Consumable supply for aerosol generating device and aerosol generating device

Abstract

To provide a consumable supply for an aerosol generating device, with which sustained release of an aerosol modifying agent is enabled during being heated.SOLUTION: Provided is a consumable supply (10) for an aerosol generating device that includes a filter (3), the filter including a breakable capsule (5) and the breakable capsule containing an aerosol modifying agent. The use of a breakable capsule improves the release characteristics of the aerosol modifying agent during the use of the aerosol generating device. In particular, encapsulating the aerosol modifying agent in a breakable capsule provides a sustained release of the aerosol modifying agent during being heated. The aerosol modifying agent may contain a flavorant, suitably menthol.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a filter for an aerosol generating device, the filter including a capsule. The present invention also relates to a consumable for an aerosol generating device. Furthermore, the present invention also relates to an aerosol generating device. [Background technology]

[0002] Articles such as cigarettes and cigars burn tobacco to produce tobacco smoke during use. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these articles that produce an inhalable aerosol without burning smoking material. The smoking material may be, for example, tobacco, other non-tobacco products, or combinations such as blended mixtures, which may or may not contain nicotine.

[0003] One example of such an aerosol-generating product is a so-called heat-not-burn product, also known as a tobacco heating product or tobacco heating device, which releases compounds by heating, rather than burning, a solid substrate material to form an inhalable aerosol. Another example of an aerosol-generating device is a so-called e-cigarette device, which typically vaporizes a liquid substrate to form an inhalable aerosol, and the liquid substrate may or may not contain nicotine. Hybrid devices are also known, which vaporize both the liquid substrate and one or more components of a solid substrate material to form an inhalable aerosol. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In its broadest form, the present invention provides a filter for an aerosol generating device, the filter including a capsule containing an aerosol modifier, which may suitably include a flavoring agent.

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a filter for an aerosol generating device, the filter comprising a breakable capsule containing an aerosol modifier, preferably a flavouring.

[0006] The inventors have surprisingly found that the use of breakable capsules improves the release characteristics of the aerosol modifier during use of the aerosol generating device. In particular, the inventors have surprisingly found that encapsulating the aerosol modifier using breakable capsules results in sustained release of the aerosol modifier during heating.

[0007] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a consumable for an aerosol generating device, the consumable comprising a filter according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0008] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating device comprising a filter according to the first aspect of the present invention or a consumable product according to the second aspect of the present invention.

[0009] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided the use of a breakable capsule containing an aerosol modifier in a filter for an aerosol generating device so as to provide a sustained release of the aerosol modifier during use.

[0010] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention, given by way of example only, made with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows consumables for an aerosol generating device. [Figure 2] 1 illustrates the puff-by-puff flavor delivery of an aerosol generating device in which the flavor was impregnated into a rod of tobacco material and in which non-encapsulated flavor was used. [Figure 3]1 illustrates the puff-by-puff flavor delivery of an aerosol generating device in which the filter was impregnated with flavor and in which non-encapsulated flavor was used. [Figure 4] 1 illustrates the puff-by-puff flavor delivery of an aerosol generating device in which both the filter and the rod of tobacco material were impregnated with flavor, and in which non-encapsulated flavor was used. [Figure 5] 1 shows the flavor delivery per puff of an aerosol generating device, which has a flavor-containing capsule in the filter, as shown in FIG. 1. No other flavors are used. [Figure 6] 1 is a diagram showing the delivery of flavoring agent per puff of an aerosol generating device, in which a capsule containing flavoring agent is provided within a filter, as shown in FIG. 1. The flavoring agent is also impregnated into a rod of tobacco material. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 shows the effect of having a capsule containing menthol in the filter on the delivery of nicotine, glycerol and menthol. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The inventors have found that unencapsulated, volatile aerosol modifiers, such as water or flavorings, volatilize quickly during use of a non-combustible aerosol-generating product, resulting in the aerosol modifier being consumed quickly and potentially not evenly distributed throughout the use of the product. Surprisingly, the inventors have found that the inclusion of a breakable capsule containing the aerosol modifier improves the release characteristics of the aerosol modifier compared to unencapsulated aerosol modifiers, even if the capsule is broken prior to use. Data demonstrating this effect can be found in the Examples.

[0013] The improved release profile is also referred to as a sustained release profile.

[0014] The present invention provides a filter for use in an aerosol generating device, the filter comprising a breakable capsule containing an aerosol modifier, preferably a flavoring. The filter may comprise a cellulosic material, a ceramic material, a polymer, and / or activated carbon. Suitable examples of ceramic materials include silicon carbide (SiC), silicon nitride (Si3N4), titanium carbide, and zirconium dioxide (zirconia).

[0015] The filter can include a rod including a first end and a second end and a plurality of through holes extending between the first end and the second end.

[0016] In some cases, the pressure differential across the filter when a user inhales, when the capsule is in an unbroken state, is in the range of 30-90 mmH2O. The inventors have determined that a pressure differential within this range is particularly suitable because it is (a) high enough to retain the aerosol modifier within the filter after the capsule breaks, thereby providing a sustained release over time, and (b) low enough to allow the aerosol to pass through the filter and provide an acceptable consumption experience.

[0017] Suitably, the pressure differential across the filter when the capsule is in an unbroken state may be in the range of about 30 mmH2O, 33 mmH2O, 35 mmH2O, 38 mmH2O or 40 mmH2O to about 90 mmH2O, 75 mmH2O, 65 mmH2O, 60 mmH2O, 55 mmH2O or 50 mmH2O. Specifically, the pressure differential across the filter when the capsule is in an unbroken state may be in the range of about 35-60 mmH2O, preferably 38-55 mmH2O or 40-50 mmH2O.

[0018] The pressure differential across the filter is affected by a number of parameters, including tow geometry, tow mass per tip, filter dimensions, the presence or absence of plasticizer, and if present, the nature and amount of plasticizer, etc. The tow is formed from cellulose acetate and may be 8Y1500 and / or 9.5Y1200 grade.

[0019] The filter is rod-shaped, preferably cylindrical. The filter has a length of about 8 to 14 mm, preferably 9 to 13 mm or 10 to 12 mm. The filter may have a cross-sectional diameter of about 5 to 9 mm, preferably 7.5 to 8 mm. The filter may be formed from cellulose acetate fibers. A plasticizer such as triacetin may be included. The tow may have, for example, a Y-shaped, X-shaped, or round cross section.

[0020] In some cases, a filter includes only one capsule. In other cases, a filter includes multiple capsules. When a filter includes multiple capsules, the individual capsules may be the same as or different from one another. For example, multiple capsules may be provided to allow a user to select when and whether to break a capsule, thereby controlling the aerosol delivery characteristics.

[0021] The rupturable capsules have a core-shell structure, i.e., the encapsulating or barrier material forms a shell around a core containing the aerosol modifier.

[0022] The shell structure prevents migration of the aerosol modifier during storage of the aerosol generating device, yet allows for controlled release of the aerosol modifier during use.

[0023] 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 is initiated, 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 (release) the core. More specifically, when a user wishes to release the capsule's core, the shell can be ruptured under pressure applied by the user's fingers.

[0024] In some cases, the barrier material is heat resistant, i.e., the barrier does not rupture, melt, or otherwise break down at temperatures reached at the site of the capsule during operation of the aerosol generating device. Specifically, a capsule disposed within a filter may be exposed to temperatures ranging from, for example, 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.

[0025] In other cases, the capsules release the core composition upon heating, for example, by melting the barrier material or by expansion of the capsule leading to rupture of the barrier material.

[0026] The total weight of the capsule is within the range of about 1 mg to about 100 mg, preferably about 5 mg to about 60 mg, about 10 mg to about 50 mg, about 15 mg to about 40 mg, or about 15 mg to about 30 mg.

[0027] The total weight of the core formulation is within 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.

[0028] The capsule according to the present invention comprises a core as described above and a shell, and may have a breaking strength of from about 4.5N to about 40N or to about 25N.

[0029] The capsules can be generally spherical and 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 diameter of the capsules 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. Specifically, the diameter of the capsules 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 diameter of the capsules can be about 3.0 mm. These sizes are particularly suitable for incorporation of the capsules into an aerosol generating device.

[0030] The barrier material may include one or more of a gelling agent, a bulking agent, a buffering agent, a colorant, and a plasticizer.

[0031] Preferably, the gelling agent is, for example, a polysaccharide or cellulosic gelling agent, gelatin, gum, gel, wax, or a mixture thereof. Suitable polysaccharides include alginate, dextran, maltodextrin, cyclodextrin, and pectin. Suitable alginates include, for example, alginate salts, esterified alginates, or glyceryl alginate. Alginates include ammonium alginate, triethanolamine alginate, and Group I or Group II metal ion alginates, such as sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium alginate. Esterified alginates include propylene glycol alginate and glyceryl alginate. In one embodiment, the barrier material is sodium alginate and / or calcium alginate. Suitable cellulosic materials include methylcellulose, ethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, cellulose acetate, and cellulose ethers. The gelling agent can include one or more modified starches. The gelling agent may include carrageenan. Suitable gums include agar, gellan gum, gum arabic, pullulan gum, mannitan gum, gum ghatti, tragacanth gum, karaya, locust bean, acacia gum, guar, quince seed, and xanthan gum. Suitable gels include agar, agarose, carrageenan, fluoran, and furcellaran. Suitable waxes include carnauba wax. In some cases, the gelling agent includes carrageenan and / or gellan gum, which are particularly suitable for encapsulation as the pressure required to break the resulting capsules is particularly suitable.

[0032] The barrier material may include one or more bulking agents such as starch, modified starch (eg, oxidized starch), and sugar alcohol (eg, maltitol).

[0033] The barrier material may include a colorant that easily indicates the location of the capsule in the aerosol generating device during the manufacturing process of the aerosol generating device. The colorant is preferably selected from colorants and pigments.

[0034] The barrier material may further include at least one buffering agent, such as a citrate compound or a phosphate compound.

[0035] The barrier material may comprise at least one plasticizer such as glycerol, sorbitol, maltitol, triacetin, polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol or other polyalcohols having plasticizing properties, and optionally further comprise 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, more preferably from 3% to 10% by weight of the total dry weight of the shell.

[0036] The barrier material may also contain one or more fillers. Suitable fillers include starch derivatives such as dextrin, maltodextrin, cyclodextrin (alpha, beta, or gamma), 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 98.5% by weight or less, preferably 25-95% by weight, more preferably 40-80% by weight, and even more preferably 50-60% by weight, based on the total dry weight of the shell.

[0037] The capsule shell may further comprise a hydrophobic outer layer that reduces the capsule's susceptibility to moisture-induced degradation. The hydrophobic outer layer comprises a wax, particularly carnauba wax, candelilla wax or beeswax, carbowax, shellac (in alcoholic or aqueous solution), ethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, a latex composition, polyvinyl alcohol, or a combination thereof. More preferably, the at least one moisture barrier agent is ethyl cellulose or a mixture of ethyl cellulose and shellac.

[0038] The capsule core contains an aerosol modifier. The aerosol modifier can be any volatile substance that modifies or alters at least one property of the aerosol. For example, the aerosol substance modifies the pH, sensory properties, water 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.

[0039] As used herein, the terms "flavor," "flavoring agent," and "flavoring agent" refer to materials that may be used (where permitted by local regulations) to impart a desired taste or fragrance to products for adult consumers. These materials include extracts (e.g., licorice, hydrangea, magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, menthol, mint, 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-ylang). The flavor enhancers may contain other additives such as spices, 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 (e.g., charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, botanicals, or breath fresheners). These may be imitation, synthetic, or natural materials, or mixtures thereof. They may be in any suitable form, such as an oil, liquid, or powder, capable of emitting a flavor vapor.

[0040] The flavouring may suitably be liquorice, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, mint flavouring, menthol and / or mint oil from any species of the genus Mentha, preferably parmint oil and / or spearmint oil, or lavender, fennel or anise.

[0041] In some cases, the flavoring agent includes menthol.

[0042] In some cases, the capsule comprises at least about 25% w / w flavoring (based on the total weight of the capsule), suitably at least about 30% w / w flavoring, 35% w / w flavoring, 40% w / w flavoring, 45% w / w flavoring or 50% w / w flavoring.

[0043] In some cases, the core comprises at least about 25% w / w flavoring (based on the total weight of the core), suitably at least about 30% w / w, 35% w / w, 40% w / w, 45% w / w, or 50% w / w flavoring. In some cases, the core comprises no more than about 75% w / w flavoring (based on the total weight of the core), suitably no more than about 65% w / w, 55% w / w, or 50% w / w flavoring. Specifically, the capsule may comprise an amount of flavoring (based on the total weight of the core) ranging from 25 to 75% w / w, from about 35 to 60% w / w, or from about 40 to 55% w / w.

[0044] The capsule may contain at least about 2 mg, about 3 mg or about 4 mg of aerosol modifier, suitably at least about 4.5 mg, 5 mg, 5.5 mg or 6 mg of aerosol modifier.

[0045] In some cases, the consumable contains at least about 7 mg of aerosol modifier, suitably at least about 8 mg of aerosol modifier, 10 mg of aerosol modifier, 12 mg of aerosol modifier or 15 mg of aerosol modifier.

[0046] The core may also include a solvent to dissolve the aerosol modifier. Any suitable solvent may be used.

[0047] When the aerosol modifier includes a flavoring, the solvent may suitably include a short-chain or medium-chain fat. For example, the solvent may include a C2-C 12 Triglycerides, preferably C6-C 10 Triglycerides or C8-C 12The solvent can include triesters of glycerol, such as triglycerides. For example, the solvent can be a medium chain triglyceride (MCT-C8-C8), which can be derived from palm oil and / or coconut oil. 12 ).

[0048] The esters can be formed with caprylic acid and / or capric acid. For example, the solvent can include medium-chain triglycerides, such as caprylic triglyceride and / or capric triglyceride. 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 tasteless and odorless.

[0049] The hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) of the solvent may be in the range of 9-13, suitably 10-12.

[0050] Methods for making capsules include co-extrusion, optionally followed by centrifugation and hardening and / or drying, the contents of WO 2007 / 010407 being incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0051] A second aspect of the present invention provides a consumable product for an aerosol generating device, which includes a filter according to the first aspect of the present invention. This consumable product may also be referred to as a cartridge for an aerosol generating device.

[0052] In some cases, the consumable product comprises a filter according to the first aspect of the invention and one or more of an aerosol-forming agent and a tobacco material. Typically, the filter is located downstream of the tobacco material and / or the aerosol-forming agent such that the aerosol generated in use is modified by the aerosol modifier as it passes through the filter.

[0053] In some cases, the consumable product comprises a filter according to the first aspect of the invention and one or more of an aerosol-generating agent, a flavorant (as well as any encapsulated flavorant), and a tobacco material.

[0054] In some cases, a consumable product includes only one capsule. In other cases, a consumable product includes multiple capsules. When a consumable product includes multiple capsules, the individual capsules may all be located within the filter or may be distributed throughout the consumable product. For example, one capsule may be located within the filter and another capsule may be located within the tobacco portion of the consumable product. When a consumable product includes multiple capsules, the individual capsules may be the same or different from one another. For example, multiple capsules may be provided so that a user can select when and which capsules to break, thereby controlling the flavor profile.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 1 , consumable product 10 may be generally cylindrical. Consumable product 10 may include a tobacco rod 1 toward a first end 2 and a filter 3 toward a second end 4. Second end 4 is the mouth end. Tobacco rod 1 contains tobacco material. A capsule 5 is disposed within filter 3 within consumable product 10. The filter may be formed from cellulose acetate. Covering paper 6 holds the components in a cylindrical shape and forms a passageway 7 between tobacco rod 1 and filter 3. An additional short passageway is shown between filter 3 and second end 4; this may be omitted in alternative embodiments.

[0056] In some cases, the length of the tobacco rod 1 is between 34 mm and 50 mm, more preferably the length of the tobacco rod 1 is between 38 mm and 46 mm, and even more preferably the length of the tobacco rod 1 is 42 mm.

[0057] In some cases, the overall length of the consumable 10 is between 71 mm and 95 mm, more preferably between 79 mm and 87 mm, and even more preferably the overall length of the consumable 10 is 83 mm.

[0058] The covering paper 6 extends from the second end 4 to the first end 2 of the consumable. Alternatively, the covering paper 6 may extend from the second end 4 to the end of the tobacco rod 1 proximal to the second end 4. In some cases, the covering paper 6 may be 42 mm to 50 mm in length, preferably 46 mm.

[0059] In some cases, the length of the filter is between 8mm and 14mm, suitably between 9mm and 13mm, or between 10mm and 12mm.

[0060] In some cases, the short passage between the filter 3 and the second end 4 is 3 mm to 7 mm in length, suitably 4 mm to 6 mm. The total length of the short passage and the filter is in some cases suitably about 15 mm to about 17 mm.

[0061] In some cases, the capsule may be located in the center of the filter, i.e., approximately halfway along the length of the filter.

[0062] In some cases, the passage 7 is at least 15 mm. In some cases, the length of the passage 7 is 20 mm to 30 mm, more particularly 23 mm to 27 mm, even more particularly 25 mm to 27 mm, and even more particularly 25 mm. The passage 7 allows volatile components of the tobacco rod to condense from the aerosol. The passage 7 may be provided to limit the temperatures experienced by the heat-sensitive filter and capsule, preventing damage to these components.

[0063] In another embodiment, the generally cylindrical consumable product can have a tobacco rod immediately adjacent to the filter, with or without a passageway on the opposite side of the filter from the tobacco rod.

[0064] In some embodiments, one or more additional capsules may be positioned adjacent to or within the tobacco rod within the consumable.

[0065] The consumable is at least partially inserted into the aerosol generating device during use so that it can be heated to form an inhalable aerosol. The consumable can include a heated portion that is inserted into the aerosol generating device and a mouthpiece portion that protrudes from the aerosol generating device and through which the inhaled aerosol passes. The mouthpiece portion is not directly heated by the heater. In some cases, the capsule can be provided in the mouthpiece portion within the filter. In some cases, the capsule can be provided in the heated portion.

[0066] Consumable 10 may be provided with a ventilation region (not shown) to allow air to flow from the exterior into the interior of consumable 10. In some cases, the ventilation region takes the form of one or more ventilation holes formed through the outer layer of consumable 10. The ventilation holes may be located within passageway 7 to aid in cooling the aerosol during use. In one example, the ventilation region comprises one or more rows of holes, preferably each row of holes arranged circumferentially around consumable 10 in a cross section substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of consumable 10.

[0067] In one example, one to four rows of ventilation holes are provided to provide breathability to the consumable product 10. Each row of ventilation holes can have 12 to 36 ventilation holes. The ventilation holes have a diameter of, for example, 100 μm to 500 μm. In one example, the axial spacing between the rows of ventilation holes is 0.25 mm to 0.75 mm, and more preferably 0.5 mm.

[0068] In one example, the ventilation holes are a uniform size. In another example, the ventilation holes vary in size. The ventilation holes can be formed using any suitable technique, such as one or more of the following techniques: laser techniques, mechanical perforation of the walls of the passageway 7, or pre-perforation of the walls of the passageway 7 before the consumable is formed. The ventilation holes are positioned to effectively cool the consumable 10.

[0069] In one example, the row of vent holes is positioned at least 11 mm from the second end 4 of the consumable 10, and more preferably, the vent holes are positioned between 17 mm and 20 mm from the second end 4 of the consumable 10. The vent holes are positioned so that the user does not block the vent holes when the consumable 10 is in use.

[0070] Advantageously, the row of vent holes can be located between 17 mm and 20 mm from the second end 4 of the consumable 10, allowing the vent holes to be located on the exterior of the aerosol generating device during use. By locating the vent holes on the exterior of the device, unheated air can enter the consumable 10 through the vent holes to help cool the aerosol during use.

[0071] In some embodiments, the filter and tobacco may be inserted separately into the aerosol generating device, and the device may be configured so that the filter is in the mouthpiece portion and the tobacco is in the heated portion.

[0072] After use, the consumable and / or filter are removed and typically discarded, and subsequent uses of the aerosol generating device require the use of different consumables.

[0073] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating device" refers to a non-combustion device. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating device is a so-called tobacco heating product, also known as a non-combustion heating product or tobacco heating device, which releases compounds by heating a solid or semi-solid substrate material without combustion. The capsule is configured to release an aerosol modifier (e.g., flavoring) at the operating temperature of such a device.

[0074] In addition to the filter containing the capsule, the tobacco heating product may further include one or more of an aerosol-generating agent, a flavorant (besides any encapsulated flavorant), a tobacco material, and an additional capsule, which may be within the filter or in another portion of the tobacco heating product.

[0075] The tobacco heating product may include one or more substrate chambers, a heater, and a cooling chamber. A substrate material that is not burned but is heated during use is provided within the substrate chamber. The substrate chamber is heated by the heater during use to vaporize the substrate components.

[0076] In some cases, the filter may be located in the substrate chamber. In some cases, the filter may be located in the cooling chamber.

[0077] In one embodiment, heaters are positioned around the substrate chamber to form an oven-type arrangement in which the substrate is heated during use.

[0078] The cooling chamber is not exposed to heat during use. One or more vaporized components condense within the cooling chamber to form the aerosol. In some embodiments, the cooling chamber may be passageway 7 shown in FIG. 1. The cooling chamber may be within the mouthpiece portion of the aerosol generating device, and the mouthpiece portion may not be exposed to the heater. The generated aerosol is drawn through the mouthpiece portion during use. In some cases, a filter may be provided within the cooling chamber to volatilize the aerosol modifier (released from the broken capsule) by the residual heat of the aerosol formed from the heated substrate.

[0079] In some cases, the filter may be provided within the substrate chamber. The filter may be contained within the substrate chamber such that the contents of the capsule are heated directly by the heater during use.

[0080] In some cases, the aerosol generating device contains only one capsule, although in other cases there may be multiple capsules, each of which may have a different core composition.

[0081] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating agent" refers to an agent that facilitates the generation of an aerosol. An aerosol-generating agent can facilitate the generation of an aerosol by facilitating the initial evaporation and / or condensation of a gas into an inhalable solid and / or liquid aerosol.

[0082] Suitable aerosol generating agents include, but are not limited to, polyols (such as sorbitol, glycerol, and glycols such as propylene glycol or triethylene glycol) and non-polyols (such as monohydric alcohols, high boiling hydrocarbons, acids such as lactic acid, glycerol derivatives, diacetin, triacetin, triethylene glycol diacetate, myristates including ethyl myristate and isopropyl myristate or esters such as triethyl citrate, aliphatic carboxylic acid esters such as methyl stearate, dimethyl dodecanedioate, and dimethyl tetradecanedioate).

[0083] As used herein, the term "tobacco material" refers to any material containing tobacco or a derivative thereof. The term "tobacco material" may include one or more of tobacco itself, a tobacco derivative, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, or a tobacco substitute. The tobacco material may include one or more of ground tobacco, tobacco fiber, cut tobacco, extruded tobacco, tobacco stems, and / or reconstituted tobacco.

[0084] The tobacco used to make the tobacco material can be any suitable tobacco, such as a single grade or blend, cut rag, or whole leaf, including Virginia and / or Burley and / or Oriental. It can also be tobacco particle "fines" or powder, expanded tobacco, stems, expanded stems, and other processed stem materials such as cut-rolled stems. The tobacco material can be ground tobacco or reconstituted tobacco material. Reconstituted tobacco material can include tobacco fiber and can be formed by casting, Fourdrinier-type means with the inverse addition of tobacco extract, or extrusion. [Example]

[0085] Figures 2 to 6 each relate to a menthol-flavored tobacco heating product. Each peak in the time profile corresponds to one puff, and the amounts of nicotine and menthol in each puff were detected by TOF mass spectrometry. In each figure, the upper trace is menthol, and the lower trace is nicotine.

[0086] In Figure 2, a rod of tobacco material was impregnated with menthol. Unencapsulated menthol was used, and therefore represents a comparative example.

[0087] Impregnation of the tobacco rod with menthol can be accomplished, for example, by spraying the rod with a menthol solution or by injecting the solution into the rod.

[0088] It can be seen that a substantial supply of menthol was detected in the early puffs, but the amount of menthol decreased and was significantly reduced in the later puffs.

[0089] In Figure 3, the filter was impregnated with menthol, and unencapsulated menthol was used, thus representing a comparative example.

[0090] Impregnation of the filter with menthol can be achieved, for example, by including menthol dissolved in propylene glycol during the manufacturing process.

[0091] It can be seen that in the early puffs, a substantial supply of menthol was detected, but in later puffs the amount of menthol decreased and was significantly reduced.

[0092] In Figure 4, both the filter and the rod of tobacco material were impregnated with menthol. Unencapsulated menthol was used. This therefore represents a comparative example.

[0093] It can be seen that in the early puffs, a substantial supply of menthol was detected, but in later puffs the amount of menthol decreased and was significantly reduced.

[0094] In Figure 5, a capsule containing menthol was included within the filter, as shown in Figure 1. No other menthol was included.

[0095] It can be seen that the delivery of menthol was sustained throughout the duration of use of the product, with a substantial amount of menthol being delivered with each puff.

[0096] In Figure 6, a capsule containing menthol was included within the filter, as shown in Figure 1. Menthol was also impregnated into a rod of tobacco material.

[0097] It can be seen that the delivery of menthol was sustained throughout the duration of use of the product, with a substantial amount of menthol being delivered with each puff.

[0098] It can be seen from Figures 5 and 6 that a sustained delivery of the aerosol modifier (menthol) is provided by encapsulation. This is surprising, especially considering that the capsule is located within the filter and that mentholated filters, as seen in Figures 3 and 4, do not provide the same sustained release.

[0099] FIG. 7 shows the effect of including a capsule containing menthol in the consumable filter on the delivery of menthol, nicotine and glycerol.

[0100] In each case, the total delivery of each component was detected using a puff technique in which eight 55 mL puffs were administered at 30 second intervals, with each puff lasting 2 seconds.

[0101] In each case, the filter contained cellulose acetate and the pressure differential across the filter for each puff was 42 mmH2O. Capsules containing menthol were included in the filters for Sample 1 and Sample 2. The capsules were different between the two samples.

[0102] It can be seen that the inclusion of a capsule in the filter slightly reduces the delivery of nicotine and glycerol. The amounts of these ingredients delivered in Samples 1 and 2 are less than the control sample, but are still high enough to provide an acceptable experience for the consumer.

[0103] It can also be seen that the delivery of nicotine and glycerol is not compromised upon rupture of the capsule and a substantial delivery of encapsulated menthol is achieved.

[0104] 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 representative examples of embodiments and are not intended to be exhaustive and / or limiting. It is understood that the advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects described herein should not be considered as limitations on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or limitations on the equivalents of the claims, and that other embodiments may be used and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Various embodiments of the present invention may suitably include, consist of, or consist essentially of any suitable combination of the disclosed elements, configurations, features, components, steps, means, etc., other than those specifically described herein. Additionally, the present disclosure may include other inventions not currently recited in the claims but which may be described in the future.

Claims

1. A filter for an aerosol generating device, the filter comprising a breakable capsule, the breakable capsule comprising an aerosol modifier.

2. When the capsule is in an unbroken state, the pressure difference across the filter when the user inhales is 30 to 90 mmH. ２ 10. The filter of claim 1, wherein the filter is in the range of .OMEGA.

3. When the capsule is in an unbroken state, the pressure difference across the filter when the user inhales is 35 to 60 mmH. ２ 0, preferably 38 to 55 mmH ２ O or 40-50mmH ２ 10. The filter of claim 1, wherein the filter is in the range of .OMEGA.

4. A filter according to any preceding claim, wherein the aerosol modifier comprises a flavouring, preferably menthol.

5. 5. The filter of claim 4, wherein the capsule has a core-shell structure, the core comprising at least about 25% w / w flavoring, based on the total weight of the core.

6. The filter of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the capsules are generally spherical and have a diameter ranging from about 0.4 mm to about 8.0 mm.

7. The filter of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the capsule weighs from about 5 mg to about 60 mg.

8. 8. The filter of claim 1, wherein the aerosol modifier is encapsulated by a barrier material, the barrier material comprising one or more of a gelling agent, a bulking agent, a buffering agent, a colorant, a plasticizer, and a filler.

9. A consumable for an aerosol generating device, comprising a filter according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. 10. The consumable product of claim 9, further comprising one or more of an aerosol-forming agent, a flavoring agent, and a tobacco material.

11. 11. The consumable product according to claim 9 or 10, having a mouthpiece portion that is not directly heated during use.

12. The consumable of claim 11 , wherein the filter is in the mouthpiece portion of the consumable.

13. 13. The consumable product of any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the consumable product comprises only one capsule, or wherein the consumable product comprises a plurality of capsules, each of which has a different core composition.

14. The consumable product according to any one of claims 9 to 13, which is generally cylindrical.

15. An aerosol generating device comprising the filter according to any one of claims 1 to 8 or the consumable product according to any one of claims 9 to 14.

16. 16. The aerosol generating device of claim 15, which is a tobacco heating product.

17. 17. The aerosol generating device of claim 16, wherein the tobacco heating product comprises a substrate chamber, a heater, and a cooling chamber, the heater being arranged around the substrate chamber to form an oven-type structure in which the substrate is heated during use.

18. 10. Use of a breakable capsule containing an aerosol modifier in a filter for an aerosol generating device to provide sustained release of the aerosol modifier.

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