Nicotine gel

Abstract

To disclose an alkaloid gel or cannabinoid gel that may be utilized with an aerosol-generating device.SOLUTION: A gel composition includes: an alkaloid compound, or a cannabinoid compound, or both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound; glycerol; a thickening agent; a hydrogen-bond crosslinking gelling agent; and an ionic crosslinking gelling agent.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to alkaloid or cannabinoid gels that may be utilized with aerosol generating devices. In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to nicotine gels that may be utilized with aerosol generating devices. [Background technology]

[0002] Nicotine compositions for use with aerosol-generating articles are known. The nicotine compositions are often liquid compositions, such as e-liquids, that are heated by a coiled, electrically resistive filament in the aerosol-generating article. To avoid accidental leakage of the liquid composition, great care is taken to manufacture the container that holds the liquid composition. Accidental leakage can occur, particularly when the container is made of paper, cardboard, or any material that can absorb or be damaged by the liquid nicotine composition.

[0003] The use of alternative forms of nicotine-containing compositions can reduce concerns about the possibility of leakage. However, these alternative forms of nicotine-containing compositions may change phase from gel to liquid over time. In particular, nicotine-containing compositions in gel form may release a liquid phase during storage or from production to consumption by the user. This is particularly true for gel compositions that contain high levels of glycerol, low levels of water, or both high levels of glycerol and low levels of water.

[0004] It is desirable to provide a gel composition comprising an alkaloid compound such as nicotine, or a cannabinoid compound such as cannabidiol or tetrahydrocannabinol, that has improved physical stability. It is desirable to provide a gel composition comprising an alkaloid compound such as nicotine, or a cannabinoid compound such as cannabidiol or tetrahydrocannabinol, that may have improved physical stability. It is desirable to provide a gel composition comprising an alkaloid compound such as nicotine, or a cannabinoid compound such as cannabidiol or tetrahydrocannabinol, that does not release a liquid phase over a wide range of storage conditions. It is desirable to provide a gel composition comprising an alkaloid compound such as nicotine, or a cannabinoid compound such as cannabidiol or tetrahydrocannabinol, that does not absorb a liquid phase. It is desirable to provide a gel composition that vaporizes an alkaloid compound such as nicotine, or a cannabinoid compound such as cannabidiol or tetrahydrocannabinol within the composition upon heating. It is desirable to provide a gel composition comprising an alkaloid compound such as nicotine, or a cannabinoid compound such as cannabidiol or tetrahydrocannabinol, that does not leak from an aerosol generating device. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to gel compositions containing an alkaloid compound, or a cannabinoid compound, or both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound. Various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to gel compositions containing nicotine. These gel compositions may not release or absorb water over a wide range of relative humidity (e.g., from about 10% to about 60% relative humidity). The gel compositions include an alkaloid compound, or a cannabinoid compound, or both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound, glycerol, a hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent, an ionic cross-linking gelling agent, and a thickening agent.

[0006] The gel composition may comprise an alkaloid compound, or a cannabinoid compound, or both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound, at least about 50% by weight glycerol or at least 70% by weight glycerol, at least about 0.2% by weight hydrogen bond cross-linking gelling agent, at least about 0.2% by weight ionic cross-linking gelling agent, and at least about 0.2% by weight thickening agent.

[0007] The gel composition may comprise nicotine, at least about 50% by weight glycerol or at least 70% by weight glycerol, at least about 0.2% by weight hydrogen bond crosslinking gelling agent, at least about 0.2% by weight ionic crosslinking gelling agent, and at least about 0.2% by weight thickening agent.

[0008] The gel composition may comprise a thickening agent, a hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent, and an ionic cross-linking gelling agent in a total amount of about 1% to about 8% by weight.

[0009] The gel composition may comprise about 0.5% to about 2% by weight of a thickening agent. The gel composition may comprise about 0.5% to about 2% by weight of a hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent. The gel composition may comprise about 0.5% to about 2% by weight of an ionic cross-linking gelling agent. The gel composition may comprise about 0.5% to about 2% by weight of a thickening agent, about 0.5% to about 2% by weight of a hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent, and about 0.5% to about 2% by weight of an ionic cross-linking gelling agent. The thickening agent, the hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent, and the ionic cross-linking gelling agent may each be present in substantially equal amounts in the gel composition.

[0010] The gel composition may contain about 0.5% to 2.5% by weight of an alkaloid compound, or about 0.5% to 2.5% by weight of a cannabinoid compound, or about 0.5% to 2.5% by weight of both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound in a total amount of about 0.5% to 2.5% by weight, about 70% to 80% by weight of glycerol, about 0.5% to 2% by weight of a hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent, about 0.5% to 2% by weight of an ionic cross-linking gelling agent, about 0.5% to 2% by weight of a thickening agent, about 15% to 25% by weight of water, and divalent cations. Each of the thickening agent, hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent, and ionic cross-linking gelling agent may be present in the gel composition in substantially equal amounts.

[0011] The gel composition may comprise about 0.5% to 2.5% by weight of nicotine, about 70% to 80% by weight of glycerol, about 0.5% to 2% by weight of a hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent, about 0.5% to 2% by weight of an ionic cross-linking gelling agent, about 0.5% to 2% by weight of a thickening agent, about 15% to 25% by weight of water, and a divalent cation. Each of the thickening agent, the hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent, and the ionic cross-linking gelling agent may be present in the gel composition in substantially equal amounts.

[0012] The gel composition may contain about 1.5% to 2.5% by weight of an alkaloid compound, or about 1.5% to 2.5% by weight of a cannabinoid compound, or about 1.5% to 2.5% by weight of both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound in a total amount of about 1.5% to 2.5% by weight, about 70% to 75% by weight of glycerol, about 18% to 22% by weight of water, about 0.5% to 2% by weight each of agar, xanthan gum, and low-acyl gellan, and calcium ions. Each of the xanthan gum, agar, and low-acyl gellan may be present in the gel composition in substantially equal amounts.

[0013] The gel composition may contain about 1.5% to about 2.5% by weight of nicotine, about 70% to about 75% by weight of glycerol, about 18% to about 22% by weight of water, about 0.5% to about 2% by weight each of agar, xanthan gum, and low-acyl gellan, and calcium ions. Each of the xanthan gum, agar, and low-acyl gellan may be present in the gel composition in substantially equal amounts.

[0014] The gel composition may include a gelling agent that forms a solid medium, glycerol dispersed in the solid medium, and an alkaloid compound, or a cannabinoid compound, or both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound dispersed in the glycerol, wherein the composition forms a stable gel phase.

[0015] The gel composition may include a gelling agent that forms a solid medium, glycerol dispersed in the solid medium, and nicotine dispersed in the glycerol, wherein the composition forms a stable gel phase.

[0016] The gel composition may include at least two gelling agents that form a solid medium, glycerol dispersed in the solid medium, and an alkaloid compound, or a cannabinoid compound, or both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound dispersed in the glycerol, wherein the composition forms a stable gel phase.

[0017] The gel composition may include at least two gelling agents that form a solid medium, glycerol dispersed in the solid medium, and nicotine dispersed in the glycerol, wherein the composition forms a stable gel phase.

[0018] The gel composition may include a thickening agent and a gelling agent that form a solid medium, glycerol dispersed in the solid medium, and an alkaloid compound, or a cannabinoid compound, or both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound dispersed in the glycerol, wherein the composition forms a stable gel phase.

[0019] The gel composition may include a thickening agent and a gelling agent that form a solid medium, glycerol dispersed in the solid medium, and nicotine dispersed in the glycerol, and the composition forms a stable gel phase.

[0020] The gel composition may include a thickening agent and at least two gelling agents that form a solid medium, glycerol dispersed in the solid medium, and an alkaloid compound, or a cannabinoid compound, or both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound dispersed in the glycerol, wherein the composition forms a stable gel phase.

[0021] The gel composition may include a thickener and at least two gelling agents that form a solid medium, glycerol dispersed in the solid medium, and nicotine dispersed in the glycerol, wherein the composition forms a stable gel phase.

[0022] Further aspects of the present disclosure may relate to the use of the composition by heating the composition to vaporize the alkaloid compound, or the cannabinoid compound, or both the alkaloid compound and the cannabinoid compound, as well as the use of the composition where heating does not release a liquid phase from the composition.

[0023] Further aspects of the present disclosure may relate to the use of the composition by heating the composition to vaporize the nicotine, as well as the use of the composition where heating does not release a liquid phase from the composition.

[0024] Advantageously, the gel is solid at room temperature. In this context, "solid" means that the gel has a stable size and shape and does not flow. In this context, room temperature means 25 degrees Celsius. A gel can be defined as a substantially dilute crosslinked system that does not exhibit flow properties at steady state. By weight, gels can be almost liquid, and they behave like solids due to a three-dimensional crosslinked network within the liquid. It is the crosslinks within the fluid that give the gel its structure (rigidity). Thus, a gel can be a dispersion of liquid molecules within a solid medium, with liquid particles dispersed in a solid medium.

[0025] Preferably, the gel composition has a viscosity of 1,000,000 to about 1 Pascal per second, preferably 100,000 to 10 Pascals per second, preferably 10,000 to 1,000 Pascals per second, or 1,000 to 100 Pascals per second, or 500 to 200 Pascals per second, to impart the desired viscosity. The viscosity of the gel composition is 1 s at 25°C. -1 The viscosity of the sample can be measured using an Anton Paar MCR 302 rheometer with a parallel plate PP25 equipped with a P-PTD200+H-PTD200 measuring cell at a shear rate of 1000 rpm.

[0026] The mass of the gel composition may not change by more than about 20%, or may not change by more than about 15%, or may not change by more than about 10% when exposed to various environmental storage conditions. The composition may have an exterior shape with an exposed surface area that does not change by more than about 10%, or does not change by more than about 5%, or does not change by more than about 1% when exposed to various environmental conditions.

[0027] In one or more embodiments, the gel composition has a mass that does not change by more than about 20%, or does not change by more than about 15%, or does not change by more than about 10% at 24 degrees Celsius and 1 atmosphere pressure and a relative humidity in the range of about 10% to about 60%, or typical storage conditions.

[0028] In one or more embodiments, the gel composition has an exterior shape with an exposed surface area that does not change by more than about 10%, or does not change by more than about 5%, or does not change by more than about 1% when exposed to a relative humidity in the range of about 10% to about 60% at 24 degrees Celsius and 1 atmosphere.

[0029] In one or more embodiments, the gel composition has an exposed surface area value (m 2 ) and mass values ​​(kg), with the mass value to exposed surface area value ranging from about 0.05:1 to about 1:1, or from about 0.1:1 to about 1:1, or from about 0.5:1 to about 1:0.1, or from about 0.5:1 to about 1:0.5.

[0030] Advantageously, the gel compositions provide a predictable composition shape during storage or transport from manufacture to consumer. Gel compositions containing alkaloid compounds, or cannabinoid compounds, or both alkaloid and cannabinoid compounds substantially maintain their shape. Gel compositions containing alkaloid compounds, or cannabinoid compounds, or both alkaloid and cannabinoid compounds do not release a liquid phase during storage or transport from manufacture to consumer. Gel compositions containing nicotine substantially maintain their shape. Gel compositions containing nicotine do not substantially release a liquid phase during storage or transport from manufacture to consumer. Gel compositions may provide a simple consumable design. The consumable need not be designed to contain a liquid, and therefore a wider range of materials and container structures may be contemplated.

[0031] The gel compositions described herein can be combined with an aerosol generating device to provide an alkaloid compound aerosol to the lungs at an inhalation dose or airflow rate within the range of that of conventional smoking. The aerosol generating device can continuously heat the gel composition. A consumer can take multiple inhalations or "puffs," with each "puff" delivering a dose of alkaloid compound aerosol. When heated, the gel composition can deliver a high alkaloid compound / total particulate matter (TPM) aerosol to the consumer, preferably in a continuous manner.

[0032] The gel compositions described herein can be combined with an aerosol generating device to provide nicotine aerosol to the lungs at inhalation doses or airflow rates within the range of inhalation doses or airflow rates of traditional smoking. The aerosol generating device can continuously heat the gel composition. The consumer can take multiple inhalations or "puffs," with each "puff" delivering a dose of nicotine aerosol. When heated, the gel composition can deliver a high nicotine / total particulate matter (TPM) aerosol to the consumer, preferably in a continuous manner.

[0033] The gel compositions described herein can be combined with an aerosol generating device to provide a cannabinoid compound aerosol to the lungs at an inhalation dose or airflow rate within the range of that of traditional smoking. The aerosol generating device can continuously heat the gel composition. The consumer can take multiple inhalations or "puffs," with each "puff" delivering a dose of cannabinoid compound aerosol. When heated, the gel composition can deliver a high cannabinoid compound / total particulate matter (TPM) aerosol to the consumer, preferably in a continuous manner.

[0034] The gel composition may include an alkaloid compound, or a cannabinoid compound, or both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound. The gel composition may include one or more alkaloids. The gel composition may include one or more cannabinoids. The gel composition may include a combination of one or more alkaloids and one or more cannabinoids.

[0035] The term "alkaloid compound" refers to any one or more classes of naturally occurring organic compounds containing one or more basic nitrogen atoms. Generally, alkaloids contain at least one nitrogen atom in an amine-type structure. This or another nitrogen atom in the molecule of an alkaloid compound may be active as a base in an acid-base reaction. Most alkaloid compounds have one or more of their nitrogen atoms as part of a ring system, such as a heterocyclic ring. In nature, alkaloid compounds are found primarily in plants, especially in certain families of flowering plants. However, some alkaloid compounds are found in animal species and fungi. In this disclosure, the term "alkaloid compound" refers to both naturally occurring and synthetically produced alkaloid compounds.

[0036] The gel composition preferably comprises an alkaloid compound selected from the group consisting of nicotine, anatabine, and combinations thereof.

[0037] Preferably, the gel composition comprises nicotine.

[0038] The term "nicotine" refers to nicotine and nicotine derivatives (eg, free base nicotine, nicotine salts, and the like).

[0039] The term "cannabinoid compounds" refers to any one of a class of naturally occurring compounds found in parts of the cannabis plant, including Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis. Cannabinoid compounds are particularly concentrated in the female flower heads. Cannabinoid compounds naturally occurring in the cannabis plant include cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). In this disclosure, the term "cannabinoid compounds" is used to describe both naturally occurring and synthetically produced cannabinoid compounds.

[0040] The gel may comprise a cannabinoid compound selected from the group consisting of cannabidiol (CBD), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabinol (CBN), cannabigerol (CBG), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabicyclol (CBL), cannabivarin (CBV), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), cannabidivarin (CBDV), cannabichromevarin (CBCV), cannabigerovarin (CBGV), cannabigerol monomethyl ether (CBGM), cannabielsoin (CBE), cannabicitran (CBT), and combinations thereof.

[0041] The gel composition may preferably comprise a cannabinoid compound selected from the group consisting of cannabidiol (CBD), THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and combinations thereof.

[0042] The gel preferably contains cannabidiol (CBD).

[0043] The gel composition may include nicotine and cannabidiol (CBD).

[0044] The gel composition may include nicotine, cannabidiol (CBD), and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).

[0045] The phrase "stable gel phase" or "stable gel" refers to a gel that substantially maintains its shape and mass when exposed to various environmental conditions. A stable gel cannot substantially release or absorb water (sweat) when exposed to standard temperature and pressure while varying relative humidity from about 10% to about 60%. For example, a stable gel can substantially maintain its shape and mass when exposed to standard temperature and pressure while varying relative humidity from about 10% to about 60%.

[0046] The term "thickener" refers to a compound that, when homogeneously added in an amount of 0.3% by weight to a 50% by weight water / 50% by weight glycerol mixture at 25°C, increases the viscosity without resulting in the formation of a gel, such that the mixture remains fluid or preserved. Preferably, the thickener, when homogeneously added in an amount of 0.3% by weight to a 50% by weight water / 50% by weight glycerol mixture at 25°C, increases the viscosity of the mixture without resulting in the formation of a gel, such that the mixture remains fluid or preserved. -1

[0033] Preferably, the thickener is a compound that, when homogeneously added in an amount of 0.3% by weight to a mixture of 50% by weight water / 50% by weight glycerol at 25°C, increases the viscosity by at least 50 cPs, preferably at least 200 cPs, preferably at least 500 cPs, preferably at least 1000 cPs, without causing the formation of a gel, so that the mixture remains fluid or is preserved. -1 refers to a compound that increases the viscosity of a mixture at a shear rate of at least 2 times, at least 5 times, at least 10 times, or at least 100 times greater than before addition, and that maintains or preserves the mixture as a fluid.

[0047] The viscosity values ​​recited herein may be measured using a Brookfield RVT viscometer with a disc type RV#2 spindle rotating at 25° C. at a speed of 6 revolutions per minute (rpm).

[0048] The term "gelling agent" refers to a compound that, when homogeneously added to a 50% water / 50% glycerol mixture in an amount of about 0.3% by weight, leads to the formation of a solid medium or support matrix, leading to a gel. Gelling agents include, but are not limited to, hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agents and ionic cross-linking gelling agents.

[0049] The term "gel" refers to a solid at room temperature. In this context, "solid" means that the gel has a stable size and shape and does not flow. Room temperature in this context means 25 degrees Celsius. A gel can be defined as a substantially dilute crosslinked system that does not exhibit flow properties at steady state. By weight, gels can be mostly liquid, but they behave like solids due to a three-dimensional crosslinked network within the liquid. It is the crosslinks within the fluid that give the gel its structure (rigidity). Thus, a gel can be a dispersion of liquid molecules within a solid medium, with liquid particles dispersed in a solid medium.

[0050] The term "hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelator" refers to a gelator that forms non-covalent or physical cross-links via hydrogen bonds. Hydrogen bonds are not covalent bonds to hydrogen atoms, but are a type of electrostatic dipole-dipole interaction between molecules. They result from the attraction between a hydrogen atom covalently bonded to an extremely electronegative atom, such as an N, O, or F atom, and another extremely electronegative atom.

[0051] The term "ionically cross-linking gelator" refers to a gelator that forms non-covalent or physical cross-links through ionic bonds. Ionic cross-linking involves the association of polymer chains through non-covalent interactions. A cross-linked network is formed when oppositely charged multivalent molecules are electrostatically attracted to each other, resulting in a cross-linked polymer network.

[0052] The gel compositions described herein can be combined with an aerosol generating device to deliver an alkaloid compound, or a cannabinoid compound, or both to a consumer. The gel compositions described herein can be combined with an aerosol generating device to deliver nicotine to a consumer. The gel compositions can be packaged separately from the aerosol generating device (as a gel consumable) or can not form part of the aerosol generating device. A used-up gel consumable can be replaced with a fully filled gel consumable within the aerosol generating device. A plurality of these gel consumables can be combined with an aerosol generating device to form a kit.

[0053] The gel compositions described herein can be packaged in a sealed or closed container for transport from manufacture to consumption by the consumer. The gel composition has an exposed surface that contacts a headspace defined by the interior surface of the container. The headspace can have a relative humidity that is equilibrium with the gel composition. The headspace relative humidity can be substantially similar to the (local) humidity provided by the gel composition.

[0054] The gel compositions described herein can be packaged or contained within an aerosol-generating article. The term "aerosol-generating article" is used to describe an article capable of generating or emitting an aerosol. The aerosol-generating article can define a tubular element that can be formed of a fluid-permeable material such as paper, cardboard, cotton, cellulose acetate, viscose, polylactic acid, or a combination thereof. The tubular element can include a wrapper. The wrapper can be formed of a fluid-permeable material such as paper, cardboard, cotton, or a combination thereof.

[0055] "Tubular element" describes a component suitable for use in an aerosol-generating article. Ideally, a tubular element has a longitudinal length greater than its width, but this is not necessary, as the tubular element may be part of a multi-component item whose longitudinal length is greater than its width. Typically, a tubular element is cylindrical, but this need not be the case. For example, a tubular element may have an elliptical, polygonal, such as triangular or rectangular, or irregular cross section.

[0056] The aerosol-generating article may have an open end, a proximal end, and a distal end, but may be open or closed in different specific embodiments. The tubular element contains a gel composition and is preferably positioned adjacent to the distal end of the aerosol-generating article. Application of negative pressure to the open proximal end releases the alkaloid compound, or the cannabinoid compound, or both the alkaloid compound and the cannabinoid compound from the gel composition. The aerosol-generating article defines at least one opening between the proximal and distal ends. The at least one opening defines at least one fluid inlet, so that when negative pressure is applied to the open proximal end of the aerosol-generating article, for example, air enters the aerosol-generating article through the opening. Fluid, such as ambient air, drawn into the aerosol-generating article through the opening flows along the outer longitudinal passage of the fluid guide toward the gel composition near the distal end of the aerosol-generating article. The fluid then flows from the distal end to the proximal end through the inner longitudinal passage of the fluid guide and out of the aerosol-generating article at the open proximal end.

[0057] By separating the opening from the distal end of the aerosol-generating article, the opening is separated from the tubular element containing the gel composition, reducing the possibility of leakage of the gel composition through the opening. Furthermore, by providing a passage, such as an outer longitudinal passage, for airflow from the opening to the tubular element containing the gel composition, fluid from the opening can be directed toward the gel composition, and the fluid guide can serve as an additional obstacle between the gel composition and the opening. The advantage of this is to further reduce the possibility of leakage of the gel composition through the opening. In addition, the inner longitudinal passage of the fluid guide provides a passage for fluids, such as air and materials or vapors generated or released from the tubular element, to be drawn out of the aerosol-generating article through the open proximal end.

[0058] Preferably, the aerosol-generating article is generally cylindrical, which facilitates smooth flow of the aerosol. The aerosol-generating article may have an outer diameter of, for example, 4 to 15 mm, 5 to 10 mm, or 6 to 8 mm. The aerosol-generating article may have a length of, for example, 10 to 60 mm, 15 to 50 mm, or 20 to 45 mm.

[0059] The resistance to draw (RTD) of an aerosol-generating article varies depending on, among other factors, the length and dimensions of the passageway, the size of the opening, the dimensions of the most constricted cross-sectional area of ​​the inner passageway, and the materials used. In certain embodiments, the RTD of the aerosol-generating article is between 50 millimeters of water (mm H2O) and 140 millimeters of water (mm H2O), between 60 millimeters of water (mm H2O) and 120 millimeters of water (mm H2O), or between 80 millimeters of water (mm H2O) and 100 millimeters of water (mm H2O). The RTD of an article refers to the static pressure difference between the opening(s) and the mouth end of the article when traversed by an inner longitudinal passageway under steady conditions with a volumetric flow rate of 17.5 milliliters / second at the mouth end. The RTD of a specimen can be measured using the method described in ISO standard 6565:2002.

[0060] In certain embodiments, the aerosol-generating article comprises a plastic material, a metal material, a cellulosic material such as cellulose acetate, paper, cardboard, cotton, or a combination thereof.

[0061] In certain embodiments, the fluid guide comprises a plastic material, a metal material, a cellulosic material such as cellulose acetate, paper, cardboard, or a combination thereof.

[0062] In certain combinations, the wrapper comprises multiple materials. In certain combinations, the wrapper, or a portion thereof, comprises a metal material, a plastic material, cardboard, cotton, or a combination thereof. When the wrapper comprises cardboard or paper, the opening can be formed by laser cutting.

[0063] The wrapper provides strength and structural rigidity for the aerosol-generating article. When paper or cardboard is used for the wrapper and a high degree of rigidity is desired, it preferably has a basis weight of greater than 60 grams per square meter. One such wrapper provides high structural rigidity. If present, the wrapper can resist external deformation of the aerosol-generating article in locations where restrictors are embedded within the aerosol-generating article or in other locations, such as cavities (if present) where structural support is weak. In some embodiments, the tubular element wrapper includes a metal layer. The metal layer can be used to concentrate externally applied energy to heat the tubular element; for example, the metal layer can act as a susceptor for an electromagnetic field or collect radiant energy provided by an external heat source. When an internal heat source is present, the metal layer can prevent heat from escaping from the tubular element through the wrapper and improve heating efficiency. It can also provide uniform distribution of heat along the circumference of the tubular element.

[0064] In certain embodiments, the aerosol-generating article includes a seal between the outside of the fluid guide and the inside of the wrapper. The wrapper can then be securely attached to the fluid guide. There is no need to create a fluid-tight seal.

[0065] In certain embodiments, the aerosol-generating article includes a mouthpiece. The mouthpiece may include a fluid guide, or a portion thereof, and may form at least a proximal portion of the wrapper of the aerosol-generating article. The mouthpiece may be connected to the wrapper or to a distal portion of the wrapper in any suitable manner, such as by an interference fit, threaded engagement, or the like. The mouthpiece may be a portion of the aerosol-generating article that may include a filter, or in some cases, the mouthpiece may be defined by the extent of tipping paper, if present. In other embodiments, the mouthpiece may be defined as a portion of the aerosol-generating article that extends 40 millimeters from the mouth end of the aerosol-generating article, or that extends 30 millimeters from the mouth end of the aerosol-generating article.

[0066] The tubular element containing the gel composition may be positioned within the aerosol-generating article proximal to the distal end prior to final assembly of the aerosol-generating article.

[0067] When fully assembled, the aerosol-generating article defines a fluid passageway through which fluid can flow. When negative pressure is applied at the mouth end (proximal end) of the aerosol-generating article, fluid enters the aerosol-generating article through the opening in the wrapper (or fluid guide, or both) and then flows through the outer longitudinal passageway toward the distal end of the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol may optionally be accompanied by aerosol generated by heating the tubular element holding the gel composition. The fluid, along with the entrained aerosol, may then flow through the inner longitudinal passageway of the fluid guide and out the open mouth end of the aerosol-generating article.

[0068] Preferably, the aerosol-generating article is configured to be received by an aerosol-generating device such that a heating element of the aerosol-generating device can heat the section of the aerosol-generating article that includes the tubular element. For example, if the tubular element containing the gel composition is located at or near the distal end of the aerosol-generating article, the tubular element may be the distal end of the aerosol-generating article.

[0069] Preferably, the aerosol-generating article may be shaped and sized for use in an appropriate and correspondingly shaped and sized aerosol-generating device comprising a receptacle for receiving the aerosol-generating article and a heating element constructed and arranged to heat the section of the aerosol-generating article including the tubular element containing the gel composition.

[0070] The aerosol generating device preferably includes control electronics operably coupled to the heating element. The control electronics may be configured to control heating of the heating element. The control electronics may be internal to the housing.

[0071] The gel composition, according to the present disclosure, comprises an alkaloid compound, or a cannabinoid compound, or both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound, an aerosol former, a thickener, a hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent, and an ionic cross-linking gelling agent. The gel composition may further comprise a divalent cation.

[0072] The gel composition, according to the present disclosure, comprises nicotine, an aerosol former, a thickener, a hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent, and an ionic cross-linking gelling agent. The gel composition may further comprise a divalent cation.

[0073] The gel composition includes an aerosol former. Ideally, the aerosol former is substantially resistant to thermal degradation at the operating temperature of the associated aerosol-generating device. Suitable aerosol formers include, but are not limited to, polyhydric alcohols (e.g., triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, glycerin), esters of polyhydric alcohols (e.g., glycerol monoacetate, diacetate, or triacetate), and aliphatic esters of monocarboxylic, dicarboxylic, or polycarboxylic acids (e.g., dimethyl dodecanedioate, dimethyl tetradecanedioate). The polyhydric alcohol or mixture thereof can be one or more of triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and glycerin (glycerol or propane-1,2,3-triol) or polyethylene glycol. The aerosol former is preferably glycerol.

[0074] The gel composition comprises a majority of the aerosol former. The gel composition may comprise a mixture of water and aerosol former, with the aerosol former forming the majority (by weight) of the gel composition. The aerosol former may form at least about 50% by weight of the gel composition. The aerosol former may form at least about 60% by weight, or at least about 65% by weight, or at least about 70% by weight of the gel composition. The aerosol former may form about 70% to about 80% by weight of the gel composition. The aerosol former may form about 70% to about 75% by weight of the gel composition.

[0075] The gel composition may comprise a majority of glycerol. The gel composition may comprise a mixture of water and glycerol, with glycerol forming a majority (by weight) of the gel composition. Glycerol may form at least about 50% by weight of the gel composition. Glycerol may form at least about 60% by weight, or at least about 65% by weight, or at least about 70% by weight of the gel composition. Glycerol may form about 70% to about 80% by weight of the gel composition. Glycerol may form about 70% to about 75% by weight of the gel composition.

[0076] The gel composition preferably contains no water or only low levels of water. When the gel composition contains no water or only low levels of water, the gel composition may contain higher levels of aerosol formers, gelling agents, thickeners, and other compounds such as nicotine. Additionally, a gel composition containing no water or only low levels of water is simpler and requires less energy to vaporize. Aerosols formed from a gel composition containing no water or only low levels of water may be perceived by the user as being less hot. Preferably, the gel composition contains less than about 40% by weight of water, preferably less than about 30% by weight, and preferably less than about 25% by weight of water. The gel composition may contain less than about 20% by weight, or less than about 15% by weight, or less than about 10% by weight, or less than about 5% by weight of water.

[0077] The gel composition preferably contains some water. When the composition contains some water, the gel composition is more stable. Preferably, the gel composition contains at least about 1 wt.%, or at least about 2 wt.%, or at least about 5 wt.% water. Preferably, the gel composition contains at least about 10 wt.%, or at least about 15 wt.% water.

[0078] Preferably, the gel composition contains about 8% to about 32% by weight of water. Preferably, the gel composition contains about 14% to about 26% by weight of water. Preferably, the gel composition contains about 18% to about 22% by weight of water. Preferably, the gel composition contains about 20% by weight of water. Preferably, the gel composition contains about 15% to about 25% by weight of water.

[0079] The gel composition may contain a specific ratio of water to glycerol content to maintain local humidity equilibrated with ambient environmental humidity. This range of water to glycerol content may provide the necessary properties for maintaining the gel composition. The gel composition is substantially non-flowing and substantially maintains its shape over time. The gel composition is substantially non-flowing and substantially maintains its mass over time. When exposed to ambient or storage conditions, the gel does not substantially release water (sweat) or absorb water over time.

[0080] Preferably, the gel composition comprises aerosol former or glycerol to water in the range of about 10:1 to about 2:1, and also in the range of about 5:1 to about 3:1. Preferably, the gel composition comprises aerosol former or glycerol to water in the range of about 4.5:1 to about 3.5:1.

[0081] The gel composition may include a gelling agent that is a hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent and an ionic cross-linking gelling agent. The gel composition may further include a thickening agent. The gelling agent may form a solid medium into which the aerosol former may be dispersed. The gelling agent may form a solid medium into which the aerosol former and water may be dispersed. The thickening agent in combination with the hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent and the ionic cross-linking gelling agent surprisingly appears to support a solid medium and maintain the gel composition even when the gel composition includes a high level of glycerol.

[0082] The gel composition may contain a gelling agent in the range of about 0.4% to about 10% by weight. Preferably, the gel composition contains a gelling agent in the range of about 0.5% to about 8% by weight. Preferably, the gel composition contains a gelling agent in the range of about 1% to about 6% by weight. Preferably, the gel composition contains a gelling agent in the range of about 2% to about 4% by weight. Preferably, the gel composition contains a gelling agent in the range of about 2% to about 3% by weight.

[0083] The gel composition comprises a thickening agent in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the composition comprises a thickening agent in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the composition comprises a thickening agent in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the composition comprises a thickening agent in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0084] The gel composition may comprise a thickener, a hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent, and an ionic cross-linking gelling agent present in the gel composition in a total amount of about 1% to about 8% by weight. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise a thickener, a hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent, and an ionic cross-linking gelling agent present in the gel composition in a total amount of about 2% to about 6% by weight. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise a thickener, a hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent, and an ionic cross-linking gelling agent present in the gel composition in a total amount of about 3% to about 5% by weight.

[0085] The gel composition may comprise a thickener, a hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent, and an ionic cross-linking gelling agent, each independently present in the gel composition at about 0.3% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise a thickener, a hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent, and an ionic cross-linking gelling agent, each independently present in the gel composition at about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise a thickener, a hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent, and an ionic cross-linking gelling agent, each independently present in the gel composition at about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0086] The thickening agent may comprise one or more of xanthan gum, carboxymethylcellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, methylcellulose, gum arabic, guar gum, lambda carrageenan, or starch. Preferably, the thickening agent comprises xanthan gum.

[0087] The gel composition may contain xanthan gum in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the xanthan gum may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the xanthan gum may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the xanthan gum may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0088] The gel composition may contain carboxymethylcellulose in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the carboxymethylcellulose may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the carboxymethylcellulose may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the carboxymethylcellulose may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0089] The gel composition may contain microcrystalline cellulose in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the microcrystalline cellulose may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the microcrystalline cellulose may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the microcrystalline cellulose may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0090] The gel composition may contain methylcellulose in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the methylcellulose may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the methylcellulose may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the methylcellulose may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0091] The gel composition may contain gum arabic in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the gum arabic may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the gum arabic may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the gum arabic may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0092] The gel composition may contain guar gum in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the guar gum may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the guar gum may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the guar gum may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0093] The gel composition may contain lambda carrageenan in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the lambda carrageenan may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the lambda carrageenan may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the lambda carrageenan may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0094] The gel composition may contain starch in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the starch may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the starch may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the starch may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0095] The hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent may comprise one or more of galactomannan, gelatin, agarose, or konjac gum, or agar. Preferably, the hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent comprises agar.

[0096] The gel composition contains about 0.3% to about 5% by weight of the hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent. Preferably, the gel composition contains about 0.5% to about 3% by weight of the hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent. Preferably, the gel composition contains about 1% to about 2% by weight of the hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent.

[0097] The gel composition may contain galactomannan in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the galactomannan may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the galactomannan may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the galactomannan may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0098] The gel composition may contain gelatin in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the gelatin may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the gelatin may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the gelatin may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0099] The gel composition may contain agarose in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the agarose may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the agarose may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the agarose may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0100] The gel composition may contain konjac gum in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the konjac gum may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the konjac gum may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the konjac gum may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0101] The gel composition may contain agar in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the agar may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the agar may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the agar may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0102] The ionic cross-linking gelling agent may include low acyl gellan, pectin, kappa carrageenan, iota carrageenan or alginate. The ionic cross-linking gelling agent preferably includes low acyl gellan.

[0103] The gel composition may contain about 0.3% to about 5% by weight of the ionically cross-linking gelling agent. Preferably, the gel composition contains about 0.5% to about 3% by weight of the ionically cross-linking gelling agent. Preferably, the composition contains about 1% to about 2% by weight of the ionically cross-linking gelling agent.

[0104] The gel composition may contain low acyl gellan in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the low acyl gellan may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the low acyl gellan may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the low acyl gellan may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0105] The gel composition may contain pectin in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the pectin may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the pectin may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the pectin may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0106] The gel composition may contain kappa carrageenan in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the kappa carrageenan may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the kappa carrageenan may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the kappa carrageenan may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0107] The gel composition may contain iota carrageenan in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the iota carrageenan may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the iota carrageenan may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the iota carrageenan may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0108] The gel composition may contain alginate in the range of about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the alginate may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the alginate may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the alginate may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0109] The gel composition may contain a hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelator and an ionic cross-linking gelator in a ratio of about 3:1 to about 1:3. Preferably, the gel composition may contain a hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelator and an ionic cross-linking gelator in a ratio of about 2:1 to about 1:2. Preferably, the gel composition may contain a hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelator and an ionic cross-linking gelator in a ratio of about 1:1.

[0110] The gel composition may contain the hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent and the thickener in a ratio of about 3:1 to about 1:3. Preferably, the gel composition may contain the hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent and the thickener in a ratio of about 2:1 to about 1:2. Preferably, the gel composition may contain the hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent and the thickener in a ratio of about 1:1.

[0111] The gel composition may comprise an ionic cross-linking gelling agent and a thickening agent in a ratio of about 3:1 to about 1:3. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise an ionic cross-linking gelling agent and a thickening agent in a ratio of about 2:1 to about 1:2. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise an ionic cross-linking gelling agent and a thickening agent in a ratio of about 1:1.

[0112] The gel composition may contain a gelling agent and an alkaloid compound in a ratio of about 3:1 to about 1:3. Preferably, the gel composition may contain a gelling agent and an alkaloid compound in a ratio of about 2:1 to about 1:2. Preferably, the gel composition may contain a gelling agent and an alkaloid compound in a ratio of about 1:1.

[0113] The gel composition may contain a thickener and an alkaloid compound in a ratio of about 1:1 to about 1:5. Preferably, the gel composition may contain a thickener and an alkaloid compound in a ratio of about 1:1 to about 1:3. Preferably, the gel composition may contain a thickener and an alkaloid compound in a ratio of about 1:2.

[0114] The gel composition may contain the alkaloid compound and water in a ratio of about 1:5 to about 1:20. Preferably, the gel composition may contain the alkaloid compound and water in a ratio of about 1:8 to about 1:12. Preferably, the gel composition may contain the alkaloid compound and water in a ratio of about 1:10.

[0115] The gel composition may contain the alkaloid compound and glycerol in a ratio of about 1:50 to about 1:25. Preferably, the gel composition may contain the alkaloid compound and glycerol in a ratio of about 1:40 to about 1:30. Preferably, the gel composition may contain the alkaloid compound and glycerol in a ratio of about 1:36.

[0116] The gel composition may comprise a gelling agent and nicotine in a ratio of about 3:1 to about 1:3. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise a gelling agent and nicotine in a ratio of about 2:1 to about 1:2. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise a gelling agent and nicotine in a ratio of about 1:1.

[0117] The gel composition may comprise a thickener and nicotine in a ratio of about 1:1 to about 1:5. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise a thickener and nicotine in a ratio of about 1:1 to about 1:3. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise a thickener and nicotine in a ratio of about 1:2.

[0118] The gel composition may contain nicotine and water in a ratio of about 1:5 to about 1:20. Preferably, the gel composition may contain nicotine and water in a ratio of about 1:8 to about 1:12. Preferably, the gel composition may contain nicotine and water in a ratio of about 1:10.

[0119] The gel composition may comprise nicotine and glycerol in a ratio of about 1:50 to about 1:25. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise nicotine and glycerol in a ratio of about 1:40 to about 1:30. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise nicotine and glycerol in a ratio of about 1:36.

[0120] The gel composition may comprise a gelling agent and glycerol in a ratio of about 1:50 to about 1:25. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise a gelling agent and glycerol in a ratio of about 1:40 to about 1:30. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise a gelling agent and glycerol in a ratio of about 1:36.

[0121] The gel composition may comprise a thickening agent and glycerol in a ratio of about 1:90 to about 1:40. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise a thickening agent and glycerol in a ratio of about 1:80 to about 1:65. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise a gelling agent and glycerol in a ratio of about 1:73.

[0122] The gel composition may comprise a gelling agent and a cannabinoid compound in a ratio of about 3:1 to about 1:3. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise a gelling agent and a cannabinoid compound in a ratio of about 2:1 to about 1:2. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise a gelling agent and a cannabinoid compound in a ratio of about 1:1.

[0123] The gel composition may comprise a thickening agent and a cannabinoid compound in a ratio of about 1:1 to about 1:5. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise a thickening agent and a cannabinoid compound in a ratio of about 1:1 to about 1:3. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise a thickening agent and a cannabinoid compound in a ratio of about 1:2.

[0124] The gel composition may comprise a cannabinoid compound and water in a ratio of about 1:5 to about 1:20. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise a cannabinoid compound and water in a ratio of about 1:8 to about 1:12. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise a cannabinoid compound and water in a ratio of about 1:10.

[0125] The gel composition may comprise a cannabinoid compound and glycerol in a ratio of about 1:50 to about 1:25. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise a cannabinoid compound and glycerol in a ratio of about 1:40 to about 1:30. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise a cannabinoid compound and glycerol in a ratio of about 1:36.

[0126] The gel composition may contain a gelling agent and both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound in a ratio of about 3:1 to about 1:3. Preferably, the gel composition may contain a gelling agent and both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound in a ratio of about 2:1 to about 1:2. Preferably, the gel composition may contain a gelling agent and both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound in a ratio of about 1:1.

[0127] The gel composition may comprise a thickening agent and both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound in a ratio of about 1:1 to about 1:5. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise a thickening agent and both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound in a ratio of about 1:1 to about 1:3. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise a thickening agent and both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound in a ratio of about 1:2.

[0128] The gel composition may contain both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound and water in a ratio of about 1:5 to about 1:20. Preferably, the gel composition may contain both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound and water in a ratio of about 1:8 to about 1:12. Preferably, the gel composition may contain both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound and water in a ratio of about 1:10.

[0129] The gel composition may contain both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound and glycerol in a ratio of about 1:50 to about 1:25. Preferably, the gel composition may contain both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound and glycerol in a ratio of about 1:40 to about 1:30. Preferably, the gel composition may contain both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound and glycerol in a ratio of about 1:36.

[0130] The gel composition may further comprise a divalent cation. Preferably, the divalent cation comprises calcium ions, such as calcium lactate in solution. The divalent cation (e.g., calcium ions) may aid in gel formation in compositions that include a gelling agent, such as an ionically crosslinking gelling agent. The ionic effect may aid in gel formation. The divalent cation may be present in the gel composition in a range of about 0.1 to about 1 wt. %, or about 0.5 wt. %.

[0131] The gel composition may further comprise an acid. The acid may comprise a carboxylic acid. The carboxylic acid may comprise a ketone group. Preferably, the carboxylic acid may comprise a ketone group having less than about 10 carbon atoms, such as levulinic acid or lactic acid, or less than about 6 carbon atoms, or less than about 4 carbon atoms. Preferably, the carboxylic acid has three carbon atoms (such as lactic acid). Lactic acid surprisingly improves the stability of the gel composition over similar carboxylic acids. The carboxylic acid may aid in gel formation. The carboxylic acid may reduce changes in the alkaloid compound concentration, or the cannabinoid compound concentration, or both the alkaloid compound concentration and the cannabinoid compound concentration in the gel composition during storage. The carboxylic acid may reduce changes in the nicotine concentration in the gel composition during storage.

[0132] The gel composition may contain a carboxylic acid in the range of about 0.1% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the carboxylic acid may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the carboxylic acid may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the carboxylic acid may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0133] The gel composition may contain lactic acid in the range of about 0.1% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the lactic acid may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the lactic acid may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the lactic acid may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0134] The gel composition may contain levulinic acid in the range of about 0.1% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the levulinic acid may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the levulinic acid may be in the range of about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the levulinic acid may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

[0135] The gel composition may contain a carboxylic acid and an alkaloid compound in a ratio of about 2:1 to about 1:2. Preferably, the gel composition may contain a carboxylic acid and an alkaloid compound in a ratio of about 1:1.5 to about 1.5:1. Preferably, the gel composition may contain a carboxylic acid and an alkaloid compound in a ratio of about 1:1.

[0136] The gel composition may contain carboxylic acid and nicotine in a ratio of about 2:1 to about 1:2. Preferably, the gel composition may contain carboxylic acid and nicotine in a ratio of about 1:1.5 to about 1.5:1. Preferably, the gel composition may contain carboxylic acid and nicotine in a ratio of about 1:1.

[0137] The gel composition may contain a carboxylic acid and a cannabinoid compound in a ratio of about 2:1 to about 1:2. Preferably, the gel composition may contain a carboxylic acid and a cannabinoid compound in a ratio of about 1:1.5 to about 1.5:1. Preferably, the gel composition may contain a carboxylic acid and a cannabinoid compound in a ratio of about 1:1.

[0138] The gel composition may contain a carboxylic acid and both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound in a ratio of about 2:1 to about 1:2. Preferably, the gel composition may contain a carboxylic acid and both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound in a ratio of about 1:1.5 to about 1.5:1. Preferably, the gel composition may contain a carboxylic acid and both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound in a ratio of about 1:1.

[0139] The gel composition may comprise a carboxylic acid and a thickener in a ratio of about 2:1 to about 1:2. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise a carboxylic acid and a thickener in a ratio of about 1:1.5 to about 1.5:1. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise a carboxylic acid and a thickener in a ratio of about 1:1.

[0140] The gel composition may contain a carboxylic acid and a gelling agent in a ratio of about 2:1 to about 1:4. Preferably, the gel composition may contain a carboxylic acid and a gelling agent in a ratio of about 1:1 to about 1:3. Preferably, the gel composition may contain a carboxylic acid and a gelling agent in a ratio of about 1:2.

[0141] The gel composition may comprise a carboxylic acid and glycerol in a ratio of about 1:70 to about 1:30. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise a carboxylic acid and glycerol in a ratio of about 1:60 to about 1:50. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise a carboxylic acid and glycerol in a ratio of about 1:55.

[0142] The gel composition may contain carboxylic acid and water in a ratio of about 1:30 to about 1:5. Preferably, the gel composition may contain carboxylic acid and water in a ratio of about 1:20 to about 1:10. Preferably, the gel composition may contain carboxylic acid and water in a ratio of about 1:15.

[0143] The gel composition contains an alkaloid compound, a cannabinoid compound, or both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound. The gel composition contains about 0.5% to about 10% by weight of an alkaloid compound, about 0.5% to about 10% by weight of a cannabinoid compound, or a total amount of about 0.5% to about 10% by weight of both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound. The gel composition may contain about 0.5% to about 5% by weight of an alkaloid compound, about 0.5% to about 5% by weight of a cannabinoid compound, or a total amount of about 0.5% to about 5% by weight of both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound. Preferably, the gel composition contains about 1% to about 3% by weight of an alkaloid compound, about 1% to about 3% by weight of a cannabinoid compound, or a total amount of about 1% to about 3% by weight of both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound. The gel composition may preferably contain about 1.5% to about 2.5% by weight of an alkaloid compound, or about 1.5% to about 2.5% by weight of a cannabinoid compound, or a total amount of about 1.5% to about 2.5% by weight of both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound. The gel composition may preferably contain about 2% by weight of an alkaloid compound, or about 2% by weight of a cannabinoid compound, or a total amount of about 2% by weight of both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound. The alkaloid compound component of the gel formulation may be the most volatile component of the gel formulation. In some embodiments, water may be the most volatile component of the gel formulation, and the alkaloid compound component of the gel formulation may be the second most volatile component of the gel formulation. The cannabinoid compound component of the gel formulation may be the most volatile component of the gel formulation. In some embodiments, water may be the most volatile component of the gel formulation, and the alkaloid compound component of the gel formulation may be the second most volatile component of the gel formulation.

[0144] Preferably, nicotine is included in the gel composition. Nicotine can be added to the composition in free base or salt form. The gel composition contains about 0.5% to about 10% by weight of nicotine, or about 0.5 to about 5% by weight of nicotine. Preferably, the gel composition contains about 1% to about 3% by weight of nicotine, or about 1.5% to about 2.5% by weight of nicotine, or about 2% by weight of nicotine. The nicotine component of the gel formulation may be the most volatile component of the gel formulation. In some embodiments, water may be the most volatile component of the gel formulation, and the nicotine component of the gel formulation may be the second most volatile component of the gel formulation.

[0145] In an embodiment in which agar is used as the hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent, the gel composition contains 0.2 to 5 wt. %, preferably 0.5 to 2 wt. % agar. Preferably, the gel composition may contain 0.2 to 5 wt. %, preferably 0.5 to 2 wt. % of an ionic cross-linking gelling agent, such as low-acyl gellan or alginate. Preferably, the gel composition may contain 0.2 to 5 wt. %, preferably 0.5 to 2 wt. % of a thickening agent, such as xanthan gum. Preferably, the gel further contains 0.1 to 2 wt. % of an alkaloid compound, or 0.1 to 2 wt. % of a cannabinoid compound, or a total of 0.1 to 2 wt. % of both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound. Preferably, the gel further contains 0.1 to 2 wt. % of nicotine. Preferably, the gel further contains 70 to 80 wt. % (or 70 to 75 wt. %) of glycerol. Preferably, the gel further contains a divalent cation, such as calcium. In certain embodiments, the remainder of the gel comprises water and optional flavoring agents.

[0146] In an embodiment in which low-acyl gellan is used as the ionically cross-linked gelling agent, the gel composition comprises 0.2 to 5 wt. %, preferably 0.5 to 2 wt. % low-acyl gellan. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise 0.2 to 5 wt. %, preferably 0.5 to 2 wt. % hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent such as agar. Preferably, the gel composition may comprise 0.2 to 5 wt. %, preferably 0.5 to 2 wt. % thickener such as xanthan gum. Preferably, the gel further comprises 0.1 to 2 wt. % alkaloid compound, or 0.1 to 2 wt. % cannabinoid compound, or a total of 0.1 to 2 wt. % alkaloid compound and cannabinoid compound. Preferably, the gel further comprises 0.1 to 2 wt. % nicotine. Preferably, the gel further comprises 70 to 80 wt. % (or 70 to 75 wt. %) glycerol. Preferably, the gel further comprises a divalent cation such as calcium. In certain embodiments, the remainder of the gel comprises water and optional flavoring agents.

[0147] The gel composition may contain about 1.5% to about 2.5% by weight of an alkaloid compound, or about 1.5% to about 2.5% by weight of a cannabinoid compound, or about 1.5% to about 2.5% by weight of both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound in a total amount of about 1.5% to about 2.5% by weight, about 70% to about 75% by weight of glycerol, about 18% to about 22% by weight of water, about 0.5% to about 2% by weight each of agar, xanthan gum, and low-acyl gellan, and calcium ions. Each of the xanthan gum, agar, and low-acyl gellan may be present in the gel composition in substantially equal amounts.

[0148] The gel composition may contain about 1.5% to about 2.5% by weight of nicotine, about 70% to about 75% by weight of glycerol, about 18% to about 22% by weight of water, about 0.5% to about 2% by weight each of agar, xanthan gum, and low-acyl gellan, and calcium ions. Each of the xanthan gum, agar, and low-acyl gellan may be present in the gel composition in substantially equal amounts.

[0149] The gel composition can be heated (via an aerosol generator) to vaporize the alkaloid compounds, or the cannabinoid compounds, or both the alkaloid and cannabinoid compounds. The gel composition may also be heated (via an aerosol generator) to vaporize the nicotine. Heating the gel composition may not release a liquid phase.

[0150] All scientific and technical terms used herein have meanings commonly used in the art unless otherwise specified. The definitions provided herein are provided to facilitate understanding of certain terms used frequently herein.

[0151] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include embodiments having plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0152] As used herein, "or" is generally used in its inclusive sense, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The term "and / or" refers to one or all of the listed elements or a combination of any two or more of the listed elements.

[0153] As used herein, the words "have," "having," "include," "including," "comprise," "comprising," and the like are used in an open-ended sense and generally mean "including, but not limited to." It should be understood that "consisting essentially of," "consisting of," and the like are encompassed by "comprising" and the like.

[0154] The words "preferred" and "preferably" refer to embodiments of the invention that may offer certain advantages, under particular circumstances. However, other embodiments may also be preferred, under the same or other circumstances. Moreover, the recitation of one or more preferred embodiments does not imply that other embodiments are not useful, and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the present disclosure, including the claims.

[0155] Reference will now be made to the drawings, which depict one or more aspects described in the present disclosure. However, it will be understood that other aspects not shown in the drawings fall within the scope of the present disclosure. Like numbers used in the figures refer to like components, steps, and the like. It will be understood, however, that the use of one number to refer to a component in a given figure is not intended to limit the same numbered component in another figure. Additionally, the use of different numbers to refer to components in different figures is not intended to indicate that the differently numbered component may not be the same or similar to the other numbered component. The figures are presented by way of illustration and not by way of limitation. Schematic diagrams presented in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0156] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device and a schematic side view of an aerosol-generating article that can be inserted into the aerosol generating device. [Figure 2] 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device shown in FIG. 1 and a schematic side view of the article shown in FIG. 1 inserted into the aerosol generating device. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol-generating article. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0157] 1-2 show examples of an aerosol-generating article 100 and an aerosol-generating device 200. The aerosol-generating article 100 has a proximal or mouth end 101 and a distal end 103. In FIG. 2, the distal end 103 of the aerosol-generating article 100 is received in a receptacle 220 of the aerosol-generating device 200. The aerosol-generating device 200 includes a housing 210 defining the receptacle 220 configured to receive the aerosol-generating article 100. The aerosol-generating device 200 also includes a heating element 230 forming a cavity 235 configured to receive the aerosol-generating article 100, preferably via an interference fit. The heating element 230 may include an electrical resistance heating component. Additionally, the device 200 includes a power source 240 and control electronics 250 that cooperate to control the heating of the heating element 230.

[0158] The heating element 230 may heat the distal end 103 of the aerosol-generating article 100, which contains a tubular element 600 (not shown). In this example, the tubular element 600 contains a gel composition 500 that includes nicotine. Heating the aerosol-generating article 100 causes the tubular element 600, which contains the gel composition 500, to generate a nicotine-containing aerosol, which can exit the aerosol-generating article 100 at the proximal end 101.

[0159] 1-2 do not show the exact heating mechanism.

[0160] In some examples, the heating mechanism may be by conductive heating, where heat is transferred from the heating element 230 of the aerosol-generating device 200 to the aerosol-generating article 100. This can be easily achieved when the aerosol-generating article 100 is positioned in the receptacle 220 of the aerosol-generating device 200, so that the distal end 103 (preferably the end where the tubular element 600 containing the gel composition 500 is located) and therefore the aerosol-generating article 100 is in contact with the heating element 230 of the aerosol-generating device 200. In certain embodiments, the heating element comprises a heating blade protruding from the aerosol-generating device 200 and adapted to penetrate into the aerosol-generating article 100 and directly contact the gel composition 500 of the tubular element 600.

[0161] In this embodiment, the heating mechanism is by induction, whereby the heating element emits radiative magnetic radiation that is absorbed by the tubular element when the aerosol-generating article 100 is positioned within the receptacle 220 of the aerosol-generating device 200 .

[0162] FIG. 3 illustrates one embodiment of an aerosol-generating article 100 including a wrapper 110 and a fluid guide 400 .

[0163] Fluid guide 400 has a proximal end 401, a distal end 403, and an inner longitudinal passageway 430 from distal end 403 to proximal end 401. Inner longitudinal passageway 430 has a first portion 410 and a second portion 420. First portion 410 defines a first portion of passageway 430 that extends from a distal end 413 of first portion 410 to a proximal end 411 of first portion 410. Second portion 420 defines a second portion of passageway 430 that extends from a distal end 423 of second portion 420 to a proximal end 421 of second portion 420. The first portion 410 of the passageway 430 has a compressed cross-sectional area moving from the distal end 413 to the proximal end 411 of the first portion 410 such that a fluid, such as air, accelerates through this first portion 410 of the inner longitudinal passageway 430 when negative pressure is applied to the proximal end 101 of the aerosol-generating article 100. The cross-sectional area of ​​the first portion 410 of the inner longitudinal passageway 430 narrows from the distal end 413 to the proximal end 411 of the first portion 410. The second portion 420 of the inner longitudinal passageway 430 has a cross-sectional area that expands from the distal end 423 to the proximal end 421 of the second portion 420 of the fluid guide 400. In the second portion 420 of the inner longitudinal passageway 430, the fluid may decelerate.

[0164] The wrapper 110 defines open proximal and distal ends 101, 103 of the aerosol-generating article 100. A tubular element 600 containing a gel composition 500 is disposed at the distal end 103 of the aerosol-generating article 100. The aerosol-generating article 100 includes an end plug at its extreme distal end 103. The end plug is positioned distal to the tubular element 600. The end plug comprises a material that is highly resistant to draw and thus urges fluid to enter the aerosol-generating article 100 through the opening 150 when negative pressure is applied to the proximal end 101 of the aerosol-generating article 100. The aerosol generated or emitted from the tubular element 600 contains nicotine, and upon heating, it passes from the tubular element 600 downstream into the cavity 140 of the aerosol-generating article and is transported through the inner longitudinal passageway 430.

[0165] Openings 150 extend through the wrapper 110. At least one opening 150 communicates with an exterior longitudinal passageway 440 formed between the outer surface of the fluid guide 400 and the inner surface of the wrapper 110. A seal is formed between the fluid guide 400 and the wrapper 110 at a location between the opening 150 and the mouth end 101.

[0166] When negative pressure is applied to the proximal end 101 of the aerosol-generating article 100, fluid enters the opening 150, flows through the outer longitudinal passage 440 into the cavity 140, and to the tubular element 600 containing the gel composition, where the fluid entraps the aerosol when the tubular element 600 containing the gel composition is heated. The fluid then flows through the inner longitudinal passage 430 and out the proximal end 101 of the aerosol-generating article 100. As the fluid flows through the first portion 410 of the inner longitudinal passage 430, the fluid accelerates. As the fluid flows through the second portion of the inner longitudinal passage 430, the fluid decelerates. In the illustrated embodiment, the wrapper 110 defines a proximal cavity 130 between the proximal end 401 of the fluid guide 400 and the proximal end 101 of the article 100, which may help decelerate the fluid before exiting the oral end 101. [Example]

[0167] Table 1 lists the formulated gel composition formulations. Table 1: TIFF0007733093000001.tif119155 TIFF0007733093000002.tif219155

[0168] Dent Test Measurements were performed using an Anton Parr PNR12 penetrometer and a quarter cone plate. The sample (gel composition) was loaded under the needle and manually aligned with the top of the sample surface. The tip of the needle's shadow on the sample was brought into contact with the needle. At least three measurements were performed per sample. The average distance penetrated for each gel was measured.

[0169] Example 1 had a penetration distance of about 7.5 mm.

[0170] Example 2 had a penetration distance of about 7.7 mm.

[0171] Example 3 had a penetration distance of about 7.0 mm.

[0172] Example 4 had a penetration distance of about 3.8 mm.

[0173] Example 9 had a penetration distance of about 5.0 mm.

[0174] The greater the penetration distance, the softer the gel composition.

[0175] Weight change of gel composition over time The weight of some example formulations was evaluated over a 45 day period at various relative humidities. A stable gel composition substantially maintains its initial weight over a 45 day period.

[0176] Example 4 was weighed over 45 days at three relative humidity levels (10%, 60%, and 70%). At 60% relative humidity, the gel composition added approximately 10% of its weight over 45 days, with nearly all of this weight gain occurring in the first 5 days. At 10% relative humidity, the gel composition lost approximately 15% of its weight over 45 days, with nearly all of this weight loss occurring in the first 5 days. At 70% relative humidity, the gel composition added approximately 25% of its weight over 45 days, with nearly all of this weight gain occurring in the first 5 days. No liquid phase was observed at all three relative humidity levels (10%, 60%, and 70%).

[0177] Example 2 was weighed over 45 days at three relative humidity levels (10%, 60%, and 70%). At 60% relative humidity, the gel composition added approximately 15% of its weight over 45 days, with nearly all of this weight gain occurring in the first 5 days. At 10% relative humidity, the gel composition lost approximately 5% of its weight over 45 days, with nearly all of this weight loss occurring in the first 5 days. At 70% relative humidity, the gel composition added approximately 45% of its weight over 45 days, with nearly all of this weight gain occurring in the first 5 days.

[0178] Further Examples Table 2 lists the formulated gel composition formulations. Table 2: TIFF0007733093000003.tif209155

[0179] 1. A gel composition comprising: Alkaloid compounds, or cannabinoid compounds, or both alkaloid and cannabinoid compounds, at least about 50% by weight of glycerol; at least about 0.2% by weight of a thickening agent; at least about 0.2% by weight of a hydrogen bond crosslinking gelling agent; and A gel composition comprising at least about 0.2% by weight of an ionically cross-linking gelling agent. 2. Nicotine, at least about 50% by weight of glycerol; at least about 0.2% by weight of a thickening agent; at least about 0.2% by weight of a hydrogen bond crosslinking gelling agent; and 2. The gel composition of 1, comprising at least about 0.2% by weight of an ionically cross-linking gelling agent. 3. A gel composition according to 1 or 2, wherein the composition comprises about 70% to about 80% by weight of glycerol. 4. A gel composition described in any one of 1 to 3, wherein the thickener, hydrogen bond cross-linking gelling agent, and ionic cross-linking gelling agent are present in the gel composition in a total amount of about 1% by weight to about 8% by weight. 5. A gel composition described in any one of 1 to 4, wherein the thickener, hydrogen bond cross-linking gelling agent, and ion cross-linking gelling agent are each present in the gel composition at approximately 0.5% by weight to approximately 2% by weight. 6. A gel composition according to any one of 1 to 5, further comprising water in the range of about 1% by weight to about 30% by weight. 7. about 0.5% by weight to about 2.5% by weight of nicotine; about 70% to about 80% by weight of glycerol; about 0.5% to about 2% by weight of a thickening agent; about 0.5% by weight to about 2% by weight of a hydrogen bond cross-linking gelling agent; about 0.5% to about 2% by weight of an ionically cross-linking gelling agent; about 15% to about 25% by weight of water, and 7. The gel composition according to any one of 1 to 6, which contains a divalent cation. 8. A gel composition according to any one of 1 to 7, wherein the thickener comprises xanthan gum, carboxymethylcellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, methylcellulose, gum arabic, guar gum, lambda carrageenan, or starch. 9. A gel composition according to any one of 1 to 8, wherein the thickener comprises xanthan gum. 10. A gel composition according to any one of 1 to 9, wherein the hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent comprises galactomannan, gelatin, agarose, konjac gum, or agar. 11. A gel composition according to any one of 1 to 10, wherein the hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent comprises agar. 12. A gel composition according to any one of 1 to 11, wherein the ionic cross-linking gelling agent comprises low acyl gellan, pectin, kappa carrageenan, iota carrageenan, or alginate. 13. A gel composition according to any one of 1 to 12, wherein the ionically cross-linked gelling agent comprises low-acyl gellan. 14. About 1.5 to about 2.5% by weight of nicotine; about 70 to about 75% by weight of glycerol; about 18 to about 22% by weight of water; Approximately 0.5 to 2% agar Approximately 0.5-2% xanthan gum, Approximately 0.5-2% low acyl gellan, and 14. The gel composition according to any one of 1 to 13, which contains calcium ions. 15. Use of a gel composition according to any one of 1 to 14 by heating the gel composition to vaporize the alkaloid compound, or the cannabinoid compound, or both the alkaloid compound and the cannabinoid compound. 16. Use of the gel composition according to 15, wherein said heating does not release a liquid phase from said stable gel composition.

Claims

1. nicotine, 50% to 80% by weight of glycerol, an ionically cross-linking gelling agent, and containing 0.1% to 1% by weight of divalent cations; further comprising at least 0.2 wt. % of a thickener; the ionic cross-linking gelling agent comprises low acyl gellan, pectin, kappa carrageenan, iota carrageenan, or alginate; The thickening agent comprises xanthan gum, carboxymethyl cellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, methyl cellulose, gum arabic, guar gum, lambda carrageenan, or starch. Gel composition.

2. 10. The gel composition of claim 1, wherein the ionically cross-linking gelling agent is present in an amount of at least 0.2% by weight of the gel composition.

3. 3. The gel composition of claim 1, further comprising at least 0.2% by weight of a hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent.

4. 4. The gel composition of claim 1, comprising 70% to 80% by weight of glycerol.

5. A gel composition described in any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising water in the range of 1% by weight to 30% by weight.

6. The gel composition according to claim 3 or claim 4 or 5 which cites claim 3, wherein the hydrogen-bond cross-linking gelling agent comprises galactomannan, gelatin, agarose, konjac gum, or agar.

7. The gel composition of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the divalent cations comprise calcium ions.

8. The gel composition of any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising a carboxylic acid.

9. 9. The gel composition of claim 8, wherein the carboxylic acid comprises levulinic acid or lactic acid.

10. 10. The gel composition of claim 8 or 9, wherein the carboxylic acid is present in an amount of 0.1% to 5% by weight of the gel composition.

11. Use of a gel composition according to any one of claims 1 to 10 by heating the gel composition to vaporise the nicotine.

12. 12. The use of a gel composition according to claim 11, wherein said heating does not release a liquid phase from said gel composition.

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