Aerosol-Generating Materials

Abstract

Described herein are aerosol-forming materials comprising a fiber material, nicotine benzoate, and glycerol, methods for preparing the aerosol-forming materials, and articles and delivery systems comprising the aerosol-forming materials.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol-forming material including a fibrous material, and a non-combustion aerosol delivery system including the aerosol-forming material. [Background technology]

[0002] The aerosol-forming material is typically heated, for example, by a non-combustion aerosol delivery system, to form an aerosol that can be inhaled by a consumer. The aerosol-forming material may be made from a variety of different sources, including tobacco and / or non-tobacco materials. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to a first aspect, an aerosol-generating material is described that includes a fiber material, nicotine benzoate, and glycerol.

[0004] According to a second aspect, an aerosol-generating rod is described, comprising an aerosol-generating material according to the first aspect.

[0005] According to a third aspect, a delivery system is described comprising an aerosol-generating material according to the first aspect or an aerosol-generating rod according to the second aspect.

[0006] According to a fourth aspect, a method for preparing an aerosol-generating material is described, the method comprising extracting a fiber material to separate it into an extract and a fiber portion, processing the fiber portion to form a refined pulp, forming the refined pulp into a sheet, impregnating the sheet with nicotine benzoate, glycerol, and the extract, and drying the impregnated sheet to form the aerosol-generating material.

[0007] According to a fifth aspect, an aerosol-forming material is described, which is obtained or obtainable by a method according to the fourth aspect.

[0008] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a flowchart of a method of making an aerosol-forming material. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The present invention relates to aerosol-generating materials. The present invention also relates to methods of making the aerosol-generating materials, uses of the aerosol-generating materials, articles for use in delivery systems, and systems comprising the aerosol-generating materials and devices.

[0011] The aerosol-generating material includes an aerosolizable component. During use, the aerosol-generating material generates an aerosol, e.g., a suspension of droplets or fine particles in a gas. The aerosol includes nicotine and other components generated by the aerosol-generating material. During use, the user inhales the aerosol. Therefore, it is important that the aerosol-generating material generate an aerosol that provides a suitable user experience and satisfaction.

[0012] The composition of the aerosol contributes to the user's experience and satisfaction. One attribute that contributes to the user's experience and satisfaction is the nicotine content in the aerosol. Another attribute that contributes to the user's experience and satisfaction is the perceived harshness of the aerosol. Therefore, it is important to control the nicotine content and harshness of the aerosol.

[0013] In some instances, it has been found that aerosol-forming materials containing nicotine salts produce aerosols with a perceived harshness that is desirable. The inventors have noted that aerosol-forming materials containing pure nicotine, e.g., free-base nicotine, produce aerosols with perceived harshness that may be too high. The use of nicotine salts reduces the perceived harshness to a desirable level.

[0014] As used herein, the term "delivery system" is intended to encompass a system that delivers a substance to a user; Combustion aerosol delivery systems, such as cigarettes, cigarillos, cigars, and tobacco for pipes or for hand-rolled or handmade cigarettes (whether based on tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco substitutes, or other smokable materials); Non-combustion aerosol delivery systems that release compounds from aerosol-forming materials without burning the aerosol-forming material, such as electronic cigarettes, tobacco heating products, and hybrid systems that generate aerosols using a combination of aerosol-forming materials; and Aerosol-free delivery systems, such as lozenges, gums, patches, articles containing inhalable powders, and smokeless tobacco products such as snus and snuff, that deliver materials to the user without forming an aerosol Includes.

[0015] According to the present disclosure, a "combustion-based" aerosol delivery system is one in which the constituent aerosol-generating materials (or components thereof) of the aerosol delivery system are combusted or burned during use to facilitate delivery of at least one substance to a user.

[0016] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a combustion aerosol delivery system, such as a system selected from the group consisting of a cigarette, a cigarillo, and a cigar.

[0017] In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to aerosol modifier-releasing components such as filters, filter rods, filter segments, tobacco rods, spills, capsules, threads, or beads, or papers such as plug wrap, tipping paper, or cigarette paper, for use in combustion-based aerosol delivery systems.

[0018] According to the present disclosure, a "non-combustion" aerosol delivery system is one in which the constituent aerosol-generating materials (or components thereof) of the aerosol delivery system are not or are not combusted to facilitate delivery to the user.

[0019] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-combustion aerosol delivery system, such as a powered non-combustion aerosol delivery system.

[0020] In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol delivery system is a vaporization device or an electronic cigarette, also known as an electronic nicotine delivery system (END).

[0021] In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol delivery system is a tobacco heating system, also known as a non-combustion heating system.

[0022] In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol delivery system is a hybrid system that generates an aerosol using a combination of aerosol-forming materials, where one or more aerosol-forming materials can be heated. Each of the aerosol-forming materials can be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid, or gel. In some embodiments, the hybrid system includes a liquid or gel aerosol-forming material and a solid aerosol-forming material. The solid aerosol-forming material can include, for example, a tobacco material or a non-tobacco product.

[0023] Typically, a non-combustion aerosol delivery system may include a non-combustion aerosol delivery device, also referred to herein as an aerosol generating device, and consumables for use with the non-combustion aerosol delivery system.

[0024] In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to consumables that include aerosol-generating materials and are configured for use with non-combustion aerosol delivery devices. These consumables may be referred to as articles throughout this disclosure.

[0025] It is envisioned that in some embodiments, a consumable that itself includes a means for powering an aerosol generating component may itself form a non-combustion aerosol delivery system.

[0026] In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol delivery system may include a power source and a controller. The power source may be a power source or a heat-generating power source. In some embodiments, the heat-generating power source comprises a carbon substrate that can be energized to deliver power in the form of heat to an aerosol-generating material or a heat transfer material proximate the heat-generating power source. In some embodiments, the power source, such as the heat-generating power source, is provided with an article to form the non-combustion aerosol delivery system.

[0027] In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol delivery system may include an area for receiving a consumable, an aerosol generator, an aerosol-generating area, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0028] In some embodiments, a consumable for use with a non-combustion aerosol delivery device may comprise an aerosol-generating material, an aerosol-generating material storage region, an aerosol-generating material transfer component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol-generating region, a housing, a packaging material, a filter, a mouthpiece, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0029] In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered includes an active substance. As used herein, an active substance may be a physiologically active material, which is a material intended to achieve or enhance a physiological response. The active substance may be selected from, for example, a dietary supplement, a nootropic, or a psychoactive agent. The active substance may be naturally occurring or synthetically obtained. The active substance may include, for example, nicotine, caffeine, taurine, theine, vitamins such as B6, B12, or C, melatonin, cannabinoids, or components, derivatives, or combinations thereof. The active substance may include one or more components, derivatives, or extracts of tobacco, cannabis, or another botanical material.

[0030] In some embodiments, the active substance is a legally permitted recreational drug.

[0031] In some embodiments, the active agent comprises nicotine, hi some embodiments, the active agent comprises caffeine, melatonin, or vitamin B12.

[0032] As described herein, the active substance may include one or more components, derivatives, or extracts of cannabis, such as one or more cannabinoids or terpenes.

[0033] The active substance may be CBD or a derivative thereof.

[0034] As used herein, the term "botanical material" includes any material derived from a plant, including, but not limited to, extracts, leaves, bark, fiber, stems, roots, seeds, flowers, fruit, pollen, husks, shells, etc. Alternatively, the material may include synthetically derived active compounds that are naturally present in the botanical material. The material may be in the form of a liquid, gas, solid, powder, dust, ground particles, granules, pellets, chips, strips, sheets, etc. Exemplary botanicals include tobacco, eucalyptus, star anise, hemp, cocoa, cannabis, fennel, lemongrass, peppermint, spearmint, rooibos, chamomile, flax, ginger, ginkgo, hazel, hibiscus, bay, licorice, matcha, yerba mate, orange peel, papaya, rose, sage, tea such as green tea or black tea, thyme, cloves, cinnamon, coffee, aniseed, basil, bay leaf, cardamom, coriander, cumin, nutmeg, oregano, paprika, rosemary, saffron, rabe The preferred oleic acid extracts are laurel, lemon peel, mint, juniper, elderflower, vanilla, wintergreen, shiso, curcuma, turmeric, sandalwood, cilantro, bergamot, orange blossom, myrtle, blackcurrant, valerian, pimento, mace, damiana, marjoram, olive, lemon balm, lemon basil, chives, kahlua, verbena, tarragon, geranium, mulberry, ginseng, theanine, theacrine, maca, ashwagandha, damiana, guarana, chlorophyll, baobab, or any combination thereof.The mint may be selected from the following mint varieties: Mentha arventis, Mentha cv, Egyptian mint (Mentha niliaca), Mentha piperita, Cologne mint (Mentha piperita citrata cv), Candy mint (Mentha piperita cv), Curly mint (Mentha spicata crispa), Kentucky Colonel mint (Mentha cardifolia), Horse mint (Mentha longifolia), Pineapple mint (Mentha suaveolens variegata), Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium), Green mint (Mentha spicata cv), and Apple mint (Mentha suaveolens).

[0035] In some embodiments, the active agent comprises or is derived from one or more botanical substances, or components, derivatives, or extracts thereof, and the botanical substances are selected from eucalyptus, cocoa, and hemp.

[0036] In some embodiments, the active agent comprises or is derived from one or more botanical substances, or components, derivatives, or extracts thereof, and the botanical substances are selected from star anise, rooibos, and fennel.

[0037] In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered comprises a flavor.

[0038] As used herein, the terms "flavor" and "flavoring agent" refer to materials that may be used, where local regulations permit, to create a desired taste, aroma, or other somatic sensation in products intended for adult consumers.Flavors and flavorings include naturally occurring flavoring materials, botanicals, extracts of botanicals, synthetically derived materials, or combinations thereof (e.g., tobacco, cannabis, licorice, hydrangea, eugenol, magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, maple, matcha, menthol, Japanese mint, aniseed, cinnamon, turmeric, Indian spices, Asian spices, herbs, wintergreen, cherry, berry, red berry, cranberry, peach, apple, orange, mango, clementine, lemon, rye, etc.). Musk, tropical fruits, papaya, rhubarb, grapes, durian, dragon fruit, cucumber, blueberry, mulberry, citrus fruits, Drambuie, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, gin, tequila, rum, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, aloe vera, cardamom, celery, cascarilla, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, khat, eggplant, betel nut, shisha, pine, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, orange blossom, cherry blossom, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang ylang , sage, fennel, wasabi, bell pepper, ginger, coriander, coffee, hemp, peppermint oil from any species of the genus Mentha, eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, lemongrass, rooibos, flax, ginkgo, hazel, hibiscus, bay leaf, yerba mate, orange peel, rose, tea such as green or black tea, thyme, juniper, elderflower, basil, bay leaf, cumin, oregano, paprika, rosemary, saffron, lemon peel, mint, shiso, curcuma, cilantro, myrtle, black currant, valerian, pimento, mace, damiento, maji The flavor enhancers may include other additives such as cholams, olives, lemon balm, lemon basil, chives, Calvi, verbena, tarragon, limonene, thymol, camphene), flavor enhancers, bitter taste receptor site blockers, sensory receptor site activators or stimulants, sugars and / or sugar substitutes (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharin, cyclamate, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol), and charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, botanicals, or breath fresheners.The flavors and flavorings may be imitation, synthetic, or natural ingredients, or blends thereof. The flavors and flavorings may be in any suitable form, for example, a liquid such as an oil, a solid such as a powder, or a gas.

[0039] In some embodiments, the flavor comprises menthol, spearmint, and / or peppermint. In some embodiments, the flavor comprises cucumber, blueberry, citrus, and / or red berry flavor components. In some embodiments, the flavor comprises eugenol. In some embodiments, the flavor comprises flavor components extracted from tobacco. In some embodiments, the flavor comprises flavor components extracted from cannabis, such as terpenes.

[0040] In some embodiments, the flavor may include a sensation elicitor intended to achieve somatic sensations typically chemically induced and perceived by stimulation of the fifth cranial nerve (trigeminal nerve) in addition to, or instead of, aroma or taste nerves, and may include agents that produce heating, cooling, tingling, or numbing effects. Suitable heating agents may be, but are not limited to, vanillyl ethyl ether, and suitable cooling agents may be, but are not limited to, eucalyptol, WS-3.

[0041] In some embodiments, the flavor comprises menthol, spearmint, and / or peppermint. In some embodiments, the flavor comprises berry fruit, citrus, and / or tropical fruit flavor components. In some embodiments, the flavor may comprise cucumber, blueberry, citrus, pineapple, strawberry, and / or red berry.

[0042] In some embodiments, flavors added to the aerosol-forming material may be selected to enhance the underlying properties of the aerosol-forming material. For example, as described herein, it may be preferable for the fiber material to be free of tobacco material and instead formed from botanical materials. In such an example, for example, if the aerosol-forming material utilizes rooibos, fennel, star anise, and / or mint, the botanical materials may produce a particularly neutral aroma profile. When one or more of these botanicals are used, the aroma may be enhanced when paired with flavors such as menthol, spearmint, and / or peppermint, berry fruits, citrus fruits, and / or tropical fruits, or any combination of these flavors.

[0043] An aerosol-forming material is a material that can generate an aerosol when, for example, heated, irradiated, or otherwise energized. The aerosol-forming material may be in solid, liquid, or semi-solid (such as a gel) form, for example, which may or may not contain active substances and / or flavorings.

[0044] The aerosol-forming materials may include one or more active agents and / or flavors, one or more aerosol former materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0045] The aerosol-generating material may comprise or be a continuous sheet of material. The sheet may be in the form of a wrapper, gathered to form a gathered sheet, or chopped to form a chopped sheet. The chopped sheet may comprise one or more strands or strips of aerosol-generating material.

[0046] An aerosol is a suspension of liquid, solid, or both particles in a gas.

[0047] The sheet or shredded sheet includes a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. The first and second surfaces have matching dimensions. The first and second surfaces of the sheet or shredded sheet may have any shape. For example, the first and second surfaces may be square, rectangular, oval, or circular. Irregular shapes are also contemplated.

[0048] The first and / or second surfaces of the sheet or shredded sheet may be relatively uniform (e.g., relatively smooth), or may be uneven or irregular. For example, the first and / or second surfaces of the sheet may be textured or patterned to define a relatively rough surface. In some embodiments, the first and / or second surfaces are relatively rough.

[0049] The smoothness of the first and second surfaces may be affected by many factors, such as the areal density of the sheet or shredded sheet, the nature of the components that make up the aerosolizable material, or whether the surface of the material has been manipulated, for example, embossed, scored, or otherwise modified to impart a pattern or texture.

[0050] The areas of the first and second surfaces are defined by a first dimension (e.g., width) and a second dimension (e.g., length), respectively. The first and second dimensional measurements may have a ratio of 1:1 or greater than 1:1, and thus the sheet or shredded sheet may have an "aspect ratio" of 1:1 or greater than 1:1. As used herein, the term "aspect ratio" is the ratio of the first dimensional measurement of the first or second surface to the second dimensional measurement of the first or second surface. A "1:1 aspect ratio" means that the first dimensional measurement (e.g., width) and the second dimensional measurement (e.g., length) are identical. An "aspect ratio greater than 1:1" means that the first dimensional measurement (e.g., width) and the second dimensional measurement (e.g., length) are different. In some embodiments, the first and second surfaces of the sheet or shredded sheet have an aspect ratio greater than 1:1, such as 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 1:6, 1:7, or more.

[0051] The shredded sheet may comprise one or more strands or strips of aerosolizable material. In some embodiments, the shredded sheet comprises multiple (e.g., two or more) strands or strips of aerosolizable material. The strands or strips of aerosolizable material may have an aspect ratio of 1:1. In one embodiment, the strands or strips of aerosolizable material have an aspect ratio of greater than 1:1. In some embodiments, the strands or strips of aerosolizable material have an aspect ratio of about 1:5 to about 1:16, or about 1:5, 1:6, 1:7, 1:8, 1:9, 1:10, 1:11, or 1:12. When the aspect ratio of the strands or strips is greater than 1:1, the strands or strips comprise a longitudinal dimension or length extending between a first end of the strand or strip and a second end of the strand or strip.

[0052] When a shredded sheet includes multiple strands or strips of material, the dimensions of each strand or strip may vary among different strands or strips. For example, a shredded sheet may include a first collection of strands or strips and a second collection of strands or strips, where the dimensions of the strands or strips in the first collection are different from the dimensions of the strands or strips in the second collection. In other words, the multiple strands or strips may include a first collection of strands or strips having a first aspect ratio and a second collection of strands or strips having a second aspect ratio that is different from the first aspect ratio.

[0053] The first dimension or cut width of the strand or strip of aerosolizable material is between 0.9 mm and 1.5 mm. The inventors have found that when strands or strips of aerosolizable material having a cut width of less than 0.9 mm are incorporated into an article for use in a non-combustion aerosol delivery system, the pressure drop across the article may be increased to a level that makes the article unsuitable for use in a non-combustion aerosol delivery device. However, if the strand or strip has a cut width greater than 2 mm (e.g., greater than 2 mm), it may be difficult to insert the strand or strip of aerosolizable material into the article during manufacture of the article. In a preferred embodiment, the cut width of the strand or strip of aerosolizable material is between about 1 mm and 1.5 mm.

[0054] The strands or strips of material are formed by shredding a sheet of aerosolizable material. The sheet of aerosolizable material may be cut widthwise, for example, by a cross-cut shredding method, to define a cut length of the strands or strips of aerosolizable material in addition to the cut width. The cut length of the shredded aerosolizable material is preferably at least 5 mm, e.g., at least 10 mm, or at least 20 mm. The cut length of the shredded aerosolizable material may be less than 60 mm, less than 50 mm, or less than 40 mm.

[0055] In some embodiments, multiple strands or strips of aerosolizable material are provided, wherein at least one of the multiple strands or strips of aerosolizable material has a length greater than about 10 mm. At least one of the multiple strands or strips of aerosolizable material may alternatively or additionally have a length of about 10 mm to about 60 mm, or about 20 mm to about 50 mm. Each of the multiple strands or strips of aerosolizable material may have a length of about 10 mm to about 60 mm, or about 20 mm to about 50 mm.

[0056] A consumable is an article containing or consisting of an aerosol-generating material, some or all of which is intended to be consumed during use by a user. In some embodiments, a consumable for use with a non-combustion aerosol delivery device may include one or more other components, such as an aerosol-generating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material transfer component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol-generating area, a housing, a packaging material, a filter, a mouthpiece, and / or an aerosol modifier. The consumable may also include an aerosol generator, such as a heater, that generates heat upon use to cause the aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol. The heater may include, for example, a combustible material, a material heatable by electrical conduction, or a susceptor.

[0057] The susceptor is a material that can be heated by penetration of a varying magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor may be a conductive material, such that penetration of the varying magnetic field into the conductive material causes induction heating of the heating material. The heating material may be a magnetic material, such that penetration of the varying magnetic field into the magnetic material causes magnetic hysteresis heating of the heating material. The susceptor may be both conductive and magnetic, such that the susceptor is heatable by both heating mechanisms. A device configured to generate a varying magnetic field is referred to herein as a magnetic field generator.

[0058] An aerosol generator is a heater that can interact with an aerosol-generating material to release one or more volatile substances from the aerosol-generating material to form an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator can generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating material without applying heat. For example, the aerosol generator can be capable of generating an aerosol from the aerosol-generating material without applying heat to the aerosol-generating material, such as by one or more of vibrational, mechanical, pressurized, or electrostatic means.

[0059] In some embodiments, the fiber material includes a plant material. A fiber material including a plant material may complement the flavor profile of any aerosol generated. For example, a plant material having a relatively neutral flavor profile may be selected. A neutral flavor profile may be described as a flavor profile that contains few strong flavors and / or a flavor profile that easily accommodates a top flavor load without affecting the perception of the top flavor. For example, a fiber material containing reconstituted tobacco material may be described as producing an aerosol with a relatively neutral flavor profile. It may be advantageous to be able to produce an aerosol with a neutral flavor profile similar to reconstituted tobacco, but without using tobacco material.

[0060] In some embodiments, the fiber material comprises rooibos.

[0061] In some embodiments, the fiber material is rooibos-free.

[0062] In some embodiments, the fiber material may be made from any of a variety of natural ingredients, including eucalyptus, star anise, hemp, cocoa, cannabis, fennel, lemongrass, peppermint, spearmint, chamomile, flax, ginger, ginkgo, hazel, hibiscus, bay, licorice, matcha, yerba mate, orange peel, papaya, rose, sage, tea, such as green tea or black tea, thyme, clove, cinnamon, coffee, aniseed, basil, bay leaf, cardamom, coriander, cumin, nutmeg, oregano, paprika, rosemary, saffron, lavender, and the like. The active ingredients include laurel, lemon peel, mint, juniper, elderflower, vanilla, wintergreen, shiso, curcuma, turmeric, sandalwood, cilantro, bergamot, orange blossom, myrtle, blackcurrant, valerian, pimento, mace, damiana, marjoram, olive, lemon balm, lemon basil, chives, kahlua, verbena, tarragon, geranium, mulberry, ginseng, theanine, theacrine, maca, ashwagandha, damiana, guarana, chlorophyll, baobab, or any combination thereof. The mint may be selected from the following mint varieties: Mentha arventis, Mentha cv, Egyptian mint (Mentha niliaca), Mentha piperita, Cologne mint (Mentha piperita citrata cv), Candy mint (Mentha piperita cv), Curly mint (Mentha spicata crispa), Kentucky Colonel mint (Mentha cardifolia), Horse mint (Mentha longifolia), Pineapple mint (Mentha suaveolens variegata), Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium), Green mint (Mentha spicata cv), and Apple mint (Mentha suaveolens).

[0063] In some embodiments, the fibrous material comprises star anise, fennel, or mint, or a mixture thereof.

[0064] In some embodiments, the fibrous material may be referred to as a substrate. It may be preferable for the substrate to be made from a non-tobacco material so that consumers may reduce their use of tobacco-based materials. However, consumers may wish to retain the physiological effects provided by nicotine. Therefore, it may be of interest to consumers to provide a substrate made from a non-tobacco plant material that includes nicotine.

[0065] In some embodiments, the plant material may be any non-tobacco plant material. For example, the material may be derived from a species that is a member of the Asteracae family, the Fabaceae family, the Myrtaceae family, the Apiaceae family, Camellia taliensis, the Solanaceae family, the Brassicaceae family, the Caricaceae family, the Asclepiadaceae family, the Equisetaceae family, the Oleaceae family, the Lamiaceae family, and the tisanes. For example, the non-tobacco plant material may be selected from Matricaria species such as chamomile, Pimpinella anisum species such as anise, Foeniculum vulgare species such as fennel, Aspalathus linearis species such as jasmine, lavender, clove, eucalyptus, and rooibos.

[0066] In some embodiments, the non-tobacco plant material is selected from plant materials containing desirable aroma characteristics for use in non-combustion aerosol delivery systems. For example, the non-tobacco plant material may contain relatively few aroma compounds compared to traditional tobacco materials. Thus, the aerosol generated from the non-tobacco plant material may have a different profile of volatile compounds compared to the aerosol generated from tobacco materials. The non-tobacco plant material may deliver an aerosol that is considered desirable by consumers of tobacco-based delivery systems. In some embodiments, the non-tobacco plant material, when heated, may produce an aerosol with a sensory experience comparable to that provided by traditional combustion products, such as cigarettes. In some embodiments, the non-tobacco plant material is selected from seed-producing plants that do not develop persistent woody tissue and are often valued for their medical or sensory properties. In some embodiments, it may be preferable to provide an aerosol-generating material for use in non-combustion aerosol delivery systems that does not include any tobacco plant material.

[0067] As used herein, the term "tobacco material" refers to any material containing tobacco or its derivatives or substitutes. The tobacco material may be in any suitable form. The term "tobacco material" may include one or more of tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, or tobacco substitutes. The tobacco material may include one or more of ground tobacco, tobacco fiber, cut tobacco, extruded tobacco, tobacco stems, tobacco lamina, and / or reconstituted tobacco. It is understood that nicotine extracts derived from tobacco material are not considered "tobacco material."

[0068] In some embodiments, it may be preferred that the fibrous material does not contain tobacco material, as certain consumers may prefer to inhale an aerosol generated from non-tobacco material while still containing nicotine.

[0069] The inventors have identified aerosols produced from an aerosol-forming material comprising a fiber material, nicotine benzoate, and glycerol as being particularly preferred, particularly as they provide desirable levels of perceived harshness that are comparable to those provided by conventional combustion products.

[0070] In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming material comprises a total fiber content of about 70% to about 95% by weight on a dry basis. For example, the total fiber content may be about 70% to about 90% by weight on a dry basis, such as about 70% to about 85% by weight, or about 75% to about 80% by weight. In some embodiments, the total fiber content of the aerosol-forming material is about 75% by weight on a dry basis.

[0071] In some embodiments, the fiber material comprises a first and a second fiber material. In some embodiments, the first fiber material is different from the second fiber material. When the first fiber material is different from the second fiber material, the properties of the aerosol-generating material, such as the generated aerosol, may be modified. For example, two different fiber materials may be combined that complement each other and provide a particularly pleasant / pleasant aerosol for the consumer.

[0072] In some embodiments, the first fiber material comprises a plant material, and the second fiber material comprises wood fiber / wood pulp. As used herein, wood fiber and wood pulp can be used to describe cellulose materials derived from cellulose materials that have little or no noticeable aroma. For example, the wood fiber and wood pulp can be similar in nature to the wood fiber / wood pulp used to make paper. The wood fiber and wood pulp can be obtained from a non-tobacco-based source.

[0073] In some embodiments, the ratio of the first fiber material to the second fiber material may be from about 10:1 to about 2:1. For example, the ratio may be from about 9:1 to about 3:1, such as from about 8:1 to about 4:1, such as from about 7:1 to about 4:1, such as from about 6:1 to about 4:1. In some embodiments, the ratio of the first fiber material to the second fiber material may be about 5:1.

[0074] In some embodiments, modifying the amount of a first fibrous material, e.g., comprising plant material, and a second fibrous material, e.g., comprising wood fiber / wood pulp, allows the aerosol to be modified / tailored to a particular desired profile. For example, increasing the relative amount of plant material compared to wood fiber / wood pulp may increase the amount of aroma compounds derived from the plant material in the aerosol.

[0075] In some embodiments, when the aerosol-generating material includes a plant material, the aerosol-generating material further includes an extract derived from the plant material. For example, as shown in FIG. 1 , the aerosol-generating material may be prepared by extracting the plant material and separating the extract and a fiber portion. The fiber portion may be combined with a second fiber material and processed to form a refined pulp, which may then be formed into a sheet. The extract, along with the nicotine salt and the aerosol-forming agent, may be applied to the sheet, e.g., impregnated into the sheet, which is then dried. Reintroducing the extract from the plant material into the resulting aerosol-generating material allows aroma compounds from the plant material to be present in the aerosol-generating material. Processing the plant material to form an aerosol-generating material, for example, by a typical papermaking process, is believed to result in the loss of volatile flavor / aroma compounds. In particular, heating the plant material during the papermaking process may result in the loss of more volatile compounds, which are likely to be compounds that provide flavor and / or aroma to the plant material.

[0076] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material contains essentially 100% of the original plant material. For example, the fiber material includes all of the fiber portion of the original plant material, and the extract includes the entire extract removed from the original plant material. Utilizing all of the fiber portion and extract of the plant material is preferred because it reduces waste. Furthermore, the complete flavor profile of the original plant material is maintained in the resulting aerosol-generating material. This may be particularly preferred by consumers who may desire to consume an aerosol with a scent from the plant material.

[0077] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material comprises the extract in an amount of about 5% to about 15% by weight of the aerosol-generating material. For example, the extract may be present in an amount of about 6% to about 14% by weight of the aerosol-generating material, such as about 7% to about 13% by weight of the aerosol-generating material, such as about 8% to about 12% by weight of the aerosol-generating material, or about 10% to about 12% by weight of the aerosol-generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material comprises the extract in an amount of about 11% by weight of the aerosol-generating material.

[0078] The aerosol-forming material includes glycerol as the aerosol-forming agent / aerosol-former material. The total amount of glycerol may be about 10% to about 20% by weight of the aerosol-forming material. In some embodiments, the total amount of aerosol-forming agent is about 13% to about 16% by weight of the aerosol-forming material. In some embodiments, the total amount of aerosol-former material is about 15% by weight of the aerosol-forming material.

[0079] In this context, an "aerosol-forming agent" is an agent or material that facilitates the generation of an aerosol. Aerosol-forming agents may facilitate the generation of an aerosol by facilitating the initial vaporization and / or condensation of a gas into an inhalable solid and / or liquid aerosol. In some embodiments, aerosol-forming agents may improve the delivery of flavor from the aerosol-forming material.

[0080] The aerosol former material has been found to improve the sensory performance of articles for use with aerosol-generating devices that include the aerosol-generating material by aiding in the transport of compounds, such as flavor compounds, from the fiber material to the consumer. In some embodiments, the aerosol former material described herein, e.g., glycerol, is flavored and / or includes a flavor described herein.

[0081] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may include two or more aerosol-forming agents. For example, the aerosol-generating material may include glycerol and one or more of a polyol, such as a glycol, such as sorbitol, propylene glycol, or triethylene glycol; a non-polyol, such as a monohydric alcohol; a high-boiling hydrocarbon; an acid, such as lactic acid; a glycerol derivative; an ester, such as diacetin, triacetin, triethylene glycol diacetate, triethyl citrate, or myristate, including ethyl myristate and isopropyl myristate; and an aliphatic carboxylic acid ester, such as methyl stearate, dimethyl dodecanedioate, and dimethyl tetradecanedioate.

[0082] In some embodiments, the additional aerosol forming agent may be selected from the group consisting of propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, erythritol, mesoerythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, diacetin mixtures, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenylacetate, tributyrin, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, propylene carbonate, and mixtures thereof.

[0083] In some embodiments, the aerosol forming agent comprises glycerol in an amount of about 10% to about 90% by weight of the aerosol forming agent.

[0084] In some embodiments, the ratio of glycerol to fiber material is about 1:7 to about 1:3, such as about 1:6 to about 1:4, e.g., about 1:5. When the ratio of glycerol to fiber material is within this range, the aerosol-forming material exhibits favorable storage characteristics and produces favorable aerosols.

[0085] The aerosol-forming materials described herein may include a filler component. The filler component is generally a non-tobacco component, i.e., a component that does not contain tobacco-derived raw materials. The filler component may be a non-tobacco fiber, such as wood fiber or pulp or wheat fiber. The filler component may also be an inorganic material, such as chalk, perlite, vermiculite, diatomaceous earth, colloidal silica, magnesium oxide, magnesium sulfate, magnesium carbonate, etc. The filler component may also be a non-tobacco cast material.

[0086] The filler component may be present in an amount of about 0 to about 20% by weight of the tobacco material, or about 1 to about 10% by weight of the aerosol-forming material. In preferred embodiments, the aerosol-forming material includes a filler component in an amount of about 5% to about 10% by weight of the aerosol-forming material. In some embodiments, no filler component is present.

[0087] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material has a thickness of about 250 μm to about 450 μm. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material has a thickness of about 250 μm to about 400 μm, for example, about 280 μm to about 490 μm. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material has a thickness of about 300 to about 400 μm. For example, the thickness may be about 310 μm to about 390 μm. For example, the thickness may be about 310 μm to about 380 μm. For example, the thickness may be about 320 μm to about 370 μm. For example, the thickness may be about 320 μm to about 360 μm. For example, the thickness may be about 320 μm to about 350 μm. For example, the thickness may be about 320 μm to about 340 μm. For example, the thickness may be about 325 μm to about 340 μm. For example, the thickness may be about 330 μm to about 340 μm.

[0088] In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming material has a water content of about 3% to about 8%. For example, the aerosol-forming material has a water content of about 4% to about 7%, e.g., about 5% to about 6%. In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming material has a water content of about 5%.

[0089] In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming material is applied to a volume of about 2 cm 3 / g ~ approx. 10cm 3 In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming material has a loading value of about 3 cm 3 / g ~ approx. 8cm 3 / g, for example, the aerosol-forming material may have a loading value of about 4 cm 3 / g ~ approx. 7cm 3 / g, for example, about 4 cm 3 / g ~ approx. 6cm 3 In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming material may have a loading value of about 5 cm / g. 3 / g. The filling value is about 2 cm 3 / g ~ approx. 10cm 3 / g, for example, about 5 cm 3 / g, consumables containing the aerosol-generating material may be lighter. Thus, the total weight of material used to achieve the same / required fill value is smaller, resulting in cost savings on the product. In addition, using the aerosol-generating materials described herein may also be advantageous because resistance to inhalation is not affected, thus providing a more favorable user experience for consumers.

[0090] In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming material exhibits a burst strength of about 5 KPa to about 40 KPa. In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming material exhibits a burst strength of about 10 KPa to about 30 KPa. In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming material exhibits a burst strength of about 15 KPa to about 25 KPa, e.g., about 20 KPa to about 25 KPa. In some embodiments, the burst strength is about 20 KPa.

[0091] In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming material comprises nicotine benzoate in an amount less than about 12% by weight on a dry weight basis, e.g., less than about 10% by weight, e.g., less than about 8% by weight, e.g., less than about 6% by weight, e.g., less than about 5% by weight. In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming material may comprise nicotine benzoate in an amount between about 1% and about 10% by weight on a dry weight basis. For example, the aerosol-forming material may have a total nicotine benzoate amount between about 1% and about 9% by weight on a dry weight basis, between about 1% and about 8% by weight on a dry weight basis, between about 2% and about 6% by weight on a dry weight basis, or between about 3% and about 5% by weight on a dry weight basis.

[0092] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material includes at least one additional nicotine salt. For example, the aerosol-generating material may further include nicotine levulinate, nicotine lactate, nicotine citrate, or a mixture thereof. When the aerosol-generating material includes two or more nicotine salts, the total amount of nicotine salts in the aerosol-generating material may be from about 1% to about 10% by weight on a dry weight basis. For example, the aerosol-generating material may have a total amount of nicotine salts of from about 1% to about 9% by weight on a dry weight basis, from about 1% to about 8% by weight on a dry weight basis, from about 2% to about 6% by weight on a dry weight basis, or from about 3% to about 5% by weight on a dry weight basis.

[0093] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material is in the form of a rod. The aerosol-generating rod may have a total weight of about 250 mg to about 350 mg. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating rod may be enclosed in a packaging material having an air permeability of less than 100 Coresta units. The aerosol-generating rod may have a circumference of at least about 19 mm, preferably about 19 mm to about 23 mm or about 21 mm. This may facilitate insertion of the article into the aerosol-generating device.

[0094] As used herein, the term "rod" is used to describe a generally cylindrical element of generally circular, oval, or elliptical cross section.

[0095] For the compositions described herein, when amounts are given in weight percent, this refers to a dry weight basis unless specifically indicated to the contrary. Therefore, any water that may be present in the aerosol-forming material or any of its components is completely ignored for purposes of determining weight percent. The water content of the aerosol-forming materials described herein may vary, for example, from 5% to 15% by weight. The water content of the aerosol-forming materials described herein may vary, for example, depending on the temperature, pressure, and humidity conditions under which the composition is maintained. The water content may be determined by Karl Fischer analysis, as known to those skilled in the art. However, for the avoidance of doubt, any components other than water are included in the weight of the aerosol-forming material, even if the aerosol-forming material is a component in a liquid phase, such as glycerol or propylene glycol.

[0096] In some embodiments, a system comprises an article described herein, wherein the aerosol-generating device is configured to receive at least a portion of the article including an aerosol-generating material, heat the portion of the article including the aerosol-generating material, and generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating material.

[0097] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may be disposed in an aerosol-generation section of the article. In use, the aerosol-generation section may exhibit a pressure drop of about 15 to about 40 mmH2O. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generation section exhibits a pressure drop across the aerosol-generation section of about 15 to about 30 mmH2O.

[0098] In some embodiments, the article comprises a tipping tip and a cylindrical rod of aerosol-forming material connected directly or indirectly to the tipping tip. A tipping tip wrapper, also referred to herein as tipping paper, is wrapped over a portion of the rod of aerosol-forming material along the entire length of the tipping tip and has adhesive on an inner surface of the tipping paper to connect the tipping tip and the rod.

[0099] In some embodiments, the tipping paper extends 5 mm over the rod of aerosol-generating material, but may alternatively extend 3 mm to 10 mm, or more preferably 4 mm to 6 mm, over the rod to provide a secure attachment between the tipping tip and the rod. The tipping paper may have a basis weight higher than that of the plug wrap used in the article for use with the aerosol-generating device, for example, 40 gsm to 80 gsm, more preferably 50 gsm to 70 gsm, in this example 58 gsm. It has been found that these basis weight ranges result in tipping paper with acceptable tensile strength while being flexible enough to wrap around the article and adhere to itself along the paper's longitudinal lap seam. The circumference of the tipping paper may be approximately 21 mm when wrapped around the tipping tip.

[0100] According to some embodiments, there is provided an article for use in an aerosol delivery system, the article comprising: an aerosol-forming material or substrate; a mouthpiece downstream of the aerosol-forming material; and a wrapping material, the wrapping material comprising a warming agent material, wherein a portion of the mouthpiece wrapping material proximate the downstream end of the mouthpiece contacts a consumer's lips during use.

[0101] The tipping wrap may be positioned to enclose the tipping in a region between the upstream and downstream ends of the tipping. The tipping wrap may be positioned such that when the article is inserted into the heating device, a portion of the tipping wrap is heated to the same or a similar temperature as the aerosol-forming material.

[0102] In some embodiments, the tipping wrapper comprises a warming agent material. The warming agent material may comprise a flavoring agent, as described herein. In some embodiments, the flavoring agent may be licorice, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, mint flavor, preferably menthol and / or mint oil from any species of the genus Mentha, such as peppermint oil and / or spearmint oil, or lavender, fennel, or anise. In preferred embodiments, the warming agent material comprises a sugar and / or a sugar substitute (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharin, cyclamate, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol). Additionally or alternatively, the warming agent material may comprise a material that delivers a cooling, hot, or sour sensation to the consumer during use of the article.

[0103] In some embodiments, the warming agent material may include one or more of a pH adjuster, a stabilizer, and / or an antioxidant, which may help to extend the shelf life of the tipping wrapper and, therefore, the article.

[0104] The warming material may be encapsulated in an encapsulating material, for example, the warming material may be provided in the form of microcapsules that are applied to the packaging material.

[0105] The tipping wrapper may have an inner surface and an outer surface, and the warmth material may be present on at least a portion of the inner and / or outer surfaces of the wrapper. For example, the warmth material may be disposed on the outer surface of the tipping wrapper in an area that contacts the consumer's lips during use. By disposing the warmth material on the outer surface of the tipping wrapper, the warmth material may be transferred to the consumer's lips during use. By transferring the warmth material to the consumer's lips during use of the article, the organoleptic properties (e.g., taste) of the aerosol generated by the aerosol-generating substrate may be modified. For example, the warmth material may impart a flavor to the aerosol generated by the aerosol-generating substrate. The warmth material may be at least partially soluble in water so that it can be transferred to the user via the consumer's saliva.

[0106] Suitably, a relatively small amount of the warming material may be required to modify the sensory properties delivered to the consumer during use of the article, although this will depend to some extent on the properties of the warming material, as the minimum amount required to modify the sensory properties will vary between different warming materials. This can have the advantage that the addition of the warming material to the tipping wrap may not significantly increase the overall weight of the article.

[0107] In some embodiments, a system comprises an article described herein, wherein the aerosol-generating device is configured to receive at least a portion of the article including an aerosol-generating material, heat the portion of the article including the aerosol-generating material, and generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating material.

[0108] The various embodiments described herein are presented solely to aid in the understanding and teaching of the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as a representative sample of embodiments and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. The advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects described herein should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or limitations on the equivalents of the claims, and it should be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Various embodiments of the present invention may suitably comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of any suitable combination of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc., other than those specifically described herein. Additionally, the present disclosure may include other inventions not currently claimed but which may be claimed in the future.

Claims

1. A fiber material; Nicotine benzoate and Glycerol, 1. An aerosol-generating material comprising:

2. The aerosol-forming material of claim 1 , wherein the fibrous material comprises a plant material.

3. 3. The aerosol-forming material of claim 1, wherein the plant material is selected from the list consisting of fennel, star anise, mint, and rooibos, or mixtures thereof.

4. 4. The aerosol-forming material of claim 3, wherein the plant material comprises rooibos.

5. 5. The aerosol-forming material of claim 4, wherein the botanical material comprises fennel, star anise, or mint, or a mixture thereof.

6. 6. The aerosol-forming material of claim 1, wherein the nicotine benzoate is present in an amount of from about 2% to about 8% by weight of the aerosol-forming material.

7. The aerosol-forming material according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the glycerol is present in an amount of from about 10% to about 20% by weight of the aerosol-forming material.

8. 8. The aerosol-forming material of claim 1, comprising a total fibrous material content of from about 70% to about 95% by weight.

9. 9. The aerosol-forming material of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the fiber material comprises a first fiber material selected from the list consisting of fennel, star anise, mint, and rooibos, or mixtures thereof, and a second fiber material, the first fiber material being different from the second fiber material.

10. 10. The aerosol-forming material of claim 9, wherein the second fibrous material comprises wood fibers and / or wood pulp.

11. 11. The aerosol-forming material of claim 9 or 10, wherein the first fiber material comprises rooibos.

12. 11. The aerosol-forming material of claim 9 or 10, wherein the first fibrous material comprises fennel, star anise or mint, or a mixture thereof.

13. The aerosol-forming material according to any one of claims 1 to 12, in the form of a sheet.

14. 14. The aerosol-forming material of any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising an extract derived from plant material, the plant material being selected from the list consisting of fennel, anise, mint, and rooibos, and mixtures thereof.

15. 15. The aerosol-forming material of claim 14, wherein the plant material is rooibos.

16. 15. The aerosol-forming material of claim 14, wherein the plant material is fennel, star anise, or mint, or a mixture thereof.

17. 17. The aerosol-forming material of claim 16, comprising the extract in an amount of about 5% to about 15% by weight of the aerosol-forming material.

18. 18. The aerosol-forming material of any one of claims 1 to 17, further comprising a second nicotine salt selected from the list consisting of nicotine levulinate, nicotine citrate, and nicotine lactate, or mixtures thereof.

19. 19. The aerosol-forming material of any one of claims 1 to 18, having a thickness of from about 200 μm to about 450 μm.

20. 20. The aerosol-forming material of any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the ratio of aerosol-forming agent to the fibrous material is from about 1:7 to about 1:

3.

21. Approximately 2 cm ３ / g ~ approx. 10cm ３ 21. The aerosol-forming material of claim 1, having a loading value of 0.1g / g.

22. 22. The aerosol-forming material of any one of claims 1 to 21, exhibiting a burst strength of from about 5 KPa to about 40 KPa.

23. 23. The aerosol-forming material of any one of claims 1 to 22, which is free or substantially free of tobacco material.

24. An aerosol-generating rod comprising the aerosol-generating material of any one of claims 1 to 23.

25. 25. The aerosol-generating rod of claim 24, wherein the rod is surrounded by a wrapping material.

26. A delivery system comprising an aerosol-generating material according to any one of claims 1 to 23 or an aerosol-generating rod according to claim 24 or 25.

27. 1. A method for preparing an aerosol-forming material, comprising: extracting the fiber material and separating it into an extract and a fiber portion; treating the fiber portion to form a refined pulp; forming the refined pulp into a sheet; impregnating the sheet with nicotine benzoate, glycerol, and the extract; drying the impregnated sheet to form an aerosol-forming material; A method comprising:

28. 28. The method of claim 27, wherein the fibrous material is a plant material.

29. 29. The method of claim 28, wherein the plant material is selected from the list consisting of fennel, star anise, mint, and rooibos, or mixtures thereof.

30. 30. The method of claim 29, wherein the plant material is rooibos.

31. 30. The method of claim 29, wherein the plant material is selected from fennel, star anise or mint, or mixtures thereof.

32. 32. An aerosol-forming material obtained or obtainable by a method according to any one of claims 27 to 31.

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