Articles that generate aerosols and methods for manufacturing the same

Abstract

The present invention provides an aerosol-generating article and a method for producing the same, which can be manufactured at low cost while simultaneously improving the satisfaction of the smoking experience. [Solution] The aerosol generating article 100 may include an aerosol-forming base material section 110 that contains shredded tobacco leaves and forms an aerosol when electrically heated by an aerosol generating device, and a mouthpiece section located downstream of the aerosol-forming base material section and forming the downstream end. Since shredded tobacco leaves are less expensive than reconstituted tobacco sheets, the manufacturing cost of the aerosol generating article can be reduced. In addition, unlike reconstituted tobacco sheets, shredded tobacco leaves have fewer auxiliary materials added, so off-flavors are reduced, thereby improving the user's satisfaction with the smoking experience.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to aerosol generating articles and a method for manufacturing the same. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating article used together with an aerosol generating device, which can improve taste satisfaction and can be manufactured at a low cost, and a method for manufacturing the article.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, the demand for alternative articles that overcome the disadvantages of traditional cigarettes has been increasing. For example, the demand for devices and articles that generate aerosol by heating instead of by combustion has been increasing. Accordingly, research on heated aerosol generating articles or heated aerosol generating devices has been actively conducted.

[0003] Many heated aerosol generating articles are manufactured based on a reconstituted tobacco sheet (for example, a plate-shaped leaf sheet). However, the high manufacturing cost of the reconstituted tobacco sheet is the main cause of increasing the price of the aerosol generating article. In addition, when manufacturing the reconstituted tobacco sheet, auxiliary materials such as pulp and guar gum are inevitably added. Such auxiliary materials can reduce the taste peculiar to tobacco, induce an off-flavor, and lower the taste satisfaction of users.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The technical problem to be solved through some embodiments of the present disclosure is to provide an aerosol generating article that can improve taste satisfaction and can be manufactured at a low cost, and a method for manufacturing the article.

[0005] The technical problem of the present disclosure is not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by those of ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention pertains from the following description. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] To solve the above technical problems, some embodiments of the present disclosure provide an aerosol generating article that is inserted into an aerosol generating device to generate an aerosol, and may include an aerosol-forming substrate portion that contains chopped tobacco leaves and forms an aerosol when electrically heated by the aerosol generating device, and a mouthpiece portion located downstream of the aerosol-forming substrate portion and forming the downstream end.

[0007] In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming substrate portion does not need to contain other tobacco substances other than the chopped tobacco leaves.

[0008] In some embodiments, the width of the cut tobacco leaves can be 1.0 mm to 1.4 mm.

[0009] In some embodiments, the amount of chopped tobacco leaves contained in the aerosol-forming substrate portion may be 150 mg to 200 mg.

[0010] In some embodiments, the shredded tobacco leaves are produced using a manufacturing process that includes a flavoring step, during which a humectant is added, and the weight ratio of glycerin to propylene glycol contained in the humectant may be 1:1 to 8:2.

[0011] In some embodiments, the moisture content of the chopped tobacco leaves may be 12% to 17% of the total weight of the chopped tobacco leaves.

[0012] In some embodiments, the suction resistance of the mouthpiece portion can be between 90 mmWG and 140 mmWG.

[0013] To solve the above technical problems, some embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method for manufacturing an aerosol-generating article, which is inserted into an aerosol generator to generate an aerosol, and the method may include the steps of: processing tobacco leaf raw material to produce tobacco leaf shreds; forming an aerosol-forming substrate using the produced tobacco leaf shreds; and joining the formed aerosol-forming substrate and a mouthpiece. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] According to the various embodiments of this disclosure described above, electric heating aerosol generating articles can be manufactured using shredded tobacco leaves instead of reconstituted tobacco sheets. Since shredded tobacco leaves have a significantly lower manufacturing cost than reconstituted tobacco sheets, the price competitiveness of aerosol generating articles can be greatly improved.

[0015] Furthermore, by using loose tobacco leaves instead of reconstituted tobacco sheets, the unpleasant odor and taste during smoking can be reduced, allowing the user to experience the true flavor of the tobacco leaves. This can significantly improve user satisfaction with the smoking experience.

[0016] Furthermore, by cutting the tobacco leaf material to an appropriate width (for example, approximately 1.2 mm) during the manufacturing of tobacco leaf processing, the phenomenon of edge shedding during the production of aerosol-generating articles is reduced (i.e., workability is improved), and the amount of atomization can be increased.

[0017] Furthermore, by incorporating chopped tobacco leaves in an appropriate amount (for example, approximately 170 mg), the shedding of the ends during the manufacturing of aerosol-generating articles can be reduced, improving the price competitiveness and tobacco flavor of the aerosol-generating articles.

[0018] Furthermore, by adding glycerin and propylene glycol in an appropriate ratio (for example, approximately 7:3) during the manufacturing of chopped tobacco leaves, the amount of aerosol-generating material atomized can be increased.

[0019] Also, when manufacturing cut tobacco, by appropriately adjusting the moisture content of the cut tobacco (for example, approximately 14.5%), the atomization amount of the aerosol-generating article can be increased, and the workability can be improved.

[0020] Also, during the manufacturing process of cut tobacco, when adding a secondary flavor, by adding an appropriate amount (for example, approximately 3% based on the cut tobacco) of a moisturizing agent, the atomization amount of the aerosol-generating article can be further increased, and the unpleasant odor can be reduced.

[0021] The effects according to the technical idea of the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0022] [Figure 1] It is a diagram illustrating various types of aerosol-generating devices to which the aerosol-generating article according to some embodiments of the present disclosure can be applied. [Figure 2] It is a diagram illustrating various types of aerosol-generating devices to which the aerosol-generating article according to some embodiments of the present disclosure can be applied. [[ID=D20]] [Figure 3] It is a diagram illustrating various types of aerosol-generating devices to which the aerosol-generating article according to some embodiments of the present disclosure can be applied. [Figure 4] It is an exemplary configuration diagram schematically showing the aerosol-generating article according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] It is an exemplary configuration diagram schematically showing the aerosol-generating article according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] It is an exemplary configuration diagram schematically showing the aerosol-generating article according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] It is an exemplary configuration diagram schematically showing the aerosol-generating article according to the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] It is an exemplary flowchart showing a method for manufacturing the aerosol-generating article according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 9]This is an exemplary flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing an aerosol-generating article according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] Figure 9 is an illustrative diagram illustrating the cutting stage S27 shown. [Figure 11] This figure shows the results of a sensory evaluation of how the amount of atomization changes depending on the width of the tobacco leaf cut. [Figure 12] This figure shows the results of a sensory evaluation of how the amount of tobacco flakes affects tobacco flavor and atomization. [Figure 13] This figure shows the results of a sensory evaluation of how the amount of atomization changes depending on the ratio of glycerin to propylene glycol. [Figure 14] This figure shows the results of a sensory evaluation of how the amount of atomization changes depending on the moisture content of the chopped tobacco leaves. [Figure 15] This figure shows the results of the overall sensory evaluation of the aerosol-generating articles based on the examples. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0023] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The advantages and features of the present disclosure, and how they are achieved, will become clearer with reference to the embodiments described in detail below, along with the accompanying drawings. However, the technical idea of ​​the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments below and can be embodied in a variety of different forms, and these embodiments are provided merely to complete the technical idea of ​​the present disclosure and to fully inform a person ordinary in the art to which the present disclosure pertains, and the present disclosure is defined only by the scope of the claims.

[0024] When assigning reference numerals to the components of each drawing, it should be noted that, as far as possible, the same component should have the same reference numeral, even if it is shown in other drawings. Furthermore, when describing this disclosure, if a specific description of a related known configuration or function is deemed to obscure the gist of this disclosure, such detailed description will be omitted.

[0025] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) should be used in a sense that is commonly understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. Furthermore, terms defined in commonly used dictionaries should not be interpreted ideally or excessively unless explicitly defined otherwise. Terms used herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit this disclosure. In this specification, singular forms include plural forms unless otherwise specified in the text.

[0026] Furthermore, when describing the components of this disclosure, terms such as 1, 2, A, B, (a), (b), etc., may be used. Such terms are merely for distinguishing a component from other components and do not limit the nature, procedure, or order of the component. Where it is stated that a component is “linked,” “joined,” or “connected” to another component, it should be understood that the component may be directly linked to or connected to the other component, but further other components may be “linked,” “joined,” or “connected” between each component.

[0027] As used in this disclosure, “comprises” and / or “comprising” does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other components, stages, operations and / or elements that are mentioned.

[0028] First, we will clarify some of the terms used in the following examples.

[0029] In the following examples, "aerosol-forming substrate" means a substance capable of forming an aerosol. The aerosol may contain volatile compounds. The aerosol-forming substrate may be solid or liquid.

[0030] For example, solid aerosol-forming substrates may include solid materials based on tobacco raw materials such as chopped tobacco leaves or reconstituted tobacco (e.g., plate-like leaves), and liquid aerosol-forming substrates may include liquid compositions based on tobacco substances, tobacco extracts, and / or various flavoring agents. However, the scope of this disclosure is not limited to the examples listed above.

[0031] As a more specific example, a liquid aerosol-forming substrate may contain at least one of propylene glycol (PG) and glycerin (GLY), and may further contain at least one of ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol. As another example, the aerosol-forming substrate may further contain at least one of tobacco substances, water, and flavoring substances. As yet another example, the aerosol-forming substrate may further contain a variety of additives such as cinnamon and capsaicin. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain not only highly fluid liquid substances but also substances in the form of gels or solids. Thus, the compositional components of the aerosol-forming substrate can be selected in various ways depending on the example, and the compositional ratios can also vary depending on the example. In the following examples, "liquid" may refer to a liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0032] In the following embodiments, "aerosol generator" means a device that generates an aerosol using an aerosol-forming substrate in order to generate an aerosol that can be directly inhaled into the user's lungs through the user's mouth. Some examples of aerosol generators are shown in Figures 1 to 3. However, the scope of this disclosure is not limited to the devices exemplified above, as it may include a variety of other types of aerosol generators.

[0033] In the following embodiments, “aerosol-generating article” means an article capable of generating an aerosol. The aerosol-generating article may include an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating article may be, for example, a cigarette, but the scope of this disclosure is not limited to such examples.

[0034] In the following examples, "puff" means the user's inhalation, which means drawing something into the user's mouth, nose, or lungs.

[0035] In the following embodiments, “upstream” or “upstream direction” means the direction away from the user’s mouth, and “downstream” or “downstream direction” means the direction towards the user’s mouth. The terms upstream and downstream can be used to describe the relative positions of the elements constituting the smoking article. For example, in the aerosol generating article 100 illustrated in Figure 4, the filter section 120 is located downstream or in the downstream direction of the aerosol forming substrate section 110, and the aerosol forming substrate section 110 is located upstream or in the upstream direction of the filter section 120.

[0036] In the following examples, "length direction" refers to the longitudinal direction of the aerosol-generating article, and "diameter direction" refers to the short axis direction of the aerosol-generating article. That is, "diameter direction" refers to the direction perpendicular to the "length direction".

[0037] Various embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0038] Figures 1 to 3 illustrate various types of aerosol generators 1000 to which the aerosol generating article 2000 according to some embodiments of this disclosure can be applied. In particular, Figures 1 to 3 illustrate the state in which the aerosol generating article 2000 is inserted into the aerosol generator 1000.

[0039] As shown in Figure 1, the aerosol generator 1000 may include a battery 1100, a control unit 1200, and a heater 1300. In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, the aerosol generator 1000 may further include a vaporizer 1400. Furthermore, an aerosol generating article 2000 may be inserted into the internal space of the aerosol generator 1000. However, only components relevant to this embodiment are illustrated in the aerosol generator 1000 shown in Figures 1 to 3. Therefore, it will be obvious to those with ordinary skill in the art related to this embodiment that other general components may be further included in the aerosol generator 1000 in addition to the components shown in Figures 1 to 3.

[0040] Figure 1 illustrates an arrangement in which the battery 1100, control unit 1200, and heater 1300 are arranged in a single line. Figure 2 illustrates an arrangement in which the battery 1100, control unit 1200, vaporizer 1400, and heater 1300 are arranged in a single line. Figure 3 illustrates an arrangement in which the vaporizer 1400 and heater 1300 are arranged in parallel. However, the internal structure of the aerosol generator 1000 is not limited to those shown in Figures 1 to 3. In other words, the arrangement of the battery 1100, control unit 1200, heater 1300, and vaporizer 1400 may be changed depending on the design of the aerosol generator 1000.

[0041] When the aerosol generating article 2000 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1000, the aerosol generating device 1000 can generate an aerosol by activating the heater 1300 and / or the vaporizer 1400. For example, the aerosol generating article 2000 can generate an aerosol by being heated by the heater 1300. The aerosol generated by the heater 1300 and / or the vaporizer 1400 can pass through the aerosol generating article 2000 and be inhaled through the user's mouth.

[0042] The battery 1100 can supply the power used to operate the aerosol generator 1000. For example, the battery 1100 can supply power so that the heater 1300 or vaporizer 1400 can be heated, and can supply the power necessary for the control unit 1200 to operate. The battery 1100 can also supply the power necessary for the operation of displays, sensors, motors, etc. installed in the aerosol generator 1000.

[0043] Next, the control unit 1200 can control the overall operation of the aerosol generator 1000. Specifically, the control unit 1200 can control the operation of not only the battery 1100, heater 1300, and vaporizer 1400, but also other components included in the aerosol generator 1000. The control unit 1200 can also check the status of each component of the aerosol generator 1000 and determine whether the aerosol generator 1000 is in an operational state.

[0044] The control unit 1200 may include at least one processor. The processor may be implemented as an array of numerous logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and memory containing a program that can be executed by the microprocessor. It will be obvious to those with ordinary skill in the art to which this embodiment belongs that it may also be implemented as other forms of hardware.

[0045] In some embodiments, the control unit 1200 can recognize the substrate type of the aerosol generating article 2000. Specifically, the control unit 1200 can recognize whether the aerosol-forming substrate contained in the aerosol generating article 2000 is of the reconstituted sheet type or the shredded tobacco type. For example, the control unit 1200 can recognize the substrate type using an identification element attached to the aerosol generating article 2000 (e.g., aluminum foil attached to the upstream end) or based on user input (e.g., button selection). However, the scope of this disclosure is not limited to such examples. The control unit 1200 can control the heater 1300 based on the recognition result. Specifically, if the substrate type is the reconstituted sheet type, the control unit 1200 can operate the heater 1300 based on a first temperature profile suited to the reconstituted sheet, and if the substrate type is the shredded tobacco type, the control unit 1200 can operate the heater 1300 based on a second temperature profile suited to the shredded tobacco. Thus, the optimal flavor profile of the aerosol-generating article 2000 can be conveyed to the user based on its base material type.

[0046] Next, the heater 1300 is heated by power supplied from the battery 1100. For example, when an aerosol generating article 2000 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 1000, the aerosol generating device 1000 can activate the heater 1300 to heat the aerosol generating article 2000. The heater 1300 can be located inside or outside the aerosol generating article. Thus, the heated heater 1300 can raise the temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate inside the aerosol generating article 2000.

[0047] The heater 1300 may be an electrical resistance heater. For example, the heater 1300 may include an electrically conductive track, and the heater 1300 may be heated by the flow of current through the electrically conductive track. However, the heater 1300 is not limited to the above example and can be used without restriction as long as it can be heated to the target temperature. Here, the target temperature may already be set in the aerosol generator 1000 (for example, if a temperature profile has already been saved), or it may be set to a temperature desired by the user.

[0048] As another example, the heater 1300 may be an induction heating heater. Specifically, the heater 1300 may include an electrically conductive coil for heating the aerosol generating article 2000 by induction heating, and the aerosol generating article 2000 may include a susceptor material that is heated by the induction heating heater. Alternatively, the heater 1300 may consist of an assembly including an electrically conductive coil and a susceptor, and the susceptor of the heater 1300 may heat the aerosol generating article 2000 by induction heating.

[0049] For example, the heater 1300 may include a tubular heating element, a plate-shaped heating element, a needle-shaped heating element, or a rod-shaped heating element, and depending on the form of the heating element, it can heat the inside or outside of the aerosol generating article 2000.

[0050] Furthermore, the aerosol generator 1000 may have multiple heaters 1300. In this case, the multiple heaters 1300 may be arranged so as to be inserted inside the aerosol generating article 2000, or they may be arranged outside the aerosol generating article 2000. Alternatively, some of the multiple heaters 1300 may be arranged so as to be inserted inside the aerosol generating article 2000, and the rest may be arranged outside the aerosol generating article 2000. Also, the shape of the heater 1300 is not limited to the shapes shown in Figures 1 to 3, and can be manufactured in a variety of shapes.

[0051] Next, the vaporizer 1400 can heat the liquid composition (i.e., a liquid aerosol-forming substrate) to generate an aerosol, which can then be transmitted to the user through the aerosol-generating article 2000. For example, the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 1400 can travel along the airflow path of the aerosol generator 1000, and the airflow path can be configured such that the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 1400 can be transmitted to the user through the aerosol-generating article 2000.

[0052] The vaporizer 1400 in some embodiments may include a liquid storage tank, a liquid transfer element, and a heating element, but is not limited to these. The liquid storage tank, liquid transfer element, and heating element may also be included in the aerosol generator 1000 as independent modules. The components of the vaporizer 1400 will be briefly described below.

[0053] The liquid storage tank can store a liquid composition. For example, the liquid composition may be a liquid containing tobacco-containing substances such as volatile tobacco flavor components, or a liquid containing non-tobacco substances. The liquid storage tank can be manufactured to be detachable from the vaporizer 1400, or it can be manufactured integrally with the vaporizer 1400.

[0054] For example, a liquid composition may include water, solvent, ethanol, plant extracts, fragrances, flavorings, or vitamin mixtures. Fragrances may include, but are not limited to, menthol, peppermint, spearmint oil, and various fruit fragrance components. Flavorings may include components that provide users with a variety of flavors or aromas. Vitamin mixtures may be, but are not limited to, a mixture of at least one of vitamins A, B, C, and E. Furthermore, a liquid composition may include aerosol-forming agents such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0055] Next, the liquid transfer element can transfer the liquid composition of the liquid storage tank to the heating element. Examples of liquid transfer elements include, but are not limited to, cotton fibers, ceramic fibers, glass fibers, porous ceramics, and wicks such as porous structures made up of multiple beads.

[0056] Next, the heating element is an element for heating the liquid composition transmitted by the liquid transfer element. Examples of heating elements include, but are not limited to, metal heating wires, metal heating plates, and ceramic heaters. The heating element may also be composed of a conductive filament such as a nichrome wire, or it may be arranged in a structure that is wound around the liquid transfer element.

[0057] The heating element can be heated by an electric current supply, transferring heat to the liquid composition in contact with the heating element, thereby heating the liquid composition. As a result, an aerosol can be generated.

[0058] For reference, the vaporizer 1400 may also be referred to in the art as a cartomizer, atomizer, or cartridge.

[0059] As described above, the aerosol generator 1000 may include general-purpose components in addition to the battery 1100, control unit 1200, heater 1300, and vaporizer 1400. For example, the aerosol generator 1000 may include a display capable of outputting visual information and / or a motor for outputting tactile information. The aerosol generator 1000 may also include at least one sensor. Furthermore, the aerosol generator 1000 may be manufactured with a structure that allows external air to flow in and internal gas to flow out even when the aerosol generating article 2000 is inserted.

[0060] Although not shown in Figures 1 to 3, the aerosol generator 1000 can also be configured with a separate cradle. For example, the cradle can be used to charge the battery 1100 of the aerosol generator 1000. Alternatively, the heater 1300 can be heated when the cradle and the aerosol generator 1000 are coupled together.

[0061] Next, the aerosol generating article 2000 can generate an aerosol by being inserted into the aerosol generating device 1000 and electrically heated. In this process, the aerosol is generated within the aerosol generating article 2000 by the inflow of outside air, and the generated aerosol can be inhaled through the user's mouth.

[0062] The method by which external air flows in can vary depending on the embodiment. As an example, external air can flow in through at least one air passage formed in the aerosol generator 1000. Here, the opening and closing of the air passage formed in the aerosol generator 1000 and / or the size of the air passage can also be adjusted by the user. In such a case, the amount of atomization, the smoking sensation, etc., can be adjusted by the user. As another example, external air can also flow into the interior of the aerosol generating article 2000 through at least one hole formed on the surface of the aerosol generating article 2000.

[0063] The aerosol-generating article 2000 may include a substrate capable of forming an aerosol, and the aerosol-forming substrate may contain tobacco substances.

[0064] In some embodiments, the tobacco substance may include shredded tobacco leaves. For example, the tobacco substance may consist only of shredded tobacco leaves and may not contain any other substances. In another example, the tobacco substance may include both shredded tobacco leaves and a reconstituted tobacco sheet. Since the manufacturing cost of shredded tobacco leaves is very low compared to other tobacco substances (e.g., reconstituted tobacco sheets), this embodiment can significantly reduce the product price of the aerosol generating article 2000. This embodiment and the detailed structure of the aerosol generating article 2000 will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings from Figure 4 onward.

[0065] The various types of aerosol generating devices 1000 to which the aerosol generating articles 2000 according to some embodiments of this disclosure can be applied have been described above with reference to Figures 1 to 3. Below, we will describe the aerosol generating articles 2000 that can be applied to such devices 1000.

[0066] Figures 4 to 7 illustrate aerosol-generating articles with various structures. As shown in the figures, the detailed structure of aerosol-generating articles can vary depending on the type. For ease of understanding and clarity of the specification, different reference numbers will be used to describe each type of aerosol-generating article.

[0067] Figure 4 is an illustrative diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an aerosol-generating article 100 according to the first embodiment of this disclosure.

[0068] As shown in Figure 4, the aerosol generating article 100 may include an aerosol-forming substrate portion 110, a filter portion 120, and a wrapper 130. Figure 4 shows only components relevant to the embodiments of this disclosure. Therefore, a person of the ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs will see that it may further include other general-purpose components in addition to those shown in Figure 4. The components of the aerosol generating article 100 will be described below.

[0069] The aerosol-forming substrate section 110 may include an aerosol-forming substrate and may be located upstream of the filter section 120. The aerosol-forming substrate section 110 may further include a wrapper that surrounds the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate section 110 and the filter section 120 may be wrapped by a wrapper 130. Although not explicitly shown, the aerosol-forming substrate section 110 and the filter section 120 may be connected by a tipping wrapper. However, the scope of this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0070] The aerosol-forming substrate may contain tobacco substances. Furthermore, the aerosol-forming substrate may further contain other substances besides tobacco substances. For example, the aerosol-forming substrate may further contain at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol, but is not limited to these. The aerosol-forming substrate may also contain other additives such as flavoring agents, humectants, and / or organic acids. Additionally, the aerosol-forming substrate may be toned with flavorings such as menthol or humectants.

[0071] In some embodiments, the tobacco substance may be shredded tobacco leaves. For example, the aerosol-forming substrate does not need to contain any other tobacco substances besides shredded tobacco leaves. In such cases, material costs can be significantly reduced compared to when reconstituted tobacco sheets (e.g., slurry-like leaf sheets) are used, and off-flavors can be reduced. Specifically, reconstituted tobacco sheets, such as slurry-like leaf sheets, are more expensive to manufacture than shredded tobacco leaves and do not expand well, requiring a larger quantity than shredded tobacco leaves. Moreover, since auxiliary materials such as pulp and guar gum are added during the manufacture of reconstituted tobacco sheets, an inherent off-flavor is generated when smoked, and the original taste of tobacco leaves cannot be conveyed to the user. Therefore, when reconstituted tobacco sheets are replaced with shredded tobacco leaves, material costs can be reduced, and off-flavors can be reduced at the same time.

[0072] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the tobacco substance may be a mixture of chopped tobacco leaves and reconstituted tobacco sheets (e.g., slurry-like leaf sheets or chopped leaves) in appropriate proportions. For example, the tobacco substance may be a mixture of chopped tobacco leaves and reconstituted tobacco sheets in a weight ratio of about 6:4 to 9:1. Preferably, the weight ratio is about 7:3 to 9:1 or about 8:3 to 9:1, and more preferably, about 8:2.

[0073] In the above embodiment, the width of the shredded tobacco leaves, the amount of shredded tobacco leaves, and the moisture content of the shredded tobacco leaves are closely related to the amount of atomization of the aerosol generating article 100, workability, and product price, so it is preferable to set them to appropriate values.

[0074] In some embodiments, the cutting width of the tobacco leaf shreds can be approximately 1.0 mm to 1.5 mm. Here, the cutting width refers to the width when the tobacco leaf raw material is shredded in order to manufacture the tobacco leaf shreds. Preferably, the cutting width can be approximately 1.0 mm to 1.4 mm or 1.1 mm to 1.5 mm. More preferably, the cutting width can be approximately 1.1 mm to 1.3 mm or approximately 1.2 mm. Within this numerical range, a smooth airflow path is ensured, increasing the amount of atomization (aerosol generation), and the phenomenon of tobacco leaf shreds falling out during the manufacturing process (the so-called "end shedding phenomenon") can be mitigated. If the cutting width is set too small (for example, 0.7 mm, 0.9 mm, etc.), the voids within the aerosol-forming substrate portion 110 decrease, the amount of atomization decreases significantly, the tobacco leaf shreds become very fine, and the end shedding phenomenon occurs frequently during the article manufacturing process. Furthermore, if the cutting width is set to be very large (for example, 1.5 mm or more), the tobacco leaves will not be cut to a uniform width, resulting in uneven or reduced atomization. For further details regarding this embodiment, please refer to Experimental Examples 1-1 and 1-2.

[0075] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the content of the shredded tobacco leaves can be approximately 140 mg to 210 mg. Preferably, the content can be approximately 150 mg to 200 mg or 150 mg to 190 mg. More preferably, the content can be approximately 160 mg to 180 mg, 165 mg to 175 mg, or approximately 170 mg. Within this numerical range, a smooth airflow path and tobacco flavor can be ensured, and the cost-saving effect can be maximized. In addition, the phenomenon of end detachment during the manufacturing process can be reduced, greatly improving workability. If the shredded tobacco leaves are included in excess, the cost-saving effect will decrease, the airflow path will become clogged, and the amount of atomization will decrease. Alternatively, the problem of the wrapper being damaged by an excessive amount of shredded tobacco leaves being introduced into the aerosol-forming substrate section 110 will occur. Conversely, if the shredded tobacco leaves are included in excess, the tobacco flavor will deteriorate, the inside of the aerosol-forming substrate section 110 will become loose, and the phenomenon of end detachment will occur frequently. For further details regarding this embodiment, please refer to Experimental Examples 2-1 and 2-2.

[0076] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the tobacco leaf shreds can be manufactured using a shredded tobacco manufacturing process that includes a flavoring step, during which a humectant can be added. The humectant content among the additives is preferably approximately 9% (by weight) to 12%, and more preferably approximately 10%. The weight ratio of glycerin to propylene glycol contained in the humectant is preferably approximately 1:1 to 8:2. More preferably, the weight ratio is approximately 3:2 to 8:2 or 2:1 to 8:2, and more preferably approximately 2:1 to 8:3 or approximately 7:3. It has been confirmed that the amount of atomization increases within these numerical ranges. For further details, please refer to Experiment 3.

[0077] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the shredded tobacco leaf can be manufactured using a shredded tobacco manufacturing process that includes a primary flavoring step and a secondary flavoring step (see, for example, Figure 9), in which a humectant may be added during the secondary flavoring step. The humectant may be, for example, glycerin, but the scope of this disclosure is not limited thereto. The amount of humectant added may be about 1% to 5% by weight relative to the total weight of the shredded tobacco leaf (i.e., shredded tobacco leaf) (for example, about 1 to 5 kg of glycerin per 100 kg of shredded tobacco). Preferably, the amount added may be about 2% to 4% by weight, and more preferably, about 3% by weight. Within this numerical range, it has been confirmed that the atomization amount of the aerosol generating article 100 is further improved and off-flavors are greatly reduced. In this regard, see further Experimental Examples 6-1 and 6-2.

[0078] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the moisture content contained in the shredded tobacco leaves may be approximately 11% (by weight) to 18% of the total weight of the shredded tobacco leaves. Preferably, the moisture content may be approximately 12% to 17% or 12% to 16%. More preferably, the moisture content may be approximately 13% to 16%, 13% to 15%, 14% to 14.5%, or approximately 14%. Within this numerical range, a smooth airflow path can be ensured, increasing the amount of atomization, and the phenomenon of leaf detachment at the edges can be mitigated. If the shredded tobacco leaves contain too much moisture, the airflow path will become clogged due to the clumping of the leaves, reducing the amount of atomization. On the other hand, if the shredded tobacco leaves contain too little moisture, the leaves will not clump together and will scatter, causing frequent leaf detachment at the edges. For reference, the moisture content of the shredded tobacco leaves can be adjusted during the manufacturing process, but the moisture content of the shredded tobacco immediately after the secondary flavoring treatment is approximately 0.1 to 1% higher than the moisture content of the shredded tobacco leaves in the aerosol-forming substrate 110. This is because the moisture content of the shredded tobacco leaves decreases during the additional process after the secondary flavoring treatment, the manufacturing process of the aerosol-generating article 100, or during storage. For further details regarding this embodiment, please refer to Experimental Example 3.

[0079] Furthermore, in several examples, the weight ratio of glycerin to propylene glycol contained in the chopped tobacco leaves was approximately 1:1 to 9:1, preferably approximately 3:2 to 8:2 or approximately 3:2 to 7:3. It was confirmed that the amount of atomization increased within this numerical range.

[0080] In some embodiments, an adhesive may be applied to the inside of the wrapper around the shredded tobacco leaves. Here, adhesive means any substance having adhesive properties. More specifically, the aerosol-forming base material 110 can be formed by cutting an aerosol-forming rod, but adhesive can be applied to at least a portion of the inside of the wrapper (wrapping material) during the process of manufacturing the aerosol-forming rod. For example, an aerosol-forming rod can be manufactured by wrapping shredded tobacco leaves with wrapping material, but adhesive can be applied to the inside of the wrapping material before or after wrapping the shredded tobacco leaves with the wrapping material. The adhesive can improve workability by preventing the end (or both ends) of the aerosol-forming base material 110 or the aerosol-forming rod from falling off. For further details regarding this embodiment, please refer to the explanatory section of Figure 8.

[0081] The aforementioned shredded tobacco leaves can be manufactured by processing tobacco leaf raw materials, and this manufacturing method will be explained in detail below with reference to Figure 9. Further explanation of the components of the aerosol generating article 100 will follow below.

[0082] In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming substrate portion 110 or the aerosol-forming substrate can be surrounded by a heat-conducting material. For example, the heat-conducting material may be placed inside the wrapper of the aerosol-forming substrate portion 110. The heat-conducting material may be, but is not limited to, a metal foil such as aluminum foil. The heat-conducting material can improve the tobacco flavor by uniformly distributing the heat transferred to the aerosol-forming substrate. In some embodiments, the heat-conducting material may also function as a susceptor heated by an induction heater.

[0083] Next, the filter section 120 can act as a filter for the aerosol generated in the aerosol-forming substrate section 110. The aerosol that passes through the filter section 120 can be inhaled through the user's mouth.

[0084] The filter section 120 is connected to the downstream end of the aerosol-forming substrate section 110, forming the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article 100. The downstream end of the filter section 120 can function as a mouthpiece that comes into contact with the user's lips. For example, the filter section 120 and the aerosol-forming substrate section 110 may have a cylindrical shape, be aligned along their long axis, and the upstream end of the filter section 120 may be connected to the downstream end of the aerosol-forming substrate section 110. As described above, the filter section 120 and the aerosol-forming substrate section 110 may be connected by a tipping wrapper, but the scope of this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0085] The filter section 120 may include a filter material. The filter section 120 may also further include a filter wrapper enclosing the filter material. The filter material may, but is not limited to, cellulose acetate fibers (tou). The filter section 120 may also include at least one capsule (not shown). The capsule may be, for example, a spherical or cylindrical capsule encasing a fragrance liquid in a film.

[0086] The filter section 120 can have a single filter structure or a multi-filter structure. The filter section 120 may also include a cavity formed between multiple filter sections. In some embodiments, the downstream end of the filter section 120 may be made of a recess filter. Thus, the detailed structure of the filter section 120 can be varied in many ways.

[0087] In some embodiments, the suction resistance of the filter section 120 or the mouthpiece section can be between 90 mmWG and 140 mmWG. Within this numerical range, it was confirmed that the inhalation and flavor of the aerosol generating article 100 were improved.

[0088] Next, the wrapper 130 may be a porous or non-porous wrapping material that encloses the components of the aerosol generating article 100. Although not explicitly shown, the wrapper 130 may correspond to individual wrappers such as the wrapper of the aerosol forming substrate portion 110, the filter wrapper of the filter portion 120, and the tipping wrapper, and may refer to the wrapper of the aerosol generating article 100 that includes all of the individual wrappers.

[0089] In some embodiments, the thickness of the wrapper 130 may be approximately 40 μm to 80 μm, and the porosity may be approximately 5 CU to 50 CU. However, the scope of this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0090] The length, thickness, diameter, and shape of the aerosol-generating article 100 can be designed in a variety of ways. In some embodiments, the diameter of the aerosol-generating article 100 is approximately within the range of 4 mm to 9 mm, and the length is approximately 45 mm to 50 mm. However, the scope of this disclosure is not limited to such examples.

[0091] The aerosol-generating article 100 according to the first embodiment of this disclosure has been described above with reference to Figure 4. Hereafter, the aerosol-generating article 200 according to the second embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to Figure 5. In the following description, for the sake of clarity, explanations that overlap with the above embodiments will be omitted.

[0092] Figure 5 is an illustrative diagram showing a schematic configuration of the aerosol-generating article 200.

[0093] As shown in Figure 5, the aerosol generating article 200 may include an aerosol-forming substrate portion 210, a first filter segment 220, a second filter segment 230, a mouthpiece portion 240, and a wrapper 260. The individual components of the aerosol generating article 200 will be described below.

[0094] The aerosol-forming substrate portion 210 corresponds to the aerosol-forming substrate portion 110 illustrated in Figure 4, so no further explanation will be provided.

[0095] Next, the first filter segment 220 may be a tubular structure containing a hollow 220H or channel 220H inside. The outer diameter of the first filter segment 120 may be approximately 3 mm to 10 mm, for example, about 7 mm. The diameter of the hollow 220H contained in the first filter segment 120 can be a suitable diameter within the range of approximately 2 mm to 4.5 mm, but is not limited to this.

[0096] The first filter segment 120 can be manufactured using cellulose acetate. This prevents the internal material of the aerosol-forming substrate 110 from being pushed backward (i.e., downstream) when the heater 1300 of the aerosol generator 1000 is inserted into the aerosol-generating article 200 (i.e., it supports the aerosol-forming substrate 110), and also generates a cooling effect on the aerosol. When the first filter segment 120 plays a role in supporting the aerosol-forming substrate 110, the first filter segment 120 may also be referred to as a "support segment".

[0097] Next, the second filter segment 230 can be in contact with the first filter segment 220 and positioned between the first filter segment 220 and the mouthpiece portion 240. The second filter segment 230 can act as a cooling element to cool the high-temperature aerosol formed by the heater 1300 heating the aerosol-forming substrate portion 110. To emphasize its role as a cooling element, the second filter segment 230 may also be referred to as the "cooling segment". By cooling the high-temperature aerosol with the second filter segment 230, the amount of aerosol generated increases, allowing the user to inhale aerosol cooled to an appropriate temperature.

[0098] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 5, the second filter segment 230, like the first filter segment 220, may be a tubular structure containing a hollow 230H or channel 230H inside. The hollow 230H can serve as a passage for aerosols to pass through. The cross-sectional shape of the hollow may be polygonal or circular, but the size and shape of the hollow are not limited to these.

[0099] In the above-described embodiment, the diameter of the second filter segment 230 is 7 mm to 9 mm, for example, it may be about 7.9 mm. The inner diameter of the second filter segment 230 is about 3.0 mm to 5.5 mm, for example, it may be about 4.2 mm. In this case, the inner diameter of the second filter segment 230 may be larger than the inner diameter of the first filter segment 220. For example, the inner diameter of the first filter segment 220 may be about 2.5 mm, and the inner diameter of the second filter segment 230 may be about 4.2 mm. Because the inner diameters of the first filter segment 220 and the second filter segment 230 are different, the mainstream smoke flowing in the hollow 220H of the first filter segment 220 and the hollow 230H of the second filter segment 230 can spread out. As the spread mainstream smoke decreases in its deflection towards the downstream direction of the aerosol generating article 200, the contact area and time with the outside air flowing inside the second filter segment 230 increases, thereby improving the cooling effect of the mainstream smoke.

[0100] The second filter segment 230 may be made of a material that allows external gas to flow into the hollow of the second filter segment 230, or it may include perforations. The material may be a mixture of several materials. The material may be, but is not limited to, cellulose acetate tow.

[0101] In some embodiments, the second filter segment 230 can be manufactured using an extrusion method or a fiber weaving method. The second filter segment 230 can be manufactured in a variety of forms to increase the surface area per unit area (i.e., the surface area in contact with the aerosol).

[0102] For example, the second filter segment 230 can be manufactured by weaving polymer fibers. In this case, a fragrance solution can be applied to the polymer fibers. Alternatively, the second filter segment 230 can be manufactured by weaving together a separate fiber coated with a fragrance solution and a polymer fiber.

[0103] For example, the second filter segment 230 can be manufactured using a polymeric substance or a biodegradable polymeric substance. For example, polymeric substances include, but are not limited to, gelatin, polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyurethane (PU), fluoroethylene propylene (FEP), and combinations thereof. Biodegradable polymeric substances include, but are not limited to, polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), cellulose acetate, poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL), polyglycolic acid (PGA), polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHAs), and starch-based thermoplastic resins.

[0104] In some embodiments, an additional step may be taken to wrap the outside of the second filter segment 230 with a wrapper made of paper or a polymeric material. Here, the polymeric material may include, but is not limited to, gelatin, polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyurethane (PU), fluoroethylene propylene (FEP), and combinations thereof.

[0105] In some embodiments, the second filter segment 230 can also be formed by winding up a porous paper sheet. That is, a wound porous paper sheet can be positioned inside the second filter segment 230 so that airflow (e.g., aerosols) can pass through along the length of the second filter segment 230.

[0106] Next, the mouthpiece portion 240 can function as a mouthpiece that ultimately transmits the aerosol transmitted from upstream to the user by forming the downstream end of the aerosol generating article 200. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece portion 240 may be a cellulose acetate filter. Although not shown, the mouthpiece portion 240 can also be made of a recess filter.

[0107] In some embodiments, the mouthpiece portion 240 may include at least one capsule (not shown). The capsule may be, for example, a spherical or cylindrical capsule encasing a fragrance liquid in a film. The material forming the film of the capsule may be starch and / or a gelling agent. For example, gellan gum or gelatin can be used as the gelling agent. A gelling aid may also be used as the material forming the film of the capsule. For example, calcium chloride can be used as the gelling aid. A plasticizer may also be used as the material forming the film of the capsule. For example, glycerin and / or sorbitol can be used as the plasticizer. A coloring agent may also be used as the material forming the film of the capsule.

[0108] The internal solution of the capsule may contain fragrances such as menthol and plant essential oils. In some examples, medium-chain fatty acid triglyceride (MCTG) can be used as the solvent for the fragrance contained in the internal solution of the capsule. The internal solution may also contain other additives such as colorants, emulsifiers, and thickeners.

[0109] In some embodiments, the mouthpiece portion 240 may be a TJNS (Transfer Jet Nozzle System) filter in which fragrance is sprayed onto the filter itself. Alternatively, a separate fiber coated with a fragrance solution may be inserted inside the mouthpiece portion 240.

[0110] In some embodiments, the suction resistance of the mouthpiece portion 240 can be between 90 mmWG and 140 mmWG. Within this numerical range, it was confirmed that the inhalation and flavor of the aerosol generating article 200 were improved.

[0111] Next, the wrapper 260 may be a porous or non-porous wrapping material that encloses the components of the aerosol generating article 200. For example, the thickness of the wrapper 260 may be about 40 μm to 80 μm, and the porosity may be about 5 CU to 50 CU, but is not limited thereto. The wrapper 260 may correspond to the individual wrappers of the aerosol forming substrate portion 210 and the filter segments 220 to 240, and may refer to the wrapper of the aerosol generating article 200 that includes all of the individual wrappers.

[0112] The aerosol-generating article 200 according to the second embodiment of this disclosure has been described above with reference to Figure 5. Below, the aerosol-generating article 300 according to the third embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to Figure 6.

[0113] Figure 6 is an illustrative diagram showing a schematic configuration of the aerosol-generating article 300.

[0114] Referring to Figure 6, the aerosol generating article 300 differs from the aerosol generating articles 100 and 200 described with reference to Figures 4 and 5, in that it may further include a first filter segment 350 that contacts the aerosol forming substrate 310 upstream of the aerosol forming substrate 310. To emphasize its positional characteristics, the first filter segment 350 may also be referred to as the "front filter segment".

[0115] The aerosol-forming substrate section 310 corresponds to the aerosol-forming substrate sections 110 and 210 in Figure 4 or Figure 5, the second filter segment 320 corresponds to the first filter segment 220 or the second filter segment 230 in Figure 5, and the mouthpiece section 340 and the wrapper 360, respectively, correspond to the mouthpiece section 240 and the wrapper 260 in Figure 5. Therefore, further explanation regarding these will be omitted, and the explanation will continue focusing on the first filter segment 350.

[0116] The first filter segment 350 can prevent the aerosol-forming substrate portion 310 from detaching from the aerosol-generating article 300, and can also prevent the liquefied aerosol from the aerosol-forming substrate portion 310 during smoking from flowing into the aerosol generator 1000 (see Figures 1 to 3).

[0117] In some embodiments, the first filter segment 350 can be made of cellulose acetate. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6, the first filter segment 350 may also include a channel 350H extending from the upstream end to the downstream end. The channel 350H may, for example, be located in the center of the first filter segment 350, but is not limited to these locations. When the first filter segment 350 includes the channel 350H, aerosols flowing into the upstream end of the first filter segment 350 can easily escape to the downstream end, allowing the user to easily inhale the aerosols.

[0118] Note that while Figure 6 illustrates a circular cross-sectional shape for channel 350H as an example, the cross-sectional shape of channel 350H is not limited to this. For example, the cross-sectional shape of channel 350H could be a multi-lobed shape, such as a trefoil.

[0119] The length or diameter of the first filter segment 350 can be determined in various ways depending on the form of the aerosol generating article 300. For example, the length of the first filter segment 350 can be appropriately adopted within the range of 4 mm to 20 mm. Preferably, the length of the first filter segment 350 is about 7 mm, but is not limited thereto. Also, for example, the diameter of the first filter segment 350 can be appropriately adopted within the range of 4 mm to 10 mm. Preferably, the diameter of the first filter segment 350 is about 7 mm, but is not limited thereto.

[0120] The aerosol-generating article 300 according to the third embodiment of this disclosure has been described above with reference to Figure 6. Below, the aerosol-generating article 400 according to the fourth embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to Figure 7.

[0121] Figure 7 is an illustrative diagram showing a schematic configuration of the aerosol-generating article 400.

[0122] As shown in Figure 7, the aerosol generating article 400 may include an aerosol-forming substrate portion 410, a filter segment 420, a mouthpiece portion 430, and a wrapper 440. The aerosol-forming substrate portion 410 may also include a first substrate segment 411 and a second substrate segment 412.

[0123] The first base material segment 411 does not have to contain tobacco substances. That is, the first base material segment 411 may include an aerosol-forming base material from which tobacco substances have been excluded. For example, the first base material segment 411 does not have to contain chopped tobacco leaves. The first base material segment 411 may also contain, but is not limited to, at least one of glycerin, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and oleyl alcohol. The first base material segment 411 may also contain other additives such as flavoring agents, humectants (i.e., moisturizers), and / or organic acids. The first base material segment 411 may also contain a flavoring liquid such as menthol or a moisturizer.

[0124] The first base material segment 411 may include a wound sheet, and the aerosol-forming base material may be included in the first base material segment 411 in a state impregnated with the wound sheet. In addition, other additives such as flavoring agents, humectants and / or organic acids and flavoring liquids may be included in the first base material segment 411 in a state absorbed with the wound sheet.

[0125] The rolled-up sheet may be a sheet composed of a polymer material. For example, the polymer material may include at least one of the following: paper, cellulose acetate, lyocell, or polylactic acid. For example, the rolled-up sheet may be a paper sheet that does not produce an unpleasant odor when heated to high temperatures. However, it is not limited to this.

[0126] The length of the first base material segment 411 can be set to an appropriate length within the range of 4 mm to 12 mm, but is not limited to this.

[0127] Next, the second base material segment 412 may contain tobacco substances. For example, the second base material segment 412 may contain shredded tobacco leaves, reconstituted tobacco sheets, or a combination thereof. The second base material segment 412 may further contain an aerosol-forming base material such as glycerin or propylene glycol. The second base material segment 412 may also contain other additives such as flavoring agents, humectants, and / or organic acids. Furthermore, a flavoring liquid such as menthol or a humectant may be added to the second base material segment 412 by spraying it onto the second base material segment 412.

[0128] The length of the second base material segment 412 can be set to an appropriate length within the range of 6 mm to 18 mm, but is not limited to this.

[0129] Furthermore, since the first base material segment 411 contains an aerosol-forming base material from which tobacco substances have been removed, and the second base material segment 412 contains an aerosol-forming base material containing tobacco substances (i.e., the components and content of the aerosol-forming base materials are different), in order for the user to experience a desirable smoking sensation, the first base material segment 411 and the second base material segment 412 need to be heated to different temperatures. For example, if the second base material segment 412 is heated to a temperature suitable for the first base material segment 411, the user may experience a burnt taste. Or, if the first base material segment 411 is heated to a temperature suitable for the second base material segment 412, insufficient aerosol may be generated.

[0130] In some embodiments, the first substrate segment 411 and the second substrate segment 412 can be heated to different temperatures by different heaters. For example, if the first substrate segment 411 is heated to A°C by the first heater to generate a sufficient amount of aerosol, and the second substrate segment 412 is heated to B°C by the second heater to heat the tobacco substance, the user can experience a desirable smoking sensation.

[0131] In some other embodiments, the first substrate segment 411 and the second substrate segment 412 can be heated by a single heater (e.g., 1300). In this case, the first substrate segment 411 and the second substrate segment 412 are less likely to be heated to different temperatures. Therefore, even if the first substrate segment 411 and the second substrate segment 412 are heated by a single heater, at least one of the wrappers of the first substrate segment 411 or the second substrate segment 412 may contain a thermally conductive material so that the first substrate segment 411 and the second substrate segment 412 can each be raised to an appropriate temperature.

[0132] The first substrate segment 411 and the second substrate segment 412 may include an aerosol-forming substrate, which may contain a humectant. For example, the humectant may include, but is not limited to, glycerin, propylene glycol, or a combination thereof. When glycerin and propylene glycol are combined to form the humectant, they may be combined in a glycerin:propylene glycol ratio of 8:2. However, the ratio of the combination is not limited to the example given above.

[0133] The humectant contained in the first base material segment 411 can influence the amount of aerosol generated. In other words, the total amount of atomization of the aerosol-generating article 400 can be determined by the weight of the humectant contained in the first base material segment 411. Furthermore, the humectant contained in the second base material segment 412 can influence the taste of the aerosol-generating article 400. In other words, the tobacco substance and humectant contained in the second base material segment 412 can determine the taste of the aerosol-generating article 400.

[0134] For sufficient atomization to occur from the aerosol-generating article 400, the first base material segment 411 must contain a sufficient amount of humectant. Therefore, it is preferable that the first base material segment 411 contains a larger amount of humectant than the second base material segment 412. However, if the first base material segment 411 contains an excessive amount of humectant, the humectant may leak out of the aerosol-generating article 400. This is undesirable in terms of the appearance of the aerosol-generating article 400.

[0135] In some embodiments, an aerosol can be formed by heating at least a portion of the first substrate segment 411 and at least a portion 121 of the second substrate segment 412 with a heater (e.g., 1300). The formed aerosol can move downstream of the aerosol generating article 400 and eventually be transmitted to the user. In this case, the downstream portion of the second substrate segment 412 may not be heated by the heater, but in such cases, the aerosol passing through the downstream portion may have the effect of filtering out some of the substances. Here, filtering may include not only the filtering out of some of the components contained in the aerosol, but also the inclusion of other components in the aerosol. That is, the unheated portion of the second substrate segment 412 can cause changes in the components within the aerosol. For example, as the aerosol passes through the unheated portion, some of the components within the aerosol may be filtered out, and some of the components contained in the unheated portion may be further included in the aerosol. Therefore, the aerosol discharged to the outside of the aerosol generating article 400 may have different components from the aerosol initially generated, and the user may experience a different smoking sensation compared to when the second substrate segment 412 is fully heated.

[0136] Next, the filter segment 420 can generate a cooling effect on the aerosol. Thus, the user can inhale the aerosol cooled to a suitable temperature. For example, the filter segment 420 may be a tubular structure made of cellulose acetate and containing a hollow 420H inside. For example, the filter segment 420 can be made by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate tow. For example, the single filament denier of the filter segment 420 may be 5.0 and the total denier may be 28,000, but this is not limited to this. As another example, the filter segment 420 may be a tubular structure made of paper and containing a hollow 420H inside.

[0137] The diameter of the hollow portion of the filter segment 420 can be any suitable diameter within the range of 4 mm to 8 mm, but is not limited to this. The length of the filter segment 420 can be any suitable length within the range of 4 mm to 30 mm, but is not limited to this.

[0138] The filter segment 420 is not limited to the examples described above and can be used without restriction as long as it can perform the function of cooling the aerosol, and may also be called the cooling segment 420. Furthermore, the filter segment 420 may correspond to the second filter segment 230 in Figure 5.

[0139] Next, the mouthpiece portion 430 can be manufactured by adding a plasticizer (e.g., triacetin) to cellulose acetate toe. For example, the single filament denier of the mouthpiece portion 430 may be 9.0 and the total denier may be 25,000, but this is not limited to this. The length of the mouthpiece portion 430 can be an appropriate length within the range of 4 mm to 30 mm, but this is not limited to this.

[0140] The mouthpiece portion 430 and the wrapper 440 correspond to the mouthpiece portions 120, 240, and 340 and the wrappers 130, 260, and 360 of the above embodiment, respectively, so no further explanation regarding them will be provided.

[0141] The aerosol generating article 400 according to the fourth embodiment of this disclosure has been described above with reference to Figure 7. Below, the method for manufacturing the aerosol generating articles 100 to 400 (etc.) and shredded tobacco leaves will be described with reference to Figures 8 to 10. In the following description, the aerosol forming substrate part, filter part, mouthpiece part, etc. correspond to the aerosol forming substrate part (e.g., 110, 210, 310, 410), filter part (e.g., 120), and mouthpiece part (e.g., 120, 240, 340, 430) described above, but for the sake of convenience, the reference numbers will be omitted. The filter part corresponds to filter segments 220, 230, 320, 350, and 420.

[0142] Figure 8 is an exemplary flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing an aerosol-generating article according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. However, this is merely a preferred embodiment for achieving the objectives of the present disclosure, and of course, some steps may be added or omitted as needed.

[0143] As shown in Figure 8, the manufacturing method can begin with step S20, which involves manufacturing shredded tobacco leaves. This step will be described in detail later with reference to Figure 9.

[0144] In step S40, an aerosol-forming substrate can be manufactured using the manufactured tobacco leaf shreds. Specifically, multiple aerosol-forming substrates can be formed by wrapping the aerosol-forming substrate containing the tobacco leaf shreds with a wrapping material (i.e., a wrapper), and then cutting the resulting aerosol-forming rod to a predetermined length. For example, six aerosol-forming substrates can be formed by cutting the aerosol-forming rod.

[0145] In some embodiments, aerosol-forming rods can be manufactured by wrapping shredded tobacco leaves with a wrapping material having an adhesive applied to at least a portion of its inner surface. The adhesive can improve workability by preventing the shredded tobacco leaves from escaping during the manufacturing process. For example, when cutting the aerosol-forming rod, it can prevent the shredded tobacco leaves from escaping at the cut site. Alternatively, when joining the aerosol-forming substrate and the filter, it can prevent the shredded tobacco leaves from escaping from the upstream end of the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0146] Furthermore, the amount of shredded tobacco leaves contained in the aerosol-forming substrate is closely related to manufacturing costs and tobacco flavor, so it is important to appropriately adjust the amount.

[0147] In some embodiments, the content of chopped tobacco leaves can be approximately 140 mg to 210 mg. Preferably, the content can be approximately 150 mg to 200 mg or 150 mg to 190 mg. More preferably, the content can be approximately 160 mg to 180 mg, 165 mg to 175 mg, or approximately 170 mg. Within such numerical ranges, a smooth airflow path and tobacco flavor can be ensured, and cost-saving effects can be maximized. In addition, the phenomenon of end shedding during the manufacturing process can be reduced. In this regard, see Experimental Examples 2-1 and 2-2 for further reference.

[0148] In step S60, the filter section can be manufactured. Specifically, multiple filter sections can be manufactured by cutting a filter rod, which is manufactured by wrapping the filter material with a filter wrapping material, to a predetermined length.

[0149] Step S60 can be performed independently of steps S20 and S40.

[0150] In step S80, the aerosol-forming substrate and the filter can be combined to manufacture an aerosol-generating article. For example, the aerosol-generating article can be manufactured by connecting the aerosol-forming substrate and the filter with a tipping wrapper.

[0151] As a more specific example, in the case of the aerosol generating article 300 illustrated in Figure 6, the aerosol generating article 300 can be manufactured by connecting the first filter segment 350, the second filter segment 320, and the mouthpiece part 340 to the aerosol forming substrate part 310.

[0152] Furthermore, steps S20 or S40 to S80 can be carried out using automated manufacturing equipment. Since those engaged in this technical field are well familiar with such manufacturing equipment, a detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0153] In the following, we will explain in detail the manufacturing process of tobacco leaf cutting in step S20 with reference to Figure 9.

[0154] Figure 9 is an illustrative flowchart showing the detailed process of the tobacco leaf cutting manufacturing stage S20. However, it should be noted that this is only a schematic representation of the detailed process of stage S20 for the purpose of providing convenience of understanding, and some steps may be added, deleted (omitted), or modified due to various factors, and their order may also change.

[0155] As shown in Figure 9, the tobacco leaf raw material can be processed in step S21. For example, processing treatments such as bradycardia, slicing, drying, and conditioning can be performed on tobacco leaves such as Xanthomato, Oriental, and Burley.

[0156] In step S23, the processed tobacco leaves can undergo a primary flavoring treatment. Primary flavoring treatment refers to the process of adding (injecting) flavoring agents to improve the physicochemical properties inherent in the tobacco leaves and to remove unpleasant flavors. For example, in this stage, an additive containing flavoring agents can be uniformly sprayed onto the processed tobacco leaves. In this case, the additive may include, for example, a humectant. The humectant may include, for example, glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0157] In some examples, the content of the humectant is preferably about 9% (by weight) to 12%, and more preferably about 10%.

[0158] Furthermore, in some examples, the weight ratio of glycerin to propylene glycol contained in the humectant can be approximately 1:1 to 8:2. Preferably, the weight ratio can be approximately 3:2 to 8:2 or 2:1 to 8:2, and more preferably approximately 2:1 to 8:3 or approximately 7:3. It was confirmed that the amount of atomization increases within this numerical range. In connection with this, please refer to Experiment 3.

[0159] In step S25, the primary flavored tobacco leaves can be blended. For example, the primary flavored tobacco leaves can be blended in a silo facility for flavor balance or moisture balance.

[0160] In step S27, the processed tobacco leaves can be shredded to a predetermined width. For example, the tobacco leaves can be shredded to a predetermined width using a shredder that includes one or more shredding knives. In this case, the shape of the shredding knife, the shredding width, etc., can be changed depending on the embodiment.

[0161] In some embodiments, the cutting blade of the shredding knife is a square saw blade type. For example, Figure 10 illustrates the process of shredding tobacco leaves 510 using a rotary shredder 520 including multiple shredding knives 521, where, as illustrated, the cutting blades of the shredding knives 521 are square saw blade type rather than straight. In such cases, the tobacco leaves can be shredded to a uniform length, effectively preventing the shredded tobacco from having a length longer than the set shred width. However, in some other embodiments, the cutting blade of the shredding knife is a straight blade type.

[0162] In some embodiments, the cutting width of the tobacco leaves can be approximately 1.0 mm to 1.5 mm. Preferably, the cutting width can be approximately 1.0 mm to 1.4 mm or 1.1 mm to 1.5 mm. More preferably, the cutting width can be approximately 1.1 mm to 1.3 mm or approximately 1.2 mm. It has been confirmed that a smooth airflow path can be ensured within this numerical range, thereby increasing the atomization amount (aerosol generation amount) and mitigating the end-edge shedding phenomenon. For further details, please refer to Experimental Examples 1-1 and 1-2.

[0163] In some embodiments, further steps such as drying and cooling may be performed after this stage.

[0164] In step S29, the shredded tobacco leaves can undergo a secondary flavoring treatment, resulting in the production of shredded tobacco leaves contained in the aerosol-forming rod. Here, the secondary flavoring treatment is a flavoring step performed after the primary flavoring, and can be carried out for the purpose of imparting flavor to the final tobacco product (e.g., an aerosol-generating article). For example, the secondary flavoring treatment can be performed by adding an additive containing an added flavoring agent to the shredded tobacco leaves.

[0165] In some examples, the moisture content contained in the chopped tobacco leaves after the secondary flavoring treatment may be approximately 11.5% to 17.5% of the total weight of the chopped tobacco leaves. Preferably, the moisture content may be approximately 12% to 17% or 12% to 16%. More preferably, the moisture content may be approximately 13% to 16%, and even more preferably, approximately 14% to 15% or approximately 14.5%. Within this numerical range, it was confirmed that a smooth airflow path is ensured and the amount of atomization increases. For further details, please refer to Experimental Example 3.

[0166] In some examples, a humectant (e.g., glycerin) is added to the shredded tobacco leaves during the secondary flavoring treatment, and the amount added may be about 1% to 5% by weight relative to the total weight of the shredded tobacco leaves (i.e., shredded tobacco leaves) (e.g., about 1 to 5 kg of glycerin per 100 kg of shredded tobacco). Preferably, the amount added may be about 2% to 4% by weight, and more preferably, about 3% by weight. Within this numerical range, it was confirmed that the amount of atomization of the aerosol-generating article was further increased and the off-flavor was greatly reduced. For further information in this regard, see Experimental Examples 6-1 and 6-2.

[0167] The methods for producing aerosol-generating articles and shredded tobacco leaves have been described above with reference to Figures 8 to 10. Below, the configurations and effects referred to in this disclosure will be described in more detail based on examples and comparative examples. However, the following examples are only a part of the diverse examples of this disclosure, and the scope of this disclosure is not limited to these examples.

[0168] [Comparative Example 1] A heated aerosol generating article (i.e., a cigarette) having the same structure as the aerosol generating article 300 shown in Figure 6 was manufactured. Specifically, approximately 270 mg of slurry plate-shaped leaves were added to manufacture the aerosol-forming base material, and glycerin was added at a content of approximately 10% during the manufacture of the slurry plate-shaped leaves. For reference, commercially sold aerosol generating articles contain approximately 270 mg of slurry plate-shaped leaf chops, and approximately 10% glycerin is added during manufacture.

[0169] [Examples 1-5] Aerosol-generating articles (with the same physical specifications as Comparative Example 1) were manufactured according to Examples 1-5 using shredded tobacco leaves instead of slurry-like leaf forms. In particular, the shredding machine was set according to the values ​​listed in Table 1 below to produce shredded tobacco leaves with different shredding widths. During the production of the shredded tobacco leaves, a humectant (glycerin:propylene glycol = 7:3) was added at a content of approximately 10%, and after secondary flavoring treatment, the moisture content of the shredded tobacco leaves was adjusted to approximately 14.5%. In addition, approximately 170 mg of the shredded tobacco leaves was added, and aerosol-generating articles according to Examples 1-5 were manufactured using a mouthpiece-side filter (e.g., 340 in Figure 6) with an inhalation resistance of approximately 90 mmWG to 140 mmWG.

[0170] [Table 1]

[0171] [Experimental Example 1-1: Evaluation of atomization amount based on step width] Sensory evaluation of atomization volume was performed on the aerosol generating articles of Comparative Example 1 and Examples 1-5. The sensory evaluation was conducted on a panel of 30 people with a smoking period of 5 years or more, and the atomization volume was scored on a scale of 1 point to 5 points to

[0172] Referring to Figure 11, it was shown that the atomization amount was best when the shredding width was 1.2 mm (for example, Example 3), and in particular, the atomization amount was higher than that of Comparative Example 1, in which plate-shaped leaves were introduced. It was also shown that the atomization amount generally decreased as the shredding width decreased (for example, Examples 1 and 2), which is judged to be because as the shredding width decreases, the voids inside the aerosol-forming substrate decrease, making it difficult to ensure a smooth airflow path. Furthermore, it was shown that the atomization amount also decreased when the shredding width increased beyond a certain point (for example, Examples 4 and 5). This is judged to be because when the shredding width is set above a certain point (for example, 1.5 mm or more), the tobacco leaves are not shredded uniformly, resulting in uneven voids (e.g., size, distribution), and this unevenness in atomization amount negatively affected the judgment of the atomization amount of the panel.

[0173] Based on these evaluation results, it is clear that in order to ensure a satisfactory atomization volume for users, it is preferable for the tobacco leaves to be cut to a width of 0.9 mm or more and 1.5 mm or less.

[0174] [Experimental Example 1-2: Evaluation of the degree of end shedding based on the width of the notch] During the production of aerosol-generating articles according to Examples 1-5, the degree of end shedding of the tobacco leaves was measured. Furthermore, to investigate the effect of adhesives, additional experiments were conducted during the production of aerosol-generating articles according to Examples 2-4, where adhesive was applied to the wrapping material and the degree of end shedding was measured. The experimental results are shown in Table 2 below. For reference, the measurement unit for the degree of end shedding (mg / cm²) is shown in Table 2 below. 2 ) refers to the weight of the tobacco leaves detached due to the end shedding phenomenon divided by the cross-sectional area of ​​the aerosol-generating material.

[0175] [Table 2]

[0176] Referring to Table 2, it was shown that the degree of end shedding decreases as the width of the tobacco leaf cut increases. This is because the finer the tobacco leaf cut (i.e., the smaller the cut width), the easier it is for the leaves to fall out, and the opposite is true for finer cuts, making it more difficult for the leaves to fall out. Therefore, it can be concluded that a tobacco leaf cut width of 0.9 mm or more is preferable for improving work efficiency.

[0177] Furthermore, it was shown that applying adhesive to the wrapping material significantly reduces the degree of edge shedding, which means that workability can be greatly improved when applying the adhesive.

[0178] [Examples 6-9] As shown in Table 3 below, aerosol-generating articles were produced according to Examples 6-9 by varying the content of shredded tobacco leaves. The shredded tobacco leaves in Examples 6-9 were produced using the same method as in Example 3.

[0179] [Table 3]

[0180] [Experimental Example 2-1: Evaluation of atomization amount and off-flavor (inherent tobacco taste) based on the amount of chopped tobacco] Sensory evaluations were conducted on the amount of atomization and off-flavor of the aerosol-generating articles produced in Examples 3 and 6-9, depending on the content of chopped tobacco leaves. The evaluation method was the same as in Experimental Example 1-1, and the evaluation results are shown in Figure 12.

[0181] Referring to Figure 12, the aerosol-generating articles from the examples generally showed superior tobacco flavor compared to Comparative Example 1. This means that when shredded tobacco leaves are used instead of flat tobacco leaves, off-flavors are reduced and the tobacco flavor is improved.

[0182] However, it was shown that the amount of atomization decreased when the amount of chopped tobacco leaves was approximately 190 mg or more (for example, Examples 8 and 9). This is judged to be because the more chopped tobacco leaves are added, the more the airflow path becomes clogged.

[0183] Furthermore, it was shown that the effect of reducing off-odor and flavor decreased when the amount of shredded tobacco exceeded a certain level (e.g., Examples 8 and 9). This is judged to be because the airflow path is not smooth, and even with a large amount of shredded tobacco, the unique taste and aroma of the tobacco does not come out well. From this, it can be seen that an effective amount of shredded tobacco is approximately 150 mg to 190 mg. For reference, such an amount is significantly lower than the amount of flat leaves in commercially sold aerosol generating products (e.g., 270 mg), making it very effective from a cost-saving perspective.

[0184] [Experimental Example 2-2: Evaluation of the degree of end shedding based on the amount of chopped material] During the production of aerosol-generating articles according to Examples 3 and 6-9, the degree of end shedding of the tobacco leaves was measured. Furthermore, to investigate the effect of adhesives, additional experiments were conducted during the production of aerosol-generating articles according to Examples 3, 7, and 8, where adhesive was applied to the wrapping material and the degree of end shedding was measured. The experimental results are shown in Table 4 below.

[0185] [Table 4]

[0186] Referring to Table 4, it was shown that the degree of edge shedding tends to decrease as the content of shredded tobacco increases. This is judged to be because, as the content of shredded tobacco increases, it becomes more firmly bound together internally and less likely to fall out. Therefore, it can be seen that a content of shredded tobacco of approximately 150 mg or more is preferable for improved workability.

[0187] Furthermore, it was shown that applying adhesive to the wrapping material significantly reduces the degree of edge shedding, which means that workability can be greatly improved when applying the adhesive.

[0188] [Examples 10-12] As shown in Table 5 below, when adding a humectant (10% content) in the primary flavoring process of chopped tobacco leaves, the aerosol-generating articles according to Examples 10-12 were produced by varying the composition ratio of glycerin (Gly.) and propylene glycol (PG). Other conditions, such as the content of chopped tobacco leaves, were the same as in Example 3.

[0189] [Table 5]

[0190] [Experimental Example 3: Evaluation of atomization amount based on the ratio of Gly. and PG] Sensory evaluations were conducted on the atomization amount of aerosol-generating articles from Examples 3 and 10-12, based on the composition ratio of glycerin to propylene glycol. These results were also compared with Comparative Example 1. The evaluation method was the same as in Experimental Example 1-1, and the evaluation results are shown in Figure 13.

[0191] Referring to Figure 13, it was observed that the atomization rate generally increased as the glycerin composition ratio increased, and that when glycerin and propylene glycol were added in a 7:3 ratio (e.g., Example 3), the atomization rate was even better than that of Comparative Example 1. This is judged to be because increasing the glycerin content has a positive effect on the atomization rate.

[0192] When the composition ratio of glycerin exceeds approximately 70% of the humectant (for example, Example 12), the amount of atomization decreases slightly, becoming similar to that of Comparative Example 1.

[0193] Furthermore, it was confirmed that the glycerin composition ratio is related to workability. When the glycerin composition ratio is high (for example, higher than in Example 12), the shredded tobacco leaves clump together, slightly degrading workability. Conversely, even when the ratio is very low (for example in Example 10), workability is degraded due to the shedding of the ends of the shredded tobacco.

[0194] These experimental results indicate that, in order to simultaneously improve atomization volume and workability, it is preferable that the composition ratio of glycerin to propylene glycol be between approximately 1:1 and 8:2.

[0195] [Examples 13-16] As shown in Table 6 below, aerosol-generating articles were produced according to Examples 13-16 by varying the moisture content of the shredded tobacco leaves. The moisture content in Table 6 below refers to the moisture content immediately after the secondary flavoring treatment, so the actual moisture content of the shredded tobacco in the aerosol-generating article may be slightly lower than that shown in Table 6. Other conditions, such as the moisture content of the shredded tobacco leaves, were the same as in Example 3.

[0196] [Table 6]

[0197] [Experimental Example 4: Evaluation of atomization amount based on the moisture content of the chopped ingredients] Sensory evaluations were conducted on the atomization amount of aerosol-generating articles from Examples 3 and 13-16, based on the moisture content of the chopped tobacco leaves. This was also compared with Comparative Example 1. The evaluation method was the same as in Experimental Example 1-1, and the evaluation results are shown in Figure 14.

[0198] Referring to Figure 14, it was shown that atomization generally increased as the moisture content of the tobacco flakes increased, and that when the moisture content was 14.5% (e.g., Example 3), the atomization was even better than in Comparative Example 1. This is because increasing the moisture content of the tobacco flakes has a positive effect on atomization.

[0199] However, it was shown that when the moisture content of the shredded tobacco leaves exceeded approximately 16% (for example, Example 16), the amount of atomization decreased further. This is judged to be because the higher the moisture content, the easier the shredded tobacco leaves can clump together, negatively affecting the airflow path.

[0200] Furthermore, it was confirmed that the moisture content of the shredded tobacco leaves is related to workability. When the moisture content is high (for example, Example 16), the shredded tobacco leaves clump together, slightly degrading workability. When the moisture content is very low (for example, Example 13), workability is also slightly degraded due to the shedding of the ends of the shredded leaves.

[0201] These experimental results indicate that, in order to simultaneously improve atomization volume and workability, it is preferable for the moisture content of the chopped tobacco leaves (immediately after secondary flavoring treatment) to be between approximately 12% and 17%.

[0202] [Experimental Example 5-1: Overall sensory evaluation of Example 3 and Comparative Example 1] A comprehensive sensory evaluation was conducted on the aerosol-generating articles from Example 3 and Comparative Example 1. The sensory evaluation was performed using the same method as in Experimental Example 1-1, with evaluation items including atomization amount, flavor intensity, irritation, inhalability, and off-flavor (tobacco-specific flavor). The evaluation method was the same as in Experimental Example 1-1. The evaluation results for this experiment are shown in Figure 15.

[0203] Referring to Figure 15, it was shown that the aerosol generating article from Example 3 was superior to Comparative Example 1 in terms of atomization volume, inhalation quality, and off-flavor. This is judged to be because a smooth airflow path was ensured by adding tobacco flakes with an appropriate cut width in an appropriate amount and appropriately adjusting the moisture content of the tobacco flakes and the composition ratio of the humectant. In the case of inhalation quality, it is judged that the low suction resistance of the filter on the mouthpiece side had an effect.

[0204] Furthermore, while the aerosol-generating article from Comparative Example 1 was shown to be superior to that from Example 3 in terms of flavor intensity and irritation, this is judged to be a phenomenon caused by the slightly lower composition ratio of propylene glycol added to the chopped tobacco leaves.

[0205] Overall, it can be confirmed that the aerosol generating article according to Example 3 is superior to that of Comparative Example 1, demonstrating that aerosol generating articles based on shredded tobacco leaves can adequately replace articles based on shredded tobacco sheets. Furthermore, the aerosol generating articles according to the examples are more competitive in terms of price than articles based on shredded tobacco sheets (e.g., Comparative Example 1), indicating that they have sufficient market competitiveness.

[0206] [Experimental Example 5-2: Aerosol component analysis of Example 3 and Comparative Example 1] For a more objective and quantitative evaluation, aerosol component analysis was performed on the aerosol-generating articles of Example 3 and Comparative Example 1. Specifically, the smoke components of the mainstream smoke collected during smoking of aerosol-generating articles two weeks after manufacture were analyzed. Smoke collection for component analysis was repeated four times for each sample, with eight puffs per collection as the standard. The component analysis results were derived based on the average value of three collection results for each sample. Smoking was performed in a smoking room with a temperature of approximately 20°C and a humidity of approximately 62.5% using a non-combustion type automatic smoking device under HC (Health Canada) smoking conditions. The component analysis results from this experiment are shown in Table 7 below.

[0207] [Table 7]

[0208] Referring to Table 7, it can be seen that the amount of nicotine and tar delivered by the aerosol generating article in Example 3 is almost the same as that in Comparative Example 1. This means that even when shredded tobacco leaves are applied to a heated aerosol generating article, users can experience a similar taste sensation to that of a plate-type leaf-based article. Of course, considering further sensory evaluation, shredded tobacco leaves can reduce off-flavors compared to plate-type leaves, so the actual taste sensation experienced by the user is judged to be superior for the tobacco leaf-based article (e.g., Example 3) to that of the plate-type leaf-based article (e.g., Comparative Example 1).

[0209] Furthermore, a slight increase in glycerin and water content was observed, which is judged to indicate an increase in atomization volume. Additionally, a slight decrease in propylene glycol content was observed, which is judged to indicate that the flavor intensity and irritation of the aerosol-generating article produced in Example 3 were somewhat lower than those of Comparative Example 1.

[0210] For reference, an aerosol-generating article was manufactured under the same conditions as in Example 3, except that chopped tobacco leaves and slurry-like chopped leaves were mixed and added in a ratio of approximately 8:2. Sensory evaluation and aerosol component analysis were performed on the manufactured aerosol-generating article, and it was confirmed that the experimental results were similar to those of Example 3.

[0211] [Examples 17-21] As shown in Table 8 below, during the secondary flavoring process, the amount of glycerin added was varied to produce chopped tobacco leaves, and the aerosol-generating articles according to Examples 17-21 were produced using the chopped tobacco leaves. Other conditions, such as the content of chopped tobacco leaves, were the same as in Example 3. For reference, in the case of chopped tobacco leaves in Example 3, glycerin was not added during the secondary flavoring process.

[0212] [Table 8]

[0213] [Experimental Example 6-1: Overall sensory evaluation of Examples 17-21 and Comparative Example 1] A comprehensive sensory evaluation was conducted on the aerosol-generating articles produced in Examples 17-21. The sensory evaluation was performed using the same method as in Experimental Example 1-1, with evaluation items including atomization amount, flavor intensity, irritation, inhalability, and off-flavor (tobacco-specific flavor). The evaluation method was the same as in Experimental Example 1-1. The evaluation results for this experiment are shown in Table 9 below.

[0214] [Table 9]

[0215] Referring to Table 9, the aerosol-generating articles from the examples were shown to be superior to those from Comparative Example 1 in terms of atomization volume, inhalation quality, and off-flavor. This means that if an appropriate amount of humectant is added during secondary flavoring, the atomization volume can be further increased, and higher quality tobacco flakes (e.g., flakes with less off-flavor and superior tobacco flavor) can be produced. However, in the case of inhalation quality, the low inhalation resistance of the filter on the mouthpiece side was also considered to have had an effect.

[0216] Furthermore, the examples showed that the aerosol generating article produced in Example 19 generally received superior evaluation scores. For example, the aerosol generating article produced in Example 19 showed superior atomization and less off-flavor compared to the other examples. This indicates that it is preferable to add approximately 3% of a humectant during secondary fragrance addition.

[0217] A comprehensive review of the sensory evaluation results confirms that the aerosol-generating articles produced in the examples are generally superior to those produced in Comparative Example 1. This indicates that leaf-chopped tobacco-based aerosol-generating articles can adequately replace plate-shaped leaf-chopped articles.

[0218] [Experimental Example 6-2: Aerosol component analysis of Example 3, Example 19, and Comparative Example 1] For a more objective and quantitative evaluation, aerosol component analysis was performed on the aerosol-generating articles from Example 3, Example 19, and Comparative Example 1. The experimental method was the same as that used in Experimental Example 5-2 above. The results of the component analysis in this experiment are shown in Table 10 below.

[0219] [Table 10]

[0220] Referring to Table 10, it was shown that the glycerin component in the aerosol generating article of Example 19 was significantly increased compared to Comparative Examples 1 and 3. This means that the amount of atomization can be further increased by appropriately adding a humectant during secondary flavoring. Furthermore, it was shown that the nicotine and propylene glycol components were slightly decreased compared to Comparative Examples 1 and 3. This is judged to indicate that the flavor intensity and irritation of the aerosol generating article of Example 19 are somewhat lower than those of Comparative Examples 1 or 3.

[0221] The composition and effects of aerosol-generating articles manufactured from shredded tobacco leaves have been described in detail based on various examples and comparative examples.

[0222] While embodiments of this disclosure have been described above with reference to the attached drawings, a person with ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains will understand that this disclosure may be implemented in other specific forms without altering the technical idea or essential features. Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments described above are illustrative in all respects and not limiting. The scope of protection of this disclosure should be interpreted in accordance with the claims below, and all technical ideas within an equivalent scope should be understood to be included in the scope of rights of the technical idea as defined by this disclosure.

[0223] [Item 1] It is an item that is inserted into an aerosol generator to generate aerosols. An aerosol-forming substrate portion containing chopped tobacco leaves, which forms an aerosol when electrically heated by the aerosol generator, An aerosol generating article comprising a mouthpiece portion located downstream of the aerosol-forming substrate portion and forming the downstream end. [Item 2] The aerosol-forming substrate portion is the aerosol-generating article according to item 1, wherein the substrate portion does not contain any other tobacco substances except for the chopped tobacco leaves. [Item 3] The aerosol-forming substrate portion further comprises a reconstituted tobacco sheet, The aerosol-generating article according to item 1 or 2, wherein the weight ratio between the shredded tobacco leaves and the reconstituted tobacco sheet is 6:4 to 9:1. [Item 4] The aerosol-generating article described in any one of items 1 to 3, wherein the width of the cut tobacco leaves is 1.0 mm to 1.4 mm. [Item 5] The aerosol generating article according to any one of items 1 to 4, wherein the amount of the chopped tobacco leaves contained in the aerosol forming substrate is 150 mg to 200 mg. [Item 6] The aforementioned shredded tobacco leaves were manufactured using a manufacturing process that includes a flavoring step. A humectant is added during the fragrance-adding process. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of items 1 to 5, wherein the weight ratio of glycerin to propylene glycol contained in the humectant is 1:1 to 8:2. [Item 7] The aerosol generating article according to any one of items 1 to 6, wherein the moisture content contained in the shredded tobacco leaves is 12% to 17% of the total weight of the shredded tobacco leaves. [Item 8] The aerosol-forming substrate portion further includes a wrapper that encloses the tobacco leaf shreds, An aerosol-generating article according to any one of items 1 to 7, wherein at least a portion of the wrapper is coated with an adhesive. [Item 9] The aerosol generating article described in any one of items 1 to 8, wherein the suction resistance of the mouthpiece portion is 90 mmWG to 140 mmWG. [Item 10] A support segment located downstream of the aerosol-forming substrate and supporting the aerosol-forming substrate, The aerosol generating article according to any one of items 1 to 9, further comprising a cooling segment located between the support segment and the mouthpiece portion for cooling the formed aerosol. [Item 11] A first filter segment located upstream of the aerosol-forming substrate portion and forming the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article, The aerosol generating article according to any one of items 1 to 10, further comprising a second filter segment located between the aerosol-forming substrate portion and the mouthpiece portion, and including a channel for passing the formed aerosol through. [Item 12] The aerosol-forming substrate portion is The first base segment, which does not contain the aforementioned tobacco leaf fragments, contains a humectant, An aerosol generating article according to any one of items 1 to 11, comprising: a second substrate segment located downstream of the first substrate segment and containing the tobacco leaf shreds. [Item 13] The aforementioned tobacco leaf shreds are manufactured using a manufacturing process that includes a primary flavoring step and a secondary flavoring step performed after the primary flavoring step. The aerosol generating article according to any one of items 1 to 12, wherein the amount of humectant added during the secondary flavoring step is 2% to 4% by weight relative to the total weight of the shredded tobacco leaves. [Item 14] An aerosol-generating article according to any one of items 1 to 13, wherein the weight ratio of glycerin to propylene glycol contained in the aforementioned tobacco leaf is 1:1 to 9:1. [Item 15] In a method for manufacturing an article that is inserted into an aerosol generator to generate an aerosol, The stage of processing raw tobacco leaves to produce shredded tobacco leaves, The steps include forming an aerosol-forming substrate using the manufactured tobacco leaf shreds, A method for manufacturing an aerosol generating article, comprising the step of joining the formed aerosol-forming substrate portion and the mouthpiece portion. [Item 16] The step of manufacturing the aforementioned shredded tobacco leaves is: A method for producing an aerosol-generating article as described in item 15, comprising the step of cutting the tobacco leaf raw material into increments of 1.0 mm to 1.4 mm. [Item 17] The step of manufacturing the aforementioned shredded tobacco leaves is: The process includes adding a humectant to the aforementioned tobacco leaf raw material and performing a fragrance treatment. A method for producing an aerosol-generating article according to item 15 or 16, wherein the weight ratio of glycerin to propylene glycol contained in the humectant is 1:1 to 8:2. [Item 18] The step of manufacturing the aforementioned shredded tobacco leaves is: The steps include: a primary flavoring treatment of the aforementioned tobacco leaf raw material; The step of cutting the tobacco leaf raw material that has undergone the primary flavoring treatment, The process includes the step of performing a secondary flavoring treatment on the chopped tobacco leaf raw material to produce the chopped tobacco leaf, A method for producing an aerosol generating article according to any one of items 15 to 17, wherein the moisture content contained in the manufactured tobacco leaf shreds is 13% to 17% of the total weight of the tobacco leaf shreds. [Item 19] The step of forming the aerosol-forming substrate portion is: A step of manufacturing an aerosol forming rod by wrapping the manufactured tobacco leaf shreds with a wrapping material on which an adhesive is applied to at least a portion of the inner surface, A method for producing an aerosol generating article according to any one of items 15 to 18, comprising the step of cutting the manufactured aerosol forming rod to a predetermined length to form the aerosol forming substrate portion. [Item 20] The step of manufacturing the aforementioned shredded tobacco leaves is: The step includes cutting the tobacco leaf material using a cutting machine that includes at least one cutting knife, A method for manufacturing an aerosol-generating article according to any one of items 15 to 19, wherein the cutting blade of the aforementioned cutting knife is of the type of square saw blade.

Claims

1. It is an item that is inserted into an aerosol generator to generate aerosols. An aerosol-forming substrate portion containing chopped tobacco leaves, which forms an aerosol when electrically heated by the aerosol generator, An aerosol generating article comprising a mouthpiece portion located downstream of the aerosol-forming substrate portion and forming the downstream end.

2. The aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate portion does not contain any other tobacco substances except for the chopped tobacco leaves.

3. The aerosol-forming substrate portion further comprises a reconstituted tobacco sheet, The aerosol generating article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the weight ratio between the shredded tobacco leaves and the reconstituted tobacco sheet is 6:4 to 9:

1.

4. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the width of the shredded tobacco leaves is 1.0 mm to 1.4 mm.

5. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the content of the chopped tobacco leaves contained in the aerosol forming substrate portion is 150 mg to 200 mg.

6. The aforementioned shredded tobacco leaves were manufactured using a manufacturing process that includes a flavoring step. A humectant is added during the fragrance-adding process. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the weight ratio of glycerin to propylene glycol contained in the humectant is 1:1 to 8:

2.

7. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the moisture content contained in the shredded tobacco leaves is 12% to 17% of the total weight of the shredded tobacco leaves.

8. The aerosol-forming substrate portion further includes a wrapper that encloses the tobacco leaf shreds, The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein at least a portion of the wrapper is coated with an adhesive.

9. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the suction resistance of the mouthpiece portion is 90 mmWG to 140 mmWG.

10. A support segment located downstream of the aerosol-forming substrate and supporting the aerosol-forming substrate, The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising a cooling segment located between the support segment and the mouthpiece portion for cooling the formed aerosol.

11. A first filter segment located upstream of the aerosol-forming substrate portion and forming the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article, The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising a second filter segment located between the aerosol-forming substrate portion and the mouthpiece portion, and including a channel for passing the formed aerosol through.

12. The aerosol-forming substrate portion is The first base segment, which does not contain the aforementioned tobacco leaf fragments, contains a humectant, An aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 11, comprising: a second base material segment located downstream of the first base material segment and containing the tobacco leaf shreds.

13. The aforementioned shredded tobacco leaves are manufactured using a manufacturing process that includes a primary flavoring step and a secondary flavoring step performed after the primary flavoring step. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the amount of humectant added during the secondary flavoring step is 2% to 4% by weight relative to the total weight of the shredded tobacco leaves.

14. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the weight ratio of glycerin to propylene glycol contained in the chopped tobacco leaves is 1:1 to 9:

1.

15. In a method for manufacturing an article that is inserted into an aerosol generator to generate an aerosol, The stage of processing raw tobacco leaves to produce shredded tobacco leaves, The steps include forming an aerosol-forming substrate using the manufactured tobacco leaf shreds, A method for manufacturing an aerosol generating article, comprising the step of joining the formed aerosol-forming substrate portion and the mouthpiece portion.

16. The step of manufacturing the aforementioned shredded tobacco leaves is: A method for producing an aerosol-generating article according to claim 15, comprising the step of cutting the tobacco leaf raw material into pieces with a width of 1.0 mm to 1.4 mm.

17. The step of manufacturing the aforementioned shredded tobacco leaves is: The process includes adding a humectant to the aforementioned tobacco leaf raw material and performing a fragrance treatment. The method for producing an aerosol generating article according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the weight ratio of glycerin to propylene glycol contained in the humectant is 1:1 to 8:

2.

18. The step of manufacturing the aforementioned shredded tobacco leaves is: The steps include: a primary flavoring treatment of the aforementioned tobacco leaf raw material, The step of cutting the tobacco leaf raw material that has undergone the primary flavoring treatment, The process includes the step of performing a secondary flavoring treatment on the chopped tobacco leaf raw material to produce the chopped tobacco leaf, A method for producing an aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the moisture content contained in the manufactured shredded tobacco leaves is 13% to 17% of the total weight of the shredded tobacco leaves.

19. The step of forming the aerosol-forming substrate portion is: A step of manufacturing an aerosol forming rod by wrapping the manufactured tobacco leaf shreds with a wrapping material on which an adhesive is applied to at least a portion of the inner surface, A method for manufacturing an aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 15 to 18, comprising the step of cutting the manufactured aerosol forming rod to a predetermined length to form the aerosol forming substrate portion.

20. The step of manufacturing the aforementioned shredded tobacco leaves is: The step includes cutting the tobacco leaf material using a cutting machine that includes at least one cutting knife, The method for manufacturing an aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein the cutting blade of the aforementioned carving knife is a square saw blade type.

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