Aerosol generating article equipped with a solid aerosol generating substrate

Abstract

An aerosol generating article (10) for use in an aerosol generating system comprises a solid aerosol generating substrate containing tobacco particles, having a total tobacco content of 0.1 to 10 weight percent and a D90 value of 120 micrometers or less; exogenous nicotine; one or more aerosol forming bodies, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate contains at least 40 weight percent of the total aerosol forming bodies; and one or more cellulosic agents, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate contains at least 35 weight percent of the total cellulosic agents.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating article comprising a solid aerosol generating substrate. The present invention also relates to an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating article and an electrically operated aerosol generating device configured to heat the aerosol generating article.

Background Art

[0002] Aerosol generating articles in which an aerosol generating substrate, such as a tobacco-containing material, is heated to form an aerosol rather than being burned to form smoke are known in the art. One objective of such “heated” aerosol generating articles is to reduce the types of known harmful smoke components produced by the combustion and pyrolytic decomposition of tobacco in conventional cigarettes.

[0003] Typically, in a heated aerosol generating article, the aerosol is generated by the transfer of heat from a heat source to an aerosol generating substrate physically separated from the heat source. In use, volatile compounds are released from the aerosol generating substrate by the transfer of heat from the heat source to the aerosol generating substrate and entrained in the air drawn through the aerosol generating article. As the released compounds cool, they condense to form an aerosol inhaled by the user.

[0004] A number of hand-held aerosol generating devices configured to heat the aerosol generating substrate of a heated aerosol generating article are known in the art. These include electrically operated aerosol generating devices in which the aerosol is generated by the transfer of heat from one or more electrical heating elements of the aerosol generating device to the aerosol generating substrate of the heated aerosol generating article. Known hand-held electrically operated aerosol generating devices typically comprise a battery, control electronics, and one or more electrical heating elements for heating the aerosol generating substrate of a heated aerosol generating article specifically designed for use with the aerosol generating device.

[0005] Some known electrically operated aerosol generators include an internal heating element configured to be inserted into the aerosol generating substrate of a heated aerosol generating article. For example, International Publication No. 2013 / 098410 discloses an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating article and an electrically operated aerosol generator comprising a heating element in the form of a blade inserted into the aerosol generating substrate of the aerosol generating article.

[0006] Other known electrically operated aerosol generators include one or more external heating elements. For example, International Publication No. 2020 / 115151 discloses an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating article and an electrically operated aerosol generator having external heating elements surrounding the outer periphery of the aerosol generating article.

[0007] Electrically operated aerosol generators are also known in the art, which include an inductor configured to inductively heat the aerosol generating substrate of a heated aerosol generating article. For example, International Publication No. 2015 / 176898 discloses an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating article having an elongated susceptor in thermal contact with an aerosol generating substrate and an electrically operated aerosol generator having an inductor for heating the aerosol generating substrate.

[0008] Solid aerosol generating substrates for use in heated aerosol generating articles typically contain one or more aerosol-forming materials, such as glycerin and propylene glycol. Generally, solid aerosol generating substrates for use in heated aerosol generating articles take the form of homogenized tobacco sheets or fragments formed from particulate tobacco material combined with aerosol-forming materials and binders.

[0009] It is desirable to provide an aerosol generating article having a novel aerosol generating substrate that provides optimized control over the nicotine content of the aerosol generated from the aerosol generating substrate upon heating. It is particularly desirable to provide such an aerosol generating substrate that generates an aerosol with optimized flavor characteristics. It is particularly desirable to provide such an aerosol generating substrate that has desirable and controllable physical properties and can be easily manufactured using high-speed equipment.

[0010] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating article for use in an aerosol generating system. The aerosol generating article may comprise a solid aerosol generating substrate. The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain tobacco particles. The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total tobacco content of 0.1% to 10% by weight. The D90 value of the tobacco particles may be 120 micrometers or less. The solid aerosol generating substrate may further contain exogenous nicotine. The solid aerosol generating substrate may further contain one or more aerosol forming bodies. The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total aerosol forming body content of at least 40% by weight. The solid aerosol generating substrate may further contain one or more cellulosic agents. The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total cellulosic agent content of at least 35% by weight.

[0011] The present invention further relates to a rod for use as an aerosol generating substrate in an aerosol generating article. The rod may comprise a solid aerosol generating substrate. The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain tobacco particles. The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total tobacco content of 0.1% to 10% by weight. The D90 value of the tobacco particles may be 120 micrometers or less. The solid aerosol generating substrate may further contain exogenous nicotine. The solid aerosol generating substrate may further contain one or more aerosol forming bodies. The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total aerosol forming body content of at least 40% by weight. The solid aerosol generating substrate may further contain one or more cellulosic agents. The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total cellulosic agent content of at least 35% by weight.

[0012] The present invention further relates to an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating article and an electrically operated aerosol generating device having a heater element configured to heat a solid aerosol generating substrate of the aerosol generating article. The aerosol generating article may comprise a solid aerosol generating substrate. The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain tobacco particles. The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total tobacco content of 0.1% to 10% by weight. The D90 value of the tobacco particles may be 120 micrometers or less. The solid aerosol generating substrate may further contain exogenous nicotine. The solid aerosol generating substrate may further contain one or more aerosol forming bodies. The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total aerosol forming body content of at least 40% by weight. The solid aerosol generating substrate may further contain one or more cellulosic agents. The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total cellulosic agent content of at least 35% by weight.

[0013] According to a first aspect of the present invention, an aerosol generating article for use in an aerosol generating system is provided, the aerosol generating article comprising: a solid aerosol generating substrate containing tobacco particles having a total tobacco content of 0.1 to 10 weight percent and a D90 value of 120 micrometers or less; exogenous nicotine; one or more aerosol forming bodies having a total aerosol forming body content of at least 40 weight percent of the solid aerosol generating substrate; and one or more cellulosic agents having a total cellulosic agent content of at least 35 weight percent of the solid aerosol generating substrate.

[0014] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a rod is provided for use as an aerosol generating substrate used in an aerosol generating article, the rod comprising: a solid aerosol generating substrate containing tobacco particles having a total tobacco content of 0.1 to 10 weight percent and a D90 value of 120 micrometers or less; exogenous nicotine; one or more aerosol forming bodies having a total aerosol forming body content of at least 40 weight percent of the solid aerosol generating substrate; and one or more cellulosic agents having a total cellulosic agent content of at least 35 weight percent of the solid aerosol generating substrate.

[0015] A third aspect of the present invention provides an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating article according to the first aspect of the present invention as defined above, and an electrically operated aerosol generating device having a heater element configured to heat the solid aerosol generating substrate of the aerosol generating article.

[0016] The present invention provides a solid aerosol generating substrate for use in aerosol generating articles, incorporating a novel combination of relatively low levels of tobacco particles and an additional source of exogenous nicotine added separately and in addition to any nicotine originally present in the tobacco particles. This combination of tobacco particles and exogenous nicotine allows for improved control over the level of nicotine contained in the solid aerosol generating substrate and the resulting aerosol generated upon heating of the substrate, while also maintaining optimal sensory characteristics for the aerosol. The relatively low levels of tobacco particles also allow for the incorporation of other binder materials into the solid aerosol generating substrate, which advantageously allows for a greater degree of control over the physical properties of the substrate, such as density and tensile strength.

[0017] According to the present invention, tobacco particles in the solid aerosol generating substrate have a D90 value of 120 micrometers or less. Therefore, the majority of tobacco particles have a relatively small particle size, which makes it possible to manufacture a solid aerosol generating substrate with a high level of homogeneity and optimized tensile strength.

[0018] According to a further aspect of the present invention, an aerosol generating article for use in an aerosol generating system is provided, the aerosol generating article comprising: a solid aerosol generating substrate containing tobacco particles having a total tobacco content of 0.1% to 10% by weight and a D90 value of 120 micrometers or less; one or more aerosol forming bodies having a total aerosol forming body content of at least 40% by weight of the solid aerosol generating substrate; and one or more cellulosic agents having a total cellulosic agent content of at least 35% by weight of the solid aerosol generating substrate.

[0019] As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term "aerosol-generating article" is used to describe an article comprising an aerosol-generating substrate that is heated to generate an aerosol that can be inhaled for delivery to a user.

[0020] As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term "aerosol" is used to describe the dispersion of solid particles, or droplets, or combinations of solid particles and droplets, in a gas. Aerosols may be visible or invisible. Aerosols may include not only vapors of substances that are normally liquid or solid at room temperature, but also solid particles, or droplets of liquid, or combinations of solid particles and droplets of liquid.

[0021] As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term "aerosol-generating substrate" is used to describe a substrate comprising an aerosol-generating material having the ability to release a volatile compound that can generate an aerosol upon heating.

[0022] As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term "solid" is used to describe an aerosol-generating substrate that has a stable size and shape and does not flow at 23°C.

[0023] As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term "aerosol generator" is used to describe a device that generates an aerosol by interacting with an aerosol-generating substrate of an aerosol-generating article.

[0024] Unless otherwise stated, the weight percentages of the components of the solid aerosol generating substrate listed herein are based on the dry weight of the solid aerosol generating substrate.

[0025] An aerosol-generating article has, in use, a proximal end through which aerosol exits the aerosol-generating article for delivery to a user. The proximal end of the aerosol-generating article may also be referred to as the mouth-end of the aerosol-generating article. In use, the user inhales at the proximal end of the aerosol-generating article in order to inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol-generating article.

[0026] The aerosol-generating article has a distal end. The distal end is opposite the proximal end.

[0027] The components of the aerosol-generating article may be described as being upstream or downstream of each other based on their relative positions between the proximal end and the distal end of the aerosol-generating article.

[0028] As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term "longitudinal direction" is used to describe the direction between the proximal end and the distal end of the aerosol-generating article.

[0029] As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term "transverse direction" is used to describe a direction that is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. That is, it is a direction perpendicular to the direction between the proximal end and the distal end of the aerosol-generating article.

[0030] As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term "length" is used to describe the maximum dimension in the longitudinal direction of the aerosol-generating article and the components of the aerosol-generating article. That is, it is the maximum dimension of the aerosol-generating article and the components of the aerosol-generating article in the direction between the proximal end and the distal end of the aerosol-generating article.

[0031] As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term "width" is used to describe the maximum dimension in the transverse direction of the aerosol-generating article and the components of the aerosol-generating article. That is, it is the maximum dimension of the aerosol-generating article and the components of the aerosol-generating article in a direction perpendicular to the direction between the proximal end and the distal end of the aerosol-generating article.

[0032] As defined above, the solid aerosol generating substrate of the aerosol generating article according to the present invention incorporates tobacco particles. The total weight of the tobacco particles in the solid aerosol generating substrate is relatively small. This makes it possible to retain the tobacco characteristics of the aerosol generated from the substrate, while also allowing the use of sufficient amounts of other components such as film formers and aerosol formers, providing optimized control over the physical properties of the substrate and the generation of the aerosol.

[0033] The solid aerosol generating substrate has a total tobacco content of at least 0.1 weight percent. The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total tobacco content of at least 0.2 weight percent, or at least 0.3 weight percent, or at least 0.4 weight percent, or at least 0.5 weight percent.

[0034] The solid aerosol generating substrate has a total tobacco content of 10 weight percent or less. The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total tobacco content of 8 weight percent or less, or 6 weight percent or less, or 5 weight percent or less, or 4 weight percent or less, or 2 weight percent or less, or 1 weight percent or less.

[0035] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total tobacco content of from 0.1 weight percent to 8 weight percent, or from 0.1 weight percent to 6 weight percent, or from 0.1 weight percent to 5 weight percent, or from 0.1 weight percent to 4 weight percent, or from 0.1 weight percent to 2 weight percent, or from 0.1 weight percent to 1 weight percent.

[0036] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total tobacco content of 0.2% to 8% by weight, or 0.2% to 6% by weight, or 0.2% to 5% by weight, or 0.2% to 4% by weight, or 0.2% to 2% by weight, or 0.2% to 1% by weight.

[0037] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total tobacco content of 0.3 to 8 weight percent, or 0.3 to 6 weight percent, or 0.3 to 5 weight percent, or 0.3 to 4 weight percent, or 0.3 to 2 weight percent, or 0.3 to 1 weight percent.

[0038] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total tobacco content of 0.4 to 8 weight percent, or 0.4 to 6 weight percent, or 0.4 to 5 weight percent, or 0.4 to 4 weight percent, or 0.4 to 2 weight percent, or 0.4 to 1 weight percent.

[0039] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total tobacco content of 0.5 to 8 weight percent, or 0.5 to 6 weight percent, or 0.5 to 5 weight percent, or 0.5 to 4 weight percent, or 0.5 to 2 weight percent, or 0.5 to 1 weight percent.

[0040] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, the solid aerosol generating substrate has a total tobacco content of about 5 weight percent.

[0041] The tobacco particles used in the solid aerosol generating substrate of the aerosol generating article of the present invention may be adapted to provide a desired particle size distribution. The particle size distribution herein is expressed as a D value, where D refers to the proportion of particles having a diameter less than or equal to a given D value. For example, a D90 particle size distribution means that 90 percent of the particles have a diameter less than or equal to a given D90 value, and 10 percent of the particles measure a diameter greater than a given D90 value. Similarly, a D10 particle size distribution means that 10 percent of the particles have a diameter less than or equal to a D10 value, and 90 percent of the particles have a diameter greater than a given D10 value. Combined, the D10 and D90 values ​​thus provide an indication of the particle size distribution of tobacco particles in the solid aerosol generating substrate.

[0042] The particle size distribution may be determined by laser diffraction. For example, the particle size distribution may be determined by laser diffraction using a Malvern Mastersizer 3000 laser diffraction particle size analyzer, in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

[0043] Tobacco particles have a D90 value of 120 micrometers or less. Tobacco particles may also have a D90 value of 100 micrometers or less, or 90 micrometers or less, or 80 micrometers or less, or 70 micrometers or less.

[0044] Tobacco particles may have a D90 value of at least 30 micrometers, or at least 35 micrometers, or at least 40 micrometers, or at least 45 micrometers, or at least 50 micrometers.

[0045] The D90 value of tobacco particles may be 30 micrometers to 120 micrometers, or 30 micrometers to 100 micrometers, or 30 micrometers to 90 micrometers, or 30 micrometers to 80 micrometers, or 30 micrometers to 70 micrometers.

[0046] The D90 value of tobacco particles may be 35 micrometers to 120 micrometers, or 35 micrometers to 100 micrometers, or 35 micrometers to 90 micrometers, or 35 micrometers to 80 micrometers, or 35 micrometers to 70 micrometers.

[0047] The D90 value of tobacco particles may be 40 micrometers to 120 micrometers, or 40 micrometers to 100 micrometers, or 40 micrometers to 90 micrometers, or 40 micrometers to 80 micrometers, or 40 micrometers to 70 micrometers.

[0048] The D90 value of tobacco particles may be 45 micrometers to 120 micrometers, or 45 micrometers to 100 micrometers, or 45 micrometers to 90 micrometers, or 45 micrometers to 80 micrometers, or 45 micrometers to 70 micrometers.

[0049] The D90 value of tobacco particles may be 50 micrometers to 120 micrometers, or 50 micrometers to 100 micrometers, or 50 micrometers to 90 micrometers, or 50 micrometers to 80 micrometers, or 50 micrometers to 70 micrometers.

[0050] Tobacco particles may have a D10 value of at least 5 micrometers, or at least 8 micrometers, or at least 10 micrometers.

[0051] Tobacco particles may have a D10 value of 20 micrometers or less, or 18 micrometers or less, or 16 micrometers or less.

[0052] The D10 value of tobacco particles may be between 5 micrometers and 20 micrometers, or between 5 micrometers and 18 micrometers, or between 5 micrometers and 16 micrometers.

[0053] The D10 value of tobacco particles may be between 8 micrometers and 20 micrometers, or between 8 micrometers and 18 micrometers, or between 8 micrometers and 16 micrometers.

[0054] The D10 value of tobacco particles may be 10 to 20 micrometers, or 10 to 18 micrometers, or 10 to 16 micrometers.

[0055] By providing a D10 value within this range, the inclusion of very small dust particles in the solid aerosol generating substrate can be avoided, which may be desirable from a manufacturing standpoint.

[0056] Preferably, the tobacco particles are substantially uniformly dispersed through the solid aerosol generating substrate. This ensures that a consistent aerosol can be generated from the solid aerosol generating substrate throughout the heating process.

[0057] The solid aerosol generating substrate can be provided in any suitable form. For example, the solid aerosol generating substrate may be in the form of one or more sheets. As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term "sheet" describes a layered element having a width and length substantially greater than its thickness.

[0058] Alternatively, or additionally, the solid aerosol generating substrate may be in the form of multiple strands, flakes, or fragments. As used herein, the term “strand” describes an elongated element of the material having a width and length substantially greater than its width and thickness. The term “strand” should be considered to encompass flakes, fragments, and any other solid aerosol generating substrate having a similar form. Strands of the solid aerosol generating substrate may be formed from a sheet of the solid aerosol generating substrate, for example, by cutting or shredding, or by other means.

[0059] Preferably, the solid aerosol generating substrate is in the form of one or more sheets.

[0060] Each of the one or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate may have a basis weight of at least 130 grams per square meter, or at least 135 grams per square meter, or at least 140 grams per square meter.

[0061] Each of the one or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate may have a basis weight of 160 grams per square meter or less, or 155 grams per square meter or less, or 150 grams per square meter or less.

[0062] Each of the one or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate may have a basis weight of 130 grams per square meter to 160 grams per square meter, or 130 grams per square meter to 155 grams per square meter, or 130 grams per square meter to 150 grams per square meter.

[0063] Each of the one or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate may have a basis weight of 135 grams per square meter to 160 grams per square meter, or 135 grams per square meter to 155 grams per square meter, or 135 grams per square meter to 150 grams per square meter.

[0064] Each of the one or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate may have a basis weight of 140 grams per square meter to 160 grams per square meter, or 140 grams per square meter to 155 grams per square meter, or 140 grams per square meter to 150 grams per square meter.

[0065] As used herein, the term "grammage" is equivalent to the "basis weight" of a sheet of solid aerosol generating substrate and is defined as equal to the mass per unit area of ​​the sheet. The grammage may be determined in accordance with ISO standard 536:2012.

[0066] Unless otherwise specified, measurements performed on the aerosol-generating substrate sheets described herein are performed at 23 degrees Celsius and 50 percent relative humidity.

[0067] Each of the one or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate may have an average thickness of at least 175 micrometers, or at least 180 micrometers, or at least 185 micrometers, or at least 190 micrometers.

[0068] Each of the one or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate may have an average thickness of 225 micrometers or less, or 220 micrometers or less, or 215 micrometers or less, or 210 micrometers or less.

[0069] Each of the one or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate may have an average thickness of 175 micrometers to 225 micrometers, or 175 micrometers to 220 micrometers, or 175 micrometers to 215 micrometers, or 175 micrometers to 210 micrometers.

[0070] Each of the one or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate may have an average thickness of 180 micrometers to 225 micrometers, or 180 micrometers to 220 micrometers, or 180 micrometers to 215 micrometers, or 180 micrometers to 210 micrometers.

[0071] Each of the one or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate may have an average thickness of 185 micrometers to 225 micrometers, or 185 micrometers to 220 micrometers, or 185 micrometers to 215 micrometers, or 185 micrometers to 210 micrometers.

[0072] Each of the one or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate may have an average thickness of 190 micrometers to 225 micrometers, or 190 micrometers to 220 micrometers, or 190 micrometers to 215 micrometers, or 190 micrometers to 210 micrometers.

[0073] As used herein, the term thickness is used to describe the smallest dimension of a sheet of solid aerosol generating substrate. Thickness is measured perpendicular to the length and width of the sheet. Thickness may also be determined according to ISO standard 534:2012.

[0074] For each sheet of the solid aerosol generating substrate, the ratio of the average thickness of the sheet to the D90 value of tobacco particles within the sheet may be at least 1.8, or at least 2, or at least 2.5, or at least 3.

[0075] The ratio of the average thickness of the sheet to the D90 value of tobacco particles within the sheet may be 5 or less, or 4.5 or less, or 4 or less.

[0076] The ratio of the average thickness of the sheet to the D90 value of tobacco particles within the sheet may be 1.8–5, or 1.8–4.5, or 1.8–4, or 2–5, or 2–4.5, or 2–4, or 2.5–5, or 2.5–4.5, or 2.5–4.

[0077] The selection of a ratio within this range ensures that the thickness of each sheet is significantly greater than the particle size of tobacco particles, in order to ensure that the aerosol-generating substrate sheets can be formed effectively with the desired degree of homogeneity and tensile strength.

[0078] Each of the one or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate may have a density of at least 0.5 grams per cubic centimeter, or at least 0.55 grams per cubic centimeter, or at least 0.6 grams per cubic centimeter.

[0079] Each of the one or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate may have a density of 1 gram per cubic centimeter or less, or 0.9 grams per cubic centimeter or less, or less than 0.8 grams per cubic centimeter.

[0080] Each of the one or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate may have a density of 0.5 grams per cubic centimeter to 1 gram per cubic centimeter, or 0.5 grams per cubic centimeter to 0.9 grams per cubic centimeter, or 0.5 grams per cubic centimeter to 0.8 grams per cubic centimeter.

[0081] Each of the one or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate may have a density of 0.55 grams per cubic centimeter to 1 gram per cubic centimeter, or 0.55 grams per cubic centimeter to 0.9 grams per cubic centimeter, or 0.55 grams per cubic centimeter to 0.8 grams per cubic centimeter.

[0082] Each of the one or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate may have a density of 0.6 grams per cubic centimeter to 1 gram per cubic centimeter, or 0.6 grams per cubic centimeter to 0.9 grams per cubic centimeter, or 0.6 grams per cubic centimeter to 0.8 grams per cubic centimeter.

[0083] Each of one or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate may have a density of approximately 0.7 grams per cubic centimeter. For the aerosol generating substrate sheets according to the present invention, the density may be calculated by dividing the basis weight of the sheet by the thickness of the sheet. The basis weight and thickness of the sheet may be measured as shown above.

[0084] One or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate may be assembled to form an aerosol generating rod for inclusion in an aerosol generating article according to a first aspect of the present invention.

[0085] One or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate may be textured. This may facilitate the assembly of the solid aerosol generating substrate to form an aerosol generating rod for inclusion in an aerosol generating article according to a first aspect of the present invention.

[0086] As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term “textured” is used to describe a sheet of solid aerosol-generating substrate that is crumpled, embossed, debossed, perforated, or otherwise deformed. A textured sheet of solid aerosol-generating substrate may include a plurality of spaced indentations, protrusions, perforations, or a combination thereof.

[0087] One or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate may be crimped.

[0088] As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term “crimped” is intended to be synonymous with the term “crepeable” and is used to describe a sheet of solid aerosol-generating substrate having a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or undulations.

[0089] One or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate may be textured using a machine known to be suitable for textured filter tow, paper, and other materials. For example, one or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate may be crimped using a crimping unit of the type described in Swiss Patent A-691156, which has a pair of rotatable crimping rollers.

[0090] Each of the one or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate may be crumpled to a height of 300 to 500 micrometers, or 300 to 450 micrometers, or 300 to 400 micrometers, or 350 to 500 micrometers, or 350 to 450 micrometers, or 350 to 400 micrometers, or 400 to 500 micrometers, or 400 to 450 micrometers.

[0091] Each sheet may have a tensile strength at its peak in the cross direction of at least 150 Newtons per meter (N / m), or at least 160 N / m, or at least 170 N / m, or at least 180 N / m. The tensile strength at its peak in the transverse direction may be up to 400 N / m, or up to 300 N / m. For example, the tensile strength at its peak in the transverse direction may be 150 N / m to 400 N / m, or 160 N / m to 400 N / m, or 170 N / m to 400 N / m, or 180 N / m to 400 N / m, or 150 N / m to 300 N / m, or 160 N / m to 300 N / m, or 170 N / m to 300 N / m, or 180 N / m to 300 N / m.

[0092] Each sheet may have a tensile strength of at least 450 Newtons per meter (N / m), or at least 475 N / m, or at least 500 N / m, or at least 525 N / m, at its longitudinal peak. The tensile strength at the longitudinal peak may be up to 700 N / m, or up to 600 N / m. For example, the tensile strength at the longitudinal peak may be 450 N / m to 700 N / m, or 475 N / m to 700 N / m, or 500 N / m to 700 N / m, or 525 N / m to 700 N / m, or 450 N / m to 600 N / m, or 475 N / m to 600 N / m, or 500 N / m to 600 N / m, or 525 N / m to 300 N / m.

[0093] The term "tensile strength" is used throughout this specification to indicate a measure of the force required to stretch a sheet of solid aerosol-generating substrate until it breaks. More specifically, tensile strength is the maximum tensile force per unit width that a sheet material will withstand before it breaks, and is measured in the longitudinal or transverse direction of the sheet material. It is expressed in units of Newtons per meter (N / m) of the material. Tests for measuring the tensile strength of sheet materials are well known. Appropriate tests are described in the 2008 edition of the international standard ISO 1924-2 under the heading "Paper and cardboard - Test methods for tensile properties - Part 2: Constant-rate stretching method".

[0094] The solid aerosol generating substrate may also be a solid aerosol generating film.

[0095] As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term "film" is used to describe a solid aerosol generating substrate having a thickness substantially less than its width or length.

[0096] The solid aerosol generating substrate may be formed by any suitable method. For example, the solid aerosol generating substrate may be formed by batch casting, continuous casting, or extrusion molding.

[0097] Preferably, the solid aerosol generating substrate is formed by a casting method. In this method, the slurry is formed from the solid components of the solid aerosol generating substrate in water. The slurry is then cast onto a support surface and dried to solidify the slurry into a sheet of solid aerosol generating substrate. The cast slurry may be heated to facilitate drying.

[0098] It has been found that the combination of tobacco particles and a cellulosic agent provides a slurry with lower viscosity than the corresponding slurry using only a cellulosic agent without tobacco particles. This is advantageous because it allows the slurry to be formed using a lower level of water, which consequently means less drying is required, thus enabling a more efficient and economical method for producing aerosol-generating substrate sheets.

[0099] It was found to be advantageous to add tobacco particles during slurry formation, after the combination of other components, and specifically after the solubilization of the cellulosic agent. Performing the mixing process in this order was found to minimize the risk of undesirable aggregation of the solid components of the slurry. It was also found to be more compatible with existing manufacturing equipment and methods, thus requiring fewer modifications to equipment and methods to produce the solid aerosol generating substrate of the present invention.

[0100] The solid aerosol generating substrate may be self-supporting. In other words, the properties of the solid aerosol generating substrate may be such that it can be separated from the support surface, even if the solid aerosol generating substrate is formed by casting a slurry onto the support surface.

[0101] The solid aerosol generating substrate may be placed on a support, or it may be sandwiched between other materials. This may enhance the mechanical stability of the solid aerosol generating substrate. For example, the solid aerosol generating substrate may be placed on a layered support.

[0102] The solid aerosol generating film may be directly incorporated into the aerosol generating rod for inclusion within the aerosol generating article according to a first aspect of the present invention.

[0103] The solid aerosol generating film may be applied to a layered support before being incorporated into an aerosol generating rod for inclusion in an aerosol generating article according to a first aspect of the present invention. For example, the solid aerosol generating substrate may be coated onto the surface of a sheet material. Suitable sheet materials for use as a layered support include, but are not limited to, paper, cardboard, and homogenized plant materials. For example, the solid aerosol generating substrate may be coated onto a paper sheet, an aluminum-coated paper sheet, or a polyethylene-coated paper sheet.

[0104] The layered support to which the solid aerosol generating substrate is coated may be cut or otherwise divided into multiple strips or fragments, as described above.

[0105] The layered supports, to which the solid aerosol-generating substrate is coated, may be assembled as described above.

[0106] The layered support, to which the solid aerosol generating substrate is coated, may be textured as described above.

[0107] The solid aerosol generating substrate may be applied to a tubular support before being incorporated into an aerosol generating rod for inclusion in an aerosol generating article according to the first embodiment of the present invention. For example, the solid aerosol generating substrate may be applied to the inner surface of a hollow tubular support.

[0108] The solid aerosol generating substrate includes at least two sources of nicotine: tobacco particles that originally contain nicotine, and exogenous nicotine added in addition to the tobacco particles.

[0109] As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term "nicotine" is used to describe nicotine, a nicotine base, or a nicotine salt. In embodiments in which the solid aerosol generating substrate comprises a nicotine base or a nicotine salt, the amounts of nicotine listed herein are, respectively, amounts of free base nicotine or amounts of protonated nicotine.

[0110] As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term “exogenous” refers to any nicotine incorporated into the solid aerosol generating substrate that is exogenously supplied from tobacco material present in the solid aerosol generating substrate. Thus, exogenous nicotine is a separate and distinct source of nicotine in addition to the nicotine originally supplied within the tobacco particles.

[0111] Exogenous nicotine may be in the form of natural nicotine, synthetic nicotine, or a combination of natural and synthetic nicotine.

[0112] In other words, the solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total exogenous nicotine content of at least 0.5 weight percent, at least 1 weight percent, at least 1.5 weight percent, or at least 2 weight percent.

[0113] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total exogenous nicotine content of 10% by weight or less, 8% by weight or less, 6% by weight or less, or 4% by weight or less.

[0114] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total exogenous nicotine content of 0.5% to 10% by weight, 0.5% to 8% by weight, 0.5% to 6% by weight, or 0.5% to 4% by weight.

[0115] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total exogenous nicotine content of 1% to 10% by weight, 1% to 8% by weight, 1% to 6% by weight, or 1% to 4% by weight.

[0116] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total exogenous nicotine content of 1.5% to 10% by weight, 1.5% to 8% by weight, 1.5% to 6% by weight, or 1.5% to 4% by weight.

[0117] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total exogenous nicotine content of 2% to 10% by weight, 2% to 8% by weight, 2% to 6% by weight, or 2% to 4% by weight.

[0118] The total nicotine content of a solid aerosol generating substrate corresponds to the combined amount of nicotine originally present in tobacco particles and exogenous nicotine.

[0119] In other words, the solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total nicotine content of at least 1 weight percent, at least 1.5 weight percent, at least 2 weight percent, or at least 2.5 weight percent.

[0120] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total nicotine content of 10% by weight or less, 8% by weight or less, 6% by weight or less, or 4% by weight or less.

[0121] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total nicotine content of 1% to 10% by weight, 1% to 8% by weight, 1% to 6% by weight, or 1% to 4% by weight.

[0122] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total nicotine content of 1.5% to 10% by weight, 1.5% to 8% by weight, 1.5% to 6% by weight, or 1.5% to 4% by weight.

[0123] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total nicotine content of 2% to 10% by weight, 2% to 8% by weight, 2% to 6% by weight, or 2% to 4% by weight.

[0124] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total nicotine content of 2.5 to 10 weight percent, 2.5 to 8 weight percent, 2.5 to 6 weight percent, or 2.5 to 4 weight percent.

[0125] The ratio of the weight of exogenous nicotine in the solid aerosol generating substrate to the weight of tobacco particles in the solid aerosol generating substrate may be at least 0.3, or at least 0.5, or at least 1, or at least 1.5.

[0126] The ratio of the weight of exogenous nicotine in the solid aerosol generating substrate to the weight of tobacco particles in the solid aerosol generating substrate may be 10 or less, or 5 or less, or 3 or less.

[0127] The ratio of the weight of exogenous nicotine in the solid aerosol generating substrate to the weight of tobacco particles in the solid aerosol generating substrate may be 0.3 to 10, 0.3 to 5, or 0.3 to 3.

[0128] The ratio of the weight of exogenous nicotine in the solid aerosol generating substrate to the weight of tobacco particles in the solid aerosol generating substrate may be 0.5 to 10, 0.5 to 5, or 0.5 to 3.

[0129] The ratio of the weight of exogenous nicotine in the solid aerosol generating substrate to the weight of tobacco particles in the solid aerosol generating substrate may be 1 to 10, 1 to 5, or 1 to 3.

[0130] The ratio of the weight of exogenous nicotine in the solid aerosol generating substrate to the weight of tobacco particles in the solid aerosol generating substrate may be 1.5 to 10, 1.5 to 5, or 1.5 to 3.

[0131] The solid aerosol generating substrate comprises one or more cellulosic agents. The combination of tobacco particles and cellulosic agents at the levels described herein has been found to provide particularly good control over the physical properties of the sold aerosol generating substrate sheets, such as tensile strength and density.

[0132] As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term "cellulose-based agent" is used to describe cellulosic substances. Examples of cellulosic agents include cellulosic film-forming agents, cellulosic reinforcing agents, and cellulosic binders.

[0133] The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain multiple cellulosic agents. That is, the solid aerosol generating substrate may contain two or more cellulosic agents. For example, the solid aerosol generating substrate may contain two cellulosic agents, three cellulosic agents, four cellulosic agents, or five cellulosic agents.

[0134] According to the present invention, the solid aerosol generating substrate has a total cellulosic agent content of at least 35 weight percent. The use of a relatively high level of cellulosic agent is possible due to the relatively low level of tobacco particles in the solid aerosol generating substrate of the present invention. A relatively high level of cellulosic agent allows for a high degree of control over the physical properties of the aerosol generating substrate sheet, specifically, the tensile strength. Advantageously, the type and amount of cellulosic agent can be easily adapted to provide the desired properties of the solid aerosol generating substrate.

[0135] As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term "total cellulosic agents" is used to describe the combined content of all cellulosic agents in a solid aerosol generating substrate. For example, if the solid aerosol generating substrate contains multiple cellulosic agents consisting of a cellulosic film-forming agent, a cellulosic reinforcing agent, and a cellulosic binder, the term "total cellulosic agent content" describes the combined content of the cellulosic film-forming agent, the cellulosic reinforcing agent, and the cellulosic binder in the solid aerosol generating substrate.

[0136] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total cellulosic agent content of at least 36 weight percent, at least 38 weight percent, or at least 40 weight percent.

[0137] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total cellulosic agent content of 52% by weight or less, 50% by weight or less, 48% by weight or less, 46% by weight or less, or 44% by weight or less.

[0138] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total cellulosic agent content of 35% to 52% by weight, 35% to 50% by weight, 35% to 48% by weight, 35% to 46% by weight, or 35% to 44% by weight.

[0139] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total cellulosic agent content of 36% to 52% by weight, 36% to 50% by weight, 36% to 48% by weight, 36% to 46% by weight, or 36% to 44% by weight.

[0140] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total cellulosic agent content of 38% to 52% by weight, 38% to 50% by weight, 38% to 48% by weight, 38% to 46% by weight, or 38% to 44% by weight.

[0141] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total cellulosic agent content of 40% to 52% by weight, 40% to 50% by weight, 40% to 48% by weight, 40% to 46% by weight, or 40% to 44% by weight.

[0142] The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain one or more cellulosic film-forming agents.

[0143] As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term "cellulose-based film-forming agent" is used to describe a cellulose-based polymer having the ability to form a continuous film, either by itself or in the presence of an auxiliary thickener.

[0144] Advantageously, the solid aerosol generating substrate may contain one or more cellulosic film-forming agents selected from carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), ethylcellulose (EC), hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC), hydroxyethylmethylcellulose (HEMC), hydroxypropylcellulose (HPC), hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC), and methylcellulose (MC).

[0145] More advantageously, the solid aerosol generating substrate may contain one or more cellulosic film-forming agents selected from carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), ethylcellulose (EC), methylcellulose (MC), and hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC).

[0146] Most advantageously, the solid aerosol generating substrate comprises one or more cellulosic film-forming agents selected from carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) and hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC).

[0147] Preferably, the solid aerosol generating substrate comprises carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) and hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC).

[0148] One or more cellulose-based film-forming agents may act as binders for solid aerosol-generating substrates.

[0149] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total cellulosic film-forming agent content of at least 15 weight percent, at least 20 weight percent, or at least 25 weight percent.

[0150] As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term "total cellulosic film-forming agent content" is used to describe the combined content of all cellulosic film-forming agents in the solid aerosol-generating substrate.

[0151] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total cellulosic film-forming agent content of 40% by weight or less, 35% by weight or less, or 30% by weight or less.

[0152] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total cellulosic film-forming agent content of 15% to 40% by weight, 15% to 35% by weight, or 15% to 30% by weight.

[0153] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total cellulosic film-forming agent content of 20% to 40% by weight, 20% to 35% by weight, or 20% to 30% by weight.

[0154] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total cellulosic film-forming agent content of 25% to 40% by weight, 25% to 35% by weight, or 25% to 30% by weight.

[0155] The inclusion of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose in a solid aerosol-generating substrate can, advantageously, facilitate the production of the solid aerosol-generating substrate. For example, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose can, advantageously, reduce the overall viscosity of the slurry of the solid aerosol-generating substrate components produced during the production of the solid aerosol-generating substrate. A lower viscosity slurry may flow more easily and may also be easier to mix, transfer, and handle during the production process.

[0156] Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose can, advantageously, sometimes act as a binder for solid aerosol generating substrates.

[0157] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a hydroxypropyl methylcellulose content of at least 14% by weight, at least 16% by weight, at least 18% by weight, or at least 20% by weight.

[0158] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a hydroxypropyl methylcellulose content of 40% by weight or less, 35% by weight or less, 30% by weight or less, or 25% by weight or less.

[0159] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a hydroxypropyl methylcellulose content of 14% to 40% by weight, 14% to 35% by weight, 14% to 30% by weight, or 14% to 25% by weight.

[0160] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a hydroxypropyl methylcellulose content of 16% to 40% by weight, 16% to 35% by weight, 16% to 30% by weight, or 16% to 25% by weight.

[0161] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a hydroxypropyl methylcellulose content of 18% to 40% by weight, 18% to 35% by weight, 18% to 30% by weight, or 18% to 25% by weight.

[0162] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a hydroxypropyl methylcellulose content of 20% to 40% by weight, 20% to 35% by weight, 20% to 30% by weight, or 20% to 25% by weight.

[0163] Including carboxymethylcellulose in the solid aerosol generating substrate is advantageous in that it may reduce or eliminate crusting of the aerosol generating article according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0164] As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term "crusting" is used to describe the formation of a solid layer on the components of an aerosol-generating article.

[0165] Crusting may occur due to the melting of components of a solid aerosol-generating substrate and subsequent re-solidification around the components of the aerosol-generating article during its use. Crusting may be a particular problem in aerosol-generating articles according to a first embodiment of the present invention, which include a susceptor in direct contact with a solid aerosol-forming substrate. If crust forms on the susceptor, the crusted susceptor may become less effective at heating the solid aerosol-generating substrate. This may unfortunately lead to either or both a reduction in nicotine delivery to the user and a reduction in aerosol formation from the solid aerosol-generating substrate.

[0166] The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain sodium carboxymethylcellulose.

[0167] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a carboxymethylcellulose content of at least 2% by weight, at least 3% by weight, at least 4% by weight, or at least 5% by weight.

[0168] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a carboxymethylcellulose content of 12% by weight or less, 10% by weight or less, 8% by weight or less, or 6% by weight or less.

[0169] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a carboxymethylcellulose content of 2% to 12% by weight, 2% to 10% by weight, 2% to 8% by weight, or 2% to 6% by weight.

[0170] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a carboxymethylcellulose content of 3 to 12 weight percent, 3 to 10 weight percent, 3 to 8 weight percent, or 3 to 6 weight percent.

[0171] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a carboxymethylcellulose content of 4% to 12% by weight, 4% to 10% by weight, 4% to 8% by weight, or 4% to 6% by weight.

[0172] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a carboxymethylcellulose content of 5% to 12% by weight, 5% to 10% by weight, 5% to 8% by weight, or 5% to 6% by weight.

[0173] The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain one or more cellulosic reinforcing agents.

[0174] Including one or more cellulosic reinforcing agents in a solid aerosol generating substrate may, advantageously, increase the tensile strength of the solid aerosol generating substrate. Specifically, if the solid aerosol generating substrate is a solid aerosol generating film, including one or more cellulosic reinforcing agents in the solid aerosol generating substrate may, advantageously, increase the tensile strength of the solid aerosol generating film. A solid aerosol generating substrate with higher tensile strength may, advantageously, be less likely to degrade or break during manufacturing and storage.

[0175] Advantageously, the solid aerosol generating substrate may contain one or more cellulosic reinforcing agents selected from cellulose fibers, cellulose powder, and microcrystalline cellulose (MCC).

[0176] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total cellulosic reinforcing agent content of at least 5% by weight, at least 10% by weight, or at least 15% by weight.

[0177] As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term "total cellulosic reinforcing agent content" is used to describe the combined content of all cellulosic reinforcing agents within a solid aerosol generating substrate.

[0178] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total cellulosic reinforcing agent content of 30% by weight or less, 25% by weight or less, or 20% by weight or less.

[0179] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total cellulosic reinforcing agent content of 5% to 30% by weight, 5% to 25% by weight, or 5% to 20% by weight.

[0180] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total cellulosic reinforcing agent content of 10% to 30% by weight, 10% to 25% by weight, or 10% to 20% by weight.

[0181] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total cellulosic reinforcing agent content of 15% to 30% by weight, 15% to 25% by weight, or 15% to 20% by weight.

[0182] Preferably, the solid aerosol generating substrate contains cellulose fibers. Cellulose fibers may be particularly effective in increasing the tensile strength of the solid aerosol generating substrate. Advantageously, the combination of cellulose fibers and tobacco particles in the solid aerosol generating substrate of the present invention has been found to be particularly effective in providing optimized tensile strength for the solid aerosol generating substrate.

[0183] The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain cellulose fibers having a length of at least 0.2 mm, at least 0.5 mm, at least 0.7 mm, or at least 0.9 mm.

[0184] The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain cellulose fibers having a length of 2 mm or less, 1.8 mm or less, 1.6 mm or less, or 1.4 mm or less.

[0185] The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain cellulose fibers having lengths of 0.2 mm to 2.0 mm, 0.2 mm to 1.8 mm, 0.2 mm to 1.6 mm, or 0.2 mm to 1.4 mm.

[0186] The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain cellulose fibers having lengths of 0.5 mm to 2.0 mm, 0.5 mm to 1.8 mm, 0.5 mm to 1.6 mm, or 0.5 mm to 1.4 mm.

[0187] The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain cellulose fibers having lengths of 0.5 mm to 2.0 mm, 0.5 mm to 1.8 mm, 0.5 mm to 1.6 mm, or 0.5 mm to 1.4 mm.

[0188] The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain cellulose fibers having lengths of 0.7 mm to 2.0 mm, 0.7 mm to 1.8 mm, 0.7 mm to 1.6 mm, or 0.7 mm to 1.4 mm.

[0189] The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain cellulose fibers having lengths of 0.9 mm to 2.0 mm, 0.9 mm to 1.8 mm, 0.9 mm to 1.6 mm, or 0.9 mm to 1.4 mm.

[0190] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a cellulose fiber content of at least 2% by weight, at least 5% by weight, at least 10% by weight, or at least 15% by weight.

[0191] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a cellulose fiber content of 30% by weight or less, 25% by weight or less, or 20% by weight or less.

[0192] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a cellulose fiber content of 2% to 30% by weight, 2% to 25% by weight, or 2% to 20% by weight.

[0193] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a cellulose fiber content of 5% to 30% by weight, 5% to 25% by weight, or 5% to 20% by weight.

[0194] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a cellulose fiber content of 10% to 30% by weight, 10% to 25% by weight, or 10% to 20% by weight.

[0195] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a cellulose fiber content of 15% to 30% by weight, 15% to 25% by weight, or 15% to 20% by weight.

[0196] The cellulose fibers may have a macrofibrillation index of at least 0.35 percent, more preferably at least 0.4 percent, more preferably at least 0.5 percent, more preferably at least 0.6 percent, and more preferably at least 0.7 percent.

[0197] Cellulose fibers may have a macrofibrillation index of 5 percent or less, 2 percent or less, 1.5 percent or less, 1 percent or less, or 0.8 percent or less.

[0198] Cellulose fibers are present in amounts of 0.35% to 5%, or 0.35% to 2%, or 0.35% to 1.5%, or 0.35% to 1%, or 0.35% to 0.8%, or 0.4% to 5%, or 0.4% to 2%, or 0.4% to 1.5%, or 0.4% to 1%, or 0.4% to 0.8%, or 0.5% to 5%, or 0.5% to 2%, or 0.5% to 1.5%. It may have a macrofibrillation index of 1%, or 0.5% to 1%, or 0.5% to 0.8%, or 0.6% to 5%, or 0.6% to 2%, or 0.6% to 1.5%, or 0.6% to 1%, or 0.6% to 0.8%, or 0.7% to 5%, or 0.7% to 2%, or 0.7% to 1.5%, or 0.7% to 1%, or 0.7% to 0.8%.

[0199] The macrofibrillation index provides an indication of the degree of external fibrillation of cellulose fibers. Increased external fibrillation of cellulose fibers can advantageously improve the tensile strength of the solid aerosol-generating substrate into which the cellulose fibers are incorporated. The macrofibrillation index of cellulose fibers can be measured using a Techpap MorFi® analyzer.

[0200] The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain microcrystalline cellulose having a D50 particle size of at least 5 micrometers, at least 10 micrometers, or at least 15 micrometers.

[0201] As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term "D50 particle size" describes the median particle size of a particulate material. The D50 particle size is the particle size that divides the distribution in half, with half of the particles being larger than the D50 particle size and the other half being smaller than the D50 particle size. The particle size distribution may be determined by laser diffraction, as described above.

[0202] The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain microcrystalline cellulose having a D50 particle size of 100 micrometers or less, 90 micrometers or less, or 80 micrometers or less.

[0203] The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain microcrystalline cellulose having a D50 particle size of 5 to 100 micrometers, 5 to 90 micrometers, or 5 to 80 micrometers.

[0204] The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain microcrystalline cellulose having a D50 particle size of 10 to 100 micrometers, 10 to 90 micrometers, or 10 to 80 micrometers.

[0205] The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain microcrystalline cellulose having a D50 particle size of 15 to 100 micrometers, 15 to 90 micrometers, or 150 to 80 micrometers.

[0206] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a microcrystalline cellulose content of at least 2% by weight, at least 5% by weight, at least 10% by weight, or at least 15% by weight.

[0207] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a microcrystalline cellulose content of 30% by weight or less, 25% by weight or less, or 20% by weight or less.

[0208] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a microcrystalline cellulose content of 2% to 30% by weight, 2% to 25% by weight, or 2% to 20% by weight.

[0209] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a microcrystalline cellulose content of 5% to 30% by weight, 5% to 25% by weight, or 5% to 20% by weight.

[0210] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a microcrystalline cellulose content of 10% to 30% by weight, 10% to 25% by weight, or 10% to 20% by weight.

[0211] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a microcrystalline cellulose content of 15% to 30% by weight, 15% to 25% by weight, or 15% to 20% by weight.

[0212] The solid aerosol generating substrate may include cellulose powder having a D50 particle size of at least 25 micrometers, at least 30 micrometers, or at least 35 micrometers.

[0213] The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain cellulose powder having a D50 particle size of 250 micrometers or less, 225 micrometers or less, or 200 micrometers or less.

[0214] The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain cellulose powder having a D50 particle size of 25 to 250 micrometers, 25 to 225 micrometers, or 25 to 200 micrometers.

[0215] The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain cellulose powder having a D50 particle size of 30 micrometers to 250 micrometers, 30 micrometers to 225 micrometers, or 30 micrometers to 200 micrometers.

[0216] The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain cellulose powder having a D50 particle size of 35 micrometers to 250 micrometers, 35 micrometers to 225 micrometers, or 35 micrometers to 200 micrometers.

[0217] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a cellulose powder content of at least 2% by weight, at least 5% by weight, at least 10% by weight, or at least 15% by weight.

[0218] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a cellulose powder content of 30% by weight or less, 25% by weight or less, or 20% by weight or less.

[0219] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a cellulose powder content of 2% to 30% by weight, 2% to 25% by weight, or 2% to 20% by weight.

[0220] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a cellulose powder content of 5% to 30% by weight, 5% to 25% by weight, or 5% to 20% by weight.

[0221] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a cellulose powder content of 10% to 30% by weight, 10% to 25% by weight, or 10% to 20% by weight.

[0222] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a cellulose powder content of 15% to 30% by weight, 15% to 25% by weight, or 15% to 20% by weight.

[0223] The solid aerosol generating substrate includes one or more aerosol-forming bodies.

[0224] As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term "aerosol-forming compound" is used to describe a compound that facilitates aerosol formation when in use and is substantially resistant to thermal decomposition at the operating temperature of an aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating article or a solid aerosol-generating substrate.

[0225] Examples of suitable aerosol-forming materials include polyhydric alcohols (such as 1,3-butanediol, glycerin, 1,3-propanediol, propylene glycol, and triethylene glycol), esters of polyhydric alcohols (such as glycerol monoacetate, diacetate, or triacetate), and aliphatic esters of monocarboxylic acids, dicarboxylic acids, or polycarboxylic acids (such as dimethyl dodecanediate and dimethyl tetradecanediate).

[0226] The solid aerosol generating substrate has a total aerosol-forming material content of at least 40 weight percent.

[0227] As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term "total aerosol-forming content" is used to describe the combined content of all aerosol-forming elements within a solid aerosol-generating substrate.

[0228] In other words, the solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total aerosol-forming content of at least 42 weight percent, at least 45 weight percent, at least 48 weight percent, or at least 50 weight percent.

[0229] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total aerosol-forming content of 62% by weight or less, 60% by weight or less, 58% by weight or less, 56% by weight or less, or 54% by weight or less.

[0230] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total aerosol-forming content of 40% to 62% by weight, 40% to 60% by weight, 40% to 58% by weight, 40% to 56% by weight, or 40% to 54% by weight.

[0231] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total aerosol-forming content of 42% to 62% by weight, 42% to 60% by weight, 42% to 58% by weight, 42% to 56% by weight, or 42% to 54% by weight.

[0232] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total aerosol-forming content of 45% to 62% by weight, 45% to 60% by weight, 45% to 58% by weight, 45% to 56% by weight, or 45% to 54% by weight.

[0233] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total aerosol-forming content of 48% to 62% by weight, 48% to 60% by weight, 48% to 58% by weight, 48% to 56% by weight, or 48% to 54% by weight.

[0234] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total aerosol-forming content of 50% to 62% by weight, 50% to 60% by weight, 50% to 58% by weight, 50% to 56% by weight, or 50% to 54% by weight.

[0235] Advantageously, the use of a relatively high level of aerosol-forming material in the solid aerosol-generating substrate facilitates aerosol generation from the solid aerosol-generating substrate upon heating. The use of a relatively high level of aerosol-forming material in the solid aerosol-generating substrate of the present invention has been found to be particularly suitable for combinations with cellulosic agents of relatively low levels of tobacco particles. In contrast, known tobacco-derived aerosol-generating substrates incorporating higher levels of tobacco particles typically use significantly lower amounts of aerosol-forming material.

[0236] Preferably, the solid aerosol generating substrate contains one or more polyhydric alcohols.

[0237] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total polyhydric alcohol content of at least 40 weight percent, at least 42 weight percent, at least 45 weight percent, at least 48 weight percent, or at least 50 weight percent.

[0238] As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term "total polyhydric alcohol content" is used to describe the combined content of all polyhydric alcohols in a solid aerosol generating substrate.

[0239] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total polyhydric alcohol content of 62% by weight or less, 60% by weight or less, 58% by weight or less, 56% by weight or less, or 54% by weight or less.

[0240] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total polyhydric alcohol content of 40% to 62% by weight, 40% to 60% by weight, 40% to 58% by weight, 40% to 56% by weight, or 40% to 54% by weight.

[0241] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total polyhydric alcohol content of 42% to 62% by weight, 42% to 60% by weight, 42% to 58% by weight, 42% to 56% by weight, or 42% to 54% by weight.

[0242] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total polyhydric alcohol content of 45% to 62% by weight, 45% to 60% by weight, 45% to 58% by weight, 45% to 56% by weight, or 45% to 54% by weight.

[0243] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total polyhydric alcohol content of 48 to 62 weight percent, 48 to 60 weight percent, 48 to 58 weight percent, 48 to 56 weight percent, or 48 to 54 weight percent.

[0244] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total polyhydric alcohol content of 50 to 62 weight percent, 50 to 60 weight percent, 50 to 58 weight percent, 50 to 56 weight percent, or 50 to 54 weight percent.

[0245] Preferably, the solid aerosol generating substrate comprises one or more polyhydric alcohols selected from 1,3-butanediol, glycerin, 1,3-propanediol, propylene glycol, and triethylene glycol.

[0246] More preferably, the solid aerosol generating substrate comprises one or more polyhydric alcohols selected from glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0247] Most preferably, the solid aerosol generating substrate contains glycerin.

[0248] The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain water.

[0249] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a water content of at least 5 weight percent, at least 10 weight percent, at least 15 weight percent, or at least 17 weight percent, based on the total weight of the solid aerosol generating substrate.

[0250] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a water content of 30% by weight or less, 25% by weight or less, or 20% by weight or less, based on the total weight of the solid aerosol generating substrate.

[0251] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a water content of 5% to 30% by weight, 5% to 25% by weight, or 5% to 20% by weight, based on the total weight of the solid aerosol generating substrate.

[0252] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a water content of 10% to 30% by weight, 10% to 25% by weight, or 10% to 20% by weight, based on the total weight of the solid aerosol generating substrate.

[0253] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a water content of 15% to 30% by weight, 15% to 25% by weight, or 15% to 20% by weight, based on the total weight of the solid aerosol generating substrate.

[0254] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a water content of 17% to 30% by weight, 17% to 25% by weight, or 17% to 20% by weight, based on the total weight of the solid aerosol generating substrate.

[0255] The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain one or more carboxylic acids.

[0256] The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain multiple carboxylic acids. That is, the solid aerosol generating substrate may contain two or more carboxylic acids. For example, the solid aerosol generating substrate may contain two carboxylic acids, three carboxylic acids, four carboxylic acids, or five carboxylic acids.

[0257] The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain one or more dibasic carboxylic acids. For example, the solid aerosol generating substrate may contain one or more dibasic carboxylic acids selected from fumaric acid, maleic acid, malic acid, adipic acid, and succinic acid.

[0258] The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain one or more tribasic carboxylic acids. For example, a slid aerosol generating substrate may contain citric acid.

[0259] The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain one or more carboxylic acids selected from lactic acid, levulinic acid, acetic acid, benzoic acid, citric acid, fumaric acid, maleic acid, and malic acid.

[0260] The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain one or more carboxylic acids selected from acetic acid, benzoic acid, citric acid, fumaric acid, maleic acid, and malic acid.

[0261] Preferably, the solid aerosol generating substrate comprises one or more carboxylic acids selected from fumaric acid, maleic acid, and malic acid.

[0262] More preferably, the solid aerosol generating substrate contains fumaric acid.

[0263] The solid aerosol generating substrate may further contain one or more carboxylic acids selected from lactic acid and levulinic acid. For example, the solid aerosol generating substrate may contain a combination of fumaric acid and lactic acid, or fumaric acid and levulinic acid.

[0264] The solid aerosol generating substrate has a total carboxylic acid content of at least 0.5 weight percent.

[0265] As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term "total carboxylic acid content" is used to describe the combined content of all carboxylic acids in a solid aerosol-generating substrate. For example, if a solid aerosol-generating substrate contains multiple carboxylic acids consisting of benzoic acid and fumaric acid, the term "total carboxylic acid content" describes the combined benzoic acid content and fumaric acid content of the solid aerosol-generating substrate.

[0266] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total carboxylic acid content of at least 1 weight percent, at least 1.5 weight percent, or at least 2 weight percent.

[0267] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total carboxylic acid content of 8% by weight or less, 6% by weight or less, or 4% by weight or less.

[0268] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total carboxylic acid content of 0.5% to 8% by weight, 0.5% to 6% by weight, or 0.5% to 4% by weight.

[0269] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total carboxylic acid content of 1% to 8% by weight, 1% to 6% by weight, or 1% to 4% by weight.

[0270] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total carboxylic acid content of 1.5% to 8% by weight, 1.5% to 6% by weight, or 1.5% to 4% by weight.

[0271] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total carboxylic acid content of 2% to 8% by weight, 2% to 6% by weight, or 2% to 4% by weight.

[0272] The molar ratio of total carboxylic acid to nicotine in the solid aerosol generating substrate may be at least 0.5:1, at least 1:1, at least 1.5:1, or at least 2:1.

[0273] The molar ratio of total carboxylic acid to nicotine in the solid aerosol generating substrate may be 5:1 or less, 4.5:1 or less, 4:1 or less, or 3.5:1 or less.

[0274] The molar ratio of total carboxylic acid to nicotine in the solid aerosol generating substrate may be 0.5:1 to 5:1, 0.5:1 to 4.5:1, 0.5:1 to 4:1, or 0.5:1 to 3.5:1.

[0275] The molar ratio of total carboxylic acid to nicotine in the solid aerosol generating substrate may be 1:1 to 5:1, 1:1 to 4.5:1, 1:1 to 4:1, or 1:1 to 3.5:1.

[0276] The molar ratio of total carboxylic acid to nicotine in the solid aerosol generating substrate may be 1.5:1 to 5:1, 1.5:1 to 4.5:1, 1.5:1 to 4:1, or 1.5:1 to 3.5:1.

[0277] The molar ratio of total carboxylic acid to nicotine in the solid aerosol generating substrate may be 2:1 to 5:1, 2:1 to 4.5:1, 2:1 to 4:1, or 2:1 to 3.5:1.

[0278] In other words, the solid aerosol generating substrate may have a fumaric acid content of at least 0.5 weight percent, at least 1 weight percent, at least 1.5 weight percent, or at least 2 weight percent.

[0279] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a fumaric acid content of 8% by weight or less, 6% by weight or less, or 4% by weight or less.

[0280] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a fumaric acid content of 0.5% to 8% by weight, 0.5% to 6% by weight, or 0.5% to 4% by weight.

[0281] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a fumaric acid content of 1% to 8% by weight, 1% to 6% by weight, or 1% to 4% by weight.

[0282] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a fumaric acid content of 1.5% to 8% by weight, 1.5% to 6% by weight, or 1.5% to 4% by weight.

[0283] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a fumaric acid content of 2% to 8% by weight, 2% to 6% by weight, or 2% to 4% by weight.

[0284] The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain one or more non-cellulose thickeners.

[0285] As used herein in connection with the present invention, the term “non-cellulose thickener” is used to describe a non-cellulose substance that, when added to an aqueous or non-aqueous liquid composition, increases the viscosity of the liquid composition without substantially altering other properties of the liquid composition. One or more non-cellulose thickeners increase stability and improve the suspension of components in the liquid composition. Thickeners may also be called “thickeners,” “rheology modifiers,” or “viscosifying agents.”

[0286] The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain one or more non-cellulose thickeners selected from alginate, gellan gum, guar gum, gum arabic, locust bean gum, pectin, starch, and xanthan gum.

[0287] The solid aerosol generating substrate does not have to contain iotacarrageenan or kappacarrageenan. A solid aerosol generating substrate that does not contain iotacarrageenan or kappacarrageenan may, advantageously, remain solid when heated to temperatures between 180°C and 350°C. This may, advantageously, reduce or eliminate crusting in the aerosol generating article according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0288] The solid aerosol generating substrate does not need to contain agar. Advantageously, agar-free solid aerosol generating substrate may remain solid when heated to temperatures between 180°C and 350°C. This is advantageous in that it may reduce or eliminate crusting in the aerosol generating article according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0289] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total cellulosic thickener content of at least 1 weight percent, at least 2 weight percent, or at least 3 weight percent.

[0290] As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term "total non-cellulose thickener content" is used to describe the combined content of all non-cellulose thickeners in the solid aerosol generating substrate.

[0291] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total non-cellulose thickener content of 10% by weight or less, 8% by weight or less, or 6% by weight or less.

[0292] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total non-cellulose thickener content of 1% to 10% by weight, 1% to 8% by weight, or 1% to 6% by weight.

[0293] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total non-cellulosic thickener content of from 2 weight percent to 10 weight percent, from 2 weight percent to 8 weight percent, or from 2 weight percent to 6 weight percent.

[0294] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total non-cellulosic thickener content of from 3 weight percent to 10 weight percent, from 3 weight percent to 8 weight percent, or from 3 weight percent to 6 weight percent.

[0295] The solid aerosol generating substrate may contain one or more flavoring agents.

[0296] Suitable flavoring agents are known in the art and include, but are not limited to, menthol.

[0297] As used herein with respect to the present invention, the term "menthol" is used to describe the compound 2-isopropyl-5-methylcyclohexanol in any of its isomeric forms.

[0298] As used herein with respect to the present invention, the term "total flavoring agent content" is used to describe the combined content of all flavoring agents in the solid aerosol generating substrate.

[0299] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total flavoring agent content of at least 0.5 weight percent, at least 1 weight percent, at least 2 weight percent, or at least 3 weight percent.

[0300] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total flavoring agent content of 6 weight percent or less, 5 weight percent or less, or 4 weight percent or less.

[0301] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total flavoring agent content of from 0.5 weight percent to 6 weight percent, from 0.5 weight percent to 5 weight percent, or from 0.5 weight percent to 4 weight percent.

[0302] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total flavoring agent content of 1% to 6% by weight, 1% to 5% by weight, or 1% to 4% by weight.

[0303] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total flavoring agent content of 2% to 6% by weight, 2% to 5% by weight, or 2% to 4% by weight.

[0304] The solid aerosol generating substrate may have a total flavoring agent content of 3% to 6% by weight, 3% to 5% by weight, or 3% to 4% by weight.

[0305] The aerosol generating article may further include a susceptor in direct contact with a solid aerosol generating substrate.

[0306] The susceptor may be located within an aerosol generating rod containing a solid aerosol generating substrate.

[0307] The susceptor may be located within the solid aerosol generating substrate.

[0308] The solid aerosol generating substrate may at least partially surround the susceptor.

[0309] The solid aerosol generating substrate may be placed on the susceptor. For example, if the solid aerosol generating substrate is a solid aerosol generating film, the susceptor may be covered at least partially with the solid aerosol generating film.

[0310] The susceptor may be embedded at least partially within a solid aerosol generating substrate. For example, if the solid aerosol generating substrate is a solid aerosol generating gel, the susceptor may be embedded at least partially within the solid aerosol generating gel.

[0311] The susceptor may also be elongated.

[0312] As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term “elongated” is used to describe a susceptor having a length greater than its width. For example, the length of a susceptor may be at least twice its width.

[0313] The susceptor may have any desired length. For example, the susceptor may have a length of 6 mm to 18 mm, 8 mm to 16 mm, or 10 mm to 14 mm.

[0314] The susceptor may have a length substantially equal to the length of the solid aerosol generating substrate, or substantially equal to the length of the aerosol generating rod containing the solid aerosol generating substrate.

[0315] The susceptor may extend along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article.

[0316] The susceptor may have any desired width. For example, the susceptor may have a width of 2 to 8 mm, 3 to 7 mm, or 4 to 6 mm.

[0317] The susceptor may have any desired thickness. For example, the susceptor may have a thickness of 30 to 90 micrometers, 40 to 80 micrometers, or 50 to 70 micrometers.

[0318] The susceptor element may be formed from any material that can be inductively heated to a temperature sufficient to generate aerosols from the solid aerosol generating substrate.

[0319] Preferably, the susceptor contains a metal, alloy, or carbon.

[0320] The aerosol generating article may comprise a rod of a solid aerosol generating substrate. The rod of the solid aerosol generating substrate may be surrounded by a wrapper.

[0321] The rod of the aerosol generating substrate may have a length of at least 8 millimeters, at least 9 millimeters, or at least 10 millimeters.

[0322] The rod of the aerosol generating substrate may have a length of 16 millimeters or less, 15 millimeters or less, or 14 millimeters or less.

[0323] For example, the rod of the aerosol generating substrate may have a length of 8 millimeters to 16 millimeters, 8 millimeters to 15 millimeters, 8 millimeters to 14 millimeters, 9 millimeters to 16 millimeters, 9 millimeters to 15 millimeters, 9 millimeters to 14 millimeters, 10 millimeters to 16 millimeters, 10 millimeters to 15 millimeters, or 10 millimeters to 14 millimeters.

[0324] Preferably, the rod of the aerosol generating substrate has an outer diameter substantially equal to the outer diameter of the aerosol generating article.

[0325] The draw resistance (RTD) of the rod of the aerosol generating substrate may be at least about 130 millimeters H2O, at least about 140 millimeters H2O, or at least about 150 millimeters H2O.

[0326] The RTD of the rod of the aerosol generating substrate may be about 190 millimeters H2O or less, about 180 millimeters H2O or less, or about 170 millimeters H2O or less.

[0327] The RTD of the aerosol generating substrate rod may be 130 mmH2O to 190 mmH2O, or 130 mmH2O to 180 mmH2O, or 130 mmH2O to 170 mmH2O, or 140 mmH2O to 190 mmH2O, or 140 mmH2O to 180 mmH2O, or 140 mmH2O to 170 mmH2O, or 150 mmH2O to 190 mmH2O, or 150 mmH2O to 180 mmH2O, or 150 mmH2O to 170 mmH2O.

[0328] Unless otherwise specified, the draw-out resistance (RTD) of a component or aerosol-generating article according to the present invention is measured in accordance with ISO 6565-2015. RTD refers to the pressure required to force air through the entire length of the component. The terms “pressure drop” or “suction resistance” of a component or article may also refer to “draw-out resistance.” These terms generally refer to measurements according to ISO 6565-2015, which are typically performed at a volumetric flow rate of about 17.5 milliliters per second at the output or downstream end of the component being measured, at a temperature of about 22 degrees Celsius, a pressure of about 101 kPa (about 760 Torr), and a relative humidity of about 60%.

[0329] The aerosol-generating article may have any desired shape. For example, the aerosol-generating article may be substantially cylindrical.

[0330] The aerosol-generating article may have any desired cross-sectional area. For example, the aerosol-generating article may have a substantially circular, oval, or elliptical cross-sectional area.

[0331] The aerosol generating article may have any desired length. For example, the aerosol generating article may have a length of 30 mm to 70 mm, 35 mm to 65 mm, or 40 mm to 60 mm.

[0332] The aerosol-generating article may have any desired width. For example, the aerosol-generating article may have a width of 5 mm to 10 mm, 6 mm to 9 mm, or 7 mm to 8 mm.

[0333] The aerosol-generating article may include one or more additional components.

[0334] One or more other components may include one or more of the upstream elements, support elements, aerosol cooling elements, and mouthpiece elements.

[0335] The aerosol generating article may include an upstream element located at its distal end. The upstream element may be located immediately upstream of the solid aerosol generating substrate.

[0336] The upstream element may, advantageously, prevent direct contact with the solid aerosol-generating substrate. This may, advantageously, help prevent displacement or deformation of the susceptor during transport and handling of the aerosol-generating article.

[0337] The upstream element may include a plug made of a porous material. For example, the upstream element may include a cellulose acetate plug.

[0338] The upstream element may have any desired shape. For example, the upstream element may be substantially cylindrical.

[0339] The upstream element may have any desired cross-sectional area. For example, the support element may have a substantially circular, oval, or elliptical cross-sectional area.

[0340] The upstream element may have any desired length. For example, the upstream element may have a length of 1 mm to 10 mm, 1 mm to 8 mm, or 1 mm to 6 mm. For example, the upstream element may have a length of 3 mm to 10 mm, 3 mm to 8 mm, or 3 mm to 6 mm.

[0341] The upstream element may have any desired width. For example, the upstream element may have a width of 5 to 10 mm, 6 to 9 mm, or 7 to 8 mm. The upstream element may have a width substantially the same as the width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0342] The aerosol generating article may include a support element located between the solid aerosol generating substrate and the proximal end of the aerosol generating article.

[0343] The support element may be located immediately downstream of the solid aerosol generating substrate.

[0344] The support element may comprise a hollow tubular segment. For example, the support element may comprise a hollow cellulose acetate tube. The hollow tubular segment may define a cavity in the longitudinal direction that provides an unrestricted flow channel.

[0345] The support element may have any desired shape. For example, the support element may be substantially cylindrical.

[0346] The support element may have any desired cross-sectional area. For example, the support element may have a substantially circular, oval, or elliptical cross-sectional area.

[0347] The support element may have any desired length. For example, the support element may have a length of 5 mm to 15 mm, 5 mm to 12 mm, or 5 mm to 10 mm. For example, the support element may have a length of 7 mm to 15 mm, 7 mm to 12 mm, or 7 mm to 10 mm.

[0348] The support element may have any desired width. For example, the support element may have a width of 5 to 10 mm, 6 to 9 mm, or 7 to 8 mm. The support element may have a width substantially the same as the width of the aerosol-generating article.

[0349] The aerosol generating article may include a mouthpiece element located at the proximal end of the aerosol generating article.

[0350] The mouthpiece element may include a plug made of a porous material. For example, the mouthpiece element may include a cellulose acetate plug.

[0351] The mouthpiece element may have a cavity at the oral end.

[0352] The cavity at the oral end may be defined by a hollow tubular element provided at the proximal end of the mouthpiece element.

[0353] The cavity at the oral end may be defined by a wrapper.

[0354] The mouthpiece element may have any desired shape. For example, the mouthpiece element may be substantially cylindrical.

[0355] The mouthpiece element may have any desired cross-sectional area. For example, the mouthpiece element may have a substantially circular, oval, or elliptical cross-sectional area.

[0356] The mouthpiece may have any desired length. For example, the mouthpiece element may have a length of 5 mm to 20 mm, 5 mm to 15 mm, or 5 mm to 10 mm. For example, the mouthpiece element may have a length of 6 mm to 20 mm, 6 mm to 15 mm, or 6 mm to 10 mm. For example, the mouthpiece element may have a length of 7 mm to 20 mm, 7 mm to 15 mm, or 7 mm to 10 mm.

[0357] The mouthpiece element may have any desired width. For example, the mouthpiece element may have a width of 5 to 10 mm, 6 to 9 mm, or 7 to 8 mm. The mouthpiece element may have a width substantially the same as the width of the aerosol generating article.

[0358] The aerosol generating article may include an aerosol cooling element located between the solid aerosol generating substrate and the proximal end of the aerosol generating article.

[0359] If the aerosol generating article includes a mouthpiece element, the aerosol cooling element may be located immediately upstream of the mouthpiece element.

[0360] If the aerosol-generating article is equipped with a support element, the aerosol cooling element may be located immediately downstream of the support element.

[0361] The aerosol cooling element may include hollow tubular segments. For example, the aerosol cooling element may include a hollow cellulose acetate tube.

[0362] The hollow tubular segment may define a cavity along its longitudinal axis, providing an unrestricted flow channel.

[0363] The aerosol cooling element may have any desired shape. For example, the mouthpiece element may be substantially cylindrical.

[0364] The aerosol cooling element may have any desired cross-sectional area. For example, the aerosol cooling element may have a substantially circular, oval, or elliptical cross-sectional area.

[0365] The aerosol cooling element may have any desired length. For example, the aerosol cooling element may have a length of 5 mm to 20 mm, or 5 mm to 15 mm. For example, the aerosol cooling element may have a length of 6 mm to 20 mm, or 6 mm to 15 mm. For example, the aerosol cooling element may have a length of 7 mm to 20 mm, or 7 mm to 15 mm.

[0366] The aerosol cooling element may have any desired width. For example, the aerosol cooling element may have a width of 5 to 10 mm, 6 to 9 mm, or 7 to 8 mm. The aerosol cooling element may have a width substantially the same as the width of the aerosol generating article.

[0367] A solid aerosol generating substrate, a susceptor, and one or more other components of an aerosol generating article may be assembled within one or more wrappers to form an aerosol generating article. For example, a solid aerosol generating substrate, a susceptor, and other components of an aerosol generating article may be assembled within one or more wrappers to form an elongated rod.

[0368] Suitable wrappers for use in aerosol-generating articles according to a first aspect of the present invention are known in the art and include, but are not limited to, cigarette paper, filter plug wraps, chipping paper, metallized paper, metal foil, and metal foil paper laminates.

[0369] The aerosol generating article may include a ventilation zone located between the solid aerosol generating substrate and the proximal end of the aerosol generating article.

[0370] If the aerosol-generating article includes an aerosol cooling element, the ventilation zone may be provided in a location along the aerosol cooling element.

[0371] Aerosol-generating articles may have a ventilation level of 10 percent or more, 15 percent or more, 20 percent or more, or 25 percent or more.

[0372] Aerosol-generating articles may have an air permeability level of 50 percent or less, 45 percent or less, or 40 percent or less.

[0373] Aerosol-generating articles may have ventilation levels of 10% to 50%, 10% to 45%, or 10% to 40%.

[0374] Aerosol-generating articles may have ventilation levels of 15% to 50%, 15% to 45%, or 15% to 40%.

[0375] Aerosol-generating articles may have ventilation levels of 20 to 50 percent, 20 to 45 percent, or 20 to 40 percent.

[0376] Aerosol-generating articles may have ventilation levels of 25% to 50%, 25% to 45%, or 25% to 40%.

[0377] Aerosol-generating articles may have ventilation levels of 30 to 50 percent, 30 to 45 percent, or 30 to 40 percent.

[0378] An aerosol-generating article according to a first aspect of the present invention may resemble a conventional cigarette that is lit at one end.

[0379] An aerosol-generating article according to a first aspect of the present invention may be assembled using known methods and machinery.

[0380] According to a second aspect of the present invention, an aerosol generating system is provided, comprising an aerosol generating article according to the first aspect of the present invention as described above, and an electrically operated aerosol generating device equipped with a heater element configured to heat the solid aerosol generating substrate of the aerosol generating article.

[0381] The aerosol generator includes means for heating the aerosol generating substrate to a temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol from it. Preferably, the aerosol generator comprises a housing defining a cavity configured to receive an aerosol generating article, and means for heating the aerosol generating substrate to a temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol from it when the aerosol generating article is received in the cavity.

[0382] The aerosol generator may be a handheld aerosol generator.

[0383] The aerosol generator may be an electrically operated aerosol generator.

[0384] The aerosol generator may include a power supply and control electronic equipment.

[0385] The aerosol generator may include a battery and control electronics.

[0386] The aerosol generator may be configured to heat the aerosol generating substrate from within. That is, the aerosol generator may be configured to supply heat from a location inside the aerosol generating article to the aerosol generating substrate.

[0387] For example, in some embodiments, the aerosol generator includes a heater element configured to be inserted into the aerosol generating element when an aerosol generating article is received into the cavity of the aerosol generator.

[0388] In other embodiments, the aerosol generating article comprises a susceptor element provided at a location within the aerosol generating substrate, and the aerosol generating device comprises an inductor coil located on or within a housing, and the power supply of the aerosol generating device is connected to the inductor coil and configured to supply a high-frequency oscillating current to the inductor coil.

[0389] The aerosol generator may be configured to heat the aerosol generating substrate from the outside. That is, the aerosol generator may be configured to supply heat to the aerosol generating substrate from an external location relative to the aerosol generating article. For example, in some embodiments, the aerosol generator includes a heater element located around the periphery of the cavity and configured to heat the aerosol generating substrate of the aerosol generating article from outside the aerosol generating element of the aerosol generating article.

[0390] The present invention is defined in the claims. However, a non-exclusive list of non-limiting embodiments is provided below. One or more features of these embodiments may be combined with one or more features of any of the features described above, for example, one or more features of other embodiments, forms, or aspects described herein.

[0391] EX1. An aerosol generating article for use in an aerosol generating system, wherein the aerosol generating article comprises a solid aerosol generating substrate, and the solid aerosol generating substrate is: Tobacco particles, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate has a total tobacco content of 0.1% to 10% by weight; One or more aerosol-forming bodies, wherein the solid aerosol-generating substrate has a total aerosol-forming body content of at least 40 weight percent; An aerosol generating article comprising a solid aerosol generating substrate containing one or more cellulosic agents, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate has a total cellulosic agent content of at least 35 weight percent.

[0392] EX2. An aerosol generating article according to Example EX1, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate further contains exogenous nicotine.

[0393] EX3. An aerosol-generating article according to Example EX1 or EX2, wherein the D90 value of tobacco particles is 120 micrometers or less.

[0394] EX4. An aerosol generating article according to any of Examples EX1 to EX3, wherein the D90 value of tobacco particles in the solid aerosol generating substrate is at least 30 micrometers.

[0395] EX5. An aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the D90 value of tobacco particles in the solid aerosol generating substrate is 80 micrometers or less.

[0396] EX6. An aerosol generating article according to any of the prior embodiments, wherein the D10 value of tobacco particles in a solid aerosol generating substrate is at least 10 micrometers.

[0397] EX7. An aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate has a total tobacco particle content of 5% by weight or less.

[0398] EX8. An aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate has a total tobacco particle content of 1 weight percent or less.

[0399] EX9. An aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein tobacco particles are homogeneously dispersed through a solid aerosol generating substrate.

[0400] EX10. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the density of the solid aerosol-generating substrate is at least 0.5 grams per cubic centimeter.

[0401] EX11. An aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the density of the solid aerosol generating substrate is 1 gram per cubic centimeter or less.

[0402] EX12. An aerosol generating article according to any of the prior embodiments, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate is in the form of one or more sheets.

[0403] EX13. An aerosol generating article according to Example EX12, wherein each of one or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate has a basis weight of at least 130 grams per square meter.

[0404] EX14. An aerosol generating article according to Example EX12, wherein each of one or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate has a basis weight of 160 grams per square meter or less.

[0405] EX15. An aerosol generating article according to any of Examples EX12 to EX14, wherein each of one or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate has an average thickness of 175 micrometers to 225 micrometers.

[0406] EX16. An aerosol generating article according to any of Examples EX12 to EX15, wherein for each of one or more sheets, the ratio of the average thickness of the solid aerosol generating substrate sheet to the D90 value of tobacco particles in that sheet is at least 1.5.

[0407] EX17. An aerosol generating article according to any of Examples EX12 to EX16, wherein for each of one or more sheets, the ratio of the average thickness of the sheet of solid aerosol generating substrate to the D90 value of tobacco particles in that sheet is at least 3.

[0408] EX18. An aerosol generating article according to any of Examples EX12 to EX17, wherein each of one or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate has a density of at least 0.5 grams per cubic centimeter.

[0409] EX19. An aerosol generating article according to any of Examples EX12 to EX18, wherein each of one or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate has a density of 1 gram per cubic centimeter or less.

[0410] EX20. An aerosol-generating article according to any of Examples EX12 to EX19, wherein one or more sheets are crimped.

[0411] EX21. An aerosol-generating article according to Example EX20, in which one or more sheets are crumpled to a height of 300 to 500 micrometers.

[0412] EX22. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein each of one or more sheets has a tensile strength with a lateral peak of at least 150 N / m.

[0413] EX23. An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein each of one or more sheets has a longitudinal peak tensile strength of at least 450 N / m.

[0414] EX24. An aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate has a total exogenous nicotine content of at least 0.5 weight percent.

[0415] EX25. An aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the total nicotine content of the solid aerosol generating substrate is at least 1 weight percent.

[0416] EX26. An aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the ratio of the weight of non-tobacco nicotine in the solid aerosol generating substrate to the weight of tobacco particles in the solid aerosol generating substrate is at least 1.

[0417] EX27. An aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate has a total cellulosic agent content of 35% to 50% by weight.

[0418] EX28. An aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate comprises one or more cellulosic film-forming agents selected from carboxymethylcellulose and hydroxypropylmethylcellulose.

[0419] EX29. An aerosol generating article according to Example EX28, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate contains at least 15 weight percent of a total cellulose-based film-forming agent.

[0420] EX30. An aerosol generating article according to Example EX28 or EX29, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate has a hydroxypropyl methylcellulose content of 14% to 25% by weight.

[0421] EX31. An aerosol generating article according to any of Examples EX28 to EX30, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate has a carboxymethylcellulose content of 2% to 8% by weight.

[0422] EX32. An aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate comprises one or more cellulosic reinforcing agents selected from cellulose fibers, microcrystalline cellulose, and cellulose powder.

[0423] EX33. An aerosol generating article according to Example EX32, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate contains at least 10 weight percent of a total cellulose-based reinforcing agent.

[0424] EX34. An aerosol generating article according to Example EX32 or EX33, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate has a cellulose fiber content of at least 2 weight percent.

[0425] EX35. An aerosol generating article according to Example EX34, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate has a cellulose fiber content of 10% to 20% by weight.

[0426] EX36. An aerosol-generating article according to Example EX34 or EX35, wherein the hollow cellulose fibers have a length of at least 0.5 millimeters.

[0427] EX37. An aerosol-generating article according to any of Examples EX34 to EX36, wherein the cellulose fibers have a macrofibrillation index of at least 0.35 percent.

[0428] EX38. An aerosol-generating article according to any of Examples EX34 to EX37, wherein the cellulose fibers have a macrofibrillation index of 5 percent or less.

[0429] EX39. An aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate has a water content of 10% to 20% by weight.

[0430] EX40. An aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate has a total aerosol forming content of at least 45 weight percent.

[0431] EX41. An aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate comprises one or more polyhydric alcohols selected from glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0432] EX42. An aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate further comprises one or more carboxylic acids.

[0433] EX43. An aerosol-generating article according to Example EX42, wherein the aerosol-generating substrate comprises one or more carboxylic acids selected from acetic acid, benzoic acid, citric acid, fumaric acid, maleic acid, and malic acid.

[0434] EX44. An aerosol generating article according to Example EX43, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate contains one or more dibasic carboxylic acids.

[0435] EX45. An aerosol generating article according to Example EX43, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate contains fumaric acid.

[0436] EX46. An aerosol generating article according to Example EX45, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate further comprises lactic acid or levulinic acid.

[0437] EX47. An aerosol generating article according to any of Examples EX42 to EX46, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate has a total carboxylic acid content of at least 0.5 weight percent.

[0438] EX48. An aerosol generating article according to Example EX47, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate has a total carboxylic acid content of 1% to 2% by weight.

[0439] EX49. An aerosol generating article according to Example EX47 or EX48, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate has a total fumaric acid content of 1% to 2% by weight.

[0440] EX50. An aerosol generating article according to any of Examples EX42 to EX49, wherein the molar ratio of total carboxylic acid to non-tobacco nicotine in the solid aerosol generating substrate is 0.5:1 to 5:1.

[0441] EX51. An aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate is a solid aerosol generating film.

[0442] EX52. An aerosol generating article according to any of the prior embodiments, further comprising a susceptor in direct contact with a solid aerosol generating substrate.

[0443] EX53. An aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding embodiments, comprising a rod of a solid aerosol generating substrate surrounded by a wrapper.

[0444] EX54. An aerosol generating article according to Example EX53, wherein the rod of the solid aerosol generating substrate has a draw-down resistance (RTD) of 130-190 mmWG.

[0445] EX55. An aerosol generating article according to Example EX53 or EX54, wherein the rod of the solid aerosol generating substrate has a length of at least 10 millimeters.

[0446] EX56. An aerosol generating article according to any of Examples EX53 to EX55, wherein the rod of the solid aerosol generating substrate has a length of 14 mm or less.

[0447] EX57. An aerosol generating article according to any of Examples EX53 to EX56, further comprising a downstream section provided downstream of a rod of an aerosol generating substrate and comprising at least one hollow tubular element.

[0448] EX58. A rod for use as an aerosol generating substrate in an aerosol generating article: Tobacco particles, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate has a total tobacco content of 0.1% to 10% by weight; Exogenous nicotine and; One or more aerosol-forming bodies, wherein the solid aerosol-generating substrate has a total aerosol-forming body content of at least 40 weight percent; A rod comprising a solid aerosol generating substrate containing one or more cellulosic agents, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate has a total cellulosic agent content of at least 35 weight percent.

[0449] EX59. A rod according to Example EX58, wherein the D90 value of tobacco particles is 120 micrometers or less.

[0450] EX60. An aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating article according to any of Examples EX1 to EX57, and an electrically operated aerosol generating device including a heater element configured to heat the solid aerosol generating substrate of the aerosol generating article. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0451] Here, we will further describe the embodiment with reference to the accompanying diagrams. [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an aerosol generating article according to a first aspect of the present invention, comprising a solid aerosol generating substrate and a susceptor. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an aerosol generating system according to a second aspect of the present invention, which includes an electrically operated aerosol generating device including an aerosol generating article and an inductor as shown in Figure 1.

[0452] The aerosol generating article 10 shown in Figure 1 comprises an aerosol generating rod 12, a proximal section 14 located downstream of the aerosol generating rod 12, and a distal section 16 located upstream of the aerosol generating rod 12. As shown in Figure 1, the aerosol generating article 10 has an upstream or distal end 18 and a downstream or proximal end 20. The aerosol generating article 10 may have an overall length of 45 mm and an outer diameter of 7.2 mm.

[0453] The proximal section 14 of the aerosol generating article 10 includes a support element 22 located immediately downstream of the aerosol generating rod 12, an aerosol cooling element 24 located immediately downstream of the support element 22, and a mouthpiece element 42 located immediately downstream of the aerosol cooling element 24. The support element 22 and the aerosol cooling element 24 together define the intermediate hollow section 50 of the aerosol generating article 10.

[0454] The support element 22 comprises a first hollow tubular segment 26. The first hollow tubular segment 26 is in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube made of cellulose acetate. The first hollow tubular segment 26 defines an internal cavity 28 extending from the upstream end 30 of the first hollow tubular segment 20 to the downstream end 32 of the first hollow tubular segment 20. The first hollow tubular segment 26 may have a length of 8 millimeters and an outer diameter of 6.9 millimeters. The first hollow tubular segment 26 may have an inner diameter of 1.9 millimeters.

[0455] The aerosol cooling element 24 comprises a second hollow tubular segment 34. The second hollow tubular segment 34 is in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube made of cellulose acetate. The second hollow tubular segment 34 defines an internal cavity 36 extending from the upstream end 38 of the second hollow tubular segment 34 to the downstream end 40 of the second hollow tubular segment 34. The second hollow tubular segment 34 may have a length of 13 mm and an outer diameter of 6.9 mm. The second hollow tubular segment 34 may have an inner diameter of 3.25 mm.

[0456] As shown by the vertical dashed line in Figure 1, the aerosol-generating article 10 includes a ventilation zone 60 provided along the second hollow tubular segment 34. The ventilation zone may be provided 2 millimeters from the upstream end of the second hollow tubular segment 34. The ventilation level of the aerosol-generating article 10 may be 35 percent.

[0457] The mouthpiece element 42 is in the form of a cylindrical plug made of low-density cellulose acetate. The mouthpiece element 42 may have a length of 7 mm and an outer diameter of 6.9 mm.

[0458] The aerosol generating rod 12 comprises an assembly of crumpled paper sheets covered with a solid aerosol generating film having the composition shown in any of Examples A to F. The aerosol generating rod 12 may have a length of 12 millimeters and an outer diameter of 6.9 millimeters.

[0459] The aerosol generating article 10 includes an elongated susceptor 44 located within the aerosol generating rod 12. As shown in Figure 2, the elongated susceptor 44 is surrounded by an assembly of crumpled paper sheets covered with a solid aerosol generating film and extends along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating rod 12 from the upstream end to the downstream end. The elongated susceptor 44 is in direct contact with the solid aerosol generating film. The elongated susceptor 44 may be in the form of a strip having a length of 12 millimeters, a width of 5 millimeters, and a thickness of 60 micrometers.

[0460] The distal section 16 of the aerosol generating article 10 includes an upstream element 46 located immediately upstream of the aerosol generating rod 12.

[0461] The upstream element 46 is in the form of a cylindrical plug made of cellulose acetate surrounded by a rigid wrapper. The upstream element 46 may have a length of 5 mm and an outer diameter of 6.9 mm.

[0462] Naturally, the aerosol generating article 10 shown in Figure 1 is merely one embodiment of an aerosol generating article according to the first aspect of the present invention, and other embodiments are also possible.

[0463] The aerosol generating system 100 shown in Figure 2 comprises the aerosol generating article 10 shown in Figure 1 and a handheld, electrically operated aerosol generating device 110.

[0464] The aerosol generator 110 includes a housing 112 that defines a device cavity 114 configured to receive the distal portion of the aerosol generating article 10.

[0465] The aerosol generator 110 includes an inductor 116 configured to heat the solid aerosol generating film inside the aerosol generating rod 12 of the aerosol generating article 10 when the distal portion of the aerosol generating article 10 is received inside the device cavity 114.

[0466] The aerosol generator also includes a power source in the form of a battery (not shown), such as a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, and a control circuit (not shown).

[0467] The inductor 116 is equipped with an induction coil. The control circuit controls the supply of power from the battery to the induction coil.

[0468] During use, the fluctuating electromagnetic field or alternating electromagnetic field generated by the induction coil of the inductor 116 induces eddy currents within the elongated susceptor 44 in the aerosol generating rod 12 of the aerosol generating article 10, causing the elongated susceptor 44 to heat up. The heat generated within the elongated susceptor 44 is transferred by conduction to the solid aerosol generating film in the aerosol generating rod 12 of the aerosol generating article 10.

[0469] The user inhales the mouthpiece element 42 of the aerosol generating article 10. As the user inhales the mouthpiece 142, air is drawn into the aerosol generating article 10 through the distal end 18. The drawn-in air passes through the upstream element 46 to the aerosol generating rod 12. Heating of the solid aerosol generating film releases volatile and semi-volatile compounds, which form an aerosol that is entrained in the drawn-in air as it flows through the aerosol generating rod 12. The drawn-in air and entrained aerosol pass through the intermediate hollow section 50 of the aerosol generating article 10, where they are cooled and condensed. The cooled aerosol then passes into the user's mouth through the mouthpiece element 42 of the aerosol generating article 10. [Examples]

[0470] Solid aerosol generating substrate - Examples A to F A solid aerosol generating film for use in an aerosol generating article according to a first aspect of the present invention is manufactured having the compositions shown in Examples A to F below.

[0471] The solid aerosol generating films of Examples A to F are: (1) Mixing cellulose fibers with water to form a dispersion, (2) Adding carboxymethylcellulose or microcrystalline cellulose to the dispersion, and then subsequently adding tobacco particles to the resulting mixture, (3) Forming a dispersion of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose in glycerin using nicotine, and then solubilizing the dispersion in water, (4) Combine the mixtures from steps (2) and (3) to form a homogenized slurry with the carboxylic acid, (5) Casting layers of slurry onto a flat surface in order to form a film having a thickness of approximately 200 micrometers, (6) Leaving the film on a flat surface to solidify, (7) The film is prepared by drying it by heating it at a temperature profile of 20 to 140 degrees Celsius for 5 minutes, thereby forming a solid aerosol generating film.

[0472] [Table 1]

[0473] [Table 2]

[0474] [Table 3]

[0475] [Table 4]

[0476] [Table 5]

[0477] [Table 6]

[0478] In each embodiment, tobacco particles are finely ground to a D90 value of 70 micrometers.

[0479] An aerosol generating rod for use in an aerosol generating article according to a first embodiment of the present invention having the structure shown in Figure 1 is prepared comprising an assembly of crumpled paper sheets coated with a solid aerosol generating substrate having the compositions shown in Examples A to F. Each aerosol generating rod has a length of 12 millimeters and is equipped with an elongated susceptor as described above with respect to Figure 1.

[0480] Regarding Figure 2, as the aerosol generating rod obtained as a result of the aerosol generating device described above is heated, an aerosol is generated from the solid aerosol generating substrate. The resulting aerosol was found to provide not only desirable sensory properties comparable to known tobacco-containing substrates, but also consistent nicotine delivery. This demonstrates that the combination of tobacco particles and exogenous nicotine in the solid aerosol generating substrate of the present invention provides a strong balance between optimized sensory properties and control over nicotine delivery.

[0481] The specific embodiments and examples described above illustrate the present invention, but do not limit it. Other embodiments of the present invention may be made, and it should be understood that the specific embodiments and examples described herein are not exhaustive.

[0482] For the purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers representing amounts, quantities, percentages, etc., are understood to be modified in all cases by the term “approximately.” Thus, in this context, the number A is understood as A ± 10%. In this context, the number A may be considered to include a number within the general standard error of the measurement of the characteristic that the number A modifies. In some cases used in the appended claims, the number A may deviate by the percentages listed above, provided that the amount of deviation of A does not substantially affect the fundamental and novel characteristics of the claimed invention. Furthermore, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points and any intermediate ranges within them, which may or may not be specifically listed herein.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating article for use in an aerosol generating system, wherein the aerosol generating article comprises a solid aerosol generating substrate, and the solid aerosol generating substrate is: Tobacco particles, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate has a total tobacco content of 0.1% to 10% by weight, and the D90 value of the tobacco particles is 120 micrometers or less; Exogenous nicotine and; One or more aerosol-forming bodies, wherein the solid aerosol-generating substrate has a total aerosol-forming body content of at least 40 weight percent; One or more cellulosic agents, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate contains at least 35 weight percent of the total cellulosic agents, Aerosol-generating articles, including those containing such articles.

2. The aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein the D90 value of the tobacco particles in the solid aerosol generating substrate is at least 30 micrometers.

3. The aerosol generating article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate has a total tobacco particle content of 5% by weight or less.

4. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the tobacco particles are homogeneously dispersed through the solid aerosol generating substrate.

5. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate is in the form of one or more sheets, and each of the one or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate has a basis weight of 130 grams per square meter to 160 grams per square meter.

6. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate is in the form of one or more sheets, and each of the one or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate has an average thickness of 175 micrometers to 225 micrometers.

7. The aerosol generating article according to claim 6, wherein the ratio of the average thickness of each of the one or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate to the D90 value of the tobacco particles in the sheet is at least 2.

8. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate is in the form of one or more sheets, and the density of each of the one or more sheets of the solid aerosol generating substrate is 0.5 grams per cubic centimeter to 1 gram per cubic centimeter.

9. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein each of the one or more sheets has a tensile strength with a transverse peak of at least 150 N / m when measured in accordance with ISO 1924-2:2008.

10. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein each of the one or more sheets has a longitudinal peak tensile strength of at least 450 N / m when measured in accordance with ISO 1924-2:2008.

11. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the ratio of the weight of exogenous nicotine in the solid aerosol generating substrate to the weight of tobacco particles in the solid aerosol generating substrate is at least 1.

12. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate comprises at least 2% by weight of cellulose fibers having a length of at least 0.5 millimeters.

13. An aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 12, comprising a rod of the solid aerosol generating substrate and a downstream section provided downstream of the rod of the aerosol generating substrate and comprising at least one hollow tubular element.

14. A rod for use as an aerosol generating substrate in an aerosol generating article, wherein the rod comprises a solid aerosol generating substrate, and the solid aerosol generating substrate is: Tobacco particles, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate has a total tobacco content of 0.1% to 10% by weight, and the D90 value of the tobacco particles is 120 micrometers or less; Exogenous nicotine and; One or more aerosol-forming bodies, wherein the solid aerosol-generating substrate has a total aerosol-forming body content of at least 40 weight percent; One or more cellulosic agents, wherein the solid aerosol generating substrate contains at least 35 weight percent of the total cellulosic agents, A rod, including

15. An aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating article described in any one of Examples 1 to 13, and an electrically operated aerosol generating device including a heater element configured to heat the solid aerosol generating substrate of the aerosol generating article.

Images