Filling material blended with aerosol-generating materials

Abstract

The present disclosure provides aerosol-generating materials containing reconstituted plant material comprising a combination of at least two different plant fibers, the reconstituted plant material comprising a combination of (1) (a) extracted cannabis fiber, including cannabis leaves, cannabis stems, cannabis buds, cannabis flowers, cannabis seeds, cannabis extraction by-products or residues, or any combination thereof, (b) extracted plant fiber, or (c) a mixture thereof, and (2) (a) extracted tobacco fiber, including tobacco leaves, tobacco stems, tobacco extraction by-products, or a combination thereof, (b) extracted herbal plant fiber, or (c) a mixture thereof.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 803,886, filed February 1, 2019, the disclosures of both of which are incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventional smoking articles, such as cigarettes, cigars, and pipes, burn tobacco materials at temperatures that can release volatile compounds from the materials. The mainstream smoke delivered to the user not only has a characteristic and enjoyable taste, but can also deliver active compounds to the user that are absorbed into the blood through the lungs, thereby providing the smoker with a pleasant and calming effect. However, traditionally, it has been difficult to control the amount of active compounds (e.g., nicotine) delivered to the user from a smoking article. And it has been even more difficult to vary the amount of active compounds contained in the smoking article while maintaining good sensory properties, such as taste and aroma.

[0003] Various methods have been proposed to control the amount of active substances such as nicotine. For example, nicotine can be removed from tobacco by chemical extraction. Nicotine can be removed from tobacco using a relatively harsh solvent extraction process similar to the process used to remove caffeine from coffee beans. However, this nicotine extraction process not only removes nicotine, but also removes various other components from the tobacco material. For example, this nicotine extraction process also removes flavors, which adversely affect the taste of the tobacco. This nicotine extraction process is also relatively expensive and time consuming.

[0004] In addition to this nicotine extraction process, genetically modified tobacco has recently been developed that has an inherently low nicotine concentration. However, genetically modified tobacco is not only costly to grow and harvest, but is also susceptible to contamination from cross-pollination with regular tobacco. For example, cross-pollination will cause the genetically modified plant to lose its low nicotine concentration. For this reason, genetically modified plants must be grown in a place completely isolated from other tobacco crops.

[0005] Furthermore, when a smoking article contains cannabis and / or hemp, modifying the active and / or flavor compounds is even more difficult. This is because it is difficult to limit or regulate the amount of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and / or cannabidiol (CBD) while maintaining a good or authentic taste. For example, the amount of THC and / or CBD delivered varies significantly depending on the particular plant and the particular part of the plant used to generate the aerosol or smoke. Also, for example, simply rolling cannabis material in rolling paper results in significantly more inconsistent delivery based on various factors such as the paper used, the packaging density, the part of the plant used, and the method of preparing the plant. Furthermore, in addition to THC and CBD, cannabis contains over 60 cannabinoid compounds and over 400 other compounds that can impart a bad taste and / or harsh smoking experience to the product.

[0006] Additionally, there is a lack of blends and variety available in aerosol products, as it has proven difficult to control the taste and active content of the reconstituted materials, particularly blends using two or more aerosol-forming materials to form combustible articles that control the amount of active compound contained in the smoking article while maintaining good sensory characteristics such as a pleasing or natural taste and odor.

[0007] In view of the above, there is currently a need for a combustible or aerosol-generating material that combines fibers or aerosol-generating materials from two or more plant sources or plant materials. It would also be beneficial to provide a combustible or aerosol-generating material that combines fibers and / or aerosol-generating materials from two or more plants, in which the amount of at least one active compound contained in the aerosol-generating material is controlled or minimized. It would also be beneficial to provide an aerosol-generating material that can minimize the amount of at least one active compound while still maintaining natural or pleasant sensory properties. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In general, the present disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating material containing a reconstituted plant material comprising a combination of at least two different plant fibers, the reconstituted plant material comprising a combination of (1) (a) extracted cannabis fiber, including cannabis leaves, cannabis stems, cannabis buds, cannabis flowers, cannabis seeds, by-products or residues of cannabis extraction, or any combination thereof, (b) extracted plant fiber, or (c) a mixture thereof, and (2) (a) extracted tobacco fiber, including tobacco leaves, tobacco stems, by-products of tobacco extraction, or a combination thereof, (b) extracted herbal plant fiber, or (c) a mixture thereof.

[0009] In one embodiment, the reconstituted plant material comprises a combination of extracted cannabis fiber and extracted tobacco fiber. Additionally or alternatively, the reconstituted plant material comprises a combination of extracted plant fiber and extracted tobacco fiber. Also, in one embodiment, the reconstituted plant material comprises a mixture of extracted cannabis fiber and extracted plant fiber. Furthermore, in yet another embodiment, the reconstituted plant material comprises extracted herbal plant fiber, the extracted herbal plant fiber being obtained from coffee, tea, vine, ginger, ginkgo, chamomile, tomato, ivy, yerba mate, rooibos, cucumber, cereal, turmeric, clove, licorice, sandalwood, cinnamon, mint, cilantro, cumin, thyme, or any combination thereof.

[0010] Additionally or alternatively, the reconstituted plant material further comprises web-building fibers, which further comprise flax, hemp, abaca, softwood, hardwood, bamboo, coconut, ramie, jute, or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, if web-building fibers are included, the web-building fibers are present in the reconstituted plant material in an amount greater than 3% by weight, greater than 5% by weight, or greater than 8% by weight, and less than 40% by weight.

[0011] In one embodiment, the reconstituted plant material is treated with a humectant. In one embodiment, the humectant comprises glycerol, propylene glycol, or a combination thereof. Further, in one embodiment, the humectant is present in the reconstituted plant material in an amount of 5% or less by weight. Alternatively, the humectant is present in the reconstituted plant material in an amount of 5% or more by weight, 10% or more by weight, or 15% or more by weight, and 50% or less by weight.

[0012] In one embodiment, the extracted hemp fiber contains less than 0.3% tetrahydrocannabinol by weight.

[0013] In a further embodiment, the aerosol delivery composition further comprises an aerosol delivery agent applied to the reconstituted plant material. In one embodiment, the aerosol delivery agent comprises a medicament or flavoring. In a further embodiment, the aerosol delivery agent comprises an oil or solids. In a further embodiment, the aerosol delivery agent comprises nicotine, tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol, or any combination thereof. Additionally or alternatively, the aerosol delivery agent comprises sugar, licorice extract, honey, coffee extract, maple syrup, tea extract, plant extract, tobacco extract, or fruit extract. In one aspect, the aerosol delivery composition comprises a blend of terpenes. A terpene or blend of terpenes may be added to the reconstituted cannabis material to impart a unique aroma indicative of a high-quality cannabis product. Terpenes that may be added to the reconstituted cannabis material include pinene, humulene, b-caryophyllene, isopulegol, guaiol, neryl acetate, neomenthyl acetate, limonene, menthone, dihydrojasmone, terpinolene, menthol, phellandrene, terpinene, geranyl acetate, ocimene, myrcene, 1,4-cineole, 3-carene, linalool, menthofuran, perillyl alcohol, pinane, neomenthyl acetyl, and the like.

[0014] In one embodiment, when an aerosol delivery composition is included, the aerosol delivery composition is present in the reconstituted plant material in an amount greater than 1% by weight, greater than 3% by weight, greater than 5% by weight, greater than 10% by weight, greater than 15% by weight, greater than 20% by weight, greater than 25% by weight, greater than 30% by weight, greater than 35% by weight, or greater than 40% by weight, and less than 50% by weight.

[0015] In one embodiment, the reconstituted plant material has a basis weight of from 40 gsm to 120 gsm, or from 55 gsm to 85 gsm.

[0016] Additionally or alternatively, the aerosol-generating material takes the form of a filler material consisting of strips, pieces, or combinations thereof of reconstituted plant material.

[0017] In general, the present disclosure further provides a smoking article. The smoking article of the present disclosure includes a smokable rod and a wrapping material that wraps the smokable rod, the smokable rod including any of the aerosol-generating materials of the above embodiments. In one embodiment, the wrapping material includes a plurality of low-flame-spread regions spaced apart from each other along the axial direction of the smoking article, the low-flame-spread regions having a diffusivity of less than 0.5 cm / s at 23°C. In one embodiment, the low-flame-spread regions are formed by applying a low-flame-spread composition to the wrapping material. In a further embodiment, the smoking article of the present disclosure is configured such that at least 75% of the smoking article is self-extinguishing when tested according to ASTM standard E2187-09.

[0018] In general, the present disclosure further provides a smoking article comprising a chamber containing an aerosol-forming material of any of the above embodiments, and a heating device arranged to generate an inhalable aerosol by heating the aerosol-forming material without combustion.

[0019] Additionally, the present disclosure further provides an aerosol-generating material comprising a reconstituted plant material. The reconstituted plant material comprises (1) (a) extracted cannabis fiber, including cannabis leaves, cannabis stems, cannabis buds, cannabis flowers, cannabis seeds, by-products or residues of cannabis extraction, or any combination thereof, (b) extracted plant fiber, or (c) a mixture thereof. The reconstituted plant material is blended with (1) extracted tobacco material, including tobacco leaves, tobacco stems, by-products of tobacco extraction, or a combination thereof, (2) herbal material, or (3) a mixture thereof.

[0020] For example, in one embodiment, the reconstituted plant material includes extracted cannabis fiber. Additionally or alternatively, the reconstituted plant material includes extracted plant fiber. Also, in one embodiment, the reconstituted plant material includes a mixture of extracted cannabis fiber and extracted plant fiber. Additionally or alternatively, the reconstituted plant material is blended with tobacco material. Still, in another embodiment, the reconstituted plant material is blended with herbal materials, the herbal materials including coffee, tea, vine, ginger, ginkgo, chamomile, tomato, ivy, yerba mate, rooibos, cucumber, cereals, turmeric, clove, licorice, sandalwood, cinnamon, mint, cilantro, cumin, thyme, or any combination thereof.

[0021] Additionally or alternatively, the reconstituted plant material further comprises web-building fibers, which further comprise flax, hemp, abaca, softwood, hardwood, bamboo, coconut, ramie, jute, or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, if web-building fibers are included, the web-building fibers are present in the reconstituted plant material in an amount greater than 3% by weight, greater than 5% by weight, or greater than 8% by weight, and less than 40% by weight.

[0022] In one embodiment, the reconstituted plant material is treated with a humectant. In one embodiment, when a humectant is used, the humectant comprises glycerol, propylene glycol, or a combination thereof. Further, when a humectant is used, the humectant is present in the reconstituted plant material in an amount of 5% or less by weight. Alternatively, the humectant is present in the reconstituted plant material in an amount of 5% or more by weight, 10% or more by weight, or 15% or more by weight, and 50% or less by weight.

[0023] In one embodiment, the extracted hemp fiber contains less than 0.3% tetrahydrocannabinol by weight.

[0024] In a further embodiment, the aerosol delivery composition further comprises an aerosol delivery agent applied to the reconstituted plant material. In one embodiment, the aerosol delivery agent comprises a medicament or flavoring. In a further embodiment, the aerosol delivery agent comprises an oil or solids. In a further embodiment, the aerosol delivery agent comprises nicotine, tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol, or any combination thereof. Additionally or alternatively, the aerosol delivery agent comprises sugar, licorice extract, honey, coffee extract, maple syrup, tea extract, plant extract, tobacco extract, or fruit extract. In one aspect, the aerosol delivery composition comprises a blend of terpenes. A terpene or blend of terpenes may be added to the reconstituted cannabis material to impart a unique aroma indicative of a high-quality cannabis product. Terpenes that may be added to the reconstituted cannabis material include pinene, humulene, b-caryophyllene, isopulegol, guaiol, neryl acetate, neomenthyl acetate, limonene, menthone, dihydrojasmone, terpinolene, menthol, phellandrene, terpinene, geranyl acetate, ocimene, myrcene, 1,4-cineole, 3-carene, linalool, menthofuran, perillyl alcohol, pinane, neomenthyl acetyl, and the like.

[0025] In one embodiment, when an aerosol delivery composition is included, the aerosol delivery composition is present in the reconstituted plant material in an amount greater than 1% by weight, greater than 3% by weight, greater than 5% by weight, greater than 10% by weight, greater than 15% by weight, greater than 20% by weight, greater than 25% by weight, greater than 30% by weight, greater than 35% by weight, or greater than 40% by weight, and less than 50% by weight.

[0026] In one embodiment, the reconstituted plant material has a basis weight of from 40 gsm to 120 gsm, or from 55 gsm to 85 gsm.

[0027] Additionally or alternatively, the aerosol-generating material takes the form of a filler material consisting of strips, pieces, or combinations thereof of reconstituted plant material.

[0028] In general, the present disclosure further provides a smoking article. The smoking article of the present disclosure includes a smokable rod and a wrapping material that wraps the smokable rod, the smokable rod including any of the aerosol-generating materials of the above embodiments. In one embodiment, the wrapping material includes a plurality of low-flame-spread regions spaced apart from each other along the axial direction of the smoking article, the low-flame-spread regions having a diffusivity of less than 0.5 cm / s at 23°C. In one embodiment, the low-flame-spread regions are formed by applying a low-flame-spread composition to the wrapping material. In a further embodiment, the smoking article of the present disclosure is configured such that at least 75% of the smoking article is self-extinguishing when tested according to ASTM standard E2187-09.

[0029] In general, the present disclosure further provides a smoking article comprising a chamber containing an aerosol-forming material of any of the above embodiments, and a heating device arranged to generate an inhalable aerosol by heating the aerosol-forming material without combustion.

[0030] Other features and aspects of the present invention are described in detail below. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0031] A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, directed to one skilled in the art, is set forth in more detail in the remainder of the specification, which refers to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0032] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a smoking article incorporating the wrapping material of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] 2 is an exploded view of the smoking article shown in FIG. 1.

[0033] Repeat use of reference characters in the present specification and drawings is intended to represent same or analogous features or elements of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0034] definition

[0035] As used herein, "reconstituted plant material" refers to a material formed by a process of extracting a plant raw material, such as cocoa shells (the outer skins of cocoa beans), with a solvent to extract a soluble extract, such as a water-soluble extract, and an insoluble portion or residue (insoluble fibrous material) that includes fibrous material. The extracted insoluble fibrous material is then formed into a sheet by any suitable process. The soluble extract can be discarded or reapplied to the formed sheet. The soluble extract may be subjected to various processes to concentrate the extract or, optionally, to remove or add various ingredients before reapplying to the fibrous material. In the present disclosure, the reconstituted plant material is formed by combining the extracted cocoa husk fiber (insoluble fibrous material) with web-building fibers, such as cellulose fibers. The soluble extract obtained from the cocoa shells is optionally reapplied to a sheet.

[0036] As used herein, "aerosol-generating material" is meant to include both combustible materials that are combusted in smoking articles and aerosol-generating materials that are heated but not combusted to generate an inhalable aerosol. Combustible smoking articles include cigarettes, cigarillos, cigars, and the like. In cigarettes, the aerosol-generating material is wrapped by a wrapping material to form a smokable rod. Aerosol-generating devices for generating aerosol include devices that generate aerosol by heating the aerosol-generating material without burning it, for example, by electrical heating or by transfer of heat from a combustible fuel element or heat source, thereby releasing volatile compounds from the material. The volatile compounds released from the aerosol-generating material condense into an aerosol when cooled, which is inhaled by the smoker.

[0037] As used herein, "extracted plant fiber" refers to plant fiber that has been subjected to an extraction process in which the plant fiber is contacted with an aqueous solution to remove water soluble components contained therein. This extraction process is distinct from a delignification process or a bleaching treatment.

[0038] As used herein, "extracted tobacco fiber" refers to tobacco fiber that has been subjected to an extraction process in which the tobacco fiber, e.g., the stem or stalk, and optionally the leaf, is contacted with an aqueous solution to remove water-soluble components contained within the tobacco fiber. This extraction process is distinct from the delignification and bleaching processes.

[0039] As used herein, "extracted herb plant fiber" refers to herb plant fiber that has been subjected to an extraction process in which the herb plant is contacted with an aqueous solution to remove water soluble components contained in the herb plant. This extraction process is distinct from a delignification process or a bleaching treatment.

[0040] As used herein, "extracted cannabis fiber" and / or "extracted hemp fiber" refers to cannabis fiber that has undergone an extraction process in which cannabis is contacted with an aqueous solution to remove water-soluble components contained in the cannabis. This extraction process is distinct from delignification and bleaching processes. As described in more detail herein, cannabis includes marijuana containing average or high levels of THC and / or CBD, hemp containing low or very low levels of THC, industrial hemp, which is a cannabis plant containing less than 0.3% THC, or any combination thereof.

[0041] As used herein, "extracted by-product" refers to cannabis biomass that has been subjected to an extraction process to remove selected components, such as cannabinoids, without removing significant amounts of water-soluble components. Extracted by-products can also be referred to as biomass obtained by an extraction process in which the extractant is a solvent, such as ethanol, a supercritical fluid, such as carbon dioxide, a lipid, such as vegetable oil, or the like. According to the present disclosure, the extracted by-product may be subjected to a second extraction step to remove water-soluble components during the process of producing reconstituted cannabis material. Extracted by-products well suited for use in the present disclosure include those that contain water-soluble components in an amount greater than about 8% by weight, such as greater than about 12% by weight, such as greater than about 18% by weight, or such as greater than about 24% by weight.

[0042] As used herein, "cannabis" refers to any type of cannabis plant, such as, for example, Cannabis sativa or Cannabis indica. More specifically, in this disclosure, the leaves, stems, seeds, flowers, or any other part of the cannabis plant are referred to as cannabis. Nevertheless, cannabis as referred to herein includes marijuana containing average or high levels of THC and / or CBD, hemp containing low or very low levels of THC, industrial hemp containing less than 0.3% THC, or any combination thereof.

[0043] As used herein, "extracted cocoa fiber" and / or "extracted cocoa husk fiber" refers to cocoa fiber or cocoa husk fiber that has undergone an extraction process in which the cocoa husk (cocoa shells) is contacted with an aqueous solution to remove the water soluble components contained therein. This extraction process is distinct from the delignification and bleaching processes.

[0044] As used herein, "delignified" cellulose fibers (e.g., pulp fibers) refer to fibers that have undergone a pulping or delignification process in which the cellulose fibers are separated from the plant material by chemical, mechanical, or a combination of chemical and mechanical means.

[0045] As used herein, the term "refining" is used to mean that the plant material has been subjected to a mechanical treatment that modifies the fibers of the plant material so that it is suitable for forming a fibrous sheet or substrate. Refining can be done using a cone refiner, a disc refiner, or a beater (e.g., a valley beater, etc.). The mechanical process grinds or beats the plant material and deforms or de-clusters the plant material. Refining is a process distinct from delignification and pulping.

[0046] As used herein, the "amount of water-soluble extract" contained in the substrate or reconstituted plant material or aerosol-generating material is determined by placing a 5-gram sample in boiling distilled water for 10 minutes to obtain an extract containing water-soluble components. The dry weight of the solvent-soluble extract is calculated from the difference between the dry weight of the original sample and the dry weight of the sample after extraction. The difference in dry weight is then used to determine the proportion of water-soluble extract in the sample.

[0047] As used herein, the term "stalk" is used to refer to the main structural part of the plant that remains after the leaves have been removed.

[0048] As used herein, the term "hurd" is used to refer to the structural part of a plant (e.g., a stem) that connects a leaf or leaf blade to the stalk, or to the veins or ribs that run through the leaf. The term "hurd" does not include the term "stalk" (and vice versa).

[0049] Detailed Description

[0050] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that this disclosure is merely a description of exemplary embodiments and is not intended to limit the broader aspects of the disclosure.

[0051] The present disclosure generally relates to reconstituted plant materials comprising fibers or aerosol-generating materials derived from two or more plant sources or plant materials. For example, the present disclosure unexpectedly discovered that a reconstituted plant material or aerosol-generating material comprising a mixture of at least two different plant fibers can produce an aerosol-generating material that maintains good sensory properties, such as a pleasant and / or natural taste, and can control one or more active compounds contained in at least one of the plants from which the plant fiber and / or aerosol-generating material is derived. For example, in one embodiment, the amount of at least one of nicotine, THC, and CBD can be reduced compared to natural products, or at least one of nicotine, THC, and CBD can be removed from the aerosol-generating material. However, the present disclosure discovered that by producing a reconstituted plant material using a combination of at least one of extracted cannabis fiber and extracted cocoa fiber and at least one of extracted tobacco fiber, tobacco material, extracted herb plant fiber, and aerosol-generating plant material, it is possible to produce an aerosol-generating plant material that controls active compounds and maintains good sensory properties. For example, aerosol-generating materials according to the present disclosure can have a pleasant, neutral or natural taste or odor, and can regulate the amount of nicotine, THC, or CBD delivered to a user when the materials are incorporated into an aerosol product, such as a smoking article or a non-combustion heated aerosol generating device.

[0052] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material includes a reconstituted plant material that includes a mixture of at least two different plant fibers. At least one type of the at least two plant fibers includes at least one of extracted cannabis fiber and extracted cocoa fiber, and another at least one type of the at least two plant fibers includes at least one of extracted tobacco and extracted herbal plant fiber. Additionally or alternatively, the aerosol-generating material may include a reconstituted plant material formed from at least one of extracted cannabis fiber and extracted plant fiber, which may then be blended with at least one of a tobacco material and an herbal material. In any event, in one embodiment, the reconstituted plant material may be cut or chopped to form a loose filler material configured to generate an aerosol when heated or burned.

[0053] The reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure offers many advantages and benefits. For example, the reconstituted plant material is nicotine-free. This means that the reconstituted plant material produces an aerosol that does not contain detectable levels of nicotine when heated or burned. In addition, the reconstituted plant material produces less tar than traditional tobacco filler materials and contains little or no cannabinoids and other compounds typically found in cannabis that contribute to an unpleasant taste and / or harsh smoking experience. In addition, the reconstituted plant material has a very neutral taste when smoked, and in one embodiment, may have a pleasant neutral and / or natural herbal taste. For example, the mainstream smoke or aerosol produced from the reconstituted plant material provides a pleasant smoking or aerosol experience with a pleasant neutral taste, despite not containing any harsh ingredients.

[0054] Because the reconstituted plant material has a neutral taste when smoked and does not contain nicotine, the reconstituted plant material can be used to produce smoking articles that do not contain nicotine. In addition, the reconstituted plant material is suitable for combination with other smokable filler materials and / or topical additives. For example, the reconstituted plant material can be combined with tobacco material to form an aerosol-generating filler material that has a reduced amount of nicotine and a tobacco taste that consumers desire. For example, when combined with tobacco material, the proportion of the reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure can be increased or decreased to control the amount of nicotine. When combined with tobacco material, the reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure does not impair the taste of the tobacco material at all due to its neutral characteristics. Also, when combined with tobacco material, the reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure can enhance the smoking or aerosol experience by reducing the amount of irritants in addition to reducing the amount of nicotine.

[0055] I. Plant Fiber

[0056] As noted above, the reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure is generally made from extracted cannabis and / or extracted cocoa, and, optionally, extracted tobacco and / or herbal materials.

[0057] The cannabis material used in the present disclosure includes stems, buds, flowers, seeds, and any by-products of cannabis extraction, such as cannabis residue, THC, and CBD, and optionally stem components. In one embodiment, the cannabis component is obtained from a cannabis plant with a relatively low content of THC and / or CBD. For example, the amount of THC in the cannabis component may be less than about 1% by weight, such as less than about 0.3% by weight, such as less than about 0.2% by weight, or such as less than about 0.1% by weight THC. Using cannabis components from plants with a low content of THC can provide various benefits and advantages. For example, producing a reconstituted cannabis material with a low content of THC allows for better control of the delivery of THC by topically applying THC to the material. In addition, producing a reconstituted material without detectable amounts of THC allows the material to deliver other active agents, such as CBD, flavorings, nicotine, etc. It should be understood that in other embodiments, the reconstituted cannabis material may be made from a plant with a high content of THC or CBD, such as Cannabis indica or Cannabis sativa seeds.

[0058] The reconstituted cannabis material of the present disclosure can be produced from various parts of the cannabis plant, such as stems, leaves, buds, and flowers. These various parts of the cannabis plant can be combined in various ratios and amounts depending on the particular application and the desired results. The reconstituted cannabis material may be produced from only cannabis leaves and stems, or may be made from only cannabis buds and flowers. In one embodiment, the reconstituted cannabis material is produced from a combination of cannabis buds and / or cannabis flowers with cannabis leaves and / or cannabis stems. For example, in one embodiment, the weight ratio of cannabis leaves and / or cannabis stems to cannabis buds and / or cannabis flowers can be about 1:8 to about 8:1, such as about 1:5 to about 5:1, such as about 1:4 to about 4:1, or such as about 2:1 to about 1:2. In one embodiment, this ratio can be about 1:1.

[0059] In one embodiment, the reconstituted cannabis material may contain cannabis leaves and / or cannabis stems in an amount greater than about 10% by weight, such as greater than about 20% by weight, or such as greater than about 30% by weight, and generally less than about 70% by weight, such as less than about 60% by weight, such as less than about 50% by weight, or such as less than about 40% by weight. Similarly, the reconstituted cannabis material may contain cannabis buds and / or cannabis flowers in an amount greater than about 10% by weight, such as greater than about 20% by weight, such as greater than about 30% by weight, such as greater than about 40% by weight, such as greater than about 50% by weight, or such as greater than about 60% by weight, and generally less than about 80% by weight, such as less than about 70% by weight, such as less than about 60% by weight, or such as less than about 50% by weight.

[0060] In one aspect, at least a portion of the cannabis components collected to produce the reconstituted cannabis material are cannabis extraction by-products. Cannabis extraction by-products include cannabis biomass that has already been subjected to a first extraction process to remove desired components from the plant, but without significant amounts of water-soluble components removed. For example, cannabis extraction by-products can be biomass remaining after extraction of one or more cannabinoids from cannabis plant material, such as THC and CBD. These types of extraction processes can use a variety of solvents and supercritical fluids. For example, in one embodiment, the extracted by-product is obtained by a cannabis extraction process in which cannabis material is crushed and mixed with a solvent. The solvent can be, for example, an alcohol, such as ethanol, an organic ester, a petroleum-derived hydrocarbon (e.g., toluene or trimethylpentane), or a lipid (e.g., vegetable oil). Vegetable oils include safflower oil and coconut oil. In another embodiment, the cannabis plant material may be contacted with a supercritical fluid, such as carbon dioxide, during the extraction process. Typically, the extraction process involves grinding or cutting the plant material to a desired size, followed by contacting the plant material with an extractant, such as a solvent or supercritical fluid. The plant material may be heated during contact with the solvent. For example, when contacting with a supercritical fluid, the temperature may be from about 31° C. to about 80° C., and the pressure may be from about 7.5 megapascals to about 50 megapascals (about 75 bar to about 500 bar).

[0061] The use of extracted by-products as part of the cannabis composition provides various advantages. For example, cannabis extraction by-products can produce milder aerosols and can be in a form that is easier to handle than the raw plant material. To produce reconstituted cannabis material, the cannabis extraction by-products can be subjected to a second extraction process that removes water-soluble components. For example, cannabis extraction by-products can contain water-soluble components in an amount greater than about 8% by weight, such as greater than about 12% by weight, such as greater than about 18% by weight, such as greater than about 24% by weight, or such as greater than about 28% by weight, and generally less than about 60% by weight, such as less than about 50% by weight.

[0062] The cocoa material used in this disclosure is obtained from Theobroma cacao, also known as the cocoa tree. The cocoa tree is an evergreen tree native to the tropics. The cocoa tree produces a fruit called a cocoa pod. The cocoa pod is generally yellow to orange in color and weighs over a pound when ripe. The cocoa pod contains 10-80 cocoa beans that are used to make chocolate, juice, jelly, and the like. After the cocoa beans are removed from the cocoa pod, they are exposed to sunlight and / or UV light to dry-cure or ferment. The individual beans are covered with a husk or shell. The husk or shell is removed from the cocoa beans before the cocoa beans are used in food production. The reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure is formed from cocoa husks or shells, although other components of the cocoa pod may be used.

[0063] Tobacco materials used in the present disclosure include, for example, cut tobacco, reconstituted tobacco materials, or combinations thereof, and may include tobacco stems, stalks, and, optionally, leaves or scraps.

[0064] The reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure may be combined with aerosol-generating filler material formed from other plant material, such as herbal plants, plants, or trees, used to form smokable fibers or herbal smokable articles. Examples of herbal plants, plants, or trees include, for example, cacao trees, coffee trees or beans, tea trees or leaves, vines, ginger, ginkgo, chamomile, tomato, ivy, yerba mate, rooibos, cucumber, mint, grains (such as wheat, barley, rye), other trees (such as hardwoods, resinous trees), or any combination thereof.

[0065] II. How to prepare the filling material

[0066] Cannabis, tobacco, cocoa shells, and herbal plants contain fibers that are well suited for making substrates and web materials when made according to the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the plant fibers of at least one of cannabis, tobacco, cocoa shells, and herbal plants are optionally cut or ground and then subjected to an extraction process to remove water-soluble components. The extracted plant fibers are then combined with web-building fibers to form a substrate, such as a reconstituted sheet. The substrate may optionally be treated with an extract obtained from the plant fibers. Alternatively, the extract obtained from the plant fibers may be discarded without being recombined with water-insoluble fibers or other materials. The reconstituted plant material is then dried and formed into an aerosol-generating material, such as a smokable filler material. The aerosol-generating material may optionally be combined with various other ingredients. For example, the aerosol-generating material may be treated with various aerosol delivery substances. The aerosol-generating material may also be combined with various other aerosol or smoking filler materials, such as tobacco materials and other herbal filler materials.

[0067] The aerosol-generating materials formed according to the present disclosure can be used in various types of consumer products. For example, in one embodiment, the aerosol-generating materials can be incorporated into smoking articles such as cigarettes, cigarillos, cigars, etc. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating materials of the present disclosure can be packaged and sold as loose filler materials for use in pipes or to allow consumers to form their own cigarettes or other smoking articles. In another embodiment, the aerosol-generating materials of the present disclosure can be incorporated into devices that generate an aerosol that is inhaled by a user by heating the material rather than burning it (non-combustion heated devices). The aerosol-generating materials can be cut, shredded, or otherwise processed into a form that is most suitable for a particular application and product.

[0068] When forming the reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure, first, the plant fibers of at least one of cannabis, tobacco, cocoa shell, and herb plants are collected and optionally reduced in size. For example, in one embodiment, the plant fibers can be subjected to a grinding, milling, or beating operation to reduce the size of the plant fibers or reduce the plant fibers to individual fibers. For example, in one embodiment, the plant fibers can be fed into a hammer mill to beat the plant fibers against a screen to produce a fibrous material.

[0069] After optionally reducing the size of the plant fiber, the plant fiber is subjected to an extraction process to remove water-soluble components. This extraction process has various advantages. For example, the extraction process can remove pectin from the plant fiber, which makes it easier to process the plant fiber into a fiber substrate or reconstituted plant material sheet. It is also believed that removing pectin from the plant fiber contributes to the neutral taste of the final product.

[0070] Additionally, the plant fibers may be subjected to an extraction process to clean the plant fibers and remove herbicides, pesticides, and / or microorganisms that may be present on the surface of the plant fibers.

[0071] During the extraction process, the plant fiber is contacted with a solvent to remove water-soluble components from the plant fiber. In one embodiment, the solvent comprises only water. In another embodiment, various water-miscible solvents, such as alcohol (e.g., ethanol), are combined with water to form an aqueous solvent. For example, to extract THC and / or CBD from the plant fiber during the extraction stage, an oil or grease in which THC and / or CBD are soluble may be used as the solvent. The water content of the aqueous solvent may be greater than 50% by weight of the solvent, in particular greater than 90% by weight. Deionized water, distilled water, or tap water may be used. The amount of solvent in the suspension may range widely, but generally may be in an amount of about 50% to about 99% by weight of the suspension, in some embodiments about 60% to about 95% by weight, and in some embodiments about 75% to about 90% by weight. However, the amount of solvent may vary depending on the nature of the solvent, the temperature at which the extraction is performed, and the type of plant material.

[0072] After forming a mixture of the solvent and the plant material, some or all of the soluble fraction of the mixture is separated from the mixture. The mixture of the solvent and the plant material is agitated using stirring, shaking, or other mixing methods to increase the rate of solubilization. Typically, the process is carried out for about 30 minutes to about 6 hours. The process temperature can be in the range of about 10°C to about 100°C, for example, in the range of about 40°C to about 80°C.

[0073] After the plant fibers are immersed in the extractant, a press is used to mechanically separate the insoluble plant fibers from the soluble plant fiber mixture. After the soluble fraction is separated from the insoluble fraction, the soluble fraction is discarded or subjected to processing such as concentration. The soluble fraction can be concentrated using any known type of concentrator such as a vacuum evaporator. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the soluble fraction can be highly concentrated. In one embodiment, for example, the soluble fraction is evaporated to have a final Brix of about 10% to about 50%, such as about 15% to about 35%.

[0074] The concentrated soluble fraction obtained as above may be used in another process or may later be coated onto the reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure, as described in more detail below.

[0075] The insoluble fraction obtained as described above is generally in an unrefined state. In one embodiment, the insoluble fraction is subjected to a refining process. For example, the extracted plant fiber can be fed to any suitable refining device, such as a cone refiner or a disk refiner. Other refining equipment that can be used includes a beater, such as a valley beater. Refining can be performed while the plant fiber material is wet or after the plant fiber material is mixed with water. For example, in one embodiment, the plant fiber material is refined at a consistency of less than about 10%, such as less than about 5%, such as less than about 3%.

[0076] According to the present disclosure, the extracted plant fiber material is optionally combined with web-building fibers when forming a fibrous substrate, such as a reconstituted plant material. For example, the extracted plant fiber is combined with water or an aqueous solution to form a pulp suspension (slurry). In some embodiments, the web-building fiber can increase the tensile strength of a sheet of reconstituted plant material. When using web-building fibers, the web-building fibers, such as delignified cellulose fibers, are combined with the plant fiber material when forming the slurry. The fiber slurry, with or without the use of web-building fibers, is then used to form a continuous reconstituted sheet. For example, in one embodiment, the fiber slurry is subjected to a papermaking process that may include forming wires, gravity drains, suction drains, felt presses, and dryers (such as Yankee dryers and drum dryers). For example, in one embodiment, the fiber slurry is formed into a continuous sheet on a Fourdrinier table. One advantage of combining extracted plant fibers with cellulose fibers is that the combined fiber feedstock can be processed on conventional papermaking equipment. It should be noted that reconstituted plant material according to the present disclosure, in some embodiments, is well suited for use in papermaking equipment without the addition of web-building fibers.

[0077] In one embodiment, for example, the fiber slurry is placed on a porous forming surface and formed into a sheet. Excess water is removed by gravity drain and / or suction drain. In addition, various presses can be used to facilitate water removal. After the formed sheet is dried, it can be subjected to further processing.

[0078] The reconstituted plant material can also be formed using a variety of other methods. For example, in one embodiment, the reconstituted material can be formed by extruding the extracted plant fibers and web-building fibers. In one embodiment, the reconstituted material can also be subjected to an expansion process. A gas, such as carbon dioxide, or a blowing agent can be used to form a foamed sheet. Suitable expansion media include starch, pullulan or other polysaccharides, solid blowing agents, inorganic salts and organic acids that provide a gaseous component in situ, organic gas agents, inorganic gas agents, and volatile liquid blowing agents. Extrusion also allows for the formation of rods and strands in addition to sheet materials.

[0079] In one aspect, the reconstituted plant material can be formed according to the cast leaf process. In the cast leaf process, the plant material is shredded and then mixed with other materials, such as a binder, to form a slurry. In the slurry, web building fibers are placed. The slurry is transferred to a sheet former to form a web material. The sheet former can be a continuous belt onto which the slurry is continuously distributed. The slurry is spread on the belt to form a sheet. The sheet is then dried, such as by heat. The sheet can be wound onto a bobbin, trimmed, slit, or otherwise manipulated to form a product.

[0080] Although the aerosol-generating material has been described thus far as being made by first extracting and refining the plant material and then blending it with other fibers, it should be understood that one or more types of plant fibers may be blended during the extraction step such that the plant fibers are extracted and refined simultaneously. Of course, as noted above, individual plants may be extracted separately and then blended with other plant fibers during the pulping / refining process.

[0081] Optionally, the formed packaging material, whether or not an aerosol-generating composition is made, may be treated with a soluble portion of the plant fiber, such as a concentrated soluble portion separated from the insoluble fraction. The soluble portion may be applied to the web using various application methods, such as spraying, using a size press, saturating, etc. The amount of water-soluble extract applied to the reconstituted material depends on various factors and the expected end use. Generally, the water-soluble extract is applied to the reconstituted plant material in an amount that does not adversely affect the neutral taste of the underlying material. For example, in one embodiment, the water-soluble extract is applied to the reconstituted material in an amount of less than about 40% by weight, such as less than about 30%, such as less than about 20%, such as less than about 10%, such as less than about 5% by weight, or such as less than about 1% by weight, and generally more than about 0.5% by weight.

[0082] III. Blending of filler materials

[0083] Regardless of the method used, the reconstituted plant material according to the present disclosure may, in one embodiment, comprise a mixture of at least two types of plant fibers. At least one type of the at least two types of plant fibers is selected from extracted cannabis fiber (which may include cannabis leaves, cannabis buds, cannabis flowers, cannabis seeds, any by-products of cannabis extraction, or combinations thereof, as described above), or extracted cocoa shell fiber, and another at least one type of the at least two types of plant fibers is selected from extracted tobacco (which may include tobacco leaves, tobacco stems, any by-products of tobacco extraction, or combinations thereof, as described above), or extracted herb fiber. Of course, in one embodiment, the reconstituted plant material may comprise a combination of a fiber selected from extracted tobacco or extracted herb plant fiber with both cannabis fiber and cocoa shell fiber. Alternatively, the reconstituted plant material may comprise a combination of both extracted tobacco and extracted herb plant fiber with either cannabis fiber or extracted cocoa shell fiber. In yet another embodiment, the reconstituted plant material may include a combination of extracted cannabis fiber, extracted cannabis leaf, extracted tobacco fiber, and extracted herb fiber. In particular, the present disclosure has found that a mixture of the above extracted fibers can form a reconstituted plant material well suited as an aerosol-generating material that produces a pleasant natural taste and odor that is not "papery", has good burn qualities, is free of undesirable active compounds, and serves as an excellent carrier for aerosol-generating fill materials and topical additives.

[0084] For example, in further aspects, the reconstituted plant material can be formed from at least one of extracted cannabis fiber, extracted cocoa shell fiber, or a combination thereof, and the reconstituted plant material can be blended with at least one of tobacco material or herbal material. The tobacco material or herbal material can be blended with the reconstituted material as an aerosol-generating filler material. For example, the tobacco material and / or herbal material can be formed into a second reconstituted plant material, individually or together, as described above, and mixed with the first reconstituted plant material (comprising at least one of cannabis fiber and extracted cocoa shell fiber) as an aerosol-generating filler material. In such an embodiment, the filler material can include disjointed pieces of both the first reconstituted plant material and the second reconstituted plant material. Alternatively, the first reconstituted plant material and the second reconstituted plant material can be refined or re-refined together to form a single reconstituted plant material that includes fiber from both the first reconstituted plant material and the second reconstituted plant material, and then processed as described above to form the aerosol-generating material.

[0085] Regardless of the method selected for blending the tobacco material and / or herbal material with the reconstituted plant material, in one embodiment, the reconstituted plant material includes both hemp fiber and extracted cocoa shell fiber and is blended with at least one of the tobacco material and the herbal material, or is blended with both the tobacco material and the herbal material. Alternatively, the reconstituted plant material includes only one of the hemp fiber and extracted cocoa shell fiber and is blended with at least one of the tobacco material and the herbal material, or is blended with both the tobacco material and the herbal material. Regardless of the method for blending the tobacco material or the herbal material with the reconstituted plant material, the present disclosure has found that the reconstituted plant material and aerosol-generating tobacco material or herbal material described above can form a reconstituted plant material that is well suited as an aerosol-generating material, producing a pleasant natural taste and odor that is not "papery", has good burn qualities, is free of undesirable active compounds, and serves as an excellent carrier for aerosol-generating filler materials and topical additives.

[0086] For example, as discussed above, the present disclosure has found that cocoa shells and extracted hemp fiber produce a neutral or natural taste or odor and serve as an excellent base for other ingredients, such as tobacco and / or extracted herbal plant fiber. This is because the sensory components of cocoa fiber and extracted hemp fiber, respectively, provide a neutral or natural base for other sensory components while maintaining good burning properties. Furthermore, cocoa fiber and hemp fiber are nicotine-free and can be refined to have low levels or no other active or irritating compounds. Similarly, tobacco fiber and / or herbal plant fiber can be used to form a variety of unique aerosol-generating materials with a wide variety of tastes and odors. Thus, the present disclosure has found that unique blends can be formed in accordance with the present disclosure that can create a variety of aerosol-generating compounds that have a neutral or natural taste and odor, good burning properties, and low content of active and / or irritating compounds.

[0087] As mentioned above, the reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure generally comprises plant fibers extracted from one or more of hemp, tobacco, cocoa shell, and herb plants, which are optionally combined with web-building fibers. The web-building fibers are incorporated into the reconstituted plant material or fiber substrate in an amount that can provide strength and / or integrity to the reconstituted material. The incorporation of web-building fibers into the reconstituted plant material can also hold the plant fibers and other plant components, thereby preventing them from separating from the fiber substrate.

[0088] Various types of web-building fibers can be used in the reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure. Of course, it should be understood that in one embodiment, reconstituted tobacco and / or herb plant fibers, or fibers from other plants, can produce reconstituted plant materials with good or sufficient strength properties, so that web-building fibers may not be present in the reconstituted plant product or aerosol-generating composition. However, if web-building fibers are used, in one embodiment, the web-building fibers can be delignified cellulose fibers. For example, the web-building fibers can include wood pulp fibers, such as softwood and hardwood fibers. Other cellulose fibers that can be used include flax fibers, hemp fibers, abaca fibers, bamboo fibers, coconut fibers, cotton fibers, kapok fibers, ramie fibers, jute fibers, or any combination thereof. In one particular embodiment, the web-building fibers include softwood fibers alone or in combination with other fibers, such as abaca fibers.

[0089] In one embodiment, the web construction fibers can be hemp pulp fibers. Hemp pulp fibers can have an average fiber length of more than about 0.5 mm, such as more than about 1 mm, such as more than about 1.5 mm, or such as more than about 1.8 mm, and generally less than about 4 mm, such as less than about 3 mm, such as less than about 2.5 mm, or such as less than about 2.35 mm.

[0090] Typically, when used, the web-building fibers are present in the reconstituted plant material in an amount greater than about 5% by weight, such as greater than about 10% by weight, such as greater than about 15% by weight, such as greater than about 20% by weight, such as greater than about 25% by weight, such as greater than about 30% by weight, such as greater than about 35% by weight, or such as greater than about 40% by weight. Also, the web-building fibers are typically present in the reconstituted plant material in an amount less than about 55% by weight, such as less than about 50% by weight, such as less than about 45% by weight, such as less than about 30% by weight, or such as less than about 25% by weight, or any range therebetween.

[0091] In one embodiment, the web-building fibers incorporated in the reconstituted plant material include a combination of long and short fibers. The long fibers generally have an average length of more than about 1.8 mm, for example, more than about 2.0 mm. Meanwhile, the short fibers generally have an average length of less than about 1.5 mm. The long fibers can be used to improve strength and integrity. Meanwhile, the short fibers can better retain the plant fibers and other components in the fiber substrate. In one embodiment, for example, the short fibers can be included in the reconstituted plant material in an amount of more than about 5% by weight, for example, more than about 10% by weight, and generally less than about 20% by weight. Meanwhile, the long fibers can be included in the reconstituted web material in an amount of more than about 10% by weight, for example, more than about 20% by weight, and generally less than about 50% by weight, for example, less than about 40% by weight. In one embodiment, the short fibers include hardwood fibers and the long fibers include softwood fibers.

[0092] In one embodiment, the reconstituted web material can further include a humectant. The humectant can be incorporated into the reconstituted plant material for various reasons to provide various benefits and advantages. For example, in one embodiment, the humectant is incorporated into the reconstituted plant material to improve the processability and handling of the reconstituted fiber substrate. In another embodiment, the humectant can be added in large amounts to the reconstituted plant material to make it well suited for non-combustion heating applications to generate inhalable aerosols.

[0093] Various humectants can be incorporated into the reconstituted plant material.Humectants include, for example, glycerol, propylene glycol, or a combination thereof.Other humectants that can be used include sorbitol, triethylene glycol, lactic acid, glyceryl diacetate, glyceryl triacetate, triethyl citrate, isopropyl myristate, or any combination thereof, including in combination with glycerol and / or propylene glycol.

[0094] As mentioned above, the amount of humectant included in the reconstituted plant material may depend on various factors. In one embodiment, for example, the humectant is included in the reconstituted plant material in an amount less than about 5% by weight, such as less than about 3% by weight, and generally more than about 0.5% by weight, such as more than about 1% by weight. In another embodiment, the humectant is included in the reconstituted plant material in an amount more than about 5% by weight, such as more than about 10% by weight, such as more than about 15% by weight, or such as more than about 20% by weight, and generally less than about 50% by weight, such as less than about 40% by weight, such as less than about 30% by weight, or such as less than about 25% by weight. When added to the reconstituted plant material in an amount of about 10-40% by weight, such as about 12-30% by weight, or such as about 15-25% by weight, the humectant acts as an aerosol generating agent to promote the generation of aerosols when the reconstituted plant material is heated without burning.

[0095] The reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure can also include a variety of other optional ingredients. For example, in one embodiment, the reconstituted plant material may be optionally treated with a burn control agent. The burn control agent can function as an ash conditioner to control the burn rate of the material or to improve the coherence and / or color of the ash produced upon combustion of the material.

[0096] The burn control agent may include, for example, a salt of a carboxylic acid. For example, the burn control agent may include an alkali metal salt of a carboxylic acid, an alkaline earth metal salt of a carboxylic acid, or any combination thereof. Examples of burn control agents that can be used include salts of acetic acid, citric acid, malic acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid, carbonic acid, formic acid, propionic acid, glycolic acid, fumaric acid, oxalic acid, malonic acid, succinic acid, nitric acid, phosphoric acid, or any combination thereof. Specific burn control agents that can be used include potassium citrate, sodium citrate, potassium succinate, sodium succinate, or any combination thereof. When present, the burn control agent can be applied to the reconstituted plant material in an amount generally greater than about 0.1% by weight, such as greater than about 0.5% by weight, or such as greater than about 1% by weight, and generally less than about 5% by weight, such as less than about 4% by weight, such as less than about 3% by weight, or such as less than about 2% by weight.

[0097] The reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure may optionally include a filler material. The filler material may include particles incorporated into the reconstituted web material for any desired purpose, such as to facilitate the formation of the reconstituted plant material and / or to affect the appearance of the reconstituted plant material. The filler material particles that can be incorporated into the reconstituted web material can be made of calcium carbonate, magnesium oxide, kaolin clay, bentonite, or any combination thereof. The filler material particles can optionally be incorporated into the reconstituted web material in an amount greater than about 1% by weight, such as greater than about 3% by weight, such as greater than about 5% by weight, or such as greater than about 10% by weight, and generally less than about 30% by weight, such as less than about 25% by weight, such as less than about 20% by weight, such as less than about 15% by weight.

[0098] Once the reconstituted plant material has been formed into a fibrous substrate as described above, the fibrous substrate can be used as an aerosol-generating material for use in any suitable smoking article or non-combustion heating device. In one embodiment, the reconstituted plant material is first formed into loose filler material by subjecting it to a chopping or cutting process. For example, the loose filler material can be in the form of strips, pieces, or any combination thereof. The loose filler material is then loaded into any suitable aerosol-generating device or smoking article.

[0099] For example, the smoking article shown in Figures 1 and 2 generally includes a cigarette that contains any of the filler materials described herein as all or part of a smokable column 12. For illustrative purposes only, one such smoking article is shown in Figures 1 and 2. As shown, the smoking article 10 includes a smokable column 12. The smoking article 10 may also include a wrapping material 100 that surrounds the smokable column 12 and defines a perimeter 16. The smoking article 10 may also include a filter 26 surrounded by tipping paper. Note that depending on the smokable column material, the filter may be optional or may be omitted.

[0100] The reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure produces aerosol or smoke with a very neutral and pleasant taste. The aerosol produced from the reconstituted plant material does not contain harsh ingredients. Particularly advantageously, the reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure does not contain nicotine, and therefore can be used to produce or control the delivery of nicotine in nicotine-free smoking articles or nicotine-free aerosol-producing products.

[0101] IV. Additives

[0102] In one embodiment, for example, during the preparation of the reconstituted plant material, the reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure can be combined with a tobacco material to produce an aerosol-generating material that produces an aerosol or smoke with a controlled amount of nicotine compared to the aerosol produced from the tobacco material itself. For example, the reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure can be combined with any suitable tobacco material in an amount that can produce an aerosol-generating material that produces an aerosol with a desired controlled amount of nicotine or tobacco flavor. For example, in one embodiment, the reconstituted plant material contains a reduced amount of nicotine, particularly compared to natural tobacco products, for example, the nicotine content can be less than about 0.5% by weight of the reconstituted plant material.

[0103] As mentioned above, in one embodiment, the reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure may be in the form of a loose filler material that is homogeneously blended with a tobacco material or herb plant material to form an aerosol-generating material that is low in nicotine and has a desired taste and odor. For example, the aerosol-generating material may contain the reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure in an amount greater than about 5% by weight, such as greater than about 10% by weight, such as greater than about 20% by weight, such as greater than about 30% by weight, such as greater than about 40% by weight, such as greater than about 50% by weight, such as greater than about 60% by weight, such as greater than about 70% by weight, or such as greater than about 80% by weight. The reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure may be combined with a tobacco material such that the resulting aerosol-generating material contains the reconstituted plant material in an amount less than about 90% by weight, such as less than about 80% by weight, such as less than about 70% by weight, such as less than about 60% by weight, such as less than about 50% by weight, such as less than about 40% by weight, or such as less than about 30% by weight. For example, in one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material may include the reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure in an amount of about 5% to about 30% by weight, such as about 10% to about 20% by weight. In another embodiment, a greater amount of reconstituted plant material may be incorporated into the aerosol-generating material. In this embodiment, the reconstituted plant material may be included in the aerosol-generating material in an amount of about 30% to about 80% by weight, such as about 40% to about 60% by weight. The weight percentages above are based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating material. In one embodiment, the remaining portion of the aerosol-generating material may include only tobacco filler material or herb plant filler material.

[0104] In yet another embodiment, the reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure may be treated with an aerosol delivery composition containing nicotine, other active compounds (e.g., THC), or flavors (including topical additives) instead of or in addition to being combined with tobacco or herbal plant materials. The aerosol delivery composition may be applied topically to the reconstituted plant material, for example, to incorporate a controlled amount of nicotine, other active compounds, or flavors into the reconstituted plant material. Applying nicotine, other active compounds, or flavors to the reconstituted plant material provides many advantages and benefits. For example, applying nicotine, other active compounds, or flavors to the reconstituted plant material allows for a precise amount of nicotine, other active compounds, or flavors to be provided when the reconstituted plant material is aerosolized and inhaled. Additionally, nicotine, other active compounds, or flavors may be applied to the reconstituted plant material such that the amount of nicotine, other active compounds, or flavors contained in the aerosol generated from the material is consistent from inhalation to inhalation. Thus, in one embodiment, the reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure can be used to form a neutral, pleasant tasting aerosol-generating material while still providing a controlled, such as a small, amount of nicotine, other active compounds, or flavors.

[0105] For example, in one embodiment, the aerosol delivery composition applied to the reconstituted plant material contains a low amount of nicotine, particularly compared to natural tobacco products, e.g., the nicotine content may be less than about 0.5% by weight of the reconstituted plant material. Alternatively, the reconstituted plant material may be made to contain a "high" amount of nicotine compared to natural tobacco products, e.g., the reconstituted plant material may contain more than about 0.5% nicotine. Additionally or alternatively, tobacco material from which all or part of the nicotine has been extracted is used to generate the tobacco taste and odor. On the other hand, nicotine may be applied separately to the packaging material in the form of an aerosol delivery composition to better control the amount of nicotine. In this embodiment, the amount of tobacco material in the aerosol-generating material may be less than about 50% by weight, e.g., less than about 40% by weight, e.g., less than about 30% by weight, e.g., less than about 20% by weight, or e.g., less than about 10% by weight, and generally more than about 2% by weight.

[0106] It should be understood that in addition to being combined with tobacco materials, the reconstituted plant materials of the present disclosure may be combined with any suitable aerosol-generating filler material.

[0107] In addition to nicotine, the reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure is suitable for carrying other aerosol delivery substances.For example, the reconstituted plant material is highly absorbent and can contain up to 50% by weight of topical additives.In this regard, the reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure is also suitable for serving as a carrier for various aerosol delivery compositions.Each aerosol delivery composition can, for example, contain one or more aerosol delivery substances.

[0108] Aerosol delivery compositions applicable to the reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure include solutions, suspensions, oils, etc. For example, solutions and suspensions can be applied to the reconstituted plant material and then dried, leaving a solid residue within the fibrous substrate.

[0109] In one embodiment, the aerosol delivery composition can be obtained by extracting plant matter from a plant for application to the reconstituted plant material. Additionally or alternatively, the present disclosure may include isolating at least one compound from the plant matter, concentrating the plant matter, or purifying or removing compounds from the plant matter to obtain the modified plant matter to be applied to the reconstituted material. Optionally, such a process can convert the original raw plant matter into modified plant matter, whether in the form of a dry extract, liquid extract, liquid, or isolated material, based on the desired final properties of the plant matter to be applied to the reconstituted material. Of course, the plant matter may be the original plant matter or modified plant matter, but in one embodiment, the plant matter is applied to the reconstituted plant material without further processing after extraction. Additionally, although the aerosol delivery composition is described as being extracted from a plant, it should be understood that synthetic or naturally derived aerosol delivery compositions (i.e., not necessarily extracted) may also be used.

[0110] Examples of aerosol delivery substances that may be included in the aerosol delivery composition (in addition to nicotine) include sugars, licorice extracts, menthol, honey, coffee, maple syrup, tobacco, herbal extracts, plant extracts, tea, fruit extracts, flavors (such as clove, anise, cinnamon, sandalwood, geranium, rose oil, vanilla, caramel, cocoa, lemon oil, cassia, spearmint, fennel, ginger, etc.), flavors and aromas (such as cocoa, vanilla, caramel, etc.), artificial flavors and flavors (such as vanillin), or any combination thereof. The extracts applied to the reconstituted plant material may be water-soluble or oil-soluble. Thus, a variety of carrier liquids can be used to apply the aerosol delivery substance to the reconstituted plant material.

[0111] In one embodiment, the reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure can be used as a carrier for components derived from cannabis or can be combined or mixed with cannabis material. For example, cannabis has recently been legalized in Canada and many states in the United States for both medical and recreational use. Various chemicals and compounds found in cannabis are becoming increasingly popular as painkillers to replace traditional painkillers such as opioids. For example, cannabis contains various cannabinoids that can be used to relieve pain. Inhaling an aerosol generated from cannabis is the most common and least expensive way to deliver the drugs contained in cannabis to the user. Unfortunately, however, simply inhaling an aerosol generated from dried cannabis buds or leaves can deliver the painkillers contained in the plant in uneven concentrations or at higher concentrations than desired. For example, the delivery of cannabinoids can vary dramatically depending on the particular plant or the particular plant part used to generate the aerosol. In addition, the delivery of cannabinoids can vary dramatically depending on other factors such as the packing density of the reconstituted material, the particular type of aerosol generating device or smoking article used to generate the aerosol. In addition, the aerosol generated from the cannabis plant may contain irritants, which may result in the generation of a relatively harsh aerosol or smoke. However, the reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure can be used to deliver cannabinoids in the aerosol generated from the reconstitution without any of the above-mentioned drawbacks and deficiencies. For example, the aerosol generated from the reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure is non-irritating, does not contain harsh ingredients, and has a neutral taste. In addition, topical application of the cannabinoids to the reconstituted plant material allows for uniform and consistent delivery of the cannabinoids contained in the aerosol generated from the reconstituted plant material.

[0112] Cannabinoids that can be controlled and regulated by the reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure include cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC, found in cannabis, acts on certain receptors in the brain, resulting in a euphoric and relaxed state. Meanwhile, CBD also acts on pain receptors in the brain, but does not produce the euphoric sensation that THC produces. According to the present disclosure, in one embodiment, THC can be applied to the reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure, CBD can be applied to the reconstituted plant material, or both THC and CBD can be applied to the reconstituted plant material.

[0113] In addition to THC and CBD, various other cannabinoids can also be controlled and regulated by the reconstituted plant material according to the present disclosure.For example, other cannabinoids contained in cannabis include cannabichromene, cannabinol, cannabigerol, tetrahydrocannabivarin, cannabidivarin, cannabidiolic acid, other cannabidiol derivatives, and other tetrahydrocannabinol derivatives.The above cannabinoids can be used alone or in any combination and can be applied to the reconstituted plant material.

[0114] The cannabinoids can be applied to the reconstituted plant material using a variety of methods. For example, in one embodiment, the cannabinoids, such as CBD, can be formulated in an aqueous suspension or dissolved in a solvent, such as a fat or oil. For example, a cannabis oil extract can be obtained from a raw cannabis plant. The oil extract can include THC alone, CBD alone, or a combination of THC and CBD. The oil extract can be applied to the reconstituted plant material such that the aerosol generated from the reconstituted plant material contains a controlled amount of cannabinoids. The reconstituted plant material can also be configured to provide a uniform delivery of the cannabinoids in the aerosol generated from the reconstituted plant material in addition to containing a controlled amount of cannabinoids.

[0115] Other ingredients that can be added to the reconstituted plant material are various flavors, especially terpenes. For example, a terpene or a blend of terpenes can be used to create a desirable aroma and indicate the quality of the product to the user. Also, one or more terpenes can improve the sensory response when inhaling the aerosol generated from the reconstituted material.

[0116] Various terpenes can be applied to the reconstituted plant material, including, but not limited to, pinene, humulene, b-caryophyllene, isopulegol, guaiol, neryl acetate, neomenthyl acetate, limonene, menthone, dihydrojasmone, terpinolene, menthol, phellandrene, terpinene, geranyl acetate, ocimene, myrcene, 1,4-cineole, 3-carene, linalool, menthofuran, perillyl alcohol, pinane, neomenthyl acetyl, α-bisabolol, borneol, camphene, camphor, caryophyllene oxide, α-cedrene, β-eudesmol, fenchol, geraniol, isoborneol, nerol, sabinene, α-terpineol, or any combination thereof.

[0117] In one embodiment, various types of terpenes can be blended to mimic the ratio of terpenes found in natural cannabis plants. For example, about 2 to about 12 types of terpenes can be blended and applied to the reconstituted plant material. Each terpene can be applied to the reconstituted plant material in an amount greater than about 0.001% by weight and generally less than about 2% by weight. For example, each terpene can be applied in an amount of about 0.01% to about 1.5% by weight. Alternatively, for example, each terpene can be applied in an amount of about 0.1% to about 1.1% by weight.

[0118] Exemplary blends of terpenes include α-pinene, β-caryophyllene, and β-pinene; α-humulene, α-pinene, β-caryophyllene, β-pinene, and guaiol; β-caryophyllene, β-pinene, and d-limonene; β-caryophyllene, β-pinene, and nerolidol; β-caryophyllene, β-pinene, d-limonene, and terpinolene; α-bisabolol, α-pinene, β-caryophyllene, β-myrcene, β-pinena, and d-limonene. β-caryophyllene, β-pinena, and p-cymene; α-humulene, β-caryophyllene, β-pinene, d-limonene, linalool, and nerolidol; β-caryophyllene and β-pinene; β-caryophyllene, β-myrcene, and terpinolene; α-pinene, β-caryophyllene, β-pinene, and d-limonene; α-humulene, α-pinene, β-caryophyllene, β-myrcene, β-pinena, d-limonene, and guaiol.

[0119] The aerosol delivery composition comprising one or more aerosol delivery agents as described above can be applied to the reconstituted plant material using any suitable method or technique. For example, the aerosol delivery composition can be sprayed or coated onto the fiber substrate in any suitable manner.

[0120] The reconstituted plant material produced according to the present disclosure has excellent mechanical properties and a highly desirable aesthetic appearance.Generally, the reconstituted plant material has a basis weight of more than about 40 gsm, such as more than about 45 gsm, or such as more than about 55 gsm.The basis weight of the reconstituted plant material is generally less than about 120 gsm, such as less than about 100 gsm, or such as less than about 85 gsm.

[0121] In one embodiment, the reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure can be formed into loose filler material using various methods, such as extrusion, or cutting and / or chopping the reconstituted material. Filler material made according to the present disclosure can be approximately 4 cm 3 / g, e.g., about 5 cm 3 / g or, for example, about 6 cm 3 / g and generally about 10 cm3 / g, e.g., about 8 cm 3 The reconstituted plant material has a filling force of less than about 1 / g. The reconstituted plant material has excellent burn properties. For example, the reconstituted plant material has a static burn rate of more than about 4 mm / mm, such as more than about 5 mm / mm, and generally has a static burn rate of less than about 8 mm / mm, such as less than about 7 mm / mm.

[0122] The reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure has excellent taste characteristics while being nicotine-free and producing less tar, especially compared to conventional tobacco materials. Surprisingly, it has also been found that the reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure does not produce a "papery" taste, despite containing significant amounts of cellulose fibers, such as softwood fibers. Although the details are unclear, it is believed that the extracted plant material masks or otherwise suppresses the papery taste when the reconstituted plant material is burned or otherwise heated. This discovery was surprising and completely unexpected.

[0123] Thus, the aerosol-generating material incorporating the plant regenerated material of the present invention can be used in various types of aerosol-generating products. In one embodiment, for example, the aerosol-generating material of the present disclosure can be formed into a smokable rod and wrapped in a wrapping material. The smoking article or cigarette can include a filter located at one end thereof. However, because the aerosol generated from the reconstituted plant material has a neutral, bland characteristic, and the reconstituted plant material is non-irritating and has a low nicotine and tar content, cigarettes produced according to the present disclosure may not include a filter.

[0124] In one embodiment, the reconstituted plant material is formed into the form of a sheet in a paper former. The sheet is then cut into strips and fed into a drum that is rotated or agitated. In the drum, the reconstituted plant material is mixed with one or more humectants and a casing. The casing may include various flavorings or mainstream smoke enhancing elements. For example, the casing may include licorice, corn syrup, and / or sugars. After processing in the drum, the reconstituted plant material is subjected to a cutting or shredding process to obtain a desired particle size. The cut reconstituted plant material is also referred to as cut rag. After cutting to the desired size, various aerosol delivery substances or flavorings may be applied to the reconstituted plant material. For example, one or more terpenes and / or one or more cannabinoids (e.g., CBD and / or THC) may be applied to the reconstituted plant material. After the aerosol delivery substances are applied to the reconstituted plant material, the reconstituted plant material is packaged and shipped for use in any suitable form. In one aspect, the reconstituted plant material may be fed into a cigarette making machine to form the reconstituted plant material into rod-like elements. Alternatively, the reconstituted plant material may be packaged in loose form for use as a roll-your-own tobacco product, a non-combustible heat-not-burn product, or as snuff.

[0125] In addition to cigarettes, aerosol-forming materials made in accordance with the present disclosure may also include cigars and cigarillos.

[0126] The reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure may also be used to manufacture snuff products, which may be dry products or may contain a significant amount of moisture.

[0127] When producing a snuff product, the product may be produced solely from the reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure, or may be produced by blending the reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure with other filler materials. When producing a smokeless blended product using the reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure, the amount of web-building fibers in the product may be reduced. For example, the amount of web-building fibers may be less than about 5% by weight, such as less than about 3% by weight. In one aspect, the reconstituted plant material may be free of web-building fibers. In another embodiment, the reconstituted plant material may include web-building fibers in an amount of about 5% to about 50% by weight.

[0128] To produce snuff products, the reconstituted plant material of the present disclosure is ground or cut to a desired size. For example, the particle size can be relatively small or striped depending on the final application. In one embodiment, for example, the reconstituted plant material is cut or ground to an average particle size of more than about 50 μm, for example more than about 100 μm, and generally less than about 3 mm, for example less than about 2 mm. Alternatively, the reconstituted plant material can be ground to a powder or granular material with an average particle size of less than about 100 μm.

[0129] If desired, the reconstituted plant material may be heat treated. Heat treatment may provide texture and color to the reconstituted plant material and enhance natural flavors. After the optional heat treatment step, additives such as pH adjusters and flavorings may be added to the reconstituted plant material. When producing a moist smokeless blended product, water is added to the smokeless blended product such that the moisture content is greater than about 10% by weight, such as greater than about 20% by weight, such as greater than about 30% by weight, or such as greater than about 40% by weight, and generally less than about 60% by weight, such as less than about 50% by weight. If desired, one or more humectants may be added to the smokeless blended product to increase the wetness of the smokeless blended product. In one embodiment, for example, sodium chloride and / or sodium carbonate may be added to the reconstituted plant material.

[0130] The reconstituted plant material can also be used to produce a dry snuff product, such as dry oral snuff, which is produced by grinding the reconstituted plant material to a powder to which other ingredients, such as flavourings, are added.

[0131] In one aspect, the smokeless reconstituted cannabis material can be placed in an oral pouch intended for use in the oral cavity, for example, between the upper and lower gums of the lips or cheeks. The oral pouch can have a rectangular shape, such as a rectangle. The total weight of the oral pouch can generally range from about 0.1 g to about 2.5 g, for example, from about 0.2 g to about 0.8 g. The oral pouch can be formed from any suitable saliva-permeable pouch material, such as a nonwoven fabric. The pouch material may also include a binder to facilitate sealing of the pouch material by ultrasonic bonding. The binder may be, for example, an acrylate polymer. In one aspect, the pouch material can be formed from a nonwoven material including regenerated cellulose fibers, such as viscose rayon staple fibers, and a binder. If desired, the pouch material may include additional flavorings and / or colorants.

[0132] In one embodiment, the smoking article manufactured according to the present disclosure has low flame spread. For example, the wrapping material of the smoking article includes a plurality of separate low flame spread areas spaced apart along the axial direction of the smoking article. For example, in one embodiment, the separate low flame spread areas can be in the form of a circular band. The circular band can have a width such that, when the smoking article is left in a static burning state, oxygen is restricted to the burning coal for a length or period of time sufficient for oxygen to extinguish the coal. For example, the circular band can have a width of more than about 3 mm, such as more than about 4 mm, such as more than about 5 mm, and generally less than about 10 mm, such as less than about 8 mm, such as less than about 7 mm.

[0133] The spacing between the low flame spread areas can vary depending on a variety of factors. The spacing should not be so large that the tobacco burns for a sufficient length of time to ignite the substrate before the coal burns into the low flame spread area. The spacing also affects the thermal inertia of the coal during burning, i.e., the ability of the coal to burn through the low flame spread area without self-extinguishing. In general, the spacing between the annular zones should be greater than about 5 mm, such as greater than about 10 mm, such as greater than about 15 mm, and generally less than about 50 mm, such as less than about 40 mm, or such as less than about 30 mm. Each smoking article can include about 1 to about 3 annular zones.

[0134] Generally, any suitable flame retardant composition can be applied to the packaging material of the smoking article.In one embodiment, for example, the flame retardant composition comprises a film-forming material.For example, the film-forming material that can be used according to the present invention includes alginate, guar gum, pectin, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl acetate, cellulose derivatives (e.g., ethyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose), starch, starch derivatives, etc.

[0135] In a particular embodiment, the film-forming material may comprise alginate alone or in combination with starch.Generally, alginate is a derivative of an acidic polysaccharide or gum that exists in brown seaweed as an insoluble mixed salt of calcium, sodium, potassium and magnesium.Generally speaking, these derivatives are calcium, sodium, potassium and / or magnesium salts of high molecular weight polysaccharides composed of various proportions of D-mannuronic acid and L-guluronic acid.Examples of salts or derivatives of alginic acid include ammonium alginate, potassium alginate, sodium alginate, propylene glycol alginate, or any combination thereof.

[0136] In one embodiment, an alginate having a relatively low molecular weight may be used. For example, the alginate has a viscosity of less than about 500 cP when contained in a 3 wt% aqueous solution at 25°C. More specifically, the alginate may have a viscosity of less than 250 cP, particularly less than 100 cP, and in one embodiment, a viscosity of about 20 to 60 cP, under the above conditions. As used herein, viscosity is measured by a Brookfield LVF viscometer equipped with an appropriate spindle depending on the viscosity. At the above low viscosity levels, the alginate composition has a high solids content, but can still be formed with a solution viscosity low enough to apply the composition to paper packaging materials using conventional techniques. For example, the solids content of the alginate solution prepared according to the present invention may be greater than about 6 wt%, particularly greater than about 10 wt%, and more specifically, in the range of about 10 wt% to about 20 wt%.

[0137] At the above solids content, the alginate composition used according to the present invention can have a solution viscosity of more than about 250 cP, particularly more than about 500 cP, especially more than about 800 cP, and in one embodiment, a viscosity of more than about 1,000 cP at 25°C. In general, the solution viscosity of the alginate film-forming composition can be adjusted according to the method of applying the film-forming composition to the packaging material. For example, the solution viscosity of the film-forming composition can be adjusted according to whether the composition is sprayed or printed on the packaging material.

[0138] It should also be appreciated that in other embodiments, alginates having a relatively high molecular weight may be used depending on the application. For example, the alginate may have a viscosity of greater than about 500 cP when contained in a 3 wt % aqueous solution at 25° C.

[0139] In addition to the film-forming material, the low flame spread composition applied to the packaging material may include various other components. For example, in one embodiment, the low flame spread composition may include a filler material. Examples of filler materials include, for example, calcium carbonate, calcium chloride, calcium lactate, calcium gluconate, etc. In addition to calcium compounds, magnesium compounds such as magnesium oxide and various other particles such as clay particles may be used.

[0140] The low-flame-spread composition may be aqueous in one embodiment. In particular, the low-flame-spread composition may comprise an aqueous dispersion or an aqueous solution. Alternatively, the low-flame-spread composition may comprise a non-aqueous solution or dispersion before being applied to the paper packaging material. In this embodiment, for example, the low-flame-spread composition may comprise an alcohol for application to the packaging material.

[0141] Also, unlike the film-forming composition, the low flame spread composition may include a cellulose slurry (a type of dispersion). As used herein, a slurry containing paper-making materials is not a film-forming composition. The cellulose slurry applied to the paper substrate may include fibrous cellulose, one or more filler materials, and / or cellulose particles. As used herein, cellulose fibers and cellulose particles should be distinguished from derivatized cellulose, such as carboxymethyl cellulose. For example, cellulose fibers and cellulose particles are not water-soluble. In one embodiment, the cellulose slurry applied to the packaging material may include microcrystalline cellulose.

[0142] The formed low-flame spread composition is applied to a discrete area of ​​the packaging material. There are various methods for applying the low-flame spread composition to the packaging material. For example, the low-flame spread composition is sprayed, brushed, applied with a movable orifice, or printed onto the packaging material. To form the treated area, the low-flame spread composition can be applied in a single pass or multiple pass operation. For example, the low-flame spread composition can be applied to the packaging material in successive steps to form a low-flame spread area on the packaging material having low flame spread properties. Generally, in a multiple pass process, the treated area can be formed by applying the low-flame spread composition in about 2 to about 8 passes.

[0143] The amount of the low flame spread composition applied to the packaging material can vary. For example, the low flame spread composition is applied to the packaging material in an amount of less than about 15% by weight, such as less than about 10% by weight, or such as less than about 8% by weight. Generally, the low flame spread composition is applied in an amount of more than 1% by weight based on the weight of the low flame spread composition contained in the low flame spread region.

[0144] As used herein, the weight percentages above are based on the area treated with the chemical components. In other words, the weight percentages above for the low flame spread composition are the amount applied within the treated area, not the total amount applied to the entire surface of the packaging material.

[0145] The methods of the present disclosure can produce low flame spread regions that have relatively high permeability and relatively low diffusivity, for example, smoking articles that have a permeability greater than 10 CORESTA, yet still pass the ASTM E2187-09 test at least 75% of the time.

[0146] Generally, the low flame spread region has a relatively low diffusivity. The diffusivity is measured at room temperature (23°C). Generally, the diffusivity of the low flame spread region at 23°C may be less than about 0.5 cm / s, such as less than 0.4 cm / s, or such as less than 0.3 cm / s. In an embodiment, the low flame spread region may have a diffusivity of more than about 0.05 cm / s, such as more than about 0.15 cm / s, such as more than 0.16 cm / s, or such as more than 0.17 cm / s, while still having the desired low flame spread. The diffusivity is measured using a Sodim CO2 diffusivity tester.

[0147] In addition to being incorporated into smoking articles, the aerosol-forming materials of the present disclosure may also be packaged in a variety of other forms and sold to consumers. For example, in one embodiment, the aerosol-forming materials may be packaged and sold as filler material in the form of strips or pieces. The filler material may be used as a filler material for pipes or hand-rolled cigarettes, or may be used in non-combustion heated aerosol generating devices.

[0148] The present disclosure may be better understood with reference to the following examples.

[0149] Working Example

[0150] The following test methods were used to define various parameters as well as to obtain the results of the examples that follow.

[0151] Tests and Methods

[0152] Packing force and equilibrium moisture content (EMC)

[0153] Samples of the filler material were conditioned (22°C ± 1°C, 60% ± 3% RH, minimum 48 h) according to ISO 3402. After conditioning, the filler material was spread (if necessary) and cut into cut lugs (instrument: BUROMA disc cutter; width: 0.7 mm).

[0154] To perform the packing force analysis, 14 g of cut packing material (accuracy: ±0.01 g) was placed in a Borgwaldt cylinder (model DM4625; diameter = 5.98 cm, height = 10.8 cm). A weight of 2 kg was applied for 60 seconds. When the piston was released, the height of the filler column was displayed and recorded (H, in cm).

[0155] The packing force of the sample (unit: cc / g) was calculated as 2×H.

[0156] The equilibrium moisture content was measured according to the following method: The weight of an empty pan (made of glass) was measured and recorded (T) with an accuracy of ±1 mg.

[0157] The loaf was then filled with the cut filling material (5-7 g) and the weight of the loaf with the cut filling material was recorded (W1, accuracy: ±1 mg).

[0158] The loaves with cut filling material were then dried in a Hearson oven (Mark V) at 100°C for 3 hours (± 5 minutes).

[0159] After drying, the pan was cooled in a desiccator for 15 min and weighed (W2, accuracy: ±1 mg). The moisture content (%) of the sample was calculated as follows:

[0160]

number

[0161] Water-soluble component content

[0162] Samples of the filler material were ground to a powder (using an IKA or RETSCHE-MUHLE grinder; mesh size: 1 mm).

[0163] A glass fiber filter (DURIEUX filter Nr28, diameter = 55 mm) was placed in a stainless steel pan. The pan + filter was then weighed (T, accuracy: ±1 mg). A 5000 mg (±200 mg) sample of the ground filler material was placed in the pan and weighed accurately (W1, accuracy: ±1 mg).

[0164] The ground packing material was gently sprayed with water and the pan was attached to a laboratory percolator (RENEKA LC). Extractions were performed three times according to the predefined percolation settings. After percolation, the samples were carefully washed with water and the pan was placed in an electric oven to dry at 100°C for 16 hours.

[0165] After washing, the pan was cooled in a desiccator for 15 min and weighed (W3, accuracy: ±1 mg).

[0166] The dry weight (W2) of the ground sample used in the test for measuring the content of water-soluble components was calculated as W2 = W1 × (100-H) / 100.

[0167] Finally, the percentage of water soluble components in the dried final product was calculated as follows:

[0168]

number

[0169] Cigarette making

[0170] The filler material samples were conditioned according to ISO 3402 (22°C ± 1°C, 60% ± 3% RH, minimum 48 hours). After conditioning, the filler material sheets were cut into strips (instrument: BUROMA disc cutter, width: 0.7 mm). The cut filler material was sieved through a laboratory sieve (mesh size: 1 mm).

[0171] Next, the empty cigarette tube was filled with the cut filler material to 100% using a PRIVILEG hand-rolling machine. The weight of the cut filler material was adjusted so that the pressure drop was 100±5 mmWG.

[0172] The empty cigarette tubes had the following characteristics: Tube weight = 200±5mg Total length = 84mm, diameter = 8.1±0.1mm, tip length = 25mm Acetate filter (denier = 3.0Y / 35000HK, length = 15±0.5mm, pressure loss = 43±3mmWG) Porosity of cigarette paper = 50CU No filter ventilation

[0173] The cigarettes were then sorted using a SODIMAT instrument. The cigarette lots selected for smoke analysis had the following characteristics: filler weight: mean target weight ± 10 mg, pressure drop (PD): mean target PD ± 3.5 mmWG.

[0174] Prior to smoke analysis, cigarettes were conditioned according to ISO 3402 (22°C ± 1°C, 60% ± 3% RH, minimum 48 hours).

[0175] Combustion Power Analysis

[0176] The ten cigarettes were placed in a FILTRONA static burn rate measuring apparatus, which is equipped with ten cigarette holders and ten individual chronometers.

[0177] Two cotton threads were placed 40 mm apart above the 10 cigarettes. A chronometer was attached to each cotton thread.

[0178] Each cigarette was lit in sequence. For each cigarette, a chronometer was automatically started when the burn cone cut the first cotton thread. When the char line reached the second cotton thread, the chronometer was automatically stopped, thus measuring the time required to burn a 40 mm rod of filler material.

[0179] The average time (in seconds) was calculated from the 10 chronometer readings.

[0180] The average burning power (mm / min) was calculated as follows:

[0181]

number

[0182] Analysis of tar, nicotine, water, and CO in smoke

[0183] Two sets of 20 cigarettes were smoked in a Borgwaldt RM20 kit machine according to ISO standards (ISO 3308).

[0184] Nicotine and water in the smoke (mg / cig) were measured by gas chromatography according to the ISO 10315 and ISO 10362-1 standards.

[0185] Tar in the smoke (mg / cig) was measured according to the ISO 4387 standard.

[0186] CO (mg / cig) in the smoke was measured using a non-dispersive infrared (NDIR) method according to the ISO 8454 standard.

[0187] Example 1

[0188] A cocoa filling material according to the present disclosure comprising fibers derived from the cocoa (Theobroma cacao) tree was produced according to the following method: cocoa husk was ground in a knife mill to particles of about 1 mm size. The ground husk material was then mixed with water at 70°C for 45 minutes in a husk:water ratio of 1:10. The mixture was then pressed to separate the soluble portion (cocoa husk liquor) from the insoluble portion (cocoa husk fibers). The fiber fraction was refined using a disc refiner. After refining, delignified fibers from resin trees (softwood fibers) were added to the refined fiber fraction in a ratio of 40%:60% delignified fibers:fibers according to the present disclosure derived from cocoa trees (cocoa filling material) to produce reconstituted cocoa filling material sheets. The cocoa filling material sheets were then dried.

[0189] The cocoa filling material exhibited the following properties:

[0190] [Table 1]

[0191] Example 2

[0192] A cocoa filling material according to the present disclosure comprising fibers derived from the cocoa (Theobroma cacao) tree was produced according to the following method: cocoa husk was ground in a knife mill to particles of about 1 mm size. The ground husk material was then mixed with water at 70°C for 45 minutes in a husk:water ratio of 1:10. The mixture was then pressed to separate the soluble portion (cocoa husk liquor) from the insoluble portion (cocoa husk fibers). The fiber fraction was refined using a disc refiner. After refining, delignified fibers from resin trees (softwood fibers) were added to the refined fiber fraction in a ratio of 40%:60% delignified fibers:fibers according to the present disclosure derived from cocoa trees (cocoa filling material) to produce reconstituted cocoa filling material sheets. The cocoa filling material sheets were then dried. In parallel, the aqueous portion (cocoa husk liquid) derived from the cocoa tree, also called "extract", prepared as above, was concentrated in an evaporator to a solids concentration of 20% and then coated or not coated on the cocoa filling material sheets by coating in a size press. Before drying, various other substances were added to the cocoa filling material sheets by coating and / or spraying according to the following table:

[0193] [Table 2]

[0194] Several cigarettes (A, B, C, D, E, F, H) were prepared for sensory evaluation by an expert group. The G sample was evaluated in the PAX3 system for non-combustion heating applications.

[0195] The following results were obtained:

[0196] [Table 3]

[0197] Example 3

[0198] A cocoa filling material according to the present disclosure comprising fibers derived from the cocoa (Theobroma cacao) tree was produced according to the following method: cocoa husk was ground in a knife mill to particles of about 1 mm size. The ground husk material was then mixed with water at 70°C for 45 minutes in a husk:water ratio of 1:10. The mixture was then pressed to separate the soluble portion (cocoa husk liquor) from the insoluble portion (cocoa husk fibers). The fiber fraction was refined using a disc refiner. After refining, delignified fibers from resin trees (softwood fibers) were added to the refined fiber fraction in a ratio of 40%:60% delignified fibers:fibers according to the present disclosure derived from cocoa trees (cocoa filling material) to produce reconstituted cocoa filling material sheets. The cocoa filling material sheets were then dried.

[0199] Tobacco extracts obtained from the tobacco materials prepared as above for use in the aqueous portion (tobacco liquid) are also called "extracts" of tobacco. These extracts were then added to the cocoa-filled material sheets by coating. For demonstration purposes, some reconstituted tobacco materials were also produced in the same manner.

[0200] The following samples were prepared:

[0201] [Table 4]

[0202] Sensory evaluation Sample A and Sample F were compared in a non-combustion heating device (PAX3). No significant differences were found. The cocoa filler was neutral. The cocoa filler could be substituted for tobacco fiber. Sample D and Sample E were compared under conventional cigarette conditions. No significant differences were found. The cocoa filler was neutral. The cocoa filler could replace tobacco fiber. Sample A and Sample B were compared in a non-combustion heating device. As expected, the tobacco properties and nicotine impact were lower in Sample B.

[0203] Example 4

[0204] A cocoa-tobacco filler material according to the present disclosure comprising fibers derived from the cocoa (Theobroma cacao) tree and tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) plant was produced according to the following method: the cocoa husk was ground in a knife mill to particles of approximately 1 mm size. The ground husk material was then mixed with water at 70°C for 45 minutes in a husk:water ratio of 1:10. The mixture was then pressed to separate the soluble portion (cocoa husk liquid) from the insoluble portion (cocoa husk fiber). The fiber fraction was refined using a disc refiner. After purification, delignified fiber from the resin tree and tobacco fiber prepared as above were added to the refined fiber fraction in a delignified fiber:tobacco fiber:cocoa fiber ratio of 20%:60%:20% to produce a reconstituted cocoa filler material sheet. The cocoa-tobacco filler material sheet was then dried.

[0205] In parallel, the aqueous portion (tobacco liquid) derived from the tobacco plant, also called tobacco "extract", prepared as described above, was concentrated in an evaporator to a solids concentration of 50% and then coated or not coated onto a sheet of cocoa-tobacco filler material by coating in a size press and then dried. Also, for demonstration purposes, several reconstituted tobacco materials were produced by the same method.

[0206] The following samples were prepared:

[0207] [Table 5]

[0208] Sensory evaluation Samples C and F were compared in a non-combustion heating device (PAX3). No significant differences were found. The cocoa filling material was neutral and could be substituted for tobacco fiber.

[0209] Example 5

[0210] A cocoa filling material according to the present disclosure comprising fibers derived from the cocoa (Theobroma cacao) tree was produced according to the following method: cocoa husk was ground in a knife mill to particles of about 1 mm size. The ground husk material was then mixed with water at 70°C for 45 minutes in a husk:water ratio of 1:10. The mixture was then pressed to separate the soluble portion (cocoa husk liquor) from the insoluble portion (cocoa husk fibers). The fiber fraction was refined using a disc refiner. After refining, delignified fibers from resin trees (softwood fibers) were added to the refined fiber fraction in a ratio of 40%:60% delignified fibers:fibers according to the present disclosure derived from cocoa trees (cocoa filling material) to produce reconstituted cocoa filling material sheets. The cocoa filling material sheets were then dried.

[0211] In parallel, the aqueous portion (hemp juice) derived from the hemp (Cannabis sativa) plant, also called hemp "extract" prepared as described above, was concentrated in an evaporator to a solids concentration of 50% and then coated on a sheet of cocoa filling material by coating in a size press, followed by drying.

[0212] The following samples were prepared:

[0213] [Table 6]

[0214] Sensory evaluation Sample C was evaluated under conventional cigarette conditions. Smoke volume was good, burn and aroma were good. No harshness. Low bitterness. Good hemp character and no cocoa character. Cocoa fiber was neutral. Sample D was evaluated in a non-combustion heat device. Smoke yield was very good. No cocoa character, distinct hemp / cannabis flavor. Not harsh. Very pleasant. Cocoa fiber was neutral.

[0215] As discussed above, a variety of aerosol-generating materials can be produced according to the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material contains a reconstituted plant material that includes a combination of extracted cannabis fiber and extracted tobacco fiber. In one embodiment, the reconstituted plant material includes a combination of extracted herb plant fiber and extracted cannabis fiber. In one embodiment, the reconstituted plant material includes a combination of extracted cannabis fiber, extracted tobacco fiber, and extracted herb plant fiber.

[0216] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material contains reconstituted plant material comprising a combination of extracted plant fiber and extracted tobacco fiber. In one embodiment, the reconstituted plant material comprises a combination of extracted plant fiber and extracted herb plant fiber. In one embodiment, the reconstituted plant material comprises a combination of extracted plant fiber, extracted tobacco fiber, and extracted herb plant fiber.

[0217] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material contains reconstituted plant material comprising extracted cannabis fiber, extracted plant fiber, extracted tobacco fiber, and extracted herb plant fiber. In one embodiment, the reconstituted plant material comprises a combination of extracted cannabis fiber, extracted plant fiber, and extracted tobacco fiber. In one embodiment, the reconstituted plant material comprises a combination of extracted cannabis fiber, extracted plant fiber, and extracted herb plant fiber.

[0218] In any of the above embodiments, the reconstituted plant material may further include web-building fibers.

[0219] In any of the above-described embodiments, the web-constructing fibers combined with the reconstituted plant material can vary. In one embodiment, the web-constructing fibers include wood pulp fibers, such as softwood fibers, hardwood fibers, or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, the web-constructing fibers include softwood fibers and hardwood fibers in a ratio of 1:2 to 2:1. In one embodiment, the web-constructing fibers include flax fibers. In one embodiment, the web-constructing fibers include abaca fibers. In one embodiment, the web-constructing fibers include bamboo fibers. In one embodiment, the web-constructing fibers include coconut fibers. In one embodiment, the web-constructing fibers include ramie fibers. In one embodiment, the web-constructing fibers include jute fibers. In one embodiment, the web-constructing fibers include hemp pulp fibers. The hemp pulp fibers may be used alone or in combination with wood pulp fibers (e.g., softwood fibers, hardwood fibers, or a combination thereof). In one embodiment, the web-constructing fibers are present in the aerosol-generating material in an amount greater than about 3% by weight. In one embodiment, the web constructing fibers are present in the aerosol-generating material in an amount greater than about 5% by weight. In one embodiment, the web constructing fibers are present in the aerosol-generating material in an amount greater than about 8% by weight. In one embodiment, the web constructing fibers are present in the aerosol-generating material in an amount greater than about 12% by weight. In one embodiment, the web constructing fibers are present in the aerosol-generating material in an amount greater than about 18% by weight. In one embodiment, the web constructing fibers are present in the aerosol-generating material in an amount less than about 50% by weight, for example less than about 40% by weight.

[0220] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating material of the present disclosure may include an aerosol delivery composition applied to the reconstituted plant material. The aerosol delivery composition includes an aerosol delivery substance. In one embodiment, the aerosol delivery substance includes a medicament or flavoring. In any embodiment described herein, the aerosol delivery composition may be an oil, an aqueous solution, an aqueous dispersion, or a solid. In one embodiment, the aerosol delivery substance includes nicotine. In one embodiment, the aerosol delivery substance includes a cannabinoid. In one embodiment, the aerosol delivery substance includes tetrahydrocannabinol. In one embodiment, the aerosol delivery substance includes cannabidiol. In one embodiment, the aerosol delivery substance includes a combination of tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol. The nicotine or cannabinoid may be combined with other aerosol delivery substances. In one embodiment, the other aerosol delivery substance includes a sugar. In one embodiment, the other aerosol delivery substance includes honey. In one embodiment, the other aerosol delivery substance includes coffee. In one embodiment, the other aerosol delivery substance includes maple syrup. In one embodiment, the other aerosol delivery material comprises a plant extract, such as a tea extract, or an extract of a herb. In one embodiment, the other aerosol delivery material comprises a tobacco extract. In one embodiment, the other aerosol delivery material comprises only a tobacco extract. In one embodiment, the other aerosol delivery material comprises a terpene or a blend of terpenes. The terpene or a blend of terpenes can be used with any of the above aerosol delivery materials that include nicotine or cannabinoids.

[0221] The aerosol delivery composition comprising one or more aerosol delivery substances may be present in the reconstituted plant material in an amount greater than about 1% by weight. In one embodiment, the one or more aerosol delivery substances may be present in the reconstituted plant material in an amount greater than about 3% by weight, for example, greater than about 5% by weight. The one or more aerosol delivery substances may also be present in the reconstituted plant material in an amount less than about 50% by weight, for example, less than about 25% by weight.

[0222] In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material may include a reconstituted plant material blended with another material. For example, in one embodiment, the reconstituted plant material includes extracted cannabis fiber blended with a tobacco material. In one embodiment, the reconstituted plant material includes extracted plant fiber blended with a tobacco material. In one embodiment, the reconstituted plant material includes a combination of extracted cannabis fiber and an herbal material. In one embodiment, the reconstituted plant material includes a combination of extracted plant fiber and an herbal material. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material includes a reconstituted plant material including a combination of extracted cannabis fiber and extracted plant fiber mixed or blended with a tobacco material. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material includes a reconstituted plant material including a combination of extracted cannabis fiber and extracted plant fiber mixed or blended with a herbal material. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material includes a reconstituted plant material including extracted cannabis fiber mixed or blended with a tobacco material and a herbal material. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material includes a reconstituted plant material including extracted cannabis fiber mixed or blended with a tobacco material and a herbal material. In one embodiment, the aerosol-generating material includes a reconstituted plant material including extracted plant fiber mixed or blended with a tobacco material and a herbal material.

[0223] The tobacco material may be cut tobacco. When the aerosol-generating material includes extracted cannabis fiber, the extracted cannabis fiber may include extraction by-products from additional aqueous extraction.

[0224] In one embodiment, the reconstituted plant material comprises extracted plant fiber, such as tobacco fiber. The reconstituted plant material further comprises an aerosol delivery composition comprising an aerosol delivery material. The aerosol delivery material may comprise nicotine, tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol, or any combination thereof.

[0225] In any of the above-described embodiments, the aerosol-generating material can be used in a variety of products. In any of the above-described embodiments, the aerosol-generating material can be formed into a smokable rod and wrapped with a wrapping material to create a smoking article. The smoking article can optionally include a filter at one end thereof. Optionally, the wrapping material can include a plurality of discrete low-flame-spread regions.

[0226] In one embodiment, the aerosol forming materials described above may be used in a non-combustion heated device.

[0227] In any of the above described embodiments, the aerosol forming material may be used as a snuff product.

[0228] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention can be modified or altered in various ways without departing from the spirit of the invention. In addition, it should be understood that aspects of the various embodiments can be interchanged in whole or in part. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the above detailed description and examples are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit in any way the scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method for producing an aerosol-generating material comprising reconstituted plant material that includes a combination of at least two different types of plant fibers, the method comprising: (1a) extracted cannabis fibre comprising cannabis leaves, cannabis stems, cannabis buds, cannabis flowers, cannabis seeds, by-products or residues of cannabis extraction, or any combination thereof, which has been subjected to an extraction step of contacting cannabis with an aqueous solution to remove water-soluble components contained in cannabis; (1b) extracted cocoa husk fibre, which has been subjected to an extraction step of contacting cocoa husk with an aqueous solution to remove water-soluble components contained in cocoa husk; or (1c) a mixture thereof; (2a) providing extracted tobacco fiber, including tobacco leaves, tobacco stems, tobacco extraction by-products, or combinations thereof, which have been subjected to an extraction step of contacting tobacco with an aqueous solution to remove water-soluble components contained in the tobacco; (2b) providing extracted herb fiber, which has been subjected to an extraction step of contacting herb with an aqueous solution to remove water-soluble components contained in the herb; or (2c) providing a mixture thereof; combining the (1a) extracted cannabis fiber, the (1b) extracted cocoa husk fiber, or the (1c) mixture thereof with the (2a) extracted tobacco fiber, the (2b) extracted herb plant fiber, or the (2c) mixture thereof to form a reconstituted plant material; The method, wherein the extracted herbal plant fiber is obtained from coffee, tea, vine, ginger, ginkgo, chamomile, tomato, ivy, yerba mate, rooibos, cucumber, cereals, turmeric, clove, licorice, sandalwood, cinnamon, mint, cilantro, cumin, thyme, or any combination thereof.

2. 2. The method of claim 1 , the reconstituted plant material further comprises web building fibers; the web constructing fibers include delignified cellulose fibers; the delignified cellulose fibers include flax fibers, hemp fibers, abaca fibers, softwood fibers, hardwood fibers, bamboo fibers, coconut fibers, ramie fibers, jute fibers, or any combination thereof; The method of claim 1, wherein the web building fibers are present in the reconstituted plant material in an amount greater than 3% and less than 40% by weight.

3. 3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, the reconstituted plant material has been treated with a moisturizing agent; The humectant comprises glycerol, propylene glycol, or a combination thereof; A method wherein the humectant is present in the reconstituted plant material in an amount of 5% by weight or less, or in an amount of 5% by weight or more and 50% by weight or less.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising an aerosol delivery composition applied to the reconstituted plant material; The aerosol delivery composition comprises an aerosol delivery agent, The aerosol delivery agent comprises nicotine, tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol, or any combination thereof.

5. 5. The method of claim 4, The method of claim 1, wherein the aerosol delivery composition is present in the reconstituted plant material in an amount greater than 1% by weight, greater than 3% by weight, greater than 5% by weight, greater than 10% by weight, greater than 15% by weight, greater than 20% by weight, greater than 25% by weight, greater than 30% by weight, greater than 35% by weight, or greater than 40% by weight, and less than 50% by weight.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, The aerosol-generating material comprises a filler material consisting of strips, pieces, or a combination thereof of the reconstituted plant material.

7. A method for producing an aerosol-generating material comprising reconstituted plant material, the method comprising: (1a) extracted cannabis fibre comprising cannabis leaves, cannabis stems, cannabis buds, cannabis flowers, cannabis seeds, by-products or residues of cannabis extraction, or any combination thereof, which has been subjected to an extraction step of contacting cannabis with an aqueous solution to remove water-soluble components contained in cannabis; (1b) extracted cocoa husk fibre, which has been subjected to an extraction step of contacting cocoa husk with an aqueous solution to remove water-soluble components contained in cocoa husk; or (1c) a mixture thereof; blending the (1a) extracted cannabis fiber, the (1b) extracted cocoa husk fiber, or (1c) mixtures thereof with (2a) tobacco material, (2b) herb material, or (2c) mixtures thereof to form a reconstituted plant material; The herbal material comprises coffee, tea, vine, ginger, ginkgo, chamomile, tomato, ivy, yerba mate, rooibos, cucumber, cereals, turmeric, clove, licorice, sandalwood, cinnamon, mint, cilantro, cumin, thyme, or any combination thereof.

8. 8. The method of claim 7, the reconstituted plant material further comprises web building fibers; the web constructing fibers include delignified cellulose fibers; the delignified cellulose fibers include flax fibers, hemp fibers, abaca fibers, softwood fibers, hardwood fibers, bamboo fibers, coconut fibers, ramie fibers, jute fibers, or any combination thereof; The method of claim 1, wherein the web building fibers are present in the reconstituted plant material in an amount greater than 3% and less than 40% by weight.

9. 9. The method according to claim 7 or 8, the reconstituted plant material has been treated with a moisturizing agent; The humectant comprises glycerol, propylene glycol, or a combination thereof; A method wherein the humectant is present in the reconstituted plant material in an amount of 5% by weight or less, or in an amount of 5% by weight or more and 50% by weight or less.

10. The method according to any one of claims 7 to 9, further comprising an aerosol delivery composition applied to the reconstituted plant material; The aerosol delivery composition comprises an aerosol delivery agent, The aerosol delivery agent comprises nicotine, tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol, or any combination thereof.

11. 11. The method of claim 10, The method of claim 1, wherein the aerosol delivery composition is present in the reconstituted plant material in an amount greater than 1% by weight, greater than 3% by weight, greater than 5% by weight, greater than 10% by weight, greater than 15% by weight, greater than 20% by weight, greater than 25% by weight, greater than 30% by weight, greater than 35% by weight, or greater than 40% by weight, and less than 50% by weight.

12. 12. The method of claim 11, The method, wherein the reconstituted plant material is present in the aerosol-forming material in an amount greater than 10%, greater than 20%, greater than 30%, greater than 40%, greater than 50%, or greater than 60% by weight, and less than 90%, less than 80%, or less than 70% by weight.

13. The method according to any one of claims 7 to 12, The aerosol-generating material comprises a filler material consisting of strips, pieces, or a combination thereof of the reconstituted plant material.

14. A method for producing a smoking article comprising a smokable rod and a packaging material for packaging the rod, comprising the steps of: Providing a smokable rod comprising an aerosol-forming material produced by the method of any one of claims 1 to 6 or aerosol-forming material produced by the method of any one of claims 7 to 13; and wrapping the smokable rod in a wrapping material to form a smoking article.

15. A method for producing a smoking article comprising a chamber and a heating device, comprising: Providing a chamber containing an aerosol-forming material produced by the method of any one of claims 1 to 6 or aerosol-forming material produced by the method of any one of claims 7 to 13; and combining the chamber and a heating device to form an aerosol generating device, The method, wherein the heating device is arranged to generate an inhalable aerosol by heating the aerosol-forming material without combustion.

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