Thus, other embodiments of the aerosol generating unit are envisaged such as an outside-in heater. For instance, the outside-in heater may include a resistive heater and / or an infrared heater that is arranged to heat the sides of the aerosol-generating article.

[0074] The aerosol-generating unit may include the inside-out heater and the outside-in heater. Alternatively, embodiments are envisaged wherein the heating element is distributed in or on the consumable. For instance, the aerosol generating unit may include one or more induction heaters wherein a susceptor is provided in the aerosol-generating article. An electromagnetic source of the induction heater can be provided about the cavity.

[0075] Optionally, the stop is formed by the closed end of the cavity. However, in some embodiments, it is envisaged that the stop is provided as a ledge or ridge within the cavity. In particular, in embodiments including an aerosol-generating apparatus (e.g. the HT device) having a cavity at an upstream end such that air is drawn through the aerosol-generating substrate, the aerosol-generating apparatus can be configured to provide an airflow from the distal end of the cavity to a downstream mouthpiece on the aerosol-generating apparatus. Here, the distal end of the cavity can include a passageway. For instance, the passageway can be formed in a centre of a ledge. Here, a mesh can preferably be provided at the distal end of the cavity.

[0076] The aerosol-generating article may have an elongate shape, and optionally a rod shape (i.e., the aerosol-generating article forms a substantially cylindrical outer shape), the upstream and downstream ends of the aerosol-generating article can be air-permeable to allow an axial airflow through the aerosol-generating article.

[0077] In the exemplary aerosol-generating apparatuses (e.g. HT devices), and in relation to the aerosol-generating articles (e.g. HT consumables), the aerosol-generating apparatuses that the aerosol-generating articles are intended for use with, the aerosol-generating apparatus may comprise any one or more of the following exemplary features, except where those features are incompatible as apparent for the skilled person. This applies for both aerosol-generating apparatuses configured with a cavity configured to allow insertion of the aerosol-generating article in the upstream and downstream direction. Optionally, the aerosol-generating apparatus may comprise an elongate housing (also referred to as a body). An end of the elongate body may be configured for engagement with an aerosol-generating article (e.g. a consumable). For example, the body may be configured for engagement with a heated tobacco consumable. Exemplary aerosol-generating apparatuses comprise a cavity that is configured for receipt of at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article (i.e., for engagement with the consumable). As explained, the aerosol-forming article is of the type that comprises an aerosol former (e.g., carried by an aerosol-generating substrate).

[0078] In exemplary embodiments, the heating element is rigidly mounted to the body. The heating element may be elongate so as to define a longitudinal axis and may, for example, have a transverse profile (i.e., transverse to a longitudinal axis of the heating element) that is substantially circular (i.e., the heating element may be generally cylindrical). Alternatively, the heating element may have a transverse profile that is rectangular (i.e., the heating element may be a "blade heater"). The heating element may alternatively be in the shape of a tube (i.e., the heating element may be a "tube heater"). The heating element may take other forms (e.g., the heating element may have an elliptical transverse profile). The shape and / or size (e.g., diameter) of the transverse profile of the heating element may be generally consistent for the entire length (or substantially the entire length) of the heating element.

[0079] In exemplary embodiments, the heating element is between 15 mm and 25 mm long, e.g., between 18 mm and 20 mm long, e.g., around 19 mm long. The heating element may have a diameter of between 1.5 mm and 2.5 mm, e.g., a diameter between 2 mm and 2.3 mm, e.g., a diameter of around 2.15 mm. The heating element may be formed of ceramic. The heating element may comprise a core (e.g., a ceramic core) comprising Al 2 O 3 . The core of the heating element may have a diameter of 1.8 mm to 2.1 mm, e.g., between 1.9 mm and 2 mm. The heating element may comprise an outer layer (e.g., an outer ceramic layer) comprising Al 2 O 3 . The thickness of the outer layer may be between 160 µm and 220 µm, e.g., between 170 µm and 190 µm, e.g., around 180 µm. The heating element may comprise a heating track, which may extend longitudinally along the heating element. The heating track may be sandwiched between the outer layer and the core of the heating element. The heating track may comprise tungsten and / or rhenium. The heating track may have a thickness of around 20 µm.

[0080] In exemplary embodiments, the heating element is located in the cavity (of the aerosol-generating apparatus), and may extend (e.g., along a longitudinal axis) from an internal base (i.e., distal end) of the cavity towards an opening of the cavity.

[0081] Optionally, the heating element may be in the form of a rod or blade that extends from the body and into the cavity. That is, the heating element extends from an end of the body that is configured for engagement with the consumable. Here, the heating element is configured for insertion into an aerosol-forming article (e.g., a HT consumable) when an aerosol-forming article is received in the cavity. In that respect, a distal end (i.e., distal from a base of the heating element where it is mounted to the aerosol-generating apparatus) of the heating element may comprise a tapered portion, which may facilitate insertion of the heating element into the aerosol-forming article. The heating element may fully penetrate an aerosol-forming article when the aerosol-forming article is received in the cavity. That is, the entire length, or substantially the entire length, of the heating element may be received in the aerosol-forming article.

[0082] The heating element may have a length that is less than, or substantially the same as, an axial length of an aerosol-generating substrate forming part of an aerosol-forming article (e.g., a HT consumable). Thus, when such an aerosol-forming article is engaged with the aerosol-generating apparatus, the heating element may only penetrate the aerosol-generating substrate, rather than other components of the aerosol-forming article. The heating element may penetrate the aerosol-generating substrate for substantially the entire axial length of the aerosol forming-substrate of the aerosol-forming article. Thus, heat may be transferred from (e.g., an outer circumferential surface of) the heating element to the surrounding aerosol-generating substrate, when penetrated by the heating element. That is, heat may be transferred radially outwardly (in the case of a cylindrical heating element).

[0083] Alternatively, the heating element can be configured to transfer heat radially inwardly (in the case of a tube heater). In exemplary embodiments where the heating element is a tube heater, the heating element of the tube heater may surround at least a portion of the cavity. When the portion of the aerosol-forming article (i.e., HT consumable) is received in the cavity, the heating element surrounds a portion of the aerosol-forming article (i.e., so as to heat that portion of the aerosol-forming article, for instance the aerosol-generating substrate). In particular, the heating element may surround an aerosol-generating substrate of the aerosol-forming article. That is, when an aerosol-forming article is engaged with the device, the aerosol-generating substrate of the aerosol-forming article may be located adjacent an inner surface of the (tubular) heating element. When the heating element is activated (by discharging a battery across the heating element), heat may be transferred radially inwardly from the inner surface of the heating element to heat the aerosol forming substrate.

[0084] In exemplary embodiments where the heating element is a tube heater, the cavity comprises a (e.g., circumferential) wall (or walls) and the (tubular) heating element extends around at least a portion of the wall(s). In this way, the wall may be located between the inner surface of the heating element and an outer surface of the aerosol-forming article. The wall (or walls) of the cavity may be formed from a thermally conductive material (e.g., a metal) to allow heat conduction from the heating element to the aerosol-forming article. Thus, heat may be conducted from the heating element, through the cavity wall (or walls), to the aerosol-generating substrate of an aerosol-generating article received in the cavity. Alternatively, here, the heating element may be an infrared (IR) heating element. A tubular IR heating element may be configured to emit more IR radiation across the wall (or walls) than is transmitted by conduction. The wall (or walls) is therefore suitably transmissive of the emitted IR radiation. The combination of the wall (or walls) with the tubular IR heating element may be referred to as an IR heating tube. That is, in exemplary embodiments, the cavity may be formed from an IR heating tube.

[0085] The aerosol-generating apparatus may further comprise a provision, preferably a mechanical means, to intrude into the cavity. For instance, o-rings or the like that are configured to slightly compress against the inserted aerosol-generating article in order to grip the aerosol-generating article and provide resistance to withdrawal (and in relation to the upstream configured cavities, to prevent the aerosol-generating article falling out under gravity in use). In embodiments comprising electrical connections between the device and the aerosol-generating article, the electrical connections may provide the resistance to withdrawal of the aerosol-generating article, or additional assist in doing so.

[0086] In some exemplary embodiments, the aerosol-generating apparatus comprises a cap disposed at the end of the body that is configured for engagement with the aerosol-generating article. Where the aerosol-generating apparatus comprises the heating element configured to be inserted into the aerosol-generating article, the cap may at least partially enclose the heating element. The cap may be moveable between an open position in which access is provided to the heating element, and a closed position in which the cap at least partially encloses the heating element. The cap may be slidably engaged (i.e., slid to engage) with the body of the aerosol-generating apparatus, and may be slidable (i.e., able to slide) between the open and closed positions. In the alternative, rather than or additional to opening and closing the cavity, the sliding between the open and closed position may act to lift the aerosol-generating article from heating element.

[0087] In exemplary embodiments, the cap defines at least a portion of the cavity of the device. That is, the cavity may be fully defined by the cap, or each of the cap and body may define a portion of the cavity. Where the cap fully defines the cavity, the cap may comprise an aperture for receipt of the heating element into the cavity (when the cap is in the closed position). The cap may comprise an opening to the cavity. The opening may be configured for receipt of at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article (and preferably at least the portion including the aerosol-generating substate). That is, the aerosol-generating article may be inserted through the opening and into the cavity (so as to be engaged with the device).

[0088] In exemplary embodiments, the cap is configured such that when an aerosol-generating article is engaged with the device (e.g., received in the cavity), only a portion of the aerosol-generating article is received in the cavity. That is, a portion of the aerosol-generating article (not received in the cavity) may protrude from (i.e., extend beyond) the opening. In embodiments wherein the cavity is an upstream cavity, this (protruding) portion of the aerosol-generating article is a terminal (e.g., mouth) end of the aerosol-generating article, which is received in a user's mouth for the purpose of inhaling aerosol formed by the system.

[0089] In exemplary embodiments, the aerosol-generating apparatus comprises a power source or may be connectable to a power source (e.g., a power source separate to the aerosol-generating apparatus). Here, the power source is electrically connectable to the heating element. In that respect, altering (e.g., toggling) the electrical connection of the power source to the heating element may affect a state of the heating element. For example, toggling the electrical connection of the power source to the heating element may toggle the heating element between an on state and an off state (e.g., PWM control). The power source may be a power store. For example, the power source may be a battery or rechargeable battery (e.g., preferably a lithium-ion battery).

[0090] In exemplary embodiments, the aerosol-generating apparatus comprises an input connection (e.g., a USB port, Micro USB port, USB-C port, etc.). The input connection may be configured for connection to an external source of electrical power, such as a mains electrical supply outlet. The input connection may, in some cases, be used as a substitute for an internal power source (e.g., battery or rechargeable battery). That is, the input connection may be electrically connectable to the heating element (for providing power to the heating element). Hence, in some forms, the input connection may form at least part of the power source of the device. Where the power source comprises a rechargeable power source (such as a rechargeable battery), the input connection may be used to charge and recharge the power source.

[0091] In exemplary embodiments, the aerosol-generating apparatus comprises a user interface (Ul). In some embodiments the UI may include input means to receive operative commands from the user. The input means of the UI may allow the user to control at least one aspect of the operation of the device. In some embodiments the input means may comprise a power button to switch the device between an on state and an off state. In some embodiments the UI may additionally or alternatively comprise output means to convey information to the user. In some embodiments the output means may comprise a light to indicate a condition of the device (and / or the aerosol-forming article) to the user. The condition of the device (and / or aerosol-forming article) indicated to the user may comprise a condition indicative of the operation of the heating element. For example, the condition may comprise whether the heating element is in an off state or an on state. In some embodiments, the UI unit may comprise at least one of a button, a display, a touchscreen, a switch, a light, and the like. For example, the output means may comprise one or more (e.g., two, three, four, etc.) light-emitting diodes ("LEDs") that may be located on the body of the device. In some exemplary embodiments, the device may further comprise a puff sensor (e.g., airflow sensor), which form part of the input means of the Ul. The puff sensor may be configured to detect a user drawing on an end (i.e., a terminal (mouth) end) of the system. The puff sensor may, for example, be a pressure sensor or a microphone. The puff sensor may be configured to produce a signal indicative of a puff state. The signal may be indicative of the user drawing (an aerosol from the aerosol-generating article) such that it is e.g., in the form of a binary signal. Alternatively, or additionally, the signal may be indicative of a characteristic of the draw (e.g., a flow rate of the draw, length of time of the draw, etc).

[0092] In exemplary embodiments, the aerosol-generating apparatus comprises a controller, or may be connectable to a controller that may be configured to control at least one function of the device. The controller may comprise a microcontroller that may e.g., be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The controller may also comprise a memory, e.g., non-volatile memory. The memory may include instructions, which, when implemented, may cause the controller to perform certain tasks or steps of a method. Where the device comprises an input connection, the controller may be connected to the input connection. The controller may be configured to control the operation of the heating element. Thus, the controller may be configured to control vaporisation of an aerosol forming part of an aerosol-forming article engaged with the device. The controller may be configured to control the voltage applied by power source to the heating element. For example, the controller may be configured to toggle between applying a full output voltage (of the power source) to the heating element and applying no voltage to the heating element. Alternatively, or additionally, the control unit may implement a more complex heating element control protocol. In exemplary embodiments, the controller includes a voltage regulator to regulate the output voltage supplied by the power source to form a regulated voltage. The regulated voltage may subsequently be applied to the heating element.

[0093] In some embodiments, where the aerosol-generating apparatus comprises a Ul, the controller may be operatively connected to one or more components of the Ul. The controller may be configured to receive command signals from an input means of the Ul. The controller may be configured to control the heating element in response to the command signals. For example, the controller may be configured to receive "on" and "off" command signals from the UI and, in response, may control the heating element so as to be in a corresponding on or off state. The controller may be configured to send output signals to a component of the UI. The UI may be configured to convey information to a user, via an output means, in response to such output signals (received from the controller). For example, where the device comprises one or more LEDs, the LEDs may be operatively connected to the controller. Hence, the controller may be configured to control the illumination of the LEDs (e.g. in response to an output signal). For example, the controller may be configured to control the illumination of the LEDs according to (e.g., an on or off) state of the heating element.

[0094] Where the aerosol-generating apparatus comprises a sensor (e.g., a puff / airflow sensor), the controller may be operatively connected to the sensor. The controller may be configured to receive a signal from the sensor (e.g., indicative of a condition of the device and / or engaged aerosol-forming article). The controller may be configured to control the heating element, or an aspect of the output means, based on the signal from the sensor.

[0095] In some exemplary embodiments, the device may comprise a wireless interface configured to communicate wirelessly (e.g., via Bluetooth (e.g., a Bluetooth low-energy connection) or WiFi) with an external device. Similarly, the input connection may be configured for wired connection to an external device so as to provide communication between the device and the external device. The external device may be a mobile device. For example, the external device may be a smart phone, tablet, smart watch, or smart car. An application (e.g., app) may be installed on the external device (e.g., mobile device). The application may facilitate communication between the device and the external device via the wired or wireless connection. The wireless or wired interface may be configured to transfer signals between the external device and the controller of the device. In this respect, the controller may control an aspect of the device in response to a signal received from an external device. Alternatively, or additionally, an external device may respond to a signal received from the device (e.g., from the controller of the device).

[0096] As used herein, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" are intended to refer to the flow direction of the vapour / aerosol, i.e. with the downstream end of the article / consumable being the mouth end or outlet where the aerosol exits the consumable for inhalation by the user. The upstream end of the article / consumable is typically the opposing end to the downstream end. That is, where the airflow through the component or the system is substantially straight, the upstream end will be opposed to the downstream end. Where air inlets might be provided on the sides of the component, the downstream end is defined by the exit of the aerosol to the user and the upstream end is generally an opposed region including the inlets.

[0097] In a third aspect the present disclosure provides the use of an aerosol-generating system comprising the aerosol-generating article according to the first aspect, or the aerosol-generating system according to the second aspect, for the generation of an aerosol for inhalation by a user.

[0098] The present disclosure may provide a method of generating an aerosol, which may implement any one or more features disclosed herein. The method may comprise placing the aerosol-generating article according to the first aspect in an aerosol-generating apparatus comprising a heater, as described herein (e.g. a HT device).

[0099] The preceding summary is provided for purposes of summarizing some examples to provide a basic understanding of aspects of the subject matter described herein. Accordingly, the above-described features should not be construed to narrow the scope or spirit of the subject matter described herein in any way. Moreover, the above and / or proceeding examples may be combined in any suitable combination to provide further examples, except where such a combination is clearly impermissible or expressly avoided. Other features, aspects, and advantages of the subject matter described herein will become apparent from the following text and the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0100] Aspects, features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following description of examples in reference to the appended drawings in which like numerals denote like elements. Fig. 1 is a block system diagram showing an example aerosol generating apparatus. Fig. 2 is a block system diagram showing an example implementation of the apparatus of Fig. 1, where the aerosol generating apparatus is configured to generate aerosol from a solid precursor. Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example implementation of the apparatus of Fig. 2. Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section through part of an example implementation of the aerosol-forming article. Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section through an example implementation of the aerosol-forming article. Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section through another example implementation of the aerosol-forming article. Fig. 7 is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section through another example implementation of the aerosol-forming article. Fig. 8 is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section through another example implementation of the aerosol-forming article. Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section through an example implementation of the delayed-release substrate before contact with an aerosol. Fig. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section through an example implementation of the delayed-release substrate after contact with an aerosol. Fig. 11 is a schematic diagram showing a lateral cross-section through an exemplary aerosol-forming substrate. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0101] Before describing several examples implementing the present disclosure, it is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited by specific construction details or process steps set forth in the following description and accompanying drawings. Rather, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the present disclosure that the systems, apparatuses and / or methods described herein could be embodied differently and / or be practiced or carried out in various alternative ways.

[0102] Unless otherwise defined herein, scientific and technical terms used in connection with the presently disclosed inventive concept(s) shall have the meanings that are commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, and known techniques and procedures may be performed according to conventional methods well known in the art and as described in various general and more specific references that may be cited and discussed in the present specification.

[0103] Any patents, published patent applications, and non-patent publications mentioned in the specification are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0104] All examples implementing the present disclosure can be made and executed without undue experimentation in light of the present disclosure. While particular examples have been described, it will be apparent to those of skill in the art that variations may be applied to the systems, apparatus, and / or methods and in the steps or in the sequence of steps of the methods described herein without departing from the concept, spirit, and scope of the inventive concept(s). All such similar substitutions and modifications apparent to those skilled in the art are deemed to be within the spirit, scope, and concept of the inventive concept(s) as defined by the appended claims.

[0105] The use of the term "a" or "an" in the claims and / or the specification may mean "one," as well as "one or more," "at least one," and "one or more than one." As such, the terms "a," "an," and "the," as well as all singular terms, include plural referents unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Likewise, plural terms shall include the singular unless otherwise required by context.

[0106] The use of the term "or" in the present disclosure (including the claims) is used to mean an inclusive "and / or" unless explicitly indicated to refer to alternatives only or unless the alternatives are mutually exclusive. For example, a condition "A or B" is satisfied by any of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).

[0107] As used in this specification and claim(s), the words "comprising, "having," "including," or "containing" (and any forms thereof, such as "comprise" and "comprises," "have" and "has," "includes" and "include," or "contains" and "contain," respectively) are inclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps.

[0108] Unless otherwise explicitly stated as incompatible, or the physics or otherwise of the embodiments, examples, or claims prevent such a combination, the features of examples disclosed herein, and of the claims, may be integrated together in any suitable arrangement, especially ones where there is a beneficial effect in doing so. This is not limited to only any specified benefit, and instead may arise from an "ex post facto" benefit. This is to say that the combination of features is not limited by the described forms, particularly the form (e.g. numbering) of example(s), embodiment(s), or dependency of claim(s). Moreover, this also applies to the phrase "in one embodiment," "according to an embodiment," and the like, which are merely a stylistic form of wording and are not to be construed as limiting the following features to a separate embodiment to all other instances of the same or similar wording. This is to say, a reference to 'an,' 'one,' or 'some' embodiment(s) may be a reference to any one or more, and / or all embodiments, or combination(s) thereof, disclosed. Also, similarly, the reference to "the" embodiment may not be limited to the immediately preceding embodiment. Further, all references to one or more embodiments or examples are to be construed as non-limiting to the claims.

[0109] The present disclosure may be better understood in view of the following explanations, wherein the terms used that are separated by "or" may be used interchangeably: As used herein, an "aerosol generating apparatus" (or "electronic(e)-cigarette") may be an apparatus configured to deliver an aerosol to a user for inhalation by the user. The apparatus may additionally / alternatively be referred to as a "smoking substitute apparatus", if it is intended to be used instead of a conventional combustible smoking article. As used herein a combustible "smoking article" may refer to a cigarette, cigar, pipe or other article, that produces smoke (an aerosol comprising solid particulates and gas) via heating above the thermal decomposition temperature (typically by combustion and / or pyrolysis). An aerosol generated by the apparatus may comprise an aerosol with particle sizes of 0.2 - 7 microns, or less than 10 microns, or less than 7 microns. This particle size may be achieved by control of one or more of: heater temperature; cooling rate as the vapour condenses to an aerosol; flow properties including turbulence and velocity. The generation of aerosol by the aerosol generating apparatus may be controlled by an input device. The input device may be configured to be user-activated, and may for example include or take the form of an actuator (e.g. actuation button) and / or an airflow sensor.

[0110] Each occurrence of the aerosol generating apparatus being caused to generate aerosol for a period of time (which may be variable) may be referred to as an "activation" of the aerosol generating apparatus. The aerosol generating apparatus may be arranged to allow an amount of aerosol delivered to a user to be varied per activation (as opposed to delivering a fixed dose of aerosol), e.g. by activating an aerosol generating unit of the apparatus for a variable amount of time, e.g. based on the strength / duration of a draw of a user through a flow path of the apparatus (to replicate an effect of smoking a conventional combustible smoking article).

[0111] The aerosol generating apparatus may be portable. As used herein, the term "portable" may refer to the apparatus being for use when held by a user.

[0112] As used herein, an "aerosol generating system" may be a system that includes an aerosol generating apparatus and optionally other circuitry / components associated with the function of the apparatus, e.g. one or more external devices and / or one or more external components (here "external" is intended to mean external to the aerosol generating apparatus). As used herein, an "external device" and "external component" may include one or more of a: a charging device, a mobile device (which may be connected to the aerosol generating apparatus, e.g. via a wireless or wired connection); a networked-based computer (e.g. a remote server); a cloud-based computer; any other server system.

[0113] An example aerosol generating system may be a system for managing an aerosol generating apparatus. Such a system may include, for example, a mobile device, a network server, as well as the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0114] As used herein, an "aerosol" may include a suspension of precursor, including as one or more of: solid particles; liquid droplets; gas. Said suspension may be in a gas including air. An aerosol herein may generally refer to / include a vapour. An aerosol may include one or more components of the precursor.

[0115] As used herein, a "precursor" (or "aerosol-generating precursor") may include one or more of a: liquid; solid; gel; loose leaf material; other substance. The precursor may be processed by an aerosol generating unit of an aerosol generating apparatus to generate an aerosol. The precursor may include one or more of: an active component; a carrier; a flavouring. The active component may include one or more of nicotine; caffeine; a cannabidiol oil; a non-pharmaceutical formulation, e.g. a formulation which is not for treatment of a disease or physiological malfunction of the human body. The active component may be carried by the carrier, which may be a liquid, including propylene glycol and / or glycerine. The term "flavouring" may refer to a component that provides a taste and / or a smell to the user. The flavouring may include one or more of: Ethylvanillin (vanilla); menthol, Isoamyl acetate (banana oil); or other. The precursor may include a substrate, e.g. reconstituted tobacco to carry one or more of the active component; a carrier; a flavouring.

[0116] As used herein, a "substrate" may refer to a solid precursor (e.g. loose leaf precursor material or a "stick" of precursor material such as tobacco), or an absorbent material (e.g. fibrous non-precursor material, such as cotton or hemp) that is imbued with a precursor (e.g. liquid or gel precursor). A substrate may also be referred to as an "aerosol-generating substrate".

[0117] As used herein, a "storage portion" may be a portion of the apparatus adapted to store the precursor. It may be implemented as fluid-holding reservoir or carrier for solid material depending on the implementation of the precursor as defined above.

[0118] As used herein, a "flow path" may refer to a path or enclosed passageway through an aerosol generating apparatus, e.g. for delivery of an aerosol to a user. The flow path may be arranged to receive aerosol from an aerosol generating unit. When referring to the flow path, upstream and downstream may be defined in respect of a direction of flow in the flow path, e.g. with an outlet being downstream of an inlet.

[0119] As used herein, a "delivery system" may be a system operative to deliver an aerosol to a user. The delivery system may include a mouthpiece and a flow path.

[0120] As used herein, a "flow" may refer to a flow in a flow path. A flow may include aerosol generated from the precursor. The flow may include air, which may be induced into the flow path via a puff by a user.

[0121] As used herein, a "puff" (or "inhale" or "draw") by a user may refer to expansion of lungs and / or oral cavity of a user to create a pressure reduction that induces flow through the flow path.

[0122] As used herein, an "aerosol generating unit" may refer to a device configured to generate an aerosol from a precursor. The aerosol generating unit may include a unit to generate a vapour directly from the precursor (e.g. a heating system or other system) or an aerosol directly from the precursor (e.g. an atomiser including an ultrasonic system, a flow expansion system operative to carry droplets of the precursor in the flow without using electrical energy or other system). A plurality of aerosol generating units to generate a plurality of aerosols (for example, from a plurality of different aerosol precursors) may be present in an aerosol generating apparatus.

[0123] As used herein, a "heating system" may refer to an arrangement of at least one heating element, which is operable to aerosolise a precursor once heated. The at least one heating element may be electrically resistive to produce heat from the flow of electrical current therethrough. The at least one heating element may be arranged as a susceptor to produce heat when penetrated by an alternating magnetic field. The heating system may be configured to heat a precursor to below 300 or 350 degrees C, including without combustion.

[0124] As used herein, a "consumable" (an example of an aerosol-generating article) may refer to a unit that includes a precursor. The consumable may include an aerosol generating unit, e.g. it may be arranged as a cartomizer. The consumable may include a mouthpiece. The consumable may include an information carrying medium. With liquid or gel implementations of the precursor, e.g. an e-liquid, the consumable may be referred to as a "capsule" or a "pod" or an "e-liquid consumable". The capsule / pod may include a storage portion, e.g. a reservoir or tank, for storage of the precursor. With solid material implementations of the precursor, e.g. tobacco or reconstituted tobacco formulation, the consumable may be referred to as a "stick" or "package" or "heat-not-burn consumable". In a heat-not-burn consumable, the mouthpiece may be implemented as a filter and the consumable may be arranged to carry the precursor. The consumable may be implemented as a dosage or pre-portioned amount of material, including a loose-leaf product.

[0125] As used herein, an "information carrying medium" may include one or more arrangements for storage of information on any suitable medium. Examples include: a computer readable medium; a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) transponder; codes encoding information, such as optical (e.g. a bar code or QR code) or mechanically read codes (e.g. a configuration of the absence or presents of cutouts to encode a bit, through which pins or a reader may be inserted).

[0126] As used herein "heat-not-burn" (or "HNB" or "heated precursor") may refer to the heating of a precursor, typically tobacco, without combustion, or without substantial combustion (i.e. localised combustion may be experienced of limited portions of the precursor, including of less than 5% of the total volume).

[0127] Referring to Fig. 1, an example aerosol generating apparatus 1 includes a power supply 2, for supply of electrical energy. The apparatus 1 includes an aerosol generating unit 4 that is driven by the power supply 2. The power supply 2 may include an electric power supply in the form of a battery and / or an electrical connection to an external power source. The apparatus 1 includes a precursor 6, which in use is aerosolised by the aerosol generating unit 4 to generate an aerosol. The apparatus 2 includes a delivery system 8 for delivery of the aerosol to a user.

[0128] Electrical circuitry (not shown in figure 1) may be implemented to control the interoperability of the power supply 4 and aerosol generating unit 6.

[0129] Fig. 2 (generically) and Fig. 3 (specifically) set out a heat-not-burn implementation of Fig. 1

[0130] Fig. 2 shows an implementation of the apparatus 1 of Fig. 1, where the aerosol generating apparatus 1 is configured to generate aerosol by a-heat not-burn process.

[0131] In this example, the apparatus 1 includes a device body 50 and a consumable (aerosol-generating article) 70.

[0132] In this example, the body 50 includes the power supply 2 and a heating system 52. The heating system 52 includes at least one heating element 54. The body may additionally include any one or more of electrical circuitry 56, a memory 58, a wireless interface 60, one or more other components 62.

[0133] The electrical circuitry 56 may include a processing resource for controlling one or more operations of the body 50, e.g. based on instructions stored in the memory 58.

[0134] The wireless interface 60 may be configured to communicate wirelessly with an external (e.g. mobile) device, e.g. via Bluetooth.

[0135] The other component(s) 62 may include an actuator, one or more user interface devices configured to convey information to a user and / or a charging port, for example (see e.g. Fig. 3).

[0136] The body 50 is configured to engage with the consumable 70 such that the at least one heating element 54 of the heating system 52 penetrates into the solid precursor 6 of the consumable. In use, a user may activate the aerosol generating apparatus 1 to cause the heating system 52 of the body 50 to cause the at least one heating element 54 to heat the solid precursor 6 of the consumable (without combusting it) by conductive heat transfer, to generate an aerosol which is inhaled by the user.

[0137] Fig. 3 shows an example implementation of the aerosol generating device 1 of Fig. 2.

[0138] As depicted in Fig. 3, the consumable (aerosol-generating article) 70 is implemented as a stick, which is engaged with the body 50 by inserting the stick into an aperture at a top end 53 of the body 50, which causes the at least one heating element 54 of the heating system 52 to penetrate into the solid precursor 6.

[0139] The consumable 70 includes the solid precursor 6 proximal to the body 50, and a filter distal to the body 50. The filter serves as the mouthpiece of the consumable 70 and thus the apparatus 1 as a whole. The solid precursor 6 may be a reconstituted tobacco formulation.

[0140] In this example, the at least one heating element 54 is a rod-shaped element with a circular transverse profile. Other heating element shapes are possible, e.g. the at least one heating element may be blade-shaped (with a rectangular transverse profile) or tube-shaped (e.g. with a hollow transverse profile).

[0141] In this example, the body 50 includes a cap 51. In use the cap 51 is engaged at a top end 53 of the body 50. Although not apparent from Fig. 3, the cap 51 is moveable relative to the body 50. In particular, the cap 51 is slidable and can slide along a longitudinal axis of the body 50.

[0142] The body 50 also includes an actuator 55 on an outer surface of the body 50. In this example, the actuator 55 has the form of a button.

[0143] The body 50 also includes a user interface device configured to convey information to a user. Here, the user interface device is implemented as a plurality of lights 57, which may e.g. be configured to illuminate when the apparatus 1 is activated and / or to indicate a charging state of the power supply 2.

[0144] Other user interface devices are possible, e.g. to convey information haptically or audibly to a user.

[0145] The body may also include an airflow sensor which detects airflow in the aerosol generating apparatus 1 (e.g. caused by a user inhaling through the consumable 70). This may be used to count puffs, for example.

[0146] In this example, the consumable 70 includes a flow path which transmits aerosol generated by the at least one heating element 54 to the mouthpiece of the consumable.

[0147] In this example, the aerosol generating unit 4 is provided by the above-described heating system 52 and the delivery system 8 is provided by the above-described flow path and mouthpiece of the consumable 70.

[0148] Referring to Fig. 4, a part of an aerosol-generating article 71 is shown schematically in longitudinal cross-section, comprising an aerosol-generating substrate 41 and a delayed-release substrate 46. The direction of aerosol flow through the aerosol-generating article is shown by an arrow 45. The delayed-release substrate 46 contains an active compound dispersed within a polymer matrix. The delayed-release substrate 46 is configured to contact the aerosol produced by the aerosol-generating substrate 41 and release the active compound into the aerosol.

[0149] One exemplary embodiment of an aerosol-generating article 72 is shown schematically in longitudinal cross-section in Fig. 5. The aerosol-generating article 72 is generally cylindrical in geometry and has a width (perpendicular to its longitudinal axis) of 7.2 mm. The aerosol-generating article 72 includes an aerosol-generating substrate 41 of length 12 mm which is formed from slit and gathered cast leaf tobacco. Moving in a downstream direction, the aerosol-generating article 72 then includes a delayed-release substrate 46 located in a void of length 3 mm immediately downstream of the aerosol-generating substrate 41. The void separates the aerosol-generating substrate 41 from a hollow bore monoacetate filter 42 of length 7 mm which lies downstream. Hence the delayed-release substrate 46 is located between the aerosol-generating substrate 41 and the hollow bore filter 42. In Fig. 5 the delayed-release substrate 46 is illustrated as "free" within the void, but in other examples the delayed-release substrate 46 may be partly or fully immobilised within the void, for example by being in contact with both the aerosol-generating substrate 41 and the hollow bore filter 42 such that the delayed-release substrate 46 is sandwiched between the two.

[0150] The delayed-release substrate 46 is a sphere of diameter 2 mm composed of a swellable polymer matrix (which may be a starch polymer matrix) through which nicotine is dispersed.

[0151] Immediately downstream of the hollow bore filter 42 lies a cardboard tube 43 of length 14 mm. Finally, a mouthpiece filter 44 of length 12 mm made of monoacetate lies at the terminal downstream end of the aerosol-generating article 72, immediately downstream of the cardboard tube 43. The mouthpiece filter 44 is shown in Fig. 5 as a hollow bore filter, but in other examples a solid filter may be used instead. The hollow bore filter 42 and cardboard tube 43 abut one another, and the cardboard tube 43 and mouthpiece filter 44 also abut one another. The entire assembly of aerosol-generating substrate 41, hollow bore filter 42, cardboard tube 43 and mouthpiece filter 44 are circumscribed by a paper wrapper (not shown in Fig. 5) and the mouthpiece filter 44 and part of the cardboard tube 43 are circumscribed by tipping paper (also not shown in Fig.5) which overlies the paper wrapper. Between the paper wrapper and the aerosol-generating substrate 41 lies an aluminium-lined paper wrapper (not shown) which circumscribes only the aerosol-generating substrate 41, with the aluminium layer facing inwards. The direction of aerosol flow through the aerosol-generating article is shown by an arrow 45.

[0152] During use of the aerosol-generating article 72, the aerosol-generating article 72 is inserted into an aerosol-generating device such as the aerosol generating device 1 of Fig. 2. When the heater is activated by the user, the aerosol-generating substrate 41 is heated until components of the aerosol-generating substrate 41 are volatilised and form an aerosol. As the user draws on the mouthpiece filter 44, the aerosol stream is drawn through the aerosol-generating article 72 in the direction of arrow 45, first encountering the delayed-release substrate 46 which lies immediately downstream.

[0153] During an initial period of a smoking session, the user will receive only the nicotine which has been volatilised from the aerosol-generating substrate 41 and entrained within the aerosol, since no nicotine will be released by the delayed-release substrate 46 initially. However as the smoking session proceeds, some of the aerosol will condense onto the surface of the delayed-release substrate 46 and will cause gradual dissolution, degradation and / or swelling of the polymer matrix of the delayed-release substrate 46. As the polymer matrix swells, eventually some of the nicotine encapsulated within the polymer matrix will become entrained within the aerosol and will be carried downstream through the aerosol-generating article 72 to be inhaled by the user. This will provide a second "hit" of nicotine for the user during the smoking session (e.g. towards or at the usual expected end-point of a smoking session), following the initial "hit" which was provided by the nicotine from the aerosol-generating substrate 41.

[0154] Fig. 6 shows another exemplary embodiment of an aerosol-generating article 73 shown schematically in longitudinal cross-section. The aerosol-generating article 73 is very similar to aerosol-generating article 72 in Fig. 5, so common structure will not be described again in detail. Aerosol-generating article 73 contains a delayed-release substrate 46 which is held in place within the bore of a hollow bore filter 42. The function and composition of the delayed-release substrate 46 is exactly as described for Fig. 5. Since the delayed-release substrate 46 obstructs the bore of the hollow bore filter 42, the hollow bore filter 42 is designed to ensure that the aerosol can pass through the aerosol-generating article 73 with an acceptable resistance to draw, for example by providing a material for the hollow bore filter 42 which has a reduced resistance to draw.

[0155] Fig. 7 shows another exemplary embodiment of an aerosol-generating article 74 shown schematically in longitudinal cross-section. The aerosol-generating article 74 is very similar to aerosol-generating article 72 in Fig. 5, so common structure will not be described again in detail. In aerosol-generating article 74 the delayed-release substrate 48 is made up of a plurality of spheres, each having the same composition as the delayed-release substrate 46 in the aerosol-generating article 72 of Fig 5. The spheres of the delayed-release substrate 48 are smaller than the single-sphere delayed-release substrate 46 to facilitate their accommodation within the void. The plurality of spheres of the delayed-release substrate 48 generally function in an analogous manner to the single-sphere delayed-release substrate 46, providing delayed release of nicotine into the aerosol by degradation, dissolution and / or swelling of the polymer matrix. However in the aerosol-generating article 74 of Fig. 7 it may be expected that the release of nicotine will be faster and / or to a greater extent than achieved by the delayed-release substrate 46 in the aerosol-generating article 72 of Fig 5, due to the greater surface area to volume ratio provided by the plurality of spheres of the delayed-release substrate 48 of Fig. 7 relative to delayed-release substrate 46 of Fig 5. Thus to some extent the exact timing and / or intensity of the delayed release may be tuned by altering the number and size of spheres within the delayed-release substrate, to suit user need.

[0156] Fig. 8 shows another exemplary embodiment of an aerosol-generating article 75 shown schematically in longitudinal cross-section. In this example the aerosol-generating article 75 is of a fundamentally different structure to those shown in Figs. 5-7. In Fig. 8, the aerosol-generating article 75 is generally cylindrical in geometry and has a width (perpendicular to its longitudinal axis) of 7.2 mm. The aerosol-generating article 75 includes a tobacco paste aerosol-generating substrate 411 of length 12 mm which is formed from a dried paste containing tobacco particles. Moving in a downstream direction, the aerosol-generating article 75 then includes a delayed-release substrate 461 located immediately downstream of the aerosol-generating substrate 411 and in contact with it.

[0157] The delayed-release substrate 46 is a sphere of diameter 2 mm composed of a swellable polymer matrix (which may be a starch polymer matrix) through which nicotine is dispersed.

[0158] A mouthpiece filter 441 of length 5 mm lies at the terminal downstream end of the aerosol-generating article 75.

[0159] A cylindrical paper rod 401 lies in a longitudinal direction within the aerosol-generating article 75 and abuts the delayed-release substrate 461 at one end and the mouthpiece filter 441 at the other end. The paper rod 401 thereby acts to hold the delayed-release substrate 461 in place by sandwiching it between the paper rod 401 and the aerosol-generating substrate 411.

[0160] The entire assembly of aerosol-generating substrate 411 and mouthpiece filter 441 are circumscribed by a cardboard tube 400 which extends slightly beyond the most downstream face of the mouthpiece filter 441. The cardboard tube 400 is then over-wrapped by a paper wrapper (not shown in Fig. 8). The direction of aerosol flow through the aerosol-generating article is shown by an arrow 45.

[0161] The structure and function of the delayed-release substrate 461 within the aerosol-generating article 75 is exactly as described for the examples of Figs. 5-7 so will not be repeated.

[0162] In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the delayed-release substrate 461 and paper rod 401 could have their positions exchanged, such that the delayed-release substrate 461 is sandwiched between the paper rod 401 and the mouthpiece filter 441, and the paper rod 401 abuts the aerosol-generating substrate 411 at one end and the delayed-release substrate 461 at the other end.

[0163] Figs. 9 and 10 shows a schematic representation of a delayed-release substrate 80. Fig. 9 shows the delayed-release substrate 80 before coming into contact with any aerosol, i.e. in its state within an aerosol-generating article before a smoking session commences. The delayed-release substrate 80 is composed of nicotine 82 (shown in Figs. 9 and 10 as discrete particles for illustrative purposes, but the nicotine may be homogeneously dispersed through the delayed-release substrate 80 without forming discrete particles or areas of high concentration) dispersed within a starch matrix 81. Methods of manufacturing such entities which have a dispersed phase of one or more compounds dispersed within a polymer matrix are known to the skilled person and so not described in detail herein.

[0164] Fig. 10 shows a schematic representation of the delayed-release substrate 80 after coming into contact with an aerosol, e.g. during a smoking session. An outer region 84 of the delayed-release substrate 80 has become swollen due to exposure to contents of the aerosol, e.g. propylene glycol and / or glycerin. This allows the aerosol to entrain the nicotine 82 which was encapsulated within the polymer matrix. An inner region 83 of the delayed-release substrate 80 remains intact, but some or all of the inner region 83 may also degrade, dissolve and / or swell as the smoking session continues and the delayed-release substrate 80 comes into contact with further quantities of aerosol.

[0165] The tobacco rod 41 within the aerosol-generating article can be formed from reconstituted tobacco as shown in Fig. 11. The processing of tobacco material in the preparation of reconstituted tobacco (recon) by means of a paper-making process is well known in the art as exemplified by Canadian Pat. No. 862,497 which has been incorporated herein by reference. The processes therein described are particularly advantageous with the paper-making process for preparing reconstituted tobacco material ("recon") sheets. A carrier is added to the recon to assist in the aerosol formation to allow the consumable 70 to be specifically adapted to operate as a HT consumable 70. The recon is prepared in a strip maker and gathered into a rod. As shown in Fig. 11, the tobacco rod therefore comprises multiple parallel strips 112 of the cut recon running parallel to the longitudinal axis. Consequently, in Fig. 11, only the cut tips of the strips 112 are seen. Although the strips can be tightly packed, voids 114 are left between adjacent strips. As will be appreciated, the voids provide air flow passages through the tobacco rod 41. In some examples of the present invention (not shown in the Figures), the delayed-release substrate may lie within a void between adjacent strips 112 within the tobacco rod.

Claims

1. An aerosol-generating article for use in an aerosol generating apparatus to generate an aerosol that is to be consumed by a user, the aerosol-generating article comprising: an aerosol-generating substrate; and a delayed-release substrate comprising an active compound encapsulated within a polymer matrix; wherein the delayed-release substrate is configured to contact an aerosol produced by the aerosol-generating substrate and release the active compound into the aerosol.

2. The aerosol-generating article according to claim 1, wherein the active compound comprises nicotine or a nicotine salt.

3. The aerosol-generating article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the delayed-release substrate is located downstream of the aerosol-generating substrate within the aerosol-generating article.

4. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the delayed-release substrate is located within a void between the aerosol-generating substrate and a filter component located downstream of the aerosol-generating substrate.

5. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the delayed-release substrate is in contact with the aerosol-generating substrate.

6. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the delayed-release substrate comprises a sphere or bead.

7. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the delayed-release substrate consists of a single sphere or bead.

8. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the delayed-release substrate comprises one or more swellable polymers.

9. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the delayed-release substrate comprises one or more bioresorbable polymers.

10. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the delayed-release substrate comprises one or more polymers selected from starch, polylactide, polyglycolide, Poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) or Poly(D,L-lactide) (PDLLA), Poly(L-lactide) (PLLA), Poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL), Poly L-lactide-co-glycolide (PLLGA), Poly(L-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) (PLCL), poly(-3-hydroxybutyrate), polyhyaluronic acid esters, polydioxanone, aliphatic polyesters, natural polymers, polyanhydrides, poly(ortho esters), polyphosphazenes, poly(amino acids), "pseudo"-poly(amino acids), polyalkylcyanoacrylates, polypropylene fumarate), poly(ester-ether), and poly(vinyl alcohol).

11. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the delayed-release substrate has a width of from 1 mm to 7 mm, for example from 3 mm to 5 mm.

12. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the aerosol-generating substrate comprises tobacco or a tobacco derivative.

13. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising one or more of: a mouthpiece segment at a downstream end of the aerosol-generating article; a hollow bore filter located downstream of the aerosol-generating substrate; and a cardboard tube located downstream of the aerosol-generating substrate.

14. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the aerosol-generating article is a heat-not-burn consumable.

15. An aerosol-generating system comprising the aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 14, and an aerosol-generating apparatus comprising a heater.

16. Use of the aerosol-generating system comprising the aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 14 or the aerosol-generating system according to claim 15 for the generation of an aerosol for inhalation by a user.

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