Aerosol provision system

Abstract

To provide a non-combustible aerosol provision system which comprises: an article comprising an aerosol generating material wrapped in a wrapper; and a non-combustible aerosol provision device for heating the aerosol generating material of the article.SOLUTION: A non-combustible aerosol provision system includes an article 1 comprising an aerosol generating material 3 wrapped in a wrapper 10, where the wrapper has a permeability of less than 100 Coresta Units. The system also includes a non-combustible aerosol provision device for heating the aerosol generating material of the article, the non-combustible aerosol provision device having a coil.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a non-combustible aerosol delivery system.

[0002] Certain tobacco industry products generate an aerosol during use, which is inhaled by the user. For example, tobacco heating devices heat an aerosol-generating substrate, such as tobacco, to form an aerosol by non-combustion heating of the substrate. Such tobacco industry products typically include a mouthpiece through which the aerosol passes to the user's mouth. Overview

[0003] According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a non-combustible aerosol delivery system comprising: an article comprising an aerosol-generating material entrained within a web, the web having a permeability of less than 100 Coresta units; and a non-combustible aerosol delivery device for heating the aerosol-generating material of the article, the non-combustible aerosol delivery device comprising a coil.

[0004] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0005] [Figure 1] 1 is a side cross-sectional view of an article for use with a non-combustible aerosol delivery device, including a mouthpiece. [Figure 2a] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional side view of a further article for use with a non-combustible aerosol delivery device, in this example an article including a capsule-containing mouthpiece. [Figure 2b] 2b is a cross-sectional view of the capsule-containing mouthpiece shown in FIG. 2a. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a non-combustion aerosol delivery device for generating aerosol from the aerosol-forming material of the article of FIGS. 1, 2a, and 2b. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows the device of FIG. 3 with the outer cover removed and no item present. [Figure 5] FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional side view of the device of FIG. 3. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the device of FIG. 3 with the outer cover omitted. [Figure 7A] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the device of FIG. 3. [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B is an enlarged view of a region of the device of FIG. 7A. [Figure 8] 1 is a flow chart illustrating a method of manufacturing an article for use with a non-combustion aerosol delivery device. Detailed Description

[0006] As used herein, the term "delivery system" is intended to encompass systems that deliver a substance to a user, including: Combustible aerosol delivery systems, such as cigarettes, cigarillos, cigars, and tobacco for pipes or for hand-rolled or handmade cigarettes (whether based on tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco substitutes, or other smoking materials); non-combustion aerosol delivery systems that release compounds from aerosolizable materials without burning the aerosolizable materials, such as electronic cigarettes, tobacco heating products, and mixing systems for generating aerosols using combinations of aerosolizable materials; an article comprising an aerosolizable material and configured for use in one of these non-combustible aerosol delivery systems; and Included are aerosol-free delivery systems such as lozenges, gums, patches, articles containing inhalable powders, and smokeless tobacco products such as snus and snuff, which deliver materials to the user without forming an aerosol, whether the materials contain nicotine or not.

[0007] According to this disclosure, a "combustible" aerosol delivery system is one in which the aerosolizable constituent material (or components thereof) of the aerosol delivery system is burned or combusted to facilitate delivery to a user.

[0008] According to the present disclosure, a "non-combustion" aerosol delivery system is one in which the aerosolizable components of the aerosol delivery system (or components thereof) are not combusted or burned to facilitate delivery to a user. In embodiments described herein, the delivery system is a non-combustion aerosol delivery system, such as a powered non-combustion aerosol delivery system.

[0009] In one embodiment, the non-combustion aerosol delivery system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vaping device or electronic nicotine delivery system (END), although it should be noted that the presence of nicotine within the aerosolizable material is not a requirement.

[0010] In one embodiment, the non-combustion aerosol delivery system is a tobacco heating system, also known as a non-combustion heating system.

[0011] In one embodiment, the non-combustion aerosol delivery system is a mixing system for generating an aerosol using a combination of aerosolizable materials, and one or more of the aerosolizable materials can be heated. Each of the aerosolizable materials can be, for example, in solid, liquid, or gel form and may or may not contain nicotine. In one embodiment, the mixing system includes a liquid or gel aerosolizable material and a solid aerosolizable material. The solid aerosolizable material can include, for example, tobacco or a non-tobacco product.

[0012] Typically, a non-combustion aerosol delivery system can include a non-combustion aerosol delivery device and an article for use with the non-combustion aerosol delivery system, however, it is also contemplated that an article that includes a means for powering an aerosol generating component can itself form the non-combustion aerosol delivery system.

[0013] In one embodiment, the non-combustion aerosol delivery device can include a power source and a controller. The power source can be a power source or a heat source. In one embodiment, the heat source comprises a carbon substrate that can be excited to dissipate power in the form of heat to an aerosolizable material or a heat transfer material in proximity to the heat source. In one embodiment, a power source, such as a heat source, is provided within the article to form the non-combustion aerosol delivery.

[0014] In one embodiment, an article for use with a non-combustion aerosol delivery device can include an aerosolizable material, an aerosol-generating component, an aerosol-generating area, a mouthpiece, and / or an area for receiving the aerosolizable material.

[0015] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating component is a heater capable of interacting with the aerosolizable material to liberate one or more volatile substances from the aerosolizable material and form an aerosol. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating component is capable of generating an aerosol from the aerosolizable material without the application of heat. For example, the aerosol-generating component may be capable of generating an aerosol from the aerosolizable material without the application of heat, e.g., by one or more of vibrational, mechanical, pressurized, or electrostatic means.

[0016] In one embodiment, the aerosolizable material can include an active material, an aerosol-forming material, and optionally one or more functional materials. The active material can include nicotine (optionally contained in tobacco or a tobacco derivative) or one or more other non-olfactory bioactive materials. Non-olfactory bioactive materials are materials included in the aerosolizable material to achieve a physiological response other than olfaction.

[0017] The aerosol-forming material may include one or more of glycerin, glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, erythritol, mesoerythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, diacetin mixtures, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenylacetate, tributyrin, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate.

[0018] The one or more functional ingredients may include one or more of a fragrance, a carrier, a pH adjuster, a stabilizer, and / or an antioxidant.

[0019] In one embodiment, an article for use with a non-combustion aerosol delivery device can include an aerosolizable material or an area for receiving an aerosolizable material. In one embodiment, an article for use with a non-combustion aerosol delivery device can include a mouthpiece. The area for receiving an aerosolizable material can be a storage area for storing the aerosolizable material. For example, the storage area can be a reservoir. In one embodiment, the area for receiving an aerosolizable material can be separate from the aerosol-generation area or can be combined with the aerosol-generation area.

[0020] Aerosolizable materials, sometimes referred to herein as aerosol-generating materials, are materials capable of generating an aerosol when excited, for example, by heating, irradiation, or in any other manner. Aerosolizable materials can be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid, or gel, and may or may not contain nicotine and / or flavorings. In some embodiments, the aerosolizable material can include an "amorphous solid," which may alternatively be referred to as a "monolithic solid" (i.e., non-fibrous). In some embodiments, the amorphous solid can be a dry gel. An amorphous solid is a solid material that can retain some fluid, such as a liquid, within it. In some embodiments, the aerosolizable material can include, for example, about 50%, 60%, or 70% by weight of an amorphous solid to about 90%, 95%, or 100% by weight of an amorphous solid.

[0021] The aerosolizable material can be present on a substrate, which can be or include, for example, paper, card, paperboard, cardboard, recycled aerosolizable material, plastic material, ceramic material, composite material, glass, metal, or metal alloy.

[0022] Aerosol modifiers are substances capable of modifying aerosols during use. Aerosol modifiers can modify aerosols to impart physiological or sensory effects to the human body. Exemplary aerosol modifiers are flavors and sensates. Sensates produce an organoleptic sensation that can be perceived by the senses, such as a cool or sour sensation.

[0023] The susceptor is a material that can be heated by penetration by a varying magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field. The heating material can be a conductive material, such that penetration of the conductive material by the varying magnetic field causes induction heating of the heating material. The heating material can be a magnetic material, such that penetration of the magnetic material by the varying magnetic field causes magnetic hysteresis heating of the heating material. The heating material can be both conductive and magnetic, such that the heating material can be heated by either heating mechanism.

[0024] Induction heating is a process in which a conductive object is heated by penetrating a varying magnetic field into the object. This process is explained by Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction and Ohm's law. An induction heater can include an electromagnet and a device for passing a varying current, such as an alternating current, through the electromagnet. When the electromagnet and the object to be heated are suitably positioned relative to one another so that the resulting varying magnetic field produced by the electromagnet penetrates the object, one or more eddy currents are generated within the object. The object has a resistance to the flow of current. Therefore, when such eddy currents are generated within the object, they flow against the object's electrical resistance, causing the object to heat. This process is called Joule, Ohmic, or resistive heating. An object that can be inductively heated is known as a susceptor.

[0025] In one embodiment, the susceptor is in the form of a closed circuit. It has been found that when the susceptor is in the form of a closed circuit, magnetic coupling between the susceptor and the electromagnet during use is promoted, resulting in greater or improved Joule heating.

[0026] Magnetic hysteresis heating is a process by which an object made from a magnetic material is heated by the penetration of a varying magnetic field into the object. A magnetic material can be thought of as containing many atomic-scale magnets, or magnetic dipoles. When a magnetic field penetrates such a material, the magnetic dipoles become aligned with the field. Thus, when a varying magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field provided by an electromagnet, penetrates a magnetic material, the orientation of the magnetic dipoles changes with the variation of the applied field. This reorientation of the magnetic dipoles generates heat within the magnetic material.

[0027] When an object is both conductive and magnetic, a varying magnetic field penetrating the object can cause both Joule heating and magnetic hysteresis heating in the object. Furthermore, the magnetic field can be reinforced by the use of magnetic materials, thereby enhancing Joule heating.

[0028] In each of the above processes, because heat is generated within the object itself rather than from an external heat source via thermal conduction, rapid temperature rise and more uniform heat distribution in the object can be achieved, particularly by selecting a suitable object material and geometry and a suitable magnitude and orientation of the varying magnetic field relative to the object. Furthermore, induction heating and magnetic hysteresis heating do not require providing a physical connection between the varying magnetic field source and the object, allowing for greater design freedom and control and lower costs compared to heating profiles. Articles, e.g., rod-shaped articles, are often designated according to the length of the product as "regular" (typically 68-75 mm, e.g., in the range of about 68 mm to about 72 mm), "short" or "mini" (68 mm or less), "king size" (typically 75-91 mm, e.g., in the range of about 79 mm to about 88 mm), "long" or "super king" (typically 91-105 mm, e.g., in the range of about 94 mm to about 101 mm), and "ultra long" (typically in the range of about 110 mm to about 121 mm).

[0029] Articles are also designated according to the circumference of the product as "regular" (approximately 23-25 ​​mm), "wide" (over 25 mm), "slim" (approximately 22-23 mm), "demi-slim" (approximately 19-22 mm), "super slim" (approximately 16-19 mm), and "micro slim" (less than approximately 16 mm).

[0030] Thus, a king size, super slim format article may have, for example, a length of about 83 mm and a circumference of about 17 mm.

[0031] Each format can be made with a mouthpiece of a different length, typically between about 30 mm and 50 mm. Tipping paper connects the mouthpiece to the aerosol-generating material, and the tipping paper typically has a length greater than the mouthpiece, e.g., 3 to 10 mm longer, so that the tipping paper covers the mouthpiece and overlaps the aerosol-generating material, e.g., in the form of a rod of substrate material, connecting the mouthpiece to the rod.

[0032] The articles described herein and their aerosol-forming materials and mouthpieces can be made in any of the formats described above, but are not limited to these.

[0033] As used herein, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" are relative terms defined in relation to the direction in which mainstream aerosol is drawn through the article or device in use.

[0034] The filament tow materials described herein can include cellulose acetate fiber tows. The filament tows can also be formed using other materials used to form fibers, such as polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), polylactic acid (PLA), polycaprolactone (PCL), poly(1-4 butanediol succinate) (PBS), poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT), starch-based materials, cotton, aliphatic polyester materials, and polysaccharide polymers, or combinations thereof. The filament tows can be plasticized with a suitable plasticizer for the tow, such as triacetin if the material is cellulose acetate tow, or the tows can be unplasticized. The tow can have any suitable specifications, such as other cross sections such as "Y" or "X", fibers having a single fineness value of 2.5 to 15, e.g., 8.0 to 11.0, and a total fineness value of 5,000 to 50,000, e.g., 10,000 to 40,000. As used herein, the term "tobacco material" refers to any material containing tobacco or its derivatives or substitutes. The term "tobacco material" can include one or more of tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, or tobacco substitutes. Tobacco materials can include one or more of ground tobacco, tobacco fiber, cut tobacco, extruded tobacco, tobacco stems, tobacco leaf, reconstituted tobacco, and / or tobacco extracts.

[0035] As used herein, the terms "flavoring agent" and "flavoring agent" refer to materials that, where local regulations permit, can be used to impart a desired taste or odor to products intended for adult consumers. One or more flavoring agents can be used as aerosol modifiers as described herein.

[0036] Flavoring agents include extracts (e.g., licorice, hydrangea, magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, menthol, peppermint, aniseed, cinnamon, herbs, wintergreen, cherry, berry, peach, apple, Drambuie, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, cardamom, celery, cascarilla, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang) The flavoring agent may include other additives such as ylang, sage, fennel, bell pepper, ginger, anise, coriander, coffee, or mint oil from any species of the genus Mentha), flavor enhancers, bitter taste receptor site blockers, sensory receptor site activators or stimulants, sugars and / or sugar substitutes (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharin, cyclamate, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol), and other additives such as charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, botanicals, or breath fresheners. The flavoring agent may be an imitation, a synthetic, or natural ingredient, or a mixture thereof. The flavoring agent may be in any suitable form, such as an oil, liquid, or powder.

[0037] In the figures described herein, the same reference numerals are used to describe equivalent features, items or components.

[0038] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional side view of an article 1 for use with a non-combustible aerosol delivery device.

[0039] The article 1 includes a mouthpiece 2 and a cylindrical rod of aerosol-generating material 3, in this case, tobacco material connected to the mouthpiece 2. The aerosol-generating material 3 delivers an aerosol when heated, for example, in a non-combustible aerosol-delivery device described herein, forming a system. In other embodiments, the article 1 can include its own heat source, forming an aerosol-delivery system, without the need for a separate aerosol-delivery device, and is used within the aerosol-delivery system. The aerosol-generating material 3 is wound within a paper wrapper 10. The paper wrapper 10 can be, for example, a paper or paper-backed foil wrapper. In this example, the paper wrapper 10 is substantially impermeable to air. In an alternative embodiment, the paper wrapper 10 preferably has a permeability of less than 100 Coresta units, more preferably less than 60 Coresta units. It has been found that a low-permeability wrapper, for example, having a permeability of less than 100, or more preferably less than 60 Coresta units, results in improved aerosol formation within the aerosol-generating material 3. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is hypothesized that this is due to reduced loss of aerosol compounds in the wrapper 10. The permeability of the wrapper 10 can be measured in accordance with ISO 2965:2009 for determination of the air permeability of materials used as cigarette paper, filter plug wrap, and filter bonding paper.

[0040] In this embodiment, the paper wrapper 10 comprises aluminum foil. Aluminum foil has been found to be particularly effective in promoting aerosol formation within the aerosol-generating material 3. In this example, the aluminum foil has a metal layer having a thickness of approximately 6 μm. In this example, the aluminum foil has a paper backing. However, in alternative configurations, the aluminum foil can have other thicknesses, for example, a thickness of 4 μm to 16 μm. The aluminum foil also need not have a paper backing, but can have a backing formed from other materials, for example, to help provide the foil with adequate tensile strength, or can have no backing material at all. Metal layers or foils other than aluminum can also be used. The total thickness of the paper wrapper is preferably 20 μm to 60 μm, more preferably 30 μm to 50 μm, to provide a paper wrapper with adequate structural integrity and heat transfer properties. The pulling force that can be applied to the web before the web breaks can be greater than 3,000 grams-force, for example, 3,000 to 10,000 grams-force, or 3,000 to 4,500 grams-force.

[0041] The aerosol-forming material 3, also referred to herein as the aerosol-generating substrate 3, includes at least one aerosol-forming material. In this example, the aerosol-forming material is glycerol. Alternatively, the aerosol-forming material can be another material described herein or a combination thereof. It has been found that the aerosol-forming material improves the sensory performance of the article by aiding in the transfer of compounds, such as fragrance compounds, from the aerosol-generating material to the consumer. However, a problem with adding such aerosol-forming materials to the aerosol-generating material in an article for use in a non-combustible aerosol delivery system is that when the aerosol-forming material is aerosolized upon heating, it can increase the mass of the aerosol delivered by the article, which can maintain a higher temperature as the aerosol passes through the mouthpiece. As the aerosol passes through the mouthpiece, it transfers heat into the mouthpiece, thereby warming the exterior surface of the mouthpiece, including the area that contacts the consumer's lips during use. Mouthpiece temperatures may be significantly higher than a consumer may be accustomed to when smoking, for example, a conventional cigarette, and undesirable effects may be caused by the use of such aerosol-forming materials.

[0042] Typically, the portion of the mouthpiece that contacts the consumer's lips is a paper tube that is hollow or surrounds a cylinder of filter material.

[0043] As shown in FIG. 1 , the mouthpiece 2 of the article 1 has an upstream end 2a adjacent the aerosol-generating substrate 3 and a downstream end 2b remote from the aerosol-generating substrate 3. The mouthpiece 2 has a hollow tubular element 4 formed from filament tow at the downstream end 2b. This has been found to advantageously significantly reduce the temperature of the outer surface of the mouthpiece 2 at the downstream end 2b of the mouthpiece, which contacts the consumer's mouth, when the article 1 is in use. In addition, the use of the tubular element 4 has also been found to significantly reduce the temperature of the outer surface of the mouthpiece 2 further upstream of the tubular element 4. While not wishing to be bound by theory, this is hypothesized to be due to the tubular element 4 causing the aerosol to pass closer to the center of the mouthpiece 2, thereby reducing the transfer of heat from the aerosol to the outer surface of the mouthpiece 2. In this example, the article 1 has a circumference of approximately 21 mm (i.e., the article is in a demi-slim format). In other examples, the article can be provided in any of the formats described herein, for example, having a circumference of 15 mm to 25 mm. When the article is heated to release the aerosol, improved heating efficiency can be achieved by using an article having a smaller circumference within this range, for example, a circumference of less than 23 mm. It has been found that article circumferences greater than 19 mm are also particularly effective for achieving improved aerosol upon heating while maintaining a suitable product length. It has been found that articles having a circumference of 19 mm to 23 mm, more preferably 20 mm to 22 mm, provide a good balance between efficient heating and effective aerosol delivery.

[0044] The circumference of the mouthpiece 2 is substantially the same as the circumference of the rod of aerosol-generating material 3, so that the transition between these components is smooth. In this example, the circumference of the mouthpiece 2 is approximately 20.8 mm. Tipping paper 5 is wrapped around a portion of the rod of aerosol-generating material 3 along the entire length of the mouthpiece 2, and the tipping paper 5 has adhesive on its inner surface to connect the mouthpiece 2 and the rod 3. In this example, the tipping paper 5 extends 5 mm over the rod of aerosol-generating material 3, but alternatively, it can extend 3 mm to 10 mm, or more preferably 4 mm to 6 mm, over the rod 3 to provide a secure attachment between the mouthpiece 2 and the rod 3. The tipping paper 5 can have a basis weight greater than that of the plug wrap used in the article 1, for example, 40 gsm to 80 gsm, more preferably 50 gsm to 70 gsm, in this example 58 gsm. These basis weight ranges have been found to result in tipping paper that has acceptable tensile strength while being flexible enough to wrap article 1 around it and adhere it to itself along the longitudinal lap seam of the paper. After being wrapped around mouthpiece 2, tipping paper 5 has a circumference of approximately 21 mm.

[0045] The "wall thickness" of the hollow tubular element 4 corresponds to the thickness of the wall of the tube 4 in the radial direction. This can be measured, for example, using calipers. Advantageously, the wall thickness is greater than 0.9 mm, more preferably 1.0 mm or greater. Preferably, the wall thickness is substantially constant throughout the wall of the hollow tubular element 4. However, if the wall thickness is not substantially constant, the wall thickness is preferably greater than 0.9 mm, more preferably 1.0 mm or greater, at any point around the hollow tubular element 4.

[0046] Preferably, the length of the hollow tubular element 4 is less than about 20 mm. More preferably, the length of the hollow tubular element 4 is less than about 15 mm. Even more preferably, the length of the hollow tubular element 4 is less than about 10 mm. Additionally or alternatively, the length of the hollow tubular element 4 is at least about 5 mm. Preferably, the length of the hollow tubular element 4 is at least about 6 mm. In some preferred embodiments, the length of the hollow tubular element 4 is between about 5 mm and about 20 mm, more preferably between about 6 mm and about 10 mm, even more preferably between about 6 mm and about 8 mm, and most preferably about 6 mm, 7 mm, or about 8 mm. In this example, the length of the hollow tubular element 4 is 6 mm.

[0047] The density of the hollow tubular element 4 is preferably at least about 0.25 grams per cubic centimeter (g / cc), more preferably at least about 0.3 g / cc. The density of the hollow tubular element 4 is preferably less than about 0.75 grams per cubic centimeter (g / cc), more preferably less than 0.6 g / cc. In some embodiments, the density of the hollow tubular element 4 is between 0.25 and 0.75 g / cc, more preferably between 0.3 and 0.6 g / cc, more preferably between 0.4 g / cc and 0.6 g / cc, or about 0.5 g / cc. These densities have been found to provide a good balance between the improved stiffness imparted by higher density materials and the lower heat transfer characteristics of lower density materials. For purposes of this invention, the "density" of the hollow tubular element 4 refers to the density of the filament tow forming the element, including any plasticizer incorporated therein. The density can be determined by dividing the total weight of the hollow tubular element 4 by the total volume of the hollow tubular element 4, which can be calculated using appropriate measurements of the hollow tubular element 4, for example obtained using calipers. If necessary, appropriate dimensions can be measured using a microscope.

[0048] The filament tow forming the hollow tubular element 4 preferably has a total fineness of less than 45,000, more preferably less than 42,000. This total fineness has been found to allow for the formation of a tubular element 4 that is not too dense. The total fineness is preferably at least 20,000, more preferably at least 25,000. In a preferred embodiment, the filament tow forming the hollow tubular element 4 has a total fineness of 25,000 to 45,000, more preferably 35,000 to 45,000. The cross-sectional shape of the filaments in the tow is preferably "Y" shaped, although other shapes, such as "X" shaped filaments, can be used in other embodiments.

[0049] The filament tow forming the hollow tubular element 4 preferably has a monofilament fineness greater than 3. This monofilament fineness has been found to allow for the formation of a tubular element 4 that is not too dense. The monofilament fineness is preferably at least 4, more preferably at least 5. In a preferred embodiment, the filament tow forming the hollow tubular element 4 has a monofilament fineness between 4 and 10, more preferably between 4 and 9. In one example, the filament tow forming the hollow tubular element 4 has an 8Y40,000 tow formed from cellulose acetate and containing 18% plasticizer, such as triacetin.

[0050] Preferably, the hollow tubular element 4 has an inner diameter greater than 3.0 mm. A smaller diameter may undesirably increase the velocity of the aerosol passing through the mouthpiece 2 and into the consumer's mouth, resulting in the aerosol becoming too warm, for example reaching temperatures greater than 40° C. or greater than 45° C. More preferably, the hollow tubular element 4 has an inner diameter greater than 3.1 mm, and even more preferably greater than 3.5 mm or 3.6 mm. In one embodiment, the inner diameter of the hollow tubular element 4 is about 3.9 mm.

[0051] Preferably, the hollow tubular element 4 comprises 15% to 22% by weight of plasticizer. For cellulose acetate tow, the plasticizer is preferably triacetin, although other plasticizers such as polyethylene glycol (PEG) can also be used. More preferably, the tubular element 4 comprises 16% to 20% by weight of plasticizer, for example, about 17%, about 18%, or about 19%.

[0052] The pressure drop or differential pressure (also referred to as resistance to draw) across the mouthpiece, e.g., downstream of the aerosol-forming material 3 in the article 1, is preferably less than about 40 mmH2O. Such a pressure drop has been found to allow sufficient aerosol containing desirable compounds, such as flavor compounds, to pass through the mouthpiece 2 to the consumer. More preferably, the pressure drop across the mouthpiece 2 is less than about 32 mmH2O. In some embodiments, particularly improved aerosols are achieved using a mouthpiece 2 having a pressure drop of less than 31 mmH2O, e.g., about 29 mmH2O, about 28 mmH2O, or about 27.5 mmH2O. Alternatively or additionally, the pressure drop across the mouthpiece can be at least 10 mmH2O, preferably at least 15 mmH2O, and more preferably at least 20 mmH2O. In some embodiments, the pressure drop across the mouthpiece can be between about 15 mmH2O and 40 mmH2O. These values ​​allow the mouthpiece 2 to slow down the aerosol as it passes through the mouthpiece 2, thus allowing time for the aerosol's temperature to decrease by the time it reaches the downstream end 2b of the mouthpiece 2.

[0053] In this example, the mouthpiece 2 includes a body of material 6 located upstream of the hollow tubular element 4, adjacent to the hollow tubular element 4 in this example, and in abutting relationship with the hollow tubular element 4. The body of material 6 and the hollow tubular element 4 each define a substantially cylindrical overall outer shape and share a common longitudinal axis. The body of material 6 is rolled up within a first plug wrap 7. The first plug wrap 7 preferably has a basis weight of less than 50 gsm, more preferably between about 20 gsm and 40 gsm. The first plug wrap 7 preferably has a thickness of between 30 μm and 60 μm, more preferably between 35 μm and 45 μm. The first plug wrap 7 is preferably a non-porous plug wrap, e.g., having a permeability of less than 100 Coresta units, e.g., less than 50 Coresta units. However, in other embodiments, the first plug wrap 7 can be a porous plug wrap, e.g., having a permeability of greater than 200 Coresta units.

[0054] Preferably, the length of the body of material 6 is less than about 15 mm. More preferably, the length of the body of material 6 is less than about 10 mm. Additionally or alternatively, the length of the body of material 6 is at least about 5 mm. Preferably, the length of the body of material 6 is at least about 6 mm. In some preferred embodiments, the length of the body of material 6 is between about 5 mm and about 15 mm, more preferably between about 6 mm and about 12 mm, even more preferably between about 6 mm and about 12 mm, and most preferably about 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, or 10 mm. In this example, the length of the body of material 6 is 10 mm.

[0055] In this example, the body of material 6 is formed from filament tow. In this example, the tow used in the body of material 6 has a single fiber count (dpf) of 8.4 and a total fiber count of 21,000. Alternatively, the tow can have, for example, a single fiber count (dpf) of 9.5 and a total fiber count of 12,000. In this example, the tow includes plasticized cellulose acetate tow. The plasticizer used in the tow accounts for approximately 7% by weight of the tow. In this example, the plasticizer is triacetin. In other examples, different materials can be used to form the body of material 6. For example, rather than tow, the body 6 can be formed from paper in a manner similar to paper filters known for use in cigarettes. Alternatively, the body 6 can be formed from tow other than cellulose acetate, such as polylactic acid (PLA), other materials described herein with respect to filament tow, or similar materials. Preferably, the tow is formed from cellulose acetate. The tow, whether formed from cellulose acetate or other materials, preferably has a dpf of at least 5, more preferably at least 6, and even more preferably at least 7. These monofilament values ​​provide tow with relatively coarse, thick fibers that have a smaller surface area, resulting in a lower pressure drop across the mouthpiece 2 than tows with smaller dpf values. To achieve a sufficiently uniform body of material 6, it is preferred that the tow have a monofilament of 12 dpf or less, preferably 11 dpf or less, and even more preferably 10 dpf or less.

[0056] The total fineness of the tow forming the body of material 6 is preferably at most 30,000, more preferably at most 28,000, and even more preferably at most 25,000. These total fineness values ​​provide the tow with a smaller percentage of the cross-sectional area of ​​the mouthpiece 2, resulting in a lower pressure drop across the mouthpiece 2 than tows with higher total fineness values. For a body of material 6 of suitable stiffness, the tow preferably has a total fineness of at least 8,000, more preferably at least 10,000. The single fineness is preferably 5 to 12, and the total fineness is preferably 10,000 to 25,000. More preferably, the single fineness is 6 to 10, and the total fineness is 11,000 to 22,000. The cross-sectional shape of the filaments of the tow is preferably "Y" shaped, although other shapes, such as "X" shaped filaments, having the same dpf and total fineness values ​​provided herein can be used in other embodiments.

[0057] In this example, the hollow tubular element 4 is a first hollow tubular element 4, and the mouthpiece includes a second hollow tubular element 8, also referred to as a cooling element, upstream of the first hollow tubular element 4. In this example, the second hollow tubular element 8 is located upstream of the body of material 6, adjacent to the body of material 6, and in abutting relationship therewith. The body of material 6 and the second hollow tubular element 8 each define a substantially cylindrical overall outer shape and share a common longitudinal axis. The second hollow tubular element 8 is formed from multiple layers of paper that are wound in parallel and abut at seams to form the tubular element 8. In this example, the first and second paper layers are provided as a double tube; however, in other examples, three, four, or more paper layers may be used to form triple, quadruple, or more tubes. Other constructions may also be used, such as spirally wound paper layers, cardboard tubes, tubes formed using a paper mache-type process, or molded or extruded plastic tubes. The second hollow tubular element 8 can also be formed using stiff plug wrap and / or tipping paper as the second plug wrap 9 and / or tipping paper 5 described herein, meaning that a separate tubular element is not required. The stiff plug wrap and / or tipping paper is manufactured to have sufficient stiffness to withstand axial compressive forces and bending moments that may occur during manufacturing and use of the article 1. For example, the stiff plug wrap and / or tipping paper can have a basis weight of 70 gsm to 120 gsm, more preferably 80 gsm to 110 gsm. Additionally or alternatively, the stiff plug wrap and / or tipping paper can have a thickness of 80 μm to 200 μm, more preferably 100 μm to 160 μm, or 120 μm to 150 μm. It may be desirable to have values ​​within these ranges for both the second plug wrap 9 and the tipping paper 5 to achieve an acceptable overall stiffness level for the second hollow tubular element 8.

[0058] The second hollow tubular element 8 preferably has a wall thickness that can be measured in the same way as the first hollow tubular element 4, and the wall thickness of the second hollow tubular element 8 is at least about 100 μm and up to about 1.5 mm, preferably 100 μm to 1 mm, more preferably 150 μm to 500 μm, or about 300 μm. In this example, the second hollow tubular element 8 has a wall thickness of about 290 μm.

[0059] Preferably, the length of the second hollow tubular element 8 is less than about 50 mm. More preferably, the length of the second hollow tubular element 8 is less than about 40 mm. Even more preferably, the length of the second hollow tubular element 8 is less than about 30 mm. Additionally or alternatively, the length of the second hollow tubular element 8 is preferably at least about 10 mm. Preferably, the length of the second hollow tubular element 8 is at least about 15 mm. In some preferred embodiments, the length of the second hollow tubular element 8 is between about 20 mm and about 30 mm, more preferably between about 22 mm and about 28 mm, even more preferably between about 24 mm and about 26 mm, and most preferably about 25 mm. In this example, the length of the second hollow tubular element 8 is 25 mm.

[0060] The second hollow tubular element 8 surrounds and defines a cavity within the mouthpiece 2, which acts as a cooling segment. The cavity provides a chamber through which heated volatile components generated by the aerosol-generating material 3 flow. The second hollow tubular element 8 is hollow, providing a chamber for the aerosol accumulation that is yet rigid enough to withstand axial compressive forces and bending moments that may occur during manufacturing and use of the article 1. The second hollow tubular element 8 provides a physical displacement between the aerosol-generating material 3 and the body of material 6. The physical displacement provided by the second hollow tubular element 8 provides a temperature gradient across the length of the second hollow tubular element 8.

[0061] Mouthpiece 2 is 450mm 3It is preferable to have a cavity with a larger internal volume. It has been found that providing a cavity of at least this volume allows for improved aerosol formation. Such a cavity size provides sufficient space within the mouthpiece 2 to allow heated volatile components to cool, which would otherwise result in an aerosol that is too warm, thereby allowing the aerosol-generating material 3 to be exposed to higher temperatures than would otherwise be possible. In this example, the cavity is formed by the second hollow tubular element 8, but in alternative configurations it could be formed within a different portion of the mouthpiece 2. More preferably, the mouthpiece 2 includes a cavity formed within the second hollow tubular element 8, for example, the cavity being 500 mm 3 Larger, even more preferably 550mm 3 It has a larger internal volume, allowing for further improvement of the aerosol. In some examples, the internal cavity is about 550 mm 3 ~about 750mm 3 , for example, about 600 mm 3 or 700mm 3 Includes the volume of

[0062] The second hollow tubular element 8 can be configured to provide a temperature difference of at least 40 degrees Celsius between the heated volatilized component entering the first upstream end of the second hollow tubular element 8 and the heated volatilized component exiting the second downstream end of the second hollow tubular element 8. The second hollow tubular element 8 is preferably configured to provide a temperature difference of at least 60 degrees Celsius, preferably at least 80 degrees Celsius, and more preferably at least 100 degrees Celsius between the heated volatilized component entering the first upstream end of the second hollow tubular element 8 and the heated volatilized component exiting the second downstream end of the second hollow tubular element 8. This temperature difference along the length of the second hollow tubular element 8 protects the temperature-sensitive body of material 6 from the high temperatures of the aerosol-generating material 3 when heated.

[0063] In an alternative article, the second hollow tubular element 8 can be replaced by an alternative cooling element, for example an element formed from a body of material that performs the function of cooling the aerosol while allowing the aerosol to pass longitudinally. In this example, the first hollow tubular element 4, the body of material 6, and the second hollow tubular element 8 are combined using a second plug wrap 9 wrapped around all three sections. The second plug wrap 9 preferably has a basis weight of less than 50 gsm, more preferably between about 20 gsm and 45 gsm. The second plug wrap 9 preferably has a thickness of between 30 μm and 60 μm, more preferably between 35 μm and 45 μm. The second plug wrap 9 is preferably a non-porous plug wrap having a permeability of less than 100 Coresta units, for example, less than 50 Coresta units. However, in alternative embodiments, the second plug wrap 9 could be a porous plug wrap having a permeability of, for example, greater than 200 Coresta units.

[0064] The article has a ventilation level of approximately 75% of the aerosol inhaled through the article. In alternative embodiments, the article can have a ventilation level of 50% to 80%, for example 65% to 75%, of the aerosol inhaled through the article. These levels of ventilation help slow the flow of aerosol inhaled through the mouthpiece 2, thereby allowing the aerosol to cool sufficiently before reaching the downstream end 2b of the mouthpiece 2. Ventilation is provided directly into the mouthpiece 2 of the article 1. In this example, ventilation is provided into the second hollow tubular element 8, which has been found to be particularly beneficial in supporting the aerosol generation process. Ventilation is provided via first and second parallel rows of perforations 12, which in this case are formed as laser drillings 17.925 mm and 18.625 mm from the downstream end 2b of the mouthpiece 2, respectively. These perforations pass through the tipping paper 5, the second plug wrap 9, and the second hollow tubular element 8. In alternative embodiments, ventilation may be provided elsewhere into the mouthpiece, for example into the body of material 6 or the first tubular element 4.

[0065] In this example, the aerosol-forming material added to the aerosol-generating substrate 3 accounts for 14% by weight of the aerosol-generating substrate 3. The aerosol-forming material preferably accounts for at least 5% by weight, more preferably at least 10% by weight of the aerosol-generating substrate. The aerosol-forming material preferably accounts for less than 25% by weight, more preferably less than 20% by weight of the aerosol-generating substrate, for example 10% to 20%, 12% to 18%, or 13% to 16%.

[0066] The aerosol-generating material 3 is preferably provided as a cylindrical rod of aerosol-generating material. Regardless of the form of the aerosol-generating material, the aerosol-generating material 3 preferably has a length of about 10 mm to 100 mm. In some embodiments, the length of the aerosol-generating material is preferably within the range of about 25 mm to 50 mm, more preferably within the range of about 30 mm to 45 mm, and even more preferably within the range of about 30 mm to 40 mm.

[0067] The volume of the aerosol-generating material 3 provided is approximately 200 mm 3 ~approx. 4300mm 3 , preferably about 500 mm 3 ~1500mm 3 , more preferably about 1000 mm 3 ~approx. 1300mm 3 These volumes can vary, for example, around 1000 mm 3 ~approx. 1300mm 3 Advantageously, providing an aerosol-generating material of this volume has been shown to provide a superior aerosol with improved visibility and perceptibility performance compared to that achieved with volumes selected from the lower end of this range.

[0068] The mass of the aerosol-forming material 3 provided can vary from about 200 mg to 400 mg, preferably from about 230 mg to 360 mg, and more preferably from about 250 mg to 360 mg. Advantageously, providing a larger mass of aerosol-forming material has been found to result in improved sensory performance compared to aerosols generated from tobacco material with smaller masses.

[0069] The aerosol-forming material or substrate is preferably formed from a tobacco material as described herein that includes a tobacco component.

[0070] In the tobacco materials described herein, the tobacco component preferably contains reconstituted tobacco. The tobacco component may also contain leaf tobacco, extruded tobacco, and / or band-cast tobacco.

[0071] The aerosol-generating material 3 can include reconstituted tobacco material having a density of less than about 700 milligrams per cubic centimeter (mg / cc). It has been found that such tobacco materials, compared with higher-density materials, are particularly effective at providing aerosol-generating materials that can be rapidly heated to release an aerosol. For example, the inventors tested the properties of various aerosol-generating materials when heated, including band-cast reconstituted tobacco materials and paper reconstituted tobacco materials. It was found that for each given aerosol-generating material, there exists a specific zero-heat-flow temperature below which, while heat is being applied to the material, the net heat flow is endothermic, meaning that more heat enters the material than leaves it; and above which, the net heat flow is exothermic, meaning that more heat enters the material than leaves it. Materials with densities less than 700 mg / cc had lower zero-heat-flow temperatures. Because a majority of the heat flow exiting the material is due to the formation of the aerosol, having a lower zero heat flow temperature has a beneficial effect on the time it takes to initially release the aerosol from the aerosol-generating material. For example, it has been found that aerosol-generating materials having densities less than 700 mg / cc have zero heat flow temperatures less than 164° C., compared to materials having densities greater than 700 mg / cc having zero heat flow temperatures greater than 164° C.

[0072] The density of the aerosol-generating material also affects the rate at which heat is conducted through the material; at lower densities, e.g., below 700 mg / cc, heat will conduct through the material more slowly, thus allowing for a more sustained aerosol release.

[0073] Preferably, the aerosol-forming material 3 comprises a reconstituted tobacco material, such as a paper reconstituted tobacco material, having a density of less than about 700 mg / cc. More preferably, the aerosol-forming material 3 comprises a reconstituted tobacco material having a density of less than about 600 mg / cc. Alternatively or additionally, the aerosol-forming material 3 preferably comprises a reconstituted tobacco material having a density of at least 350 mg / cc, which is believed to allow for a sufficient amount of heat conduction in the material.

[0074] The tobacco material can be provided in the form of cut rag tobacco. The cut rag tobacco can have a cut width of at least 15 notches per inch (approximately 5.9 notches per cm, equivalent to a cut width of approximately 1.7 mm). The cut rag tobacco preferably has a cut width of at least 18 notches per inch (approximately 7.1 notches per cm, equivalent to a cut width of approximately 1.4 mm), more preferably at least 20 notches per inch (approximately 7.9 notches per cm, equivalent to a cut width of approximately 1.27 mm). In one example, the cut rag tobacco has a cut width of 22 notches per inch (approximately 8.7 notches per cm, equivalent to a cut width of approximately 1.15 mm). Preferably, the cut rag tobacco has a cut width of 40 notches per inch (approximately 15.7 notches per cm, equivalent to a cut width of approximately 0.64 mm). It has been found that a cut width of 0.5 mm to 2.0 mm, for example 0.6 mm to 1.5 mm, or 0.6 mm to 1.7 mm, results in a preferred tobacco material, particularly with respect to the surface area to volume ratio when heated, and the overall density and pressure drop of the substrate 3. The cut rag tobacco can be formed from a mixture of tobacco material forms, for example a mixture of one or more of reconstituted tobacco, leaf tobacco, extruded tobacco, and band-cast tobacco. Preferably, the tobacco material comprises reconstituted tobacco or a mixture of reconstituted tobacco and leaf tobacco.

[0075] In the tobacco materials described herein, the tobacco material can contain a filler component. The filler component is generally a non-tobacco component, i.e., a component that does not contain tobacco-derived materials. The filler component can be a non-tobacco fiber, such as wood fiber or pulp or wheat fiber. The filler component can also be an inorganic material, such as chalk, perlite, vermiculite, diatomaceous earth, colloidal silica, magnesium oxide, magnesium sulfate, magnesium carbonate, etc. The filler component can also be a non-tobacco casting material or a non-tobacco extrusion material. The filler component can be present in an amount of 0-20% by weight of the tobacco material, or in an amount of 1-10% by weight of the composition. In some embodiments, no filler component is present.

[0076] In the tobacco materials described herein, the tobacco material contains an aerosol-forming material. In this context, an "aerosol-forming material" is an agent that promotes the generation of an aerosol. The aerosol-forming material can promote the generation of an aerosol by promoting the initial vaporization and / or condensation of the gas into an inhalable solid and / or liquid aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming material can improve the delivery of flavorants from the aerosol-forming material. Generally, any suitable aerosol-forming material or agent can be included in the aerosol-forming materials of the present invention, including those described herein. Other suitable aerosol-forming materials include, but are not limited to, polyols such as sorbitol, glycerol, and glycols such as propylene glycol or triethylene glycol; non-polyols such as monohydric alcohols, high-boiling hydrocarbons; acids such as lactic acid; glycerol derivatives; esters such as diacetin, triacetin, triethylene glycol diacetate, triethyl citrate; or myristic acid, including ethyl myristate and isopropyl myristate, and aliphatic carboxylic acid esters such as methyl stearate, dimethyl dodecanedioate, and dimethyl tetradecanedioate. In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming material can be glycerol, propylene glycol, or a mixture of glycerol and propylene glycol. Glycerol can be present in an amount of 10-20% by weight of the tobacco material, for example, 13-16% by weight of the composition, or about 14% or 15% by weight of the composition. Propylene glycol, when present, can be present in an amount of 0.1-0.3% by weight of the composition.

[0077] The aerosol-forming material can be included in any component of the tobacco material, such as any tobacco component and / or filler component, if present. Alternatively, or in addition, the aerosol-forming material can be added separately to the tobacco material. In either case, the total amount of aerosol-forming material within the tobacco material can be as defined herein.

[0078] The tobacco material can contain 10% to 90% by weight of tobacco leaf, with the aerosol-forming material being provided in an amount of up to about 10% by weight of the tobacco leaf. Advantageously, it has been found that this can be added in a greater weight percentage than another component of the tobacco material, such as reconstituted tobacco material, to achieve an overall level of aerosol-forming material of 10% to 20% by weight of the tobacco material.

[0079] The tobacco material described herein contains nicotine. The nicotine content can be 0.5-1.75% by weight of the tobacco material, for example, 0.8-1.5% by weight of the tobacco material. Additionally or alternatively, the tobacco material contains 10%-90% by weight of tobacco leaf and has a nicotine content greater than 1.5% by weight of the tobacco leaf. Advantageously, it has been found that using tobacco leaf having a nicotine content greater than 1.5% in combination with a lower nicotine matrix, such as reconstituted tobacco, provides a tobacco material with an appropriate nicotine level yet with better sensory performance than reconstituted tobacco alone. Tobacco leaf, such as cut rag tobacco, can have a nicotine content of 1.5%-5% by weight of the tobacco leaf.

[0080] The tobacco material described herein may contain an aerosol modifying agent, such as any of the flavorings described herein. In one embodiment, the tobacco material contains menthol to form a mentholated article. The tobacco material may contain 3 mg to 20 mg of menthol, preferably 5 mg to 18 mg, and more preferably 8 mg to 16 mg of menthol. In this example, the tobacco material contains 16 mg of menthol. The tobacco material may contain 2% to 8% by weight of menthol, preferably 3% to 7% by weight of menthol, and more preferably 4% to 5.5% by weight of menthol. In one embodiment, the tobacco material contains 4.7% by weight of menthol. Such high levels of menthol loading can be achieved by using a high proportion of reconstituted tobacco material, for example, greater than 50% by weight of the tobacco material. Alternatively or additionally, the achievable menthol loading level can be increased by using a larger amount of aerosol-generating material, such as tobacco material, for example, about 500 mm. 3 More than, or preferably about 1000 mm 3 More aerosol-forming material, such as tobacco material, is used.

[0081] For the compositions described herein, when amounts are given in weight percent, this refers to dry basis weight unless specifically indicated to the contrary, for the avoidance of doubt. Therefore, for the purposes of determining weight percent, any water that may be present in the tobacco material or any of its components is completely disregarded. The moisture content of the tobacco materials described herein may vary, for example, from 5 to 15 weight percent. The moisture content of the tobacco materials described herein may vary, for example, according to the temperature, pressure, and humidity conditions under which the compositions are maintained. The moisture content can be determined by Karl Fischer analysis, as known to those skilled in the art. On the other hand, for the avoidance of doubt, even when the aerosol-forming material is a liquid-phase component, such as glycerol or propylene glycol, all components other than water are included in the weight of the tobacco material. However, when an aerosol-forming material is provided within the tobacco component of the tobacco material or within a filler component (if present) of the tobacco material instead of or in addition to being added separately to the tobacco material, the aerosol-forming material is not included in the weight of the tobacco component or filler component, but is included in the weight of the "aerosol-forming material" at the weight percent defined herein. All other materials present in the tobacco component are included in the weight of the tobacco component, even if they are of non-tobacco origin (eg, non-tobacco fiber in the case of reconstituted tobacco).

[0082] In one embodiment, the tobacco material comprises a tobacco component as defined herein and an aerosol-forming material as defined herein. In one embodiment, the tobacco material consists essentially of a tobacco component as defined herein and an aerosol-forming material as defined herein. In one embodiment, the tobacco material consists of a tobacco component as defined herein and an aerosol-forming material as defined herein.

[0083] The reconstituted tobacco is present in the tobacco component of the tobacco material described herein in an amount of 10% to 100% by weight of the tobacco component. In embodiments, the reconstituted tobacco is present in an amount of 10% to 80% by weight or 20% to 70% by weight of the tobacco component. In further embodiments, the tobacco component consists essentially of reconstituted tobacco, or consists of reconstituted tobacco. In a preferred embodiment, the leaf tobacco is present in the tobacco component of the tobacco material in an amount of at least 10% by weight of the tobacco component. For example, the leaf tobacco can be present in an amount of at least 10% by weight of the tobacco component, with the remainder of the tobacco component comprising reconstituted tobacco, band-cast reconstituted tobacco, or a combination of band-cast reconstituted tobacco and another form of tobacco, such as tobacco granules.

[0084] Reconstituted tobacco refers to tobacco material formed by a process in which raw tobacco material is extracted with a solvent to give a residue extract containing solubles and fibrous material, and then the extract (usually after concentration, and optionally after further processing) is recombined with fibrous material from the residue by depositing the extract on the fibrous material (usually after purification of the fibrous material, and optionally adding a portion of non-tobacco fiber). The recombination process is similar to the papermaking process.

[0085] The reconstituted tobacco can be any type of reconstituted tobacco known in the art. In certain embodiments, the reconstituted tobacco is made from raw materials including one or more of tobacco strips, tobacco stems, and whole leaf tobacco. In further embodiments, the reconstituted tobacco is made from raw materials consisting of tobacco strips and / or whole leaf tobacco, and tobacco stems. However, in other embodiments, raw materials can alternatively or additionally include shreds, fines, and husks.

[0086] Reconstituted tobacco for use in the tobacco materials described herein can be prepared by methods known to those skilled in the art for preparing reconstituted tobacco.

[0087] Figure 2a is a side cross-sectional view of a further article 1' including a capsule-containing mouthpiece 2'. Figure 2b is a cross-sectional view of the capsule-containing mouthpiece shown in Figure 2a taken along line A-A'. Article 1' and capsule-containing mouthpiece 2' are the same as article 1 and mouthpiece 2 shown in Figure 1, except that an aerosol modifier is provided within body of material 6, in this example in the form of capsules 11, and an oil-resistant first plug wrap 7' surrounds body of material 6. In other examples, the aerosol modifier can be provided in other forms, such as a material infused into body of material 6 or provided on a thread; for example, the thread can hold a flavoring or other aerosol modifier, which can also be disposed within body of material 6. The capsule 11 can comprise a breakable capsule, e.g., a capsule having a solid, frangible shell surrounding a liquid payload. In this example, a single capsule 11 is used. The capsule 11 is entirely embedded within the body of material 6. In other words, the capsule 11 is completely surrounded by the material forming the body 6. In other examples, multiple breakable capsules, e.g., two, three, or more breakable capsules, can be disposed within the body of material 6. The length of the body of material 6 can be increased to accommodate the required number of capsules. In examples where multiple capsules are used, the individual capsules can be identical to one another or different from one another in terms of size and / or capsule payload. In other examples, multiple bodies of material 6 can be provided, each housing one or more capsules.

[0088] Capsule 11 has a core-shell structure. In other words, capsule 11 comprises a shell that encapsulates a liquid agent, such as a flavoring or other agent, which may be any one of the flavorings or aerosol-modifying agents described herein. The capsule shell can be ruptured by the user to release the flavoring or other agent into body 6 of material. First plug wrap 7' may comprise a barrier coating that renders the plug wrap material substantially impermeable to the liquid payload of capsule 11. Alternatively or additionally, second plug wrap 9 and / or tipping paper 5 may comprise a barrier coating that renders the plug wrap and / or tipping paper material substantially impermeable to the liquid payload of capsule 11.

[0089] In this example, capsule 11 is spherical and has a diameter of about 3 mm. In other examples, capsules of other shapes and sizes can be used. The total weight of capsule 11 can be within the range of about 10 mg to about 50 mg.

[0090] In this example, capsule 11 is positioned at a longitudinally central location within body of material 6. That is, capsule 11 is positioned so that its center is 4 mm from each end of body of material 6. In other examples, capsule 11 can be positioned other than longitudinally centrally within body of material 6, that is, closer to the downstream end of body of material 6 than the upstream end, or closer to the upstream end of body of material 6 than the downstream end. Mouthpiece 2' is preferably configured so that capsule 11 and vent hole 12 are longitudinally offset from one another within mouthpiece 2'.

[0091] A cross-sectional view of mouthpiece 2' is shown in Figure 2b, taken along line A-A' in Figure 2a. Figure 2b shows capsule 11, body of material 6, first and second plug wraps 7' and 9, and tipping paper 5. In this example, capsule 11 is located at the center of the longitudinal axis (not shown) of mouthpiece 2'. First and second plug wraps 7' and 9, and tipping paper 5 are concentrically arranged around body of material 6.

[0092] The rupturable capsule 11 has a core-shell structure, i.e., the encapsulating or barrier material creates a shell around a core containing the aerosol modifier. The shell structure prevents migration of the aerosol modifier during storage of the article 1', but allows for controlled release of the aerosol modifier, also referred to as the aerosol modifier, during use.

[0093] In some cases, the barrier material (also referred to herein as the encapsulating material) is frangible. The capsule is crushed or otherwise broken or destroyed by the user to release the encapsulated aerosol modifier. Typically, the capsule is broken just before heating begins, but the user can choose when to release the aerosol modifier. The term "breakable capsule" refers to a capsule whose shell can be broken by pressure to release the core, more specifically, the shell can be ruptured under pressure applied by the user's finger when the user wishes to release the capsule's core.

[0094] In some cases, the barrier material is heat resistant, i.e., in some cases, the barrier does not rupture, melt, or otherwise collapse at temperatures reached at the capsule site during operation of the aerosol delivery device. Illustratively, a capsule disposed within a mouthpiece can be exposed to temperatures, for example, in the range of 30°C to 100°C, and the barrier material can continue to retain the liquid core up to at least about 50°C to 120°C.

[0095] In other cases, the capsules release the core composition when heated, for example by melting the barrier material or by expanding the capsule and rupturing the barrier material.

[0096] The total weight of the capsule can be within the range of about 1 mg to about 100 mg, preferably about 5 mg to about 60 mg, about 8 mg to about 50 mg, about 10 mg to about 20 mg, or about 12 mg to about 18 mg.

[0097] The total weight of the core formulation can be in the range of about 2 mg to about 90 mg, preferably about 3 mg to about 70 mg, about 5 mg to about 25 mg, about 8 mg to about 20 mg, or about 10 mg to about 15 mg.

[0098] The capsule according to the present invention comprises the core described above and a shell. The capsule can exhibit a crushing strength of about 4.5 N to about 40 N, more preferably about 5 N to about 30 N or about 28 N (e.g., about 9.8 N to about 24.5 N). The capsule burst strength can be measured when the capsule is removed from the material body 6 by using a force gauge to measure the force at which the capsule bursts when pressed between two flat metal plates. A suitable measuring device is a Sauter FK50 force gauge with a flat-headed attachment, which can be used to press the capsule against a flat, hard surface having a surface similar to that of the attachment.

[0099] The capsules can be substantially spherical and can have a diameter of at least about 0.4 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.8 mm, 1.0 mm, 2.0 mm, 2.5 mm, 2.8 mm, or 3.0 mm. The capsule diameter can be less than about 10.0 mm, 8.0 mm, 7.0 mm, 6.0 mm, 5.5 mm, 5.0 mm, 4.5 mm, 4.0 mm, 3.5 mm, or 3.2 mm. Illustratively, the capsule diameter can be within the range of about 0.4 mm to about 10.0 mm, about 0.8 mm to about 6.0 mm, about 2.5 mm to about 5.5 mm, or about 2.8 mm to about 3.2 mm. In some cases, the capsules can have a diameter of about 3.0 mm. These sizes are particularly suitable for incorporating the capsules into the articles described herein.

[0100] The cross-sectional area of ​​the capsule 11 at its maximum cross-sectional area is, in some embodiments, less than 28%, more preferably less than 27%, and even more preferably less than 25% of the cross-sectional area of ​​the portion of the mouthpiece 2' in which the capsule 11 is provided. For example, for a spherical capsule having a diameter of 3.0 mm, the maximum cross-sectional area of ​​the capsule is 7.07 mm. 2 For the mouthpiece 2' described herein having a circumference of 21 mm, the body of material 6 has a circumference of 20.8 mm, the radius of this component is 3.31 mm, and the radius of the 2 The cross-sectional area of ​​the capsule is, in this example, 20.5% of the cross-sectional area of ​​the mouthpiece 2'. As another example, if the capsule has a diameter of 3.2 mm, its maximum cross-sectional area is 8.04 mm 2 In this case, the cross-sectional area of ​​the capsule should be 23.4% of the cross-sectional area of ​​the body of material 6. Having a maximum cross-sectional area of ​​the capsule that is less than 28% of the cross-sectional area of ​​the part of the mouthpiece 2' in which the capsule 11 is provided has the advantage that, compared to a capsule with a larger cross-sectional area, the pressure drop across the mouthpiece 2' is reduced, leaving enough space around the capsule for the aerosol to pass through, and the body of material 6 does not remove as much aerosol mass as it passes through the mouthpiece 2'.

[0101] When the capsule is broken, the pressure drop or differential pressure (also called resistance to draw) within the article, measured as the opening pressure drop (i.e., with the vent opening open), preferably drops by less than 8 mmH2O. More preferably, the opening pressure drop drops by less than 6 mmH2O, and more preferably, by less than 5 mmH2O. These values ​​are measured as an average achieved by at least 80 articles made with the same design. Such small changes in pressure drop mean that other aspects of product design, such as setting the correct vent level for a given product pressure drop, can be achieved whether or not the consumer chooses to break the capsule.

[0102] In some embodiments, when aerosol-generating material 3 is heated to deliver an aerosol, for example, in a non-combustible aerosol delivery device described herein, the portion of mouthpiece 2 in which the capsule is located reaches a temperature of 58-70 degrees Celsius during use of the system to generate the aerosol. As a result of this temperature, the capsule contents are sufficiently warmed to promote volatilization of the capsule contents, e.g., aerosol modifiers, into the aerosol formed by the system as the aerosol passes through mouthpiece 2. Warming the contents of capsule 11 can occur, for example, before capsule 11 is broken, so that upon breakage, the contents of capsule 11 are more readily released into the aerosol passing through mouthpiece 2. Alternatively, the contents of capsule 11 can be warmed to this temperature after capsule 11 is broken, again increasing the release of the contents into the aerosol. It has been found advantageous that a mouthpiece temperature in the range of 58-70 degrees Celsius is high enough to allow the capsule contents to be released more easily, but low enough so that the outer surface of the portion of the mouthpiece 2 where the capsule is located does not reach a temperature that is uncomfortable for a consumer to touch in order to burst the capsule 11 by tightening the mouthpiece 2.

[0103] The temperature of the portion of the mouthpiece 2 where the capsule 11 is located can be measured using a digital thermometer with an invasive probe positioned so that the probe enters the mouthpiece 2 through the wall of the mouthpiece 2 (forming a seal to limit the amount of outside air that can leak around the probe into the mouthpiece) and is located proximate to the location of the capsule 11. Similarly, a temperature probe can be placed on the exterior surface of the mouthpiece 2 to measure the temperature of the exterior surface.

[0104] Table 1.0 below shows the temperature at the capsule in the mouthpiece 2 of an article used with an aerosol delivery system during the first five puffs. Data is provided for the article when heated using a "standard" heating profile with the coil heating device described herein with reference to Figures 3-7, and for the same article when heated using a "boost" heating profile with the same device. The "boost" heating profile is user selectable and allows for higher heating temperatures to be achieved. As shown in Table 1.0, the temperature of mouthpiece 2 at the location of capsule 11 reaches a maximum temperature of 61.5°C under the "standard" heating profile and a maximum temperature of 63.8°C under the "boost" heating profile. A maximum temperature in the range of 58°C to 70°C, preferably in the range of 59°C to 65°C, and more preferably in the range of 60°C to 65°C, has been found to be particularly advantageous in terms of aiding in the volatilization of the contents of capsule 11 while maintaining a suitable exterior surface temperature of mouthpiece 2. [Table 1]

[0105] The capsule 11 can be broken by an external force applied to the mouthpiece 2, for example, by a consumer squeezing the mouthpiece 2 with their fingers or another mechanism. As described above, the portion of the mouthpiece in which the capsule is disposed is configured to reach a temperature greater than 58°C during use of the aerosol delivery system to generate an aerosol. The capsule 11 disposed within the mouthpiece 2 prior to heating of the aerosol-generating material 3 preferably has a burst strength of 1500 to 4000 grams-force. The capsule 11 disposed within the mouthpiece 2 within 30 seconds of using the aerosol delivery system to generate an aerosol preferably has a burst strength of 1000 to 4000 grams-force. Therefore, it has been found that the capsule 11 can maintain its burst strength regardless of whether it is exposed to temperatures greater than 58°C, for example, temperatures between 58°C and 70°C. Within this burst strength range, the capsule 11 can be easily crushed by a consumer while providing sufficient tactile feedback to the consumer that the capsule 11 has been broken. Maintaining such burst strength is achieved by selecting an appropriate gelling agent for the capsule, such as polysaccharides including gum arabic, gellan gum, acacia gum, xanthan gum, or carrageenan, alone or in combination with gelatin, as described herein. In addition, a suitable wall thickness should be selected for the capsule shell.

[0106] The burst strength of a capsule placed in the mouthpiece before heating the aerosol-forming material is preferably 2000 to 3500 grams-force or 2500 to 3500 grams-force. The burst strength of a capsule placed in the mouthpiece within 30 seconds of using the system to generate an aerosol is preferably 1500 to 4000 grams-force or 1750 to 3000 grams-force. In one example, the average burst strength of a capsule placed in the mouthpiece before heating the aerosol-forming material is about 3175 grams-force, and the average burst strength of a capsule placed in the mouthpiece within 30 seconds of using the system to generate an aerosol is about 2345 grams-force.

[0107] The capsule burst strength can be tested using a force-measuring device such as a texture analyzer. For these burst strengths, a Type TA.XTPlus Texture Analyser was used, with a 6 mm diameter circular metal probe positioned at the center of the capsule site (i.e., 12 mm from the mouth end of the mouthpiece 2). The probe test speed was 0.3 mm / s, with a pre-test speed of 5.00 mm / s and a post-test speed of 10 mm / s. The force used was 5000 g. The tested articles were puffed using standard testing equipment according to the well-known Health Canada smoking regime (55 ml puffs applied for 2 seconds every 30 seconds) using a Borgwaldt A14 syringe drive unit. Three puffs were taken using this regime, and the capsule burst strength was measured within 30 seconds of the third puff. The article tested was similar to article 1 shown in Figures la and lb, described in more detail below, except that it had an 8 mm hollow tubular element 4 at the mouth end formed from two layers of paper laminated together, each wrapped parallel and abutting at a seam, and had a total thickness of 300 μm. The capsule was 3 mm in diameter and placed within a body of 8 mm long cellulose acetate tow with a tow specification of 9.5Y12,000 and a target of 9% triacetin plasticizer.

[0108] The barrier material may include one or more of a gelling agent, a bulking agent, a buffering agent, a colorant, and a plasticizer.

[0109] The gelling agent may suitably be, for example, a polysaccharide or cellulose gelling agent, gelatin, gum, gel, wax, or a mixture thereof. Suitable polysaccharides include alginic acid, dextran, maltodextrin, cyclodextrin, and pectin. Suitable alginic acids include, for example, alginate salts, esterified alginic acid, or glyceryl alginate. Alginate salts include ammonium alginate, triethanolamine alginate, and metal ion alginates of Group I or Group II, such as sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium alginate. Esterified alginic acids include propylene glycol alginate and glyceryl alginate. In one embodiment, the barrier material includes sodium alginate and / or calcium alginate. Suitable cellulose materials include methylcellulose, ethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, cellulose acetate, and cellulose ethers. The gelling agent may include one or more modified starches. The gelling agent may include carrageenan. Suitable gums include agar, gellan gum, gum arabic, pullulan gum, mannan gum, gum ghatti, tragacanth gum, karaya, locust bean, acacia gum, guar, quince seed, and xanthan gum. Suitable gels include agar, agarose, carrageenan, fucoidan, and furcellaran. Suitable waxes include carnauba wax. In some cases, the gelling agent can include carrageenan and / or gellan gum, which are particularly suitable for inclusion as gelling agents to provide a particularly suitable pressure required to break the resulting capsules. The barrier material may include one or more bulking agents such as starch, modified starch (such as oxidized starch), and sugar alcohols such as maltitol.

[0110] The barrier material may contain a colorant that makes it easier to locate the capsules in the aerosol generating device during the manufacturing process of the aerosol generating device. The colorant is preferably selected from dyes and pigments.

[0111] The barrier material may further include at least one buffering agent, such as a citrate or phosphate compound.

[0112] The barrier material may further comprise at least one plasticizer, which may be glycerol, sorbitol, maltitol, triacetin, polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, or another polyalcohol with plasticizing properties, and optionally an acid of the mono-, di-, or tri-acid type, in particular citric acid, fumaric acid, malic acid, etc. The amount of plasticizer ranges from 1 to 30% by weight, preferably from 2 to 15% by weight, even more preferably from 3 to 10% by weight of the total dry weight of the shell.

[0113] The barrier material may also contain one or more filler materials. Suitable filler materials include starch derivatives such as dextrin, maltodextrin, cyclodextrin (α, β, or γ), or cellulose derivatives such as hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC), hydroxypropylcellulose (HPC), methylcellulose (MC), carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), polyvinyl alcohol, polyols, or mixtures thereof. Dextrin is a preferred filler. The amount of filler in the shell is at most 98.5% by weight, preferably 25-95% by weight, more preferably 40-80% by weight, and even more preferably 50-60% by weight, of the total dry weight of the shell. The capsule shell may further comprise a hydrophobic outer layer that reduces the capsule's susceptibility to moisture-induced deterioration. The hydrophobic outer layer is preferably selected from the group consisting of waxes, particularly carnauba wax, candelilla wax, or beeswax, carbowax, shellac (in alcoholic or aqueous solutions), ethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, latex compositions, polyvinyl alcohol, or combinations thereof. More preferably, the at least one moisture barrier agent is ethyl cellulose or a mixture of ethyl cellulose and shellac.

[0114] The capsule core contains an aerosol modifier. The aerosol modifier can be any volatile substance that modifies at least one property of the aerosol. For example, the aerosol substance can modify the pH, sensory properties, moisture content, delivery characteristics, or flavor. In some cases, the aerosol modifier can be selected from an acid, a base, water, or a flavoring. In some embodiments, the aerosol modifier includes one or more flavorings. Suitably, the flavouring may be liquorice, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, mint flavouring from any species of the genus Mentha, such as peppermint oil and / or spearmint oil, suitably menthol, and / or mint oil, or lavender, fennel or anise.

[0115] In some cases, the flavoring includes menthol.

[0116] In some cases, the capsule may comprise at least about 25% w / w flavoring (based on the total weight of the capsule), preferably at least about 30% w / w flavoring, 35% w / w flavoring, 40% w / w flavoring, 45% w / w flavoring, or 50% w / w flavoring.

[0117] In some cases, the core can contain at least about 25% w / w flavoring (based on the total weight of the core), preferably at least about 30% w / w flavoring, 35% w / w flavoring, 40% w / w flavoring, 45% w / w flavoring, or 50% w / w flavoring. In some cases, the core can contain no more than about 75% w / w flavoring (based on the total weight of the core), preferably no more than about 65% w / w flavoring, 55% w / w flavoring, or 50% w / w flavoring. Illustratively, the capsule can contain an amount of flavoring in the range of 25-75% w / w (based on the total weight of the core), about 35-60% w / w, or about 40-55% w / w.

[0118] The capsule may contain at least about 2 mg, 3 mg, or 4 mg of aerosol modifier, preferably at least about 4.5 mg, 5 mg, 5.5 mg, or 6 mg of aerosol modifier.

[0119] In some cases, the consumable contains at least about 7 mg of aerosol modifier, preferably at least about 8 mg of aerosol modifier, 10 mg of aerosol modifier, 12 mg of aerosol modifier, or 15 mg of aerosol modifier. The core may also contain a solvent in which the aerosol modifier is dissolved.

[0120] Any suitable solvent may be used.

[0121] When the aerosol modifier includes a flavoring, the solvent can preferably include short- or medium-chain fats and oils. For example, the solvent can include a triester of glycerol, such as a C2-C12 triglyceride, preferably a C6-C10 triglyceride, or a Cs-C12 triglyceride. For example, the solvent can include a medium-chain triglyceride (MCT-C8-C12), which can be derived from palm oil and / or coconut oil.

[0122] The esters can be formed with caprylic acid and / or capric acid. For example, the solvent can include medium-chain triglycerides of glyceryl tricaprylate and / or glyceryl tricaprate. For example, the solvent can include compounds identified by CAS Registry Numbers 73398-61-5, 65381-09-1, and 85409-09-2. Such medium-chain triglycerides are odorless and tasteless.

[0123] The hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) of the solvent may be in the range of 9 to 13, preferably 10 to 12. Methods for making capsules include co-extrusion, optionally followed by centrifugation and hardening and / or drying. The contents of WO 2007 / 010407 are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0124] In the examples described above, the mouthpieces 2, 2' each comprise a single body of material 6. In other examples, the mouthpieces of Figure 1 or 2a and 2b may comprise multiple bodies of material. The mouthpieces 2, 2' may comprise cavities between the bodies of material.

[0125] In some examples, the mouthpiece 2, 2′ downstream of the aerosol-generating material 3 can include a paper wrapper, such as the first plug wrap 7 or the second plug wrap 9, or tipping paper 5, which includes an aerosol modifier or other sensate material as described herein. The aerosol modifier can be disposed on the inward-facing or outward-facing surface of the mouthpiece paper wrapper. For example, the aerosol modifier or other sensate material can be provided on an area of ​​the paper wrapper that contacts the consumer's lips during use, such as the outward-facing surface of the tipping paper 5. By disposing the aerosol modifier or other sensate material on the outward-facing surface of the mouthpiece paper wrapper, the aerosol modifier or other sensate material can be delivered to the consumer's lips during use. Delivery of the aerosol modifier or other sensate material to the consumer's lips during use of the article can modify the organoleptic properties (e.g., taste) of the aerosol generated by the aerosol-generating substrate 3 or otherwise provide the consumer with an alternative sensory experience. For example, the aerosol modifier or other sensate material can impart a flavor to the aerosol generated by the aerosol-generating substrate 3. The aerosol modifier or other sensate material can be at least partially water-soluble so that it can be transferred to the user by the consumer's saliva. The aerosol modifier or other sensate material can be volatilized by the heat generated by the aerosol delivery system. This can facilitate transfer of the aerosol modifier to the aerosol generated by the aerosol-generating substrate 3. Suitable sensate materials can include flavors, sucralose, or cooling agents such as menthol, as described herein.

[0126] The non-combustion aerosol delivery device is used to heat the aerosol-generating material 3 of the articles 1, 1′ described herein. Preferably, the non-combustion aerosol delivery device comprises a coil, as this has been found to allow for improved heat transfer to the articles 1, 1′ compared to other configurations.

[0127] In some examples, the coil is configured to cause heating of at least one conductive heating element during use, thereby enabling thermal energy to be conducted from the at least one conductive heating element to the aerosol-generating material, thereby causing heating of the aerosol-generating material.

[0128] In some examples, the coil is configured to generate a varying magnetic field that penetrates at least one heating element during use, thereby causing inductive heating and / or magnetic hysteresis heating of the at least one heating element. In such configurations, the or each heating element may be referred to as a "susceptor," as defined herein. A coil configured to generate a varying magnetic field that penetrates at least one conductive heating element during use, thereby causing inductive heating of the at least one conductive heating element may be referred to as an "induction coil" or "inductor coil."

[0129] The device can include heating element(s), for example, conductive heating element(s), which can be positioned or positionable relative to the coil to enable such heating of the heating element(s). The heating element(s) can be in a fixed position relative to the coil. Alternatively, at least one heating element, for example, at least one conductive heating element, can be included in the article 1, 1′ for insertion into the heating section of the device, the article 1, 1′ also comprising the aerosol-generating material 3 and removable from the heating section after use. Alternatively, both the device and such article 1, 1′ can include at least one respective heating element, for example, at least one conductive heating element, and the coil can be for causing heating of the heating element(s) of each of the device and article when the article is within the heating section.

[0130] In some examples, the coil is helical. In some examples, the coil surrounds at least a portion of a heated section of a device configured to receive an aerosol-generating material. In some examples, the coil is a helical coil that surrounds at least a portion of the heated section.

[0131] In some examples, the device includes a conductive heating element at least partially surrounding the heating section, and the coil is a helical coil surrounding at least a portion of the conductive heating element. In some examples, the conductive heating element is tubular. In some examples, the coil is an inductor coil.

[0132] In some examples, the use of a coil allows a non-combustion aerosol delivery device to reach an operating temperature more quickly than a non-coil aerosol delivery device. For example, a non-combustion aerosol delivery device including the coil described above can reach an operating temperature so as to provide a first puff in less than 30 seconds, more preferably less than 25 seconds, from the start of a device heating program. In some examples, the device can reach an operating temperature in about 20 seconds from the start of a device heating program.

[0133] It has been found that using the coils described herein in devices to cause heating of the aerosol-generating material enhances the resulting aerosol. For example, consumers have reported that the aerosol generated by devices including coils such as those described herein feels closer in feel to that generated by factory-made cigarette (FMC) products than aerosols obtained with other non-combustion aerosol delivery systems. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is hypothesized that this is a result of the reduced time to reach the required heating temperature when coils are used, the higher heating temperatures achievable when coils are used, and / or the fact that coils allow such systems to simultaneously heat a relatively large volume of aerosol-generating material, resulting in aerosol temperatures similar to FMC aerosol temperatures. In FMC products, hot aerosols are generated by burning coals, which heat the tobacco in the tobacco rod behind the coals as the aerosol is drawn through the rod. It is understood that this hot aerosol liberates flavor compounds from the tobacco in the rod behind the burning coals. Devices including the coils described herein are also believed to be capable of heating aerosol-forming materials, such as the tobacco materials described herein, to release flavor compounds, resulting in aerosols that are reportedly more similar to FMC aerosols.

[0134] Certain aerosol improvements can be achieved by using a device including a coil to heat an article comprising an aerosol-generating material entrained within a paper web, the paper web having a permeability of less than 100 Coresta units, more preferably less than 60 Coresta units or less than 20 Coresta units.

[0135] The use of an aerosol delivery system including a coil as described herein, e.g., an induction coil that heats at least a portion of the aerosol-forming material to at least 200°C, more preferably at least 220°C, can enable the generation of aerosols from the aerosol-forming material having particular properties that are believed to be more similar to those of FMC products. For example, when an induction heater is used to heat an aerosol-forming material containing nicotine that is heated to at least 250°C for a period of 2 seconds under an air flow of at least 1.50 L / m during this period, one or more of the following properties are observed:

[0136] At least 10 μg of nicotine is aerosolized from the aerosol-forming material. The aerosol-forming material provides a weight ratio of generated aerosol to nicotine of at least about 2.5:1, preferably at least 8.5:1.

[0137] At least 100 μg of aerosol-forming material can be aerosolized from the aerosol-generating material.

[0138] The average particle or droplet size in the generated aerosol is less than about 1000 nm. The aerosol density is at least 0.1 μg / cc.

[0139] In some cases, at least 10 μg of nicotine, preferably at least 30 μg or 40 μg of nicotine, is aerosolized from the aerosol-forming material under an airflow of at least 1.50 L / m during the period. In some cases, less than about 200 μg of nicotine, preferably less than about 150 μg or less than about 125 μg of nicotine, is aerosolized from the aerosol-forming material under an airflow of at least 1.50 L / m during the period.

[0140] In some cases, at least 100 μg of aerosol-forming material, preferably at least 200 μg, 500 μg, or 1 mg of aerosol-forming material, is aerosolized from the aerosol-generating material under an airflow of at least 1.50 L / m during a period of time. Suitably, the aerosol-forming material can comprise or consist of glycerol.

[0141] As defined herein, the term "average particle or droplet size" refers to the average size of the solid or liquid components of the aerosol (i.e., the components suspended in the gas). When the aerosol contains suspended liquid droplets and suspended solid particles, the term refers to the average size of all components combined.

[0142] In some cases, the average particle or droplet size in the generated aerosol can be less than about 900 nm, 800 nm, 700 nm, 600 nm, 500 nm, 450 nm, or 400 nm. In some cases, the average particle or droplet size can be greater than about 25 nm, 50 nm, or 100 nm.

[0143] In some cases, the aerosol density generated during the period is at least 0.1 μg / cc. In some cases, the aerosol density is at least 0.2 μg / cc, 0.3 μg / cc, or 0.4 μg / cc. In some cases, the aerosol density is less than about 2.5 μg / cc, 2.0 μg / cc, 1.5 μg / cc, or 1.0 μg / cc. The non-combustion aerosol delivery device is preferably arranged to heat the aerosol-forming material 3 of the article 1, 1′ to a maximum temperature of at least 160° C. The non-combustion aerosol delivery device is preferably arranged to heat the aerosol-forming material 3 of the article 1, 1′ to a maximum temperature of at least about 200° C., or at least about 220° C., or at least about 240° C., more preferably at least about 270° C., at least once during the heating process by the non-combustion aerosol delivery device.

[0144] Use of an aerosol delivery system including a coil described herein, such as an induction coil that heats at least a portion of the aerosol-generating material to at least 200°C, more preferably at least 220°C, can enable the generation of aerosols from the aerosol-generating material in the articles 1, 1′ described herein that have a higher temperature when the aerosol leaves the mouth end of the mouthpiece 2, 2′ than previous devices, which can contribute to the generation of aerosols that are considered more similar to FMC products. For example, the maximum aerosol temperature measured at the mouth end of the article 1, 1′ can preferably be greater than 50°C, more preferably greater than 55°C, and even more preferably greater than 56°C or 57°C. Additionally or alternatively, the maximum aerosol temperature measured at the mouth end of the article 1, 1′ can be less than 62°C, more preferably less than 60°C, and more preferably less than 59°C. In some embodiments, the maximum aerosol temperature measured at the mouth end of the article 1, 1′ can be preferably between 50°C and 62°C, more preferably between 56°C and 60°C.

[0145] 3 shows an example of a non-combustion aerosol delivery device 100 for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-generating medium / material, such as the aerosol-generating material 3 of the articles 1, 1′ described herein. In summary, the device 100 can be used to heat a replaceable article 110 comprising an aerosol-generating medium, such as the articles 1, 1′ described herein, to generate an aerosol or other inhalable medium that is inhaled by a user of the device 100. The device 100 and the replaceable article 110 together form a system.

[0146] The device 100 comprises a housing 102 (in the form of an outer cover) that surrounds and houses the various components of the device 100. The device 100 has an opening 104 at one end through which an item 110 can be inserted for heating by the heating assembly. In use, the item 110 can be fully or partially inserted into the heating assembly, where it can be heated by one or more components of the heater assembly.

[0147] The device 100 in this example includes a first end member 106 with a lid 108 movable relative to the first end member 106 to close the opening 104 when the item 110 is not in place. In Figure 3, the lid 108 is shown in an open configuration, but the lid 108 can also be moved to a closed configuration. For example, a user can slide the lid 108 in the direction of arrow "B."

[0148] Device 100 may also include a user-operable control element 112, such as a button or switch, that, when pressed, operates device 100. For example, a user may turn device 100 on by operating switch 112.

[0149] Device 100 may also include an electrical component, such as a socket / port 114 that can receive a cable to charge a battery in device 100. For example, socket 114 may be a charging port, such as a USB charging port.

[0150] 4 shows the device 100 of FIG. 3 with the outer cover 102 removed and without the article 110. The device 100 defines a longitudinal axis 134.

[0151] 4, first end member 106 is disposed at one end of device 100, and second end member 116 is disposed at the opposite end of device 100. First end member 106 and second end member 116 together at least partially define an end surface of device 100. For example, the bottom surface of second end member 116 at least partially defines the bottom surface of device 100. An edge of outer cover 102 can also define a portion of the end surface. In this example, lid 108 also defines a portion of the top surface of device 100.

[0152] The end of the device nearest opening 104 can be referred to as the proximal end (or mouth end) of device 100, as it is closest to the user's mouth during use. In use, a user inserts item 110 into opening 104, operates user control 112 to initiate heating of the aerosol-generating material, and inhales the aerosol generated within the device, causing the aerosol to flow along the flow path through device 100 toward the proximal end of device 100.

[0153] The other end of the device, furthest from opening 104, can be referred to as the distal end of device 100, as it is the end farthest from a user's mouth during use. When a user inhales the aerosol generated within the device, the aerosol flows away from the distal end of device 100.

[0154] Device 100 further includes a power source 118. Power source 118 can be, for example, a battery, such as a rechargeable or non-rechargeable battery. Examples of suitable batteries include, for example, lithium batteries (e.g., lithium-ion batteries), nickel batteries (e.g., nickel-cadmium batteries), and alkaline batteries. The battery is electrically coupled to the heating assembly to provide power for heating the aerosol-generating material when needed under the control of a controller (not shown). In this example, the battery is connected to a central support 120, which holds battery 118 in place.

[0155] The device further includes at least one electronic module 122. The electronic module 122 may include, for example, a printed circuit board (PCB). The PCB 122 may support at least one controller, such as a processor, and a memory. The PCB 122 may also include one or more electrical tracks for electrically connecting together various electronic components of the device 100. For example, battery terminals may be electrically connected to the PCB 122 so that power can be distributed throughout the device 100. The socket 114 may also be electrically coupled to a battery via the electrical tracks.

[0156] In the exemplary device 100, the heating assembly is an induction heating assembly and includes various components for heating the aerosol-generating material of the article 110 by an induction heating process. Induction heating is a process of heating an electrical conductor (such as a susceptor) by electromagnetic induction. The induction heating assembly can include an induction element, such as one or more inductor coils, and a device for passing a varying current, such as an alternating current, through the induction element. The varying current in the induction element generates a varying magnetic field. The varying magnetic field penetrates a susceptor suitably positioned relative to the induction element and generates eddy currents in the susceptor. The susceptor has an electrical resistance to the eddy currents, and therefore, the flow of eddy currents against this resistance causes the susceptor to heat by Joule heating. If the susceptor includes a ferromagnetic material such as iron, nickel, or cobalt, heat can also be generated by magnetic hysteresis losses in the susceptor, i.e., by the changing orientation of magnetic dipoles in the magnetic material as a result of alignment with the varying magnetic field. Inductive heating generates heat within the susceptor, allowing for rapid heating, as compared to, for example, heating by conduction. Furthermore, no physical contact between the induction heater and the susceptor is required, allowing for more freedom in terms of design and application.

[0157] The induction heating assembly of the exemplary device 100 includes a susceptor structure 132 (referred to herein as a "susceptor"), a first inductor coil 124, and a second inductor coil 126. The first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 are made from an electrically conductive material. In this example, the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 are made from a litz wire / cable that is wound in a helical shape to provide the helical inductor coils 124, 126. Litz wire includes multiple individual wires that are individually insulated and twisted together to form a single wire. Litz wire is designed to reduce skin effect losses in the conductor. In the exemplary device 100, the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 are made from copper litz wire with a square cross-section. In other examples, the litz wire can have other cross-section shapes, such as circular.

[0158] The first inductor coil 124 is configured to generate a first varying magnetic field for heating a first section of the susceptor 132, and the second inductor coil 126 is configured to generate a second varying magnetic field for heating a second section of the susceptor 132. In this example, the first inductor coil 124 is adjacent to the second inductor coil 126 along a longitudinal axis 134 of the device 100 (i.e., the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 do not overlap). The susceptor structure 132 can comprise a single susceptor or two or more separate susceptors. Ends 130 of the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 can be connected to the PCB 122.

[0159] It will be appreciated that in some examples, the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 can have at least one characteristic that differs from one another. For example, the first inductor coil 124 can have at least one characteristic that differs from the second inductor coil 126. More specifically, in one example, the first inductor coil 124 can have a different inductance value than the second inductor coil 126. In FIG. 2 , the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 are of different lengths, and thus the first inductor coil 124 is wound on a smaller section of the susceptor 132 than the second inductor coil 126. Thus, the first inductor coil 124 can include a different number of turns than the second inductor coil 126 (assuming the spacing between individual turns is substantially the same). In yet another example, the first inductor coil 124 can be made of a different material than the second inductor coil 126. In some examples, the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 can be substantially identical.

[0160] In this example, the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 are wound in opposite directions. This can be useful when the inductor coils are active at different times. For example, the first inductor coil 124 can be activated first to heat a first section / portion of the article 110, and the second inductor coil 126 can be activated later to heat a second section / portion of the article 110. Winding the coils in opposite directions helps reduce current induced in inactive coils when used with certain types of control circuitry. In FIG. 4 , the first inductor coil 124 is a right-handed spiral and the second inductor coil 126 is a left-handed spiral. However, in other embodiments, the inductor coils 124, 126 can be wound in the same direction, or the first inductor coil 124 can be a left-handed spiral and the second inductor coil 126 can be a right-handed spiral.

[0161] The susceptor 132 in this example is hollow, thus defining a receptacle in which the aerosol-generating material is received. For example, the article 110 can be inserted into the susceptor 132. In this example, the susceptor 120 is tubular and has a circular cross-section.

[0162] The susceptor 132 can be made from one or more materials, and preferably comprises carbon steel with a nickel or cobalt coating.

[0163] In some examples, the susceptor 132 can include at least two materials, which can be heated at two different frequencies for selective aerosolization of the at least two materials. For example, a first section of the susceptor 132 (heated by the first inductor coil 124) can include a first material, and a second section of the susceptor 132 (heated by the second inductor coil 126) can include a second, different material. In another example, the first section can include first and second materials, which can be heated differently based on the operation of the first inductor coil 124. The first and second materials can be adjacent along an axis defined by the susceptor 132 or can form different layers within the susceptor 132. Similarly, the second section can include third and fourth materials, which can be heated differently based on the operation of the second inductor coil 126. The third and fourth materials can be adjacent along an axis defined by the susceptor 132 or can form different layers within the susceptor 132. For example, the third material can be the same as the first material, and the fourth material can be the same as the second material. Alternatively, each of these materials can be different. The susceptor can include, for example, carbon steel or aluminum.

[0164] 4 further includes an insulating member 128, which may be generally tubular and may at least partially surround the susceptor 132. The insulating member 128 may be constructed from any insulating material, such as, for example, plastic. In this particular example, the insulating member is constructed from polyetheretherketone (PEEK). The insulating member 128 may help insulate various components of the device 100 from heat generated within the susceptor 132.

[0165] The insulating member 128 can also fully or partially support the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126. For example, as shown in FIG. 4 , the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 are disposed around the insulating member 128 and contact the radially outward surface of the insulating member 128. In some examples, the insulating member 128 does not abut the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126. For example, there can be a slight gap between the outer surface of the insulating member 128 and the inner surfaces of the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126. In a specific example, the susceptor 132 , the insulating member 128 , and the first and second inductor coils 124 , 126 are coaxial about a central longitudinal axis of the susceptor 132 .

[0166] 5 shows a partial cross-sectional side view of device 100. In this example, outer cover 102 is present. The rectangular cross-sectional shapes of first inductor coil 124 and second inductor coil 126 can be more clearly seen.

[0167] The device 100 further comprises a support 136 for engaging one end of the susceptor 132 to hold the susceptor 132 in place. The support 136 is connected to the second end member 116.

[0168] The device may also include a second printed circuit board 138 associated with the control element 112 .

[0169] The device 100 further comprises a second lid / cap 140 and a spring 142 disposed at the distal end of the device 100. The spring 142 allows the second lid 140 to be opened to provide access to the susceptor 132. A user can open the second lid 140 to clean the susceptor 132 and / or the support 136.

[0170] The device 100 further includes an expansion chamber 144 that extends away from the proximal end of the susceptor 132 toward the opening 104 of the device. A retaining clip 146 is at least partially disposed within the expansion chamber 144 to abut and hold the article 110 when received within the device 100. The expansion chamber 144 is connected to the end member 106.

[0171] FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the device 100 of FIG. 5, with the outer cover 102 omitted.

[0172] FIG. 7A shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the device 100 of FIG. 5. FIG. 7B shows an enlarged view of a region of FIG. 7A. FIGS. 7A and 7B show the article 110 received within the susceptor 132, with the article 110 sized so that the outer surface of the article 110 abuts the inner surface of the susceptor 132. This ensures the most efficient heating. The article 110 in this example comprises an aerosol-generating material 110a. The aerosol-generating material 110a is disposed within the susceptor 132. The article 110 may also comprise other components, such as a filter, packaging material, and / or cooling structure.

[0173] 7B shows that the outer surface of the susceptor 132 is spaced from the inner surfaces of the inductor coils 124, 126 by a distance 150 measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 158 of the susceptor 132. In one particular example, the distance 150 is about 3 mm to 4 mm, about 3 mm to 3.5 mm, or about 3.25 mm.

[0174] 7B further shows that the outer surface of the insulating member 128 is spaced from the inner surfaces of the inductor coils 124, 126 by a distance 152 measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 158 of the susceptor 132. In one particular example, the distance 152 is approximately 0.05 mm. In another example, the distance 152 is substantially 0 mm, such that the inductor coils 124, 126 are in abutting contact with the insulating member 128.

[0175] In one example, the susceptor 132 has a wall thickness 154 of between about 0.025 mm and 1 mm, or about 0.05 mm.

[0176] In one example, the susceptor 132 has a length of about 40 mm to 60 mm, about 40 mm to 45 mm, or about 44.5 mm.

[0177] In one example, the insulating member 128 has a wall thickness 156 of between about 0.25 mm and 2 mm, between 0.25 mm and 1 mm, or about 0.5 mm.

[0178] In use, an article 1, 1' described herein can be inserted into a non-combustible aerosol delivery device, such as device 100 described with reference to Figures 3-7. At least a portion of the mouthpiece 2, 2' of article 1, 1' protrudes from non-combustible aerosol delivery device 100 and can be placed in a user's mouth. An aerosol is generated by heating an aerosol-forming material 3 using device 100. The aerosol generated by aerosol-forming material 3 passes through mouthpiece 2 to the user's mouth.

[0179] The articles 1, 1′ described herein have particular advantages when used with non-combustion aerosol delivery devices, such as the device 100 described with reference to FIGS. 3-7. In particular, it has been surprisingly found that the first tubular element 4 formed from filament tow significantly affects the temperature of the outer surface of the mouthpiece 2 of the article 1, 1′. For example, it has been found that when the hollow tubular element 4 formed from filament tow is wound within an outer web, such as tipping paper 5, the outer surface of the outer web at a longitudinal position corresponding to the location of the hollow tubular element 4 reaches a maximum temperature during use of less than 42° C., preferably less than 40° C., and more preferably less than 38° C. or less than 36° C.

[0180] Table 2.0 below shows the temperature of the exterior surface of article 1, as described herein with reference to Figure 1, when heated using device 100, as described herein with reference to Figures 3-7. First, second, and third temperature measurement probes were used at corresponding first, second, and third positions along mouthpiece 2 of article 1. The first position (designated Position 1 in Table 2.0) was 4 mm from downstream end 2b of mouthpiece 2, the second position (designated Position 2 in Table 2.0) was 8 mm from downstream end 2b of mouthpiece 2, and the third position (designated Position 3 in Table 2.0) was 12 mm from downstream end 2b of mouthpiece 2.

[0181] Thus, the first position is on the outer surface of the portion of the mouthpiece 2 in which the first tubular element 4 is arranged, and the second and third positions are on the outer surface of the portion of the mouthpiece 2 in which the material body 6 is arranged.

[0182] A control article was tested in comparison to the filament tow tubular element 4 described herein, where the filament tow tubular element 4 was replaced with a well-known spirally wound paper tube having the same structure as the second hollow tubular element 8 described herein, but with a length of 6 mm instead of 25 mm.

[0183] Tests were performed on the first five puffs on the article so that the approximate maximum temperature could be observed, as the temperature generally peaks by the fifth puff and begins to decline. Each sample was tested five times, and the temperature provided is the average of these five tests. Standard testing equipment was used to apply the well-known Health Canada smoking regime (55 ml puffs applied for 2 seconds every 30 seconds).

[0184] As shown in the table below, it was surprisingly found that the use of tubular element 4 formed from filament tow reduced the temperature of the exterior surface of mouthpiece 2 compared to the control article at every puff and every test position on mouthpiece 2. Tubular element 4 formed from filament tow was particularly effective at reducing the temperature at the first probe position where the consumer's lips would be placed when using article 1. In particular, the temperature of the exterior surface of mouthpiece 2 at the first probe position decreased by more than 7°C for the first three puffs and by more than 5°C for the fourth and fifth puffs. [Table 2]

[0185] FIG. 8 illustrates a method of manufacturing an article for use in a non-combustible aerosol delivery system. In step S101, first and second portions of aerosol-generating material, each containing an aerosol-forming material, are disposed adjacent to respective first and second longitudinal ends of a mouthpiece rod, the mouthpiece rod comprising a hollow tubular element rod formed from a filament tow disposed between the first and second ends. In this example, the hollow tubular element rod includes a double-length first hollow tubular element 4 disposed between respective first and second bodies of material 6. A respective second tubular element 8 is disposed at the outer end of each body of material 6 adjacent to the outer ends of the second tubular elements 8 where the first and second portions of aerosol-generating material are disposed. The mouthpiece rod is then wrapped within a second plug wrap as described herein.

[0186] In step S102, the first and second portions of aerosol-generating material are connected to the mouthpiece rod. In this example, this is done by wrapping tipping paper 5, as described herein, around at least a portion of the mouthpiece rod and each of the portions of aerosol-generating material 3. In this example, the tipping paper 5 extends longitudinally onto the outer surface of each of the portions of aerosol-generating material 3 by approximately 5 mm.

[0187] In step S103, the hollow tubular element rod is cut to form first and second articles, each article with a mouthpiece comprising a portion of the hollow tubular element rod at the downstream end of the mouthpiece. In this example, a first hollow tubular element 4, twice the length of the mouthpiece rod, is cut approximately midway along its length to form first and second substantially identical articles.

[0188] The various embodiments described herein are presented solely to aid in the understanding and teaching of the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as a representative sample of embodiments and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. It is understood that the advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects described herein should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or on the equivalents of the claims, and that other embodiments may be utilized and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as claimed. It is preferred that the various embodiments of the invention may include, consist of, or consist essentially of any suitable combination of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc., other than those specifically described herein. In addition, the present disclosure may include other inventions not claimed herein but which may be claimed in the future.

Claims

1. An article comprising an aerosol-generating material wound within a roll of paper, and a mouthpiece having a single cavity with an internal volume greater than 450 mm³, wherein the aerosol-generating material contains an aerosol-forming material having a density of less than 700 milligrams per cubic centimeter and accounting for at least 10% by weight, and the roll of paper has a permeability of less than 100 cholesterol units, A non-combustible aerosol supply device for heating the aerosol generating material of the article, comprising: a heating section configured to receive the aerosol generating material, and a coil surrounding at least a portion of the heating section; A non-flammable aerosol supply system comprising at least one conductive heating element for heating the aerosol generating material, wherein the coil is configured to cause heating of the at least one conductive heating element during use.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the roll of paper comprises a metal layer covering at least a portion of the surface of the roll of paper.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein the metal layer contains aluminum.

4. The system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the thickness of the metal layer is 2 μm to 16 μm.

5. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the roll of paper has a permeability of less than 20 cholester units.

6. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the aerosol generating material includes recycled paper cigarette material.

7. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the aerosol generating material has a density of at least 350 milligrams per cubic centimeter.

8. The system according to claim 1, wherein the aerosol-forming material comprises at least one selected from glycerin, glycerol, propylene glycol, a combination of glycerol and propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, erythritol, mesoerythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, a mixture of diacetin, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenylacetate, tributyline, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, propylene carbonate, and combinations thereof.

9. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the aerosol generating material includes tobacco material cut into widths of 0.6 mm to 1.7 mm.

10. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the aerosol generating material comprises recycled paper tobacco material and at least one of band-cast recycled tobacco material, granular tobacco material, and flake tobacco material.

11. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the aerosol generating material is in the form of a cylindrical rod having a length of 10 mm to 100 mm, or a cylindrical rod having a length of 10 mm to 15 mm or a length of 15 mm to 100 mm.

12. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the coil comprises an induction coil.

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