Aerosol-generating substrates and encapsulated flavorants

Abstract

A capsule for an aerosol-generating device includes an aerosol-forming substrate having first and second sections and a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed therewithin. The plurality of aerosol-forming compounds includes a first aerosol-forming compound having a first aerosolization temperature and a second aerosol-forming compound having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature. The first aerosol-forming compound is dispersed at a first concentration at the first section and at a second concentration different from the first concentration at the second section. The second aerosol-forming compound is dispersed at a first concentration at the first section and at a second concentration different from the first concentration at the second section. The first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound is different from the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound. The second concentration of the aerosol-forming compound is different form the second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 654,376, filed on May 31, 2024. The entire disclosure of the above application is incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUNDField

[0002] The present disclosure relates to aerosol-generating substrates and capsules including the same, such as for use in aerosol-generating devices, configured to generate an aerosol without involving a substantial pyrolysis of an aerosol-forming substrate.Description of Related Art

[0003] Some electronic devices are configured to heat an aerosol-forming substrate, such as a plant material, to a temperature that is sufficient to release constituents of the plant material while keeping the temperature below a combustion point of the plant material so as to avoid any substantial pyrolysis of the plant material. Such devices may be referred to as aerosol-generating devices (e.g., heated tobacco or heated tobacco product aerosol-generating devices), and the plant material heated may be tobacco and / or cannabis. In some instances, the plant material may be introduced directly into a heating chamber of an aerosol-generating device. In other instances, the plant material may be pre-packaged in individual containers to facilitate insertion and removal from an aerosol-generating device.SUMMARY

[0004] At least one example embodiment relates to an aerosol-forming substrate for an aerosol-generating device.

[0005] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate has a first section and a second section and includes a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed therewithin. The plurality of aerosol-forming compounds may include a first aerosol-forming compound having a first aerosolization temperature and a second aerosol-forming compound having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature. The first aerosolizable compound may be dispersed at a first concentration in the first section and at a second concentration different from the first concentration in the second section. The second aerosol-forming compound may be dispersed at a first concentration in the first section and at a second concentration different from the first concentration in the second section.

[0006] In at least one example embodiment, the first section may surround at least a portion of the second section.

[0007] In at least one example embodiment, the second section may be downstream from the first section.

[0008] In at least one example embodiment, the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds may include an aerosol former, a solvent, an active ingredient, a pH-adjustor, a flavorant, a thermal conductivity modifier, or any combination thereof.

[0009] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol former and solvent may be independently selected from water, propylene glycol, glycerol, ethanol, 2-propanol, butanediol, or any combination thereof.

[0010] In at least one example embodiment, the active ingredient may include nicotine, nicotine salt, nicotine solution, encapsulated nicotine, and the combination of thereof.

[0011] In at least one example embodiment, the nicotine salt may be formed between nicotine and citrate, monotartrate, bitartrate, bitartrate dihydrate, salicylate, sulfate, bisulfate, phosphate, acid phosphate, acetate, lactate, succinate, maleate, fumarate, gluconate, saccharate, benzoate, methanesulfonate, hydrochloride, hydrobromide, hydroiodide, or any combination thereof.

[0012] In at least one example embodiment, the active ingredient may include 8-tetrahydrocannabinol (8-THC), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabinol (CBN), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabigerol (CBG), or any combination thereof.

[0013] In at least one example embodiment, the pH-adjustor may include pyruvic acid, formic acid, oxalic acid, glycolic acid, acetic acid, isovaleric acid, valeric acid, propionic acid, octanoic acid, lactic acid, levulinic acid, sorbic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, succinic acid, citric acid, benzoic acid, oleic acid, aconitic acid, butyric acid, cinnamic acid, decanoic acid, 3,7-dimethyl-6-octenoic acid, 1-glutamic acid, heptanoic acid, hexanoic acid, 3-hexenoic acid, trans-2-hexenoic acid, isobutyric acid, lauric acid, 2-methylbutyric acid, 2-methylvaleric acid, myristic acid, nonanoic acid, palmitic acid, pentenoic acid, phenylacetic acid, 3-phenylpropionic acid, hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, ammonia, or any combination thereof.

[0014] In at least one example embodiment, the flavorant may include menthol, peppermint, spearmint, wintergreen, menthol, cinnamon, chocolate, vanillin, licorice, clove, anise, sandalwood, geranium, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, cassia, fennel, ginger, ethyl acetate, isoamyl acetate, propyl isobutyrate, isobutyl butyrate, ethyl butyrate, ethyl valerate, benzyl formate, limonene, cymene, pinene, linalool, geraniol, citronellol, citral, orange oil, coriander oil, borneol, fruit extract, coffee, tea, cacao, mint, pomegranate, acai, raspberry, blueberry, strawberry, boysenberry, cranberry, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, cognac, hydrangea, lavender, apple, peach, pear, cherry, plum, orange, lime, lychee, grape, grapefruit, butter, rum, coconut, almond, pecan, walnut, hazelnut, french vanilla, macadamia, sugar cane, maple, cassis, caramel, banana, malt, espresso, kahlua, white chocolate, cinnamon, clove, cilantro, basil, oregano, garlic, mustard, nutmeg, rosemary, thyme, tarragon, dill, sage, anise, fennel, methyl salicylate, linalool, jasmine, coffee, olive oil, sesame oil, sunflower oil, bergamot oil, geranium oil, lemon oil, ginger oil, balsamic vinegar, rice wine vinegar, red wine vinegar, allspice, pimento, mango, soursop, sweetsop, naseberry, sorrel, terpenes, or any combination thereof.

[0015] In at least one example embodiment, the terpenes may include 8-myrcene, 8-caryophyllene, d-limonene, linalool, pulegone, 1,8-cineole, α-pinene, α-terpineol, termine-4-ol, p-cymene, or any combination thereof.

[0016] In at least one example embodiment, the thermal conductivity modifier may include metal particles, metal granules, sheet metal slices, water, carbon fibers, graphene flakes, ceramic particles, or any combination thereof.

[0017] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may further include a tobacco material.

[0018] In at least one example embodiment, the tobacco material may include tobacco lamina, a processed tobacco material, ground tobacco, processed tobacco stems, a reconstituted tobacco material, or any combination thereof.

[0019] In at least one example embodiment, at least a portion of the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds may be surrounded by an encapsulating material.

[0020] In at least one example embodiment, one of the first and second aerosol-forming compounds may include the encapsulating material.

[0021] In at least one example embodiment, the first aerosol-forming compound may include a first encapsulating material having the first aerosolization temperature and the second aerosol-forming compound may include a second encapsulating material having the second aerosolization temperature.

[0022] In at least one example embodiment, the encapsulating material may include pectin, gelatin, sodium alginate, maltodextrin, pullulan, xanthan, gum acacia, hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose, sodium carboxy methyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl caprolactam, polyvinyl acetate, starch, starch-derivatives, or any combination thereof.

[0023] At least one example embodiment relates to a capsule for an aerosol-generating device.

[0024] In at least one example embodiment, the capsule includes an aerosol-forming substrate having a first section and a second section and a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed within the aerosol-forming substrate, where the plurality of aerosol-forming compound includes a first aerosol-forming compound having a first aerosolization temperature and a second aerosol-forming compound having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature. The first aerosol-forming compound may be dispersed at a first concentration at the first section and at a second concentration different from the first concentration at the second section. The second aerosol-forming compound may be dispersed at a first concentration at the first section and at a second concentration different from the first concentration at the second section.

[0025] In at least one example embodiment, the capsule may further include a heater configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol.

[0026] In at least one example embodiment, the first section may be closer to the heater than the second section.

[0027] In at least one example embodiment, the capsule may further include a housing that encompasses the aerosol-forming substrate and heater.

[0028] In at least one example embodiment, the first section may surround at least a portion of the second section.

[0029] In at least one example embodiment, the second section may be downstream from the first section.

[0030] In at least one example embodiment, the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds may include an aerosol former, a solvent, an active ingredient, a pH-adjustor, a flavorant, a thermal conductivity modifier, or any combination thereof.

[0031] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol former and solvent may be independently selected from water, propylene glycol, glycerol, ethanol, 2-propanol, butanediol, or any combination thereof.

[0032] In at least one example embodiment, the active ingredient may include nicotine, nicotine salt, nicotine solution, encapsulated nicotine, and the combination of thereof.

[0033] In at least one example embodiment, the nicotine salt may be formed between nicotine and citrate, monotartrate, bitartrate, bitartrate dihydrate, salicylate, sulfate, bisulfate, phosphate, acid phosphate, acetate, lactate, succinate, maleate, fumarate, gluconate, saccharate, benzoate, methanesulfonate, hydrochloride, hydrobromide, hydroiodide, or any combination thereof.

[0034] In at least one example embodiment, the active ingredient may include 8-tetrahydrocannabinol (8-THC), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabinol (CBN), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabigerol (CBG), or any combination thereof.

[0035] In at least one example embodiment, the pH-adjustor may include pyruvic acid, formic acid, oxalic acid, glycolic acid, acetic acid, isovaleric acid, valeric acid, propionic acid, octanoic acid, lactic acid, levulinic acid, sorbic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, succinic acid, citric acid, benzoic acid, oleic acid, aconitic acid, butyric acid, cinnamic acid, decanoic acid, 3,7-dimethyl-6-octenoic acid, 1-glutamic acid, heptanoic acid, hexanoic acid, 3-hexenoic acid, trans-2-hexenoic acid, isobutyric acid, lauric acid, 2-methylbutyric acid, 2-methylvaleric acid, myristic acid, nonanoic acid, palmitic acid, pentenoic acid, phenylacetic acid, 3-phenylpropionic acid, hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, ammonia, or any combination thereof.

[0036] In at least one example embodiment, the flavorant may include menthol, peppermint, spearmint, wintergreen, menthol, cinnamon, chocolate, vanillin, licorice, clove, anise, sandalwood, geranium, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, cassia, fennel, ginger, ethyl acetate, isoamyl acetate, propyl isobutyrate, isobutyl butyrate, ethyl butyrate, ethyl valerate, benzyl formate, limonene, cymene, pinene, linalool, geraniol, citronellol, citral, orange oil, coriander oil, borneol, fruit extract, coffee, tea, cacao, mint, pomegranate, acai, raspberry, blueberry, strawberry, boysenberry, cranberry, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, cognac, hydrangea, lavender, apple, peach, pear, cherry, plum, orange, lime, lychee, grape, grapefruit, butter, rum, coconut, almond, pecan, walnut, hazelnut, french vanilla, macadamia, sugar cane, maple, cassis, caramel, banana, malt, espresso, kahlua, white chocolate, cinnamon, clove, cilantro, basil, oregano, garlic, mustard, nutmeg, rosemary, thyme, tarragon, dill, sage, anise, fennel, methyl salicylate, linalool, jasmine, coffee, olive oil, sesame oil, sunflower oil, bergamot oil, geranium oil, lemon oil, ginger oil, balsamic vinegar, rice wine vinegar, red wine vinegar, allspice, pimento, mango, soursop, sweetsop, naseberry, sorrel, terpenes, or any combination thereof.

[0037] In at least one example embodiment, the terpenes may include 8-myrcene, 8-caryophyllene, d-limonene, linalool, pulegone, 1,8-cineole, α-pinene, α-terpineol, termine-4-ol, p-cymene, or any combination thereof.

[0038] In at least one example embodiment, the thermal conductivity modifier may include metal particles, metal granules, sheet metal slices, ceramic particles, graphene flakes, water, carbon fibers, graphene flakes, ceramic particles, or any combination thereof.

[0039] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may include a tobacco material.

[0040] In at least one example embodiment, the tobacco material may include tobacco lamina, a processed tobacco material, ground tobacco, processed tobacco stems, a reconstituted tobacco material, or any combination thereof.

[0041] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate includes a tobacco substitute material.

[0042] In at least one example embodiment, the tobacco substitute material includes wood pulp, cotton, sugar beets, bran, citrus pulp fiber, switch grass, salix tea, populus, bamboo, hemp, cannabis, or any combination thereof.

[0043] In at least one example embodiment, at least a portion of the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds may be surrounded by an encapsulating material.

[0044] In at least one example embodiment, one of the first and second aerosol-forming compounds may include the encapsulating material.

[0045] In at least one example embodiment, the first aerosol-forming compound may include a first encapsulating material having the first aerosolization temperature and the second aerosol-forming compound may include a second encapsulating material having the second aerosolization temperature.

[0046] In at least one example embodiment, the encapsulating material may include pectin, gelatin, sodium alginate, maltodextrin, pullulan, xanthan, gum acacia, hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose, sodium carboxy methyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl caprolactam, polyvinyl acetate, starch, starch-derivatives, or any combination thereof.

[0047] At least one example embodiment relates to a capsule for an aerosol-generating device.

[0048] In at least one example embodiment, the capsule may include an aerosol-forming substrate and a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed within the aerosol-forming substrate. The plurality of aerosol-forming compounds may include a first aerosol-forming compound having a first aerosolization temperature and a second aerosol-forming compound having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature. The first aerosol-forming compound and the second aerosol-forming compound may each be dispersed throughout the aerosol-forming substrate, and at least one of the first aerosol-forming compound or the second aerosol-forming compound may have a non-uniform dispersion concentration.

[0049] In at least one example embodiment, the first aerosol-forming compound may have a first non-uniform dispersion concentration, and the second aerosol-forming compound may have a second non-uniform dispersion concentration.

[0050] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may include a first section. The first section may include a first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound. The first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound may be different from the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound.

[0051] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may include a second section. The second section may include a second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound. The second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound may be different from than the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound.

[0052] In at least one example embodiment, the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound may be less than the first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound.

[0053] In at least one example embodiment, the second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound may be greater than the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound.

[0054] In at least one example embodiment, the first aerosol-forming compound may include a first encapsulating material.

[0055] In at least one example embodiment, the second aerosol-forming compound may include a second encapsulating material.

[0056] At least one example embodiment relates to an aerosol-generating device.

[0057] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-generating device may include a removable capsule that includes an aerosol-forming substrate and a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed within the aerosol-forming substrate. The plurality of aerosol-forming compounds may include a first aerosol-forming compound having a first aerosolization temperature, and a second aerosol-forming compound having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature. The first aerosol-forming compound and the second aerosol-forming compound may each be dispersed throughout the aerosol-forming substrate. At least one of the first aerosol-forming compound or the second aerosol-forming compound may have a non-uniform dispersion concentration. The aerosol-generating device may further include a heater configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol.

[0058] In at least one example embodiment, the heater may include an induction heater.

[0059] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may include a first section. The first section may include a first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound. The first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound may be different from the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound.

[0060] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may include a second section. The second section may include a second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound. The second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound may be different from the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound.

[0061] In at least one example embodiment, the heater may heat the first section to a first temperature and the second section to a second temperature.

[0062] In at least one example embodiment, the first temperature may be greater than the second temperature.

[0063] In at least one example embodiment, the first aerosol-forming compound may include a first encapsulating material.

[0064] In at least one example embodiment, the second aerosol-forming compound may include a second encapsulating material.

[0065] At least one example embodiment relates to a capsule for an aerosol-generating device.

[0066] In at least one example embodiment, the capsule may include an aerosol-forming substrate having a first section and a second section and a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed within the aerosol-forming substrate. The plurality of aerosol-forming compounds may include a first aerosol-forming compound having a first aerosolization temperature and a second aerosol-forming compound having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature. The first aerosol-forming compound may be dispersed at a first concentration at the first section and at a second concentration different from the first concentration at the second section. The second aerosol-forming compound may be dispersed at a first concentration at the first section and at a second concentration different from the first concentration at the second section.

[0067] In at least one example embodiment, the first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound in the first section may be different than the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound in the first section and the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound in the second section may be different than the second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound in the second section.

[0068] In at least one example embodiment, the capsule may further include a heater configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol. The first section may be closer to the heater than the second section.

[0069] In at least one example embodiment, the first section may be greater than or equal to about 2% to less than or equal to about 50% of a total length of the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0070] In at least one example embodiment, the first section may be a coating on the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0071] In at least one example embodiment, the first section may be substantially free of the second aerosol-forming compound.

[0072] In at least one example embodiment, the second section may be substantially free of the first aerosol-forming compound.

[0073] In at least one example embodiment, the second aerosolization temperature may be greater than the first aerosolization temperature.

[0074] In at least one example embodiment, the first section may surround at least a portion of the second section.

[0075] In at least one example embodiment, the second section may be downstream from the first section.

[0076] In at least one example embodiment, the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds may include an aerosol former, a solvent, an active ingredient, a pH-adjustor, a flavorant, a thermal conductivity modifier, or any combination thereof.

[0077] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol former and solvent may be independently selected from water, propylene glycol, glycerol, ethanol, 2-propanol, butanediol, or any combination thereof; the active ingredient may include nicotine, nicotine salt, nicotine solution, encapsulated nicotine, 8-tetrahydrocannabinol (8-THC), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabinol (CBN), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabigerol (CBG), and any combination thereof; the nicotine salt may be formed between nicotine and citrate, monotartrate, bitartrate, bitartrate dihydrate, salicylate, sulfate, bisulfate, phosphate, acid phosphate, acetate, lactate, succinate, maleate, fumarate, gluconate, saccharate, benzoate, methanesulfonate, hydrochloride, hydrobromide, hydroiodide, or any combination thereof; the pH-adjustor may include pyruvic acid, formic acid, oxalic acid, glycolic acid, acetic acid, isovaleric acid, valeric acid, propionic acid, octanoic acid, lactic acid, levulinic acid, sorbic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, succinic acid, citric acid, benzoic acid, oleic acid, aconitic acid, butyric acid, cinnamic acid, decanoic acid, 3,7-dimethyl-6-octenoic acid, 1-glutamic acid, heptanoic acid, hexanoic acid, 3-hexenoic acid, trans-2-hexenoic acid, isobutyric acid, lauric acid, 2-methylbutyric acid, 2-methylvaleric acid, myristic acid, nonanoic acid, palmitic acid, pentenoic acid, phenylacetic acid, 3-phenylpropionic acid, hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, ammonia, or any combination thereof; the flavorant may include menthol, peppermint, spearmint, wintergreen, menthol, cinnamon, chocolate, vanillin, licorice, clove, anise, sandalwood, geranium, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, cassia, fennel, ginger, ethyl acetate, isoamyl acetate, propyl isobutyrate, isobutyl butyrate, ethyl butyrate, ethyl valerate, benzyl formate, limonene, cymene, pinene, linalool, geraniol, citronellol, citral, orange oil, coriander oil, borneol, fruit extract, coffee, tea, cacao, mint, pomegranate, acai, raspberry, blueberry, strawberry, boysenberry, cranberry, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, cognac, hydrangea, lavender, apple, peach, pear, cherry, plum, orange, lime, lychee, grape, grapefruit, butter, rum, coconut, almond, pecan, walnut, hazelnut, french vanilla, macadamia, sugar cane, maple, cassis, caramel, banana, malt, espresso, kahlua, white chocolate, cinnamon, clove, cilantro, basil, oregano, garlic, mustard, nutmeg, rosemary, thyme, tarragon, dill, sage, anise, fennel, methyl salicylate, linalool, jasmine, coffee, olive oil, sesame oil, sunflower oil, bergamot oil, geranium oil, lemon oil, ginger oil, balsamic vinegar, rice wine vinegar, red wine vinegar, allspice, pimento, mango, soursop, sweetsop, naseberry, sorrel, terpenes, or any combination thereof; the terpenes may include 8-myrcene, 8-caryophyllene, d-limonene, linalool, pulegone, 1,8-cineole, α-pinene, α-terpineol, termine-4-ol, p-cymene, or any combination thereof; and the thermal conductivity modifier may include metal particles, metal granules, sheet metal slices, water, carbon fibers, graphene flakes, ceramic particles, or any combination thereof.

[0078] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may include a tobacco material. The tobacco material may include tobacco lamina, a processed tobacco material, ground tobacco, processed tobacco stems, a reconstituted tobacco material, or any combination thereof.

[0079] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may include a tobacco substitute material. The tobacco substitute material may include wood pulp, cotton, sugar beets, bran, citrus pulp fiber, switch grass, salix tea, populus, bamboo, hemp, cannabis, or any combination thereof.

[0080] In at least one example embodiment, at least a portion of the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds may be surrounded by an encapsulating material.

[0081] In at least one example embodiment, the first aerosol-forming compound may include a first encapsulating material having the first aerosolization temperature, the second aerosol-forming compound may include a second encapsulating material having the second aerosolization temperature, and the first and second encapsulating materials defining the encapsulating material.

[0082] In at least one example embodiment, the encapsulating material may include pectin, gelatin, sodium alginate, maltodextrin, pullulan, xanthan, gum acacia, hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose, sodium carboxy methyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl caprolactam, polyvinyl acetate, starch, starch-derivatives, or any combination thereof.

[0083] At least one example embodiment relates to a capsule for an aerosol-generating device.

[0084] In at least one example embodiment, the capsule may include an aerosol-forming substrate and a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed within the aerosol-forming substrate. The plurality of aerosol-forming compounds may include a first aerosol-forming compound having a first aerosolization temperature and a second aerosol-forming compound having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature. The first aerosol-forming compound and the second aerosol-forming compound may each be dispersed throughout the aerosol-forming substrate and at least one of the first aerosol-forming compound or the second aerosol-forming compound may have a non-uniform dispersion concentration.

[0085] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate includes a first section and a second section. The first section may include a first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound, the first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound being different from the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound. The second section may include a second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound, the second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound being different from the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound.

[0086] At least one example embodiment relates to an aerosol-generating device.

[0087] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-generating device may include a removable capsule and a heater configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol. The removable capsule may include an aerosol-forming substrate and a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed within the aerosol-forming substrate. The plurality of aerosol-forming compounds including: a first aerosol-forming compound having a first aerosolization temperature and a second aerosol-forming compound having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature. The first aerosol-forming compound and the second aerosol-forming compound may each be dispersed throughout the aerosol-forming substrate. At least one of the first aerosol-forming compound or the second aerosol-forming compound may have a non-uniform dispersion concentration.

[0088] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may include a first section and a second section, the first section including a first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound. The first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound may be different from the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound. The second section may include a second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound. The second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound may be different from the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0089] The various features and advantages of the non-limiting embodiments herein may become more apparent upon review of the detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are merely provided for illustrative purposes and should not be interpreted to limit the scope of the claims. The accompanying drawings are not to be considered as drawn to scale unless explicitly noted. For purposes of clarity, various dimensions of the drawings may have been exaggerated.

[0090] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol-forming substrate in consolidated form according to at least one example embodiment.

[0091] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of another aerosol-forming substrate in consolidated form according to at least one example embodiment.

[0092] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an aerosol-forming substrate in rod form according to at least one example embodiment.

[0093] FIG. 4 is an illustration of an aerosol-forming substrate including a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds according to at least one example embodiment.

[0094] FIG. 5 is an illustration of another aerosol-forming substrate including a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds according to at least one example embodiment.

[0095] FIG. 6 is an illustration of another aerosol-forming substrate including a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds according to at least one example embodiment.

[0096] FIG. 7 is an illustration of another aerosol-forming substrate including a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds according to at least one example embodiment.

[0097] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an example aerosol-forming compound for inclusion in an aerosol-forming substrate according to at least one example embodiment.

[0098] FIG. 9 is a top right perspective view of a capsule that includes an aerosol-forming substrate according to at least one example embodiment.

[0099] FIG. 10 is a sectional view of the capsule of FIG. 9 along line XI-XI of FIG. 9 according to at least one example embodiment.

[0100] FIG. 11 is an exploded view of the capsule of FIG. 9 according to at least one example embodiment.

[0101] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an aerosol-generating device configured to receive a capsule and having a lid in a closed position according to at least one example embodiment.

[0102] FIG. 13 is a partial perspective view of the aerosol-generating device of FIG. 12 with the lid in an open position according to at least one example embodiment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

[0103] Some detailed example embodiments are disclosed herein. However, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merely representative for purposes of describing example embodiments. Example embodiments may, however, be embodied in many alternate forms and should not be construed as limited to only the example embodiments set forth herein.

[0104] Accordingly, while example embodiments are capable of various modifications and alternative forms, example embodiments thereof are shown by way of example in the drawings and will herein be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intent to limit example embodiments to the particular forms disclosed, but to the contrary, example embodiments are to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of example embodiments. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the description of the figures.

[0105] It should be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being “on,”“connected to,”“coupled to,” or “covering” another element or layer, it may be directly on, connected to, coupled to, or covering the other element or layer or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,”“directly connected to,” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers present. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the specification. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0106] It should be understood that, although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, regions, layers and / or sections, these elements, regions, layers, and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, region, layer, or section from another region, layer, or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed below could be termed a second element, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of example embodiments.

[0107] Spatially relative terms (e.g., “beneath,”“below,”“lower,”“above,”“upper,” and the like) may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It should be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the term “below” may encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

[0108] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing various example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of example embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms “a,”“an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “includes,”“including,”“comprises,” and / or “comprising,” specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, and / or elements, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or groups thereof.

[0109] When the terms “about” or “substantially” are used in this specification in connection with a numerical value, it is intended that the associated numerical value includes a manufacturing or operational tolerance (e.g., +10%) around the stated numerical value. Moreover, when the terms “generally” or “substantially” are used in connection with geometric shapes, it is intended that precision of the geometric shape is not required but that latitude for the shape is within the scope of the disclosure. Furthermore, regardless of whether numerical values or shapes are modified as “about,”“generally,” or “substantially,” it will be understood that these values and shapes should be construed as including a manufacturing or operational tolerance (e.g., +10%) around the stated numerical values or shapes.

[0110] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which example embodiments belong. It will be further understood that terms, including those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0111] At least one example embodiment relates to an aerosol-forming substrate for use in an aerosol-generating device.

[0112] An aerosol-forming substrate includes a material or combination of materials that may yield an aerosol. An aerosol relates to the matter generated or output by the devices disclosed, claimed, and equivalents thereof, including, for example, heated tobacco or heated tobacco products aerosol-generating devices. The material may include a compound (e.g., nicotine, cannabinoid), where an aerosol including the compound is produced when the material is heated. The heating may be below the combustion temperature so as to produce the aerosol without involving a substantial pyrolysis of the aerosol-forming substrate or the substantial generation of combustion byproducts (if any). Thus, in at least one example embodiment, pyrolysis does not occur during the heating and resulting production of aerosol. In other instances, however, there may be some pyrolysis and combustion byproducts, but the extent of the pyrolysis and combustion byproducts may be considered relatively minor and / or merely incidental.

[0113] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may include a fibrous material. The fibrous material is configured to release a compound when heated. The compound may be a naturally occurring constituent of the fibrous material. In at least one example embodiment, the fibrous material may include a botanical material. For instance, the fibrous material may include tobacco and the compound released may be nicotine. The term “tobacco” includes any tobacco plant material including tobacco leaf, tobacco plug, reconstituted tobacco, compressed tobacco, shaped tobacco, powder tobacco, or any combination thereof from one or more species of tobacco plants, including, for example, Nicotiana rustica and Nicotiana tabacum.

[0114] In at least one example embodiment, the tobacco material may include material from any member of the genus Nicotiana. In at least one example embodiment, the tobacco material may include a blend of two or more different tobacco varieties. Examples of suitable types of tobacco materials that may be used include, but are not limited to, flue-cured tobacco, Burley tobacco, Dark tobacco, Maryland tobacco, Oriental tobacco, rare tobacco, specialty tobacco, blends thereof, and the like. The tobacco material may be provided in any suitable form, including, but not limited to, tobacco lamina, processed tobacco materials (such as volume expanded or puffed tobacco), processed tobacco stems (such as cut-rolled or cut-puffed stems), reconstituted tobacco materials, blends thereof, and the like. In at least one example embodiment, the tobacco material may be in the form of a substantially dry tobacco mass.

[0115] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may include a naturally occurring constituent of a medicinal plant that has a medically accepted therapeutic effect. In at least one example embodiment, the medicinal plant may be a cannabis plant and the compound may be a cannabinoid. Cannabinoids may interact with receptors in the body to produce a wide range of effects. As a result, cannabinoids have been used for a variety of medicinal purposes (e.g., treatment of pain, nausea, epilepsy, psychiatric disorders). In at least one example embodiment, the fibrous material as included in (e.g., defining) the aerosol-forming substrate may include the leaf and / or flower material from one or more species of cannabis plants including, for example, Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and / or Cannabis ruderalis. In at least one example embodiment, the fibrous material may include a mixture that includes greater than or equal to about 60% to less than or equal to about 80% (e.g., about 70%) of Cannabis sativa and greater than or equal to about 20% to less than or equal to about 40% (e.g., about 30%) of Cannabis indica.

[0116] Cannabinoids include, for example, tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol (CBN), cannabicyclol (CBL), cannabichromene (CBC), and cannabigerol (CBG). Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) may be a precursor of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), while cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) may be precursor of cannabidiol (CBD). In certain instances, tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) may be converted to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), for example, via heating. In certain instances, cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) may be converted to cannabidiol (CBD) via heating. In at least one example embodiment, heat from a heater may cause decarboxylation so as to convert the tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and / or to convert the cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) to cannabidiol (CBD).

[0117] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate includes both tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). In such instances, decarboxylation and resulting conversion upon the application of heat may cause a decrease in tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) and an increase in tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). For example, at least about 50% (e.g., at least about 87%) of the tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) may be converted to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) upon the application of heat. In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate includes both cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) and cannabidiol (CBD). In such instances, the decarboxylation and resulting conversion may cause a decrease in cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) and an increase in cannabidiol (CBD). For example, at least about 50% (e.g., at least about 87%) of the cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) may be converted to cannabidiol (CBD) upon the application of heat.

[0118] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may have a resistance to draw (RTD) of greater than or equal to about 30 mmH2O (e.g., greater than or equal to about 40 mmH2O, greater than or equal to about 50 mmH2O, greater than or equal to about 60 mmH2O, greater than or equal to about 70 mmH2O, greater than or equal to about 80 mmH2O, greater than or equal to about 90 mmH2O, greater than or equal to about 100 mmH2O, greater than or equal to about 110 mmH2O, or greater than or equal to about 120 mmH2O). In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may have a resistance to draw (RTD) of less than or equal to about 130 mmH2O (e.g., less than or equal to about 120 mmH2O, less than or equal to about 110 mmH2O, less than or equal to about 100 mmH2O, less than or equal to about 90 mmH2O, less than or equal to about 80 mmH2O, less than or equal to about 70 mmH2O, less than or equal to about 60 mmH2O, less than or equal to about 50 mmH2O, or less than or equal to about 40 mmH2O). In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may have a resistance to draw (RTD) that ranges from about 30 mmH2O to about 130 mmH2O (e.g., greater than or equal to about 60 mmH2O to less than or equal to about 80 mmH2O, greater than or equal to about 65 mmH2O to less than or equal to about 75 mmH2O, greater than or equal to about 67 mmH2O to less than or equal to about 73 mmH2O, or greater than or equal to about 69 mmH2O to less than or equal to about 71 mmH2O).

[0119] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may have a bulk density of greater than or equal to about 0.2 g / cm3 (e.g., greater than or equal to about 0.25 g / cm3, greater than or equal to about 0.3 g / cm3, greater than or equal to about 0.35 g / cm3, greater than or equal to about 0.4 g / cm3, greater than or equal to about 0.45 g / cm3, greater than or equal to about 0.5 g / cm3, greater than or equal to about 0.55 g / cm3, greater than or equal to about 0.6 g / cm3, greater than or equal to about 0.65 g / cm3, greater than or equal to about 0.7 g / cm3, greater than or equal to about 0.75 g / cm3). In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may have a bulk density of less than or equal to about 0.8 g / cm3 (e.g., less than or equal to about 0.75 g / cm3, less than or equal to about 0.7 g / cm3, less than or equal to about 0.65 g / cm3, less than or equal to about 0.6 g / cm3, less than or equal to about 0.55 g / cm3, less than or equal to about 0.5 g / cm3, less than or equal to about 0.45 g / cm3, less than or equal to about 0.4 g / cm3, less than or equal to about 0.35 g / cm3, less than or equal to about 0.3 g / cm3, or less than or equal to about 0.25 g / cm3). In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may have a bulk density that ranges from about 0.2 g / cm3 to about 0.8 g / cm3 (e.g., greater than or equal to about 0.3 g / cm3 to less than or equal to about 0.5 g / cm3, greater than or equal to about 0.35 g / cm3 to less than or equal to about 0.45 g / cm3, or greater than or equal to about 0.37 g / cm3 to less than or equal to about 0.43 g / cm3).

[0120] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol-forming substrate 100 in consolidated form according to at least one example embodiment.

[0121] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate 100 may include a first aerosol-forming substrate 102a and a second aerosol-forming substrate 102b to facilitate substrate loading during an assembly of a capsule that is configured, for example, for insertion into or use with an aerosol-generating device (e.g., capsule 800 in FIGS. 9-11 and aerosol-generating device 1100 in FIGS. 12 and 13). Each of the first aerosol-forming substrate 102a and the second aerosol-forming substrate 102b may be in a consolidated form that is configured to maintain its shape so as to allow placement in a unified manner within a chamber of the capsule. For instance, the first aerosol-forming substrate 102a and the second aerosol-forming substrate 102b may be in the form of rectangular sheets / slabs dimensioned for insertion into the capsule.

[0122] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of another aerosol-forming substrate 200 in consolidated form according to at least one example embodiment.

[0123] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate 200 as illustrated in FIG. 2 may differ from the aerosol-forming substrate 100 as illustrated in FIG. 1 with regard only to its shape and dimensions. Otherwise, the aerosol-forming substrate 200 illustrated in FIG. 2 may be the same as described above in connection with the aerosol-forming substrate 100 as illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0124] The aerosol-forming substrate 200 may include a first aerosol-forming substrate 202a and a second aerosol-forming substrate 202b, where each may be in a consolidated form. For instance, the first aerosol-forming substrate 202a and the second aerosol-forming substrate 202b may be in the form of slabs or pallets with a semi-obround cross-section dimensioned for insertion into a capsule that is configured, for example, for insertion into or use with an aerosol-generating device. (e.g., capsule 800 in FIGS. 9-11 and aerosol-generating device 1100 in FIGS. 12 and 13).

[0125] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an aerosol-forming substrate 300 in rod form according to at least one example embodiment.

[0126] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate 300 may be consolidated in the form of a rod 302. An exterior (e.g., circumference) of the aerosol-forming substrate 300 may be surrounded by a wrap 304. For instance, the wrap 304 may include a tipping paper or other suitable sheet material for wrapping. In at least one example embodiment, the rod 302 may be used in an aerosol-generating device without being in a capsule. It should be understood that the aerosol-forming substrate 300 may be in a consolidated form that retains its shape in the absence of the wrap 304 or, alternatively, in loose form so as to have a shape that is defined by the wrap 304.

[0127] Although not illustrated, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may be in loose form (e.g., larger substrate that is ground into smaller pieces of the substrate). In such an instance, the aerosol-forming substrate may assume the shape of the space that contains it (e.g., chamber of a capsule). Additionally, for an aerosol-forming substrate in loose form, a vacuum-assisted filling process may be used to load the aerosol-forming substrate (e.g., into a capsule).

[0128] It should be appreciated that in each instance—i.e., the aerosol-forming substrate 100 as illustrated in FIG. 1 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 200 as illustrated in FIG. 2 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 300 as illustrated in FIG. 3 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate in loose form—the aerosol-forming substrate may include a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed within the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0129] FIG. 4 is an illustration of an aerosol-forming substrate 400 including a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 410 according to at least one example embodiment.

[0130] In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, an aerosol-forming substrate 400 may include a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 410 dispersed within a matrix 420 defined by a fibrous material.

[0131] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate 400 may include an amount of the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 410 greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt. % (e.g., greater than or equal to about 1 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 10 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 15 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 20 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 25 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 30 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 35 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 40 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 45 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 50 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 55 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 60 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 65 wt. %, or greater than or equal to about 70 wt. %). In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate 400 may include an amount of the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 410 less than or equal to about 75 wt. % (e.g., less than or equal to about 70 wt. %, less than or equal to about 65 wt. %, less than or equal to about 60 wt. %, less than or equal to about 55 wt. %, less than or equal to about 50 wt. %, less than or equal to about 45 wt. %, less than or equal to about 40 wt. %, less than or equal to about 35 wt. %, less than or equal to about 30 wt. %, less than or equal to about 25 wt. %, less than or equal to about 20 wt. %, less than or equal to about 15 wt. %, less than or equal to about 10 wt. %, less than or equal to about 5 wt. %, or less than or equal to about 1 wt. %). In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate 400 may include greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt. % to less than or equal to about 75 wt. % of the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 410.

[0132] In at least one example embodiment, the matrix 420 may include tobacco material. The tobacco material may include tobacco lamina, a processed tobacco material, ground tobacco, processed tobacco stems, a reconstituted tobacco material, or any combination thereof.

[0133] In at least one example embodiment, the matrix 420 may include a tobacco substitute material. The tobacco substitute material may include wood pulp, cotton, sugar beets, bran, citrus pulp fiber, switch grass, salix tea, populus, bamboo, hemp, cannabis, or any combination thereof.

[0134] The plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 410 may include an aerosol former, a solvent, an active ingredient, a pH-adjustor, a flavorant, a thermal conductivity modifier, or any combination thereof.

[0135] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol former and solvent may be independently selected from water, propylene glycol, glycerol, ethanol, 2-propanol, butanediol, or any combination thereof.

[0136] In at least one example embodiment, the active ingredient includes nicotine, nicotine salt, nicotine solution, encapsulated nicotine, and any combination thereof.

[0137] In at least one example embodiment, the nicotine salt is formed between nicotine and citrate, monotartrate, bitartrate, bitartrate dihydrate, salicylate, sulfate, bisulfate, phosphate, acid phosphate, acetate, lactate, succinate, maleate, fumarate, gluconate, saccharate, benzoate, methanesulfonate, hydrochloride, hydrobromide, hydroiodide, caffeate, or any combination thereof.

[0138] In at least one example embodiment, the active ingredient includes 8-tetrahydrocannabinol (8-THC), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabinol (CBN), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabigerol (CBG), or any combination thereof.

[0139] In at least one example embodiment, the active ingredient includes nicotine, nicotine salt, nicotine solution, encapsulated nicotine, 8-tetrahydrocannabinol (8-THC), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabinol (CBN), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabigerol (CBG), or any combination thereof.

[0140] In at least one example embodiment, the pH-adjustor includes pyruvic acid, formic acid, oxalic acid, glycolic acid, acetic acid, isovaleric acid, valeric acid, propionic acid, octanoic acid, lactic acid, levulinic acid, sorbic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, succinic acid, citric acid, benzoic acid, oleic acid, aconitic acid, butyric acid, cinnamic acid, decanoic acid, 3,7-dimethyl-6-octenoic acid, 1-glutamic acid, heptanoic acid, hexanoic acid, 3-hexenoic acid, trans-2-hexenoic acid, isobutyric acid, lauric acid, 2-methylbutyric acid, 2-methylvaleric acid, myristic acid, nonanoic acid, palmitic acid, pentenoic acid, phenylacetic acid, 3-phenylpropionic acid, hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, caffeic acid, ammonia, or any combination thereof.

[0141] In at least one example embodiment, the flavorant includes menthol, peppermint, spearmint, wintergreen, menthol, cinnamon, chocolate, vanillin, licorice, clove, anise, sandalwood, geranium, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, cassia, fennel, ginger, ethyl acetate, isoamyl acetate, propyl isobutyrate, isobutyl butyrate, ethyl butyrate, ethyl valerate, benzyl formate, limonene, cymene, pinene, linalool, geraniol, citronellol, citral, orange oil, coriander oil, borneol, fruit extract, coffee, tea, cacao, mint, pomegranate, acai, raspberry, blueberry, strawberry, boysenberry, cranberry, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, cognac, hydrangea, lavender, apple, peach, pear, cherry, plum, orange, lime, lychee, grape, grapefruit, butter, rum, coconut, almond, pecan, walnut, hazelnut, french vanilla, macadamia, sugar cane, maple, cassis, caramel, banana, malt, espresso, kahlua, white chocolate, cinnamon, clove, cilantro, basil, oregano, garlic, mustard, nutmeg, rosemary, thyme, tarragon, dill, sage, anise, fennel, methyl salicylate, linalool, jasmine, coffee, olive oil, sesame oil, sunflower oil, bergamot oil, geranium oil, lemon oil, ginger oil, balsamic vinegar, rice wine vinegar, red wine vinegar, allspice, pimento, mango, soursop, sweetsop, naseberry, sorrel, terpenes, or any combination thereof.

[0142] In at least one example embodiment, terpenes include 8-myrcene, 8-caryophyllene, d-limonene, linalool, pulegone, 1,8-cineole, α-pinene, α-terpineol, termine-4-ol, p-cymene, or any combination thereof.

[0143] In at least one example embodiment, the thermal conductivity modifier includes metal particles, metal granules, sheet metal (e.g., pieces, slivers), water, carbon fibers, graphene flakes, ceramic particles, or any combination thereof.

[0144] It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the first aerosol-forming substrate 102a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 102b of the aerosol-forming substrate 100 as illustrated in FIG. 1 may include a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds, like the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 410 as illustrated in FIG. 4. It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the first aerosol-forming substrate 202a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 202b of the aerosol-forming substrate 200 as illustrated in FIG. 2 may include a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds, like the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 410 as illustrated in FIG. 4. It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the rod 302 as illustrated in FIG. 3 may include a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds, like the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 410 as illustrated in FIG. 4.

[0145] It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 420 as illustrated in FIG. 4 may be prepared in a manner similar to the first aerosol-forming substrate 102a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 102b of the aerosol-forming substrate 100 as illustrated in FIG. 1. That is, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 420 as illustrated in FIG. 4 may include a first substrate or portion or section or half or region and a second substrate or portion or section or half or region. Further, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 420 as illustrated in FIG. 4 may be prepared in a manner similar to the first aerosol-forming substrate 202a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 202b of the aerosol-forming substrate 200 as illustrated in FIG. 2. That is, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 420 as illustrated in FIG. 4 may include a first substrate or portion or section or half or region and a second substrate or portion or section or half or region. Further still, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 420 as illustrated in FIG. 4 may be prepared in a manner similar to the rod 302 as illustrated in FIG. 3. That is, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 420 as illustrated in FIG. 4 may be formed as a rod.

[0146] FIG. 5 is an illustration of another aerosol-forming substrate 500 including a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 512, 514 according to at least one example embodiment.

[0147] In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, an aerosol-forming substrate 500 may differ from the aerosol-forming substrate 400 as illustrated in FIG. 4 in that the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds may include a first aerosol-forming compound 512 having a first aerosolization temperature and a second aerosol-forming compound 514 having a second aerosolization temperature, and a matrix 520 may include a first portion or section or zone or region 522 that includes a first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 and a first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 and a second portion or section or zone or region 524 that includes a second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 and a second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound 514, where the first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 is different from the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 and the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 is different from the second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound 514. Otherwise, the aerosol-forming substrate 500 as illustrated in FIG. 5 may be the same as described in connection with the aerosol-forming substrate 400 as illustrated in FIG. 4.

[0148] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate 500 may include an amount of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt. % (e.g., greater than or equal to about 1 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 10 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 15 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 20 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 25 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 30 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 35 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 40 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 45 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 50 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 55 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 60 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 65 wt. %, or greater than or equal to about 70 wt. %). In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate 500 may include an amount of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 less than or equal to about 75 wt. % (e.g., less than or equal to about 70 wt. %, less than or equal to about 65 wt. %, less than or equal to about 60 wt. %, less than or equal to about 55 wt. %, less than or equal to about 50 wt. %, less than or equal to about 45 wt. %, less than or equal to about 40 wt. %, less than or equal to about 35 wt. %, less than or equal to about 30 wt. %, less than or equal to about 25 wt. %, less than or equal to about 20 wt. %, less than or equal to about 15 wt. %, less than or equal to about 10 wt. %, less than or equal to about 5 wt. %, or less than or equal to about 1 wt. %). In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate 500 may include greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt. % to less than or equal to about 75 wt. % of the first aerosol-forming compound 512.

[0149] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate 500 may include an amount of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt. % (e.g., greater than or equal to about 1 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 10 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 15 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 20 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 25 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 30 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 35 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 40 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 45 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 50 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 55 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 60 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 65 wt. %, or greater than or equal to about 70 wt. %). In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate 500 may include an amount of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 less than or equal to about 75 wt. % (e.g., less than or equal to about 70 wt. %, less than or equal to about 65 wt. %, less than or equal to about 60 wt. %, less than or equal to about 55 wt. %, less than or equal to about 50 wt. %, less than or equal to about 45 wt. %, less than or equal to about 40 wt. %, less than or equal to about 35 wt. %, less than or equal to about 30 wt. %, less than or equal to about 25 wt. %, less than or equal to about 20 wt. %, less than or equal to about 15 wt. %, less than or equal to about 10 wt. %, less than or equal to about 5 wt. %, or less than or equal to about 1 wt. %). In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate 500 may include greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt. % to less than or equal to about 75 wt. % of the second aerosol-forming compound 514.

[0150] The second aerosolization temperature of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 may be different from (e.g., different temperature or immediacy of heating) the first aerosolization temperature. For example, in at least one example embodiment, the second aerosolization temperature of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 may be greater than the first aerosolization temperature. In at least one example embodiment, the second aerosolization temperature may be greater than or equal to about 25 degrees Celsius (e.g., greater than or equal to about 30 degrees Celsius, greater than or equal to about 40 degrees Celsius, greater than or equal to about 50 degrees Celsius, greater than or equal to about 60 degrees Celsius, greater than or equal to about 70 degrees Celsius, greater than or equal to about 80 degrees Celsius, greater than or equal to about 90 degrees Celsius, greater than or equal to about 100 degrees Celsius, greater than or equal to about 110 degrees Celsius, greater than or equal to about 120 degrees Celsius, greater than or equal to about 130 degrees Celsius, greater than or equal to about 140 degrees Celsius, greater than or equal to about 150 degrees Celsius, greater than or equal to about 160 degrees Celsius, or greater than or equal to about 170 degrees Celsius) greater than the first aerosolization temperature. In at least one example embodiment, the second aerosolization temperature may be less than or equal to about 175 degrees (e.g., less than or equal to about 170 degrees, less than or equal to about 160 degrees, less than or equal to about 150 degrees, less than or equal to about 140 degrees, less than or equal to about 130 degrees, less than or equal to about 120 degrees, less than or equal to about 110 degrees, less than or equal to about 100 degrees, less than or equal to about 90 degrees, less than or equal to about 80 degrees, less than or equal to about 70 degrees, less than or equal to about 60 degrees, less than or equal to about 50 degrees, less than or equal to about 40 degrees, or less than or equal to about 30 degrees) greater than the first aerosolization temperature.

[0151] In at least one example embodiment, the second section 524 may be located downstream of the first section 522. The arrows 530 in FIG. 5 represent the movement of air through the aerosol-forming substrate 500. The second section 524 may correspond with a portion or section or zone or region of the aerosol-forming substrate 500 that experiences higher temperatures or more immediate heat as compared to the first section 522. The first portion 522 may include more of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 than of the second aerosol-forming compound 514. For example, the first aerosol-forming compound 512 may be dispersed at a first concentration in the first section 522 and at a second concentration that is different from the first concentration in the second section 524, where the first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 is different from (e.g., greater than) the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound 512. The second aerosol-forming compound 514 may be dispersed at a first concentration in the first section 522 and at a second concentration that is different from the first concentration in the second section 524, where the second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 is different from (e.g., greater than) the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound 514. The first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 may be greater than the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound 514. The second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 may be greater than the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound 512. Thus, in at least one example embodiment, the second aerosol-forming compound 514 which may have the higher second aerosolization temperature may be more heavily dispersed in the section of the aerosol-forming substrate 500 that experiences the higher temperatures or more immediate heat.

[0152] In at least one example embodiment, the first portion 522 may include an amount of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt. % (e.g., greater than or equal to about 1 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 10 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 15 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 20 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 25 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 30 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 35 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 40 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 45 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 50 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 55 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 60 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 65 wt. %, or greater than or equal to about 70 wt. %). In at least one example embodiment, the first portion 522 may include an amount of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 less than or equal to about 75% (e.g., less than or equal to about 70 wt. %, less than or equal to about 65 wt. %, less than or equal to about 60 wt. %, less than or equal to about 55 wt. %, less than or equal to about 50 wt. %, less than or equal to about 45 wt. %, less than or equal to about 40 wt. %, less than or equal to about 35 wt. %, less than or equal to about 30 wt. %, less than or equal to about 25 wt. %, less than or equal to about 20 wt. %, less than or equal to about 15 wt. %, less than or equal to about 10 wt. %, less than or equal to about 5 wt. %, or less than or equal to about 1 wt. %). In at least one example embodiment, the first portion 522 may include greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt. % to less than or equal to about 75 wt. % of the first aerosol-forming compound 512.

[0153] In at least one example embodiment, the first portion 522 may include an amount of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt. % (e.g., greater than or equal to about 1 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 10 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 15 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 20 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 25 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 30 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 35 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 40 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 45 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 50 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 55 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 60 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 65 wt. %, or greater than or equal to about 70 wt. %). In at least one example embodiment, the first portion 522 may include an amount of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 less than or equal to about 75 wt. % (e.g., less than or equal to about 70 wt. %, less than or equal to about 65 wt. %, less than or equal to about 60 wt. %, less than or equal to about 55 wt. %, less than or equal to about 50 wt. %, less than or equal to about 45 wt. %, less than or equal to about 40 wt. %, less than or equal to about 35 wt. %, less than or equal to about 30 wt. %, less than or equal to about 25 wt. %, less than or equal to about 20 wt. %, less than or equal to about 15 wt. %, less than or equal to about 10 wt. %, less than or equal to about 5 wt. %, or less than or equal to about 1 wt. %). In at least one example embodiment, the first portion 522 may include greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt. % to less than or equal to about 75 wt. % of the second aerosol-forming compound 514.

[0154] In at least one example embodiment, the second portion 524 may include an amount of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt. % (e.g., greater than or equal to about 1 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 10 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 15 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 20 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 25 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 30 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 35 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 40 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 45 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 50 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 55 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 60 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 65 wt. %, or greater than or equal to about 70 wt. %). In at least one example embodiment, the second portion 524 may include an amount of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 less than or equal to about 75% (e.g., less than or equal to about 70 wt. %, less than or equal to about 65 wt. %, less than or equal to about 60 wt. %, less than or equal to about 55 wt. %, less than or equal to about 50 wt. %, less than or equal to about 45 wt. %, less than or equal to about 40 wt. %, less than or equal to about 35 wt. %, less than or equal to about 30 wt. %, less than or equal to about 25 wt. %, less than or equal to about 20 wt. %, less than or equal to about 15 wt. %, less than or equal to about 10 wt. %, less than or equal to about 5 wt. %, or less than or equal to about 1 wt. %). In at least one example embodiment, the second portion 524 may include greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt. % to less than or equal to about 75 wt. % of the first aerosol-forming compound 512.

[0155] In at least one example embodiment, the second portion 524 may include an amount of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 greater than or equal to about 0.01% (e.g., greater than or equal to about 1 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 10 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 15 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 20 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 25 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 30 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 35 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 40 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 45 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 50 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 55 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 60 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 65 wt. %, or greater than or equal to about 70 wt. %). In at least one example embodiment, the second portion 524 may include an amount of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 less than or equal to about 75 wt. % (e.g., less than or equal to about 70 wt. %, less than or equal to about 65 wt. %, less than or equal to about 60 wt. %, less than or equal to about 55 wt. %, less than or equal to about 50 wt. %, less than or equal to about 45 wt. %, less than or equal to about 40 wt. %, less than or equal to about 35 wt. %, less than or equal to about 30 wt. %, less than or equal to about 25 wt. %, less than or equal to about 20 wt. %, less than or equal to about 15 wt. %, less than or equal to about 10 wt. %, less than or equal to about 5 wt. %, or less than or equal to about 1 wt. %). In at least one example embodiment, the second portion 524 may include greater than or equal to about 0.01% to less than or equal to about 75% of the second aerosol-forming compound 514.

[0156] Although the second section 524 is illustrated as including at least a portion (e.g., second concentration) of the first aerosol-forming compound 512, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the second section 524 may be substantially free of the first aerosol-forming compound 512. Similarly, although the first section 522 is illustrated as including at least a portion (e.g., first concentration) of the second aerosol-forming compound 514, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the first section 522 may be substantially free of the second aerosol-forming compound 514. Further, although the first section 522 is illustrated as including more of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 than the second section 524, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the second section 524 may include more of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 than the first section 522. Similarly, although, the second section 524 is illustrated as including more of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 than the first second 522, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the first section 522 may include more of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 than the second section 524. Further still, although the first section 522 is illustrated as including more of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 than the second aerosol-forming compound 514, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the first section 522 may include substantially equal amounts of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 and the second aerosol-forming compound 515. Similarly, although the second section 524 is illustrated as including more of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 than the first aerosol-forming compound 512, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the second section may include substantially equal amounts of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 and the first aerosol-forming compound 512.

[0157] The first section 522 may have a first length (L1). In at least one example embodiment, the first length (L1) may be greater than or equal to about 2% (e.g., greater than or equal to about 4%, greater than or equal to about 6%, greater than or equal to about 8%, greater than or equal to about 10%, greater than or equal to about 12%, greater than or equal to about 14%, greater than or equal to about 16%, greater than or equal to about 18%, greater than or equal to about 20%, greater than or equal to about 22%, or greater than or equal to about 24%) of a total length (L) of the aerosol-forming substrate 500. In at least one example embodiment, the first length (L1) may be less than or equal to about 50% (e.g., less than or equal to about 48%, less than or equal to about 46%, less than or equal to about 44%, less than or equal to about 42%, less than or equal to about 40%, less than or equal to about 38%, less than or equal to about 36%, less than or equal to about 34%, less than or equal to about 32%, less than or equal to about 30%, less than or equal to about 28%, less than or equal to about 26%, less than or equal to about 24%, less than or equal to about 22%, less than or equal to about 20%, less than or equal to about 18%, less than or equal to about 16%, less than or equal to about 14%, less than or equal to about 12%, less than or equal to about 10%, less than or equal to about 8%, less than or equal to about 6%, or less than or equal to about 4%) of the total length (L) of the aerosol-forming substrate 500. In at least one example embodiment, the first length (L1) may be greater than or equal to about 2% to less than or equal to about 50% of the total length (L) of the aerosol-forming substrate 500. In at least one example embodiment, the first length (L1) may be greater than or equal to about 2% to less than or equal to about 25% of the total length (L) of the aerosol-forming substrate 500.

[0158] The second section 524 may have a second length (L2). In at least one example embodiment, the second length (L2) may be greater than or equal to about 75% (e.g., greater than or equal to about 77%, greater than or equal to about 79%, greater than or equal to about 81%, greater than or equal to about 83%, greater than or equal to about 85%, greater than or equal to about 87%, greater than or equal to about 89%, greater than or equal to about 91%, greater than or equal to about 93%, greater than or equal to about 95%, or greater than or equal to about 97%) of the total length (L) of the aerosol-forming substrate 500. In at least one example embodiment, the second length (L2) may be less than or equal to about 98% (e.g., less than or equal to about 97%, less than or equal to about 95%, less than or equal to about 93%, less than or equal to about 91%, less than or equal to about 89%, less than or equal to about 87%, less than or equal to about 85%, less than or equal to about 83%, less than or equal to about 81%, less than or equal to about 79%, or less than or equal to about 77%) of the total length (L) of the aerosol-forming substrate 500. In at least one example embodiment, the second length (L2) may be greater than or equal to about 75% to less than or equal to about 98% of the total length (L) of the aerosol-forming substrate 500.

[0159] It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the first aerosol-forming substrate 102a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 102b of the aerosol-forming substrate 100 as illustrated in FIG. 1 may include a first aerosol-forming compound and a second aerosol-forming compound disposed in one or more sections, like the first aerosol-forming compound 512 and the second aerosol-forming compound 514 disposed in the first and second sections 522, 524 as illustrated in FIG. 5. It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the first aerosol-forming substrate 202a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 202b of the aerosol-forming substrate 200 as illustrated in FIG. 2 may include a first aerosol-forming compound and a second aerosol-forming compound disposed in one or more sections, like the first aerosol-forming compound 512 and the second aerosol-forming compound 514 disposed in the first and second sections 522, 524 as illustrated in FIG. 5. It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the rod 302 as illustrated in FIG. 3 may include a first aerosol-forming compound and a second aerosol-forming compound disposed in one or more sections, like the first aerosol-forming compound 512 and the second aerosol-forming compound 514 disposed in the first and second sections 522, 524 as illustrated in FIG. 5.

[0160] It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 520 as illustrated in FIG. 5 may be prepared in a manner similar to the first aerosol-forming substrate 102a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 102b of the aerosol-forming substrate 100 as illustrated in FIG. 1. That is, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 520 as illustrated in FIG. 5 may include a first substrate or portion or section or half and a second substrate or portion or section or half. Further, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 520 as illustrated in FIG. 5 may be prepared in a manner similar to the first aerosol-forming substrate 202a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 202b of the aerosol-forming substrate 200 as illustrated in FIG. 2. That is, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 520 as illustrated in FIG. 5 may include a first substrate or portion or section or half and a second substrate or portion or section or half. Further still, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 520 as illustrated in FIG. 5 may be prepared in a manner similar to the rod 302 as illustrated in FIG. 3. That is, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 520 as illustrated in FIG. 5 may be formed as a rod.

[0161] FIG. 6 is an illustration of another aerosol-forming substrate 600 including a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 612, 614 according to at least one example embodiment.

[0162] In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, the aerosol-forming substrate 600 may differ from the aerosol-forming substrate 500 as illustrated in FIG. 5 in that a first portion or section or zone or region 622 at least partially surrounds a second portion or section or zone or region 624. As illustrated, in at least one example embodiment, the first section 622 may surround three or more sides of the second section 624. For example, the first section 622 may form a U-shape (e.g., cross-sectional view) around the second section 624. Otherwise, the aerosol-forming substrate 600 as illustrated in FIG. 6 may be the same as described in connection with the aerosol-forming substrate 500 as illustrated in FIG. 5.

[0163] The first section 622 may include a first concentration of a first aerosol-forming compound 612 and a first concentration of a second aerosol-forming compound 614. The first concentration of a first aerosol-forming compound 612 may be different from (e.g., greater than) the first concentration of a second aerosol-forming compound 614. The second section 624 may include a second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound 612 and a second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound 614. The second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound 614 may be different from (e.g., greater than) the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound 612. The first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound 612 may be different from (e.g., greater than) the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound 612. The second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound 614 may be different from (e.g., greater than) the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound 614. The second section 624 may correspond with a portion or section or zone or region of the aerosol-forming substrate 600 that experiences higher temperatures or more immediate heat as compared to the first section 622. The second aerosol-forming compound 614 which may have the higher second aerosolization temperature may be more heavily dispersed in the section of the aerosol-forming substrate 600 that experiences the higher temperatures or more immediate heat. The arrows 630 in FIG. 6 represent the movement of air through the aerosol-forming substrate 600.

[0164] Although the first section 622 is illustrated as including none of the second aerosol-forming compound 614, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the first section 622 includes at least a portion (e.g., first concentration) of the second aerosol-forming compound 614. Similarly, although the second section 624 is illustrated as including none of the first aerosol-forming compound 612, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the second section 624 includes at least a portion (e.g., second concentration) of the first aerosol-forming compound 612.

[0165] It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the first aerosol-forming substrate 102a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 102b of the aerosol-forming substrate 100 as illustrated in FIG. 1 may include a first aerosol-forming compound and a second aerosol-forming compound disposed in one or more sections, like the first aerosol-forming compound 612 and the second aerosol-forming compound 614 disposed in the first and second sections 622, 624 as illustrated in FIG. 6. It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the first aerosol-forming substrate 202a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 202b of the aerosol-forming substrate 200 as illustrated in FIG. 2 may include a first aerosol-forming compound and a second aerosol-forming compound disposed in one or more sections, like the first aerosol-forming compound 612 and the second aerosol-forming compound 614 disposed in the first and second sections 622, 624 as illustrated in FIG. 6. It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the rod 302 as illustrated in FIG. 3 may include a first aerosol-forming compound and a second aerosol-forming compound disposed in one or more sections, like the first aerosol-forming compound 612 and the second aerosol-forming compound 614 disposed in the first and second sections 622, 624 as illustrated in FIG. 6.

[0166] It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 620 as illustrated in FIG. 6 may be prepared in a manner similar to the first aerosol-forming substrate 102a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 102b of the aerosol-forming substrate 100 as illustrated in FIG. 1. That is, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 620 as illustrated in FIG. 6 may include a substrate or portion or section or half and second substrate or portion or section or half. Further, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 620 as illustrated in FIG. 6 may be prepared in a manner similar to the first aerosol-forming substrate 202a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 202b of the aerosol-forming substrate 200 as illustrated in FIG. 2. That is, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 620 as illustrated in FIG. 6 may include a substrate or portion or section or half and second substrate or portion or section or half. Further still, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 620 as illustrated in FIG. 6 may be prepared in a manner similar to the rod 302 as illustrated in FIG. 3. That is, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 620 as illustrated in FIG. 6 may be formed as a rod.

[0167] FIG. 7 is an illustration of another aerosol-forming substrate 650 including a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 652, 654 according to at least one example embodiment.

[0168] In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, the aerosol-forming substrate 650 may differ from the aerosol-forming substrate 500 as illustrated in FIG. 5 in that a first section 562 is substantially free of a second aerosol-forming compound 654 and a second section 564 is substantially free of the first aerosol-forming compound 652. For example, in at least one example embodiment, the first section 562 may be provided as a coating on the second section 564. Otherwise, the aerosol-forming substrate 650 as illustrated in FIG. 7 may be the same as described in connection with the aerosol-forming substrate 500 as illustrated in FIG. 5.

[0169] In at least one example embodiment, the coating may have an average thickness of greater than or equal to about 0.2% (e.g., greater than or equal to about 1%, greater than or equal to about 2%, greater than or equal to about 3%, or greater than or equal to about 4%) of a total (L) length of a matrix 670 of the aerosol-forming substrate 650. In at least one example embodiment, the coating may have an average thickness less than or equal to about 5% (e.g., less than or equal to about 4%, less than or equal to about 3%, less than or equal to about 2%, or less than or equal to about 1%) of a total (L) length of a matrix 670 of the aerosol-forming substrate 650. In at least one example embodiment, the coating may have an average thickness greater than or equal to about 0.2% to less than or equal to about 5% of a total (L) length of a matrix 670 of the aerosol-forming substrate 650.

[0170] It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the first aerosol-forming substrate 102a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 102b of the aerosol-forming substrate 100 as illustrated in FIG. 1 may include a first aerosol-forming compound and a second aerosol-forming compound disposed in one or more sections, like the first aerosol-forming compound 652 and the second aerosol-forming compound 654 disposed in the first and second sections 562, 564 as illustrated in FIG. 7. It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the first aerosol-forming substrate 202a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 202b of the aerosol-forming substrate 200 as illustrated in FIG. 2 may include a first aerosol-forming compound and a second aerosol-forming compound disposed in one or more sections, like the first aerosol-forming compound 652 and the second aerosol-forming compound 654 disposed in the first and second sections 562, 564 as illustrated in FIG. 7. It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the rod 302 as illustrated in FIG. 3 may include a first aerosol-forming compound and a second aerosol-forming compound disposed in one or more sections, like the first aerosol-forming compound 652 and the second aerosol-forming compound 654 disposed in the first and second sections 562, 564 as illustrated in FIG. 7.

[0171] It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 670 as illustrated in FIG. 7 may be prepared in a manner similar to the first aerosol-forming substrate 102a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 102b of the aerosol-forming substrate 100 as illustrated in FIG. 1. That is, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 670 as illustrated in FIG. 7 may include a first substrate or portion or section or half and a second substrate or portion or section or half. Further, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 670 as illustrated in FIG. 7 may be prepared in a manner similar to the first aerosol-forming substrate 202a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 202b of the aerosol-forming substrate 200 as illustrated in FIG. 2. That is, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 670 as illustrated in FIG. 7 may include a first substrate or portion or section or half and a second substrate or portion or section or half. Further still, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 670 as illustrated in FIG. 7 may be prepared in a manner similar to the rod 302 as illustrated in FIG. 3. That is, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 670 as illustrated in FIG. 7 may be formed as a rod.

[0172] In at least one example embodiment, aerosol-forming compounds may be substantially surrounded by an encapsulating material. For example, at least a portion of the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 410 as illustrated in FIG. 4 and / or at least a portion of the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 512, 514 as illustrated in FIG. 5 (for example, the encapsulating material may substantially surround at least a portion of either or both the first aerosol-forming compound 512 and the second aerosol-forming compound 514) and / or at least a portion of the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 612, 614 (for example, the encapsulating material may substantially surround at least a portion of either or both the first aerosol-forming compound 612 and the second aerosol-forming compound 614) and / or at least a portion of the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 652, 654 (for example, the encapsulating material may substantially surround at least a portion of either or both the first aerosol-forming compound 652 and the second aerosol-forming compound 654) may be substantially surrounded by an encapsulating material.

[0173] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an example aerosol-forming compound for inclusion in an aerosol-forming substrate (like the aerosol-forming substrate 100 of FIG. 1 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 200 of FIG. 2 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 300 of FIG. 3 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 400 of FIG. 4 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 500 of FIG. 5 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 600 of FIG. 6 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 650 as illustrated in FIG. 7) according to at least one example embodiment.

[0174] In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, an aerosol-forming compound 700 (or composite particle) may include a core 710 that includes the aerosol former, the solvent, the active ingredient, the pH-adjustor, the flavorant, the thermal conductivity modifier, or any combination thereof and that is substantially surrounded by an encapsulated material 720. Although, the encapsulating material 720 (which may also be referred to as an encapsulating layer or coating) is illustrated in FIG. 8 as a continuous layer, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the encapsulating material may cover anywhere from greater than or equal to about 50% (e.g., greater than or equal to about 55%, greater than or equal to about 60%, greater than or equal to about 65%, greater than or equal to about 70%, greater than or equal to about 75%, greater than or equal to about 80%, greater than or equal to about 85%, greater than or equal to about 90%, greater than or equal to about 95%, greater than or equal to about 96%, greater than or equal to about 97%, greater than or equal to about 98%, or greater than or equal to about 99%) of a total surface area of the core 710. Similarly, although the core 710 is illustrated as a single particle, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the core 710 may include a collection or accumulation or agglomeration of particles.

[0175] In at least one example embodiment, the encapsulating layer 720 may include one or more first encapsulating materials having a first aerosolization temperature and one or more second encapsulating materials having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature. The first encapsulating material may form the encapsulating layer 720 over a core 710 that has a first aerosolization temperature. The second encapsulating material may form the encapsulating layer 720 over a core 710 that has a second aerosolization temperature.

[0176] In at least one example embodiment, the encapsulating layer 720 may include pectin, gelatin, sodium alginate, maltodextrin, pullulan, xanthan, gum acacia, hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose, sodium carboxy methyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl caprolactam, polyvinyl acetate, starch, starch-derivatives, or any combination thereof.

[0177] In at least one example embodiment, an aerosol-forming substrate may be included in a capsule that is configured, for example, for insertion or use with an aerosol-generating device. The aerosol-forming substrate may include or be similar to the aerosol-forming substrate 100 as illustrated in FIG. 1 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 200 as illustrated in FIG. 2 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 300 as illustrated in FIG. 3 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 400 as illustrated in FIG. 4 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 500 as illustrated in FIG. 5 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 600 as illustrated in FIG. 6 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 650 as illustrated in FIG. 7.

[0178] FIG. 9 is a top right perspective view of a capsule that includes an aerosol-forming substrate (like the aerosol-forming substrate of FIG. 1 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate of FIG. 2 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate of FIG. 3 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate of FIG. 4 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate of FIG. 5 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate of FIG. 6 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 650 as illustrated in FIG. 7) according to at least one example embodiment.

[0179] In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, a capsule 800 has a housing 802 configured to contain an aerosol-forming substrate (e.g., aerosol-forming substrate 200 in FIG. 2 and / or aerosol-forming substrate 300 in FIG. 3 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 400 as illustrated in FIG. 4 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 500 as illustrated in FIG. 5 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 600 as illustrated in FIG. 6 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 650 as illustrated in FIG. 7). A downstream portion of the housing 802 may be in the form of a first end cap 806 (e.g., downstream cap). An upstream portion of the housing 802 may be in the form of a second end cap 808 (e.g., upstream cap, connector cap). The body portion of the housing may be in the form of a cover 810 (e.g., shell, box sleeve). The first end cap 806 may define a first opening 812. In at least one example embodiment, the first opening 812 may include a series of outlet openings (e.g., nine outlet openings).

[0180] FIG. 10 is a sectional view of the capsule of FIG. 9 along line XI-XI according to at least one example embodiment.

[0181] In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10, the housing 802 at least partially encloses and / or contains a heater 900. The heater 900 may include a conductive component having a first end section 902, an intermediate section 904, and a second end section 906. The intermediate section 904 may include an internal segment configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate within the capsule 800. The first end section 902 and the second end section 906 may be external segments configured to establish an electrical connection with a power source.

[0182] In at least one example embodiment, as illustrated, the intermediate section 904 of the heater 900 may have a planar and winding form resembling a compressed oscillation or zigzag with a plurality of parallel segments (e.g., eight to sixteen parallel segments). However, it should be understood that other forms for the intermediate section 904 of the heater 900 are also possible (e.g., spiral form, flower-like form). The terminus of each of the first end section 902 and the second end section 906 may be oriented orthogonally to the plane of the intermediate section 904. Each of the first end section 902 and the second end section 906 may also include segments having a sideways J-shape. As a result, the first end section 902 and the second end section 906 may be embedded relatively securely within the second end cap 808 while providing a pair of electrical contact surfaces.

[0183] The second end cap 808 may define a second opening 910. In at least one example embodiment, as illustrated, the second opening 910 may be in the form of a series of inlet openings (e.g., eight inlet openings). In at least one example embodiment, the second end cap 808 may expose the first end section 902 and the second end section 906 of the heater 900. For example, as illustrated, the second opening 910 may be between the exposed portions of the first end section 902 and the second end section 906. In at least one example embodiment, the first end cap 806 and / or the second end cap 808 may be transparent so as to serve as windows configured to permit a viewing of the contents / components (e.g., aerosol-forming substrate and / or heater) within the capsule 800.

[0184] In addition to the second opening 910, the second end cap 808 may also define an alignment recess 912 and an inlet recess 914. The alignment recess 912 and the inlet recess 914 may be viewed as being in a multi-level arrangement, where the base / inner end surface of the alignment recess 912 (which exposes the first end section 902 and the second end section 906) may be regarded as being on one level and the base / inner end surface of the inlet recess 914 (or the grille-like surface of the second opening 910) may be regarded as being on another level. The alignment recess 912 may be configured to facilitate a positioning of the capsule 800 during its insertion into a device body of an aerosol-generating device (e.g., aerosol-generating device 1100 of FIGS. 12-13). In at least one example embodiment, the alignment recess 912 may have angled sidewalls that taper inward toward the inlet recess 914. With the angled sidewalls, the alignment recess 912 may be quickly coupled with a corresponding engagement member of the device body with greater ease.

[0185] FIG. 11 is an exploded view of the capsule of FIG. 9 according to at least one example embodiment.

[0186] In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, the first end cap 806 includes a first sealing ridge 1000 and the second end cap 808 includes a second sealing ridge 1002. The first sealing ridge 1000 may be in the form of a series of ribs (e.g., four ribs), and the second sealing ridge 1002 may be in the form of a series of ribs (e.g., four ribs). In at least one example embodiment, the ribs in each of the series may be of different heights to ensure a desired contact with the cover 810. When the capsule 800 is assembled, the first sealing ridge 1000 of the first end cap 806 and the second sealing ridge 1002 of the second end cap 808 may be configured to interface with the inner surface of the cover 810 (e.g., via an interference fit) to provide an air seal. As a result, when air is directed to the capsule 800 during an operation of the aerosol-generating device (e.g., aerosol-generating device 1100 of FIGS. 11-12), the air may enter the capsule 800 via the inlet recess 914 and the second opening 910 in the second end cap 808 (as opposed to entering the capsule 800 via a gap between the second end cap 808 and the cover 810, where such air may essentially just flow along the inner surface of the cover 810 so as to primarily bypass the aerosol-forming substrate and / or the intermediate section 904 of the heater 900). Similarly, with an appropriate seal, the aerosol generated within the chamber of the capsule 800 may be drawn out through the first opening 812 in the first end cap 806 (as opposed to leaking out through a gap between the first end cap 806 and the cover 810).

[0187] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an aerosol-generating device configured to receive a capsule (like the capsule illustrated in FIGS. 9-11) and having a lid in a closed position according to at least one example embodiment.

[0188] In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12, an aerosol-generating device 1100 (e.g., heated tobacco or heated tobacco product aerosol-generating device) has a general oblong or pebble shape and a replaceable mouthpiece 1102 that extends from the main body of the aerosol-generating device 1100. For example, the aerosol-generating device 1100 may include a housing 1104 that receives a capsule, such as the capsule 800 as illustrated in FIGS. 9-11). The aerosol-generating device 1100 may further include a lid 1106 that is configured to open and close relative to the housing 1104. The lid 1106 may be configured to be coupled to the replaceable mouthpiece 1102.

[0189] In at least one example embodiment, an exterior of the housing 1104 and / or lid 1106 may be formed from a metal (such as aluminum, stainless steel, and / or the like); an aesthetic, food contact rated plastic (such as a polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) material, liquid crystalline polymer (LCP), a copolyester plastic, and / or any other suitable polymer and / or plastic); or any combination thereof. The replaceable mouthpiece 1102 may be similarly formed from a metal (such as aluminum, stainless steel, and / or the like); an aesthetic, food contact rated plastic (such as a polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) material, liquid crystalline polymer (LCP), a copolyester plastic, and / or any other suitable polymer and / or plastic); and / or plant-based materials (such as wood, bamboo, and / or the like). One or more interior surfaces or the housing 1104 and / or lid 1106 may be formed from or coated with a high temperature plastic (such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK), liquid crystal polymer (LCP), and / or the like). The lid 1106 and the housing 1104 may be collectively regarded as the main body of the aerosol-generating device 1100.

[0190] In at least one example embodiment, the housing 1104 encases or houses a latch release mechanism for the lid 1106, a power source, and a processing or control circuitry. The control circuitry may be hardware including logic circuits; a hardware / software combination (such as a processor executing software); or any combination thereof. For example, the control circuitry may include, but is not limited to, a central processing unit (CPU), an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), a digital signal processor, a microcomputer, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a System-on-Chip (SoC), a programmable logic unit, a microprocessor, application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), and / or the like. The supply of current from the power source may be in response to a manual operation (e.g., button activation) or an automatic operation (e.g., puff-activation). The power source may include one or more batteries (e.g., rechargeable dual battery arrangement, lithium-ion battery, and / or fuel cells). In at least some example embodiments, the control circuitry may further include a haptic motor that may be disposed on a side of the power source.

[0191] FIG. 13 is a partial perspective view of the aerosol-generating device of FIG. 12 with the lid in an open position according to at least one example embodiment.

[0192] In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13, the housing 1104 is configured to enclose a capsule connector 1200. In at least one example embodiment, the capsule connector 1200 may be mounted or otherwise secured to a printed circuit board (PCB) within the housing 1204. In at least one example embodiment, the capsule connector 1200 defines the capsule-receiving cavity 1202.

[0193] In at least one example embodiment, the method of control / heating and associated circuitry and electrical contacts (e.g., capsule connector 1200 having electrical contacts) may be as described in U.S. application Ser. No. 17 / 151,375 filed Jan. 18, 2021 and titled “Heat-Not-Burn (HNB) Aerosol-Generating Devices Including Energy Based Heater Control, And Methods Of Controlling A Heater,” which published as U.S. Pub. No. 2022 / 0225685, and / or U.S. application Ser. No. 17 / 151,409 filed Jan. 18, 2021 and titled “Heat-Not-Burn (HNB) Aerosol-Generating Devices Including Intra-Draw Heater Control, and Methods of Controlling a Heater,” which published as U.S. Pub. No. 2022 / 0229453, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0194] In at least one example embodiment, the capsule 800 may be loaded into the aerosol-generating device 1100 by initially inserting the capsule 800 into the capsule-receiving cavity 1202 defined by the capsule connector 1200. In at least one example embodiment, the capsule 800 may make contact (e.g., full contact) with electrical contacts within capsule-receiving cavity 1202 only upon the application of force (e.g., downward / inward force) to the capsule 800. In at least one example embodiment, a force may be applied to the capsule 800 by the closure and / or latching of the lid 1106. In other example embodiments, a force may be applied to the capsule 800 by an adult consumer. In still other example embodiments, a force may be applied by a combination of pressure applied by the adult consumer and the closure and / or latching of the lid 1106. In each instance, a forced may be applied until a resistance is felt and / or a clicking sound is heard, which signals a complete engagement of the capsule 800 in the capsule-receiving cavity 1202.

[0195] Additional details and / or alternatives for the aerosol-generating device 1100, the capsule 800, and / or the aerosol-forming substrate (e.g., aerosol-forming substrate 200 in FIG. 2 and / or aerosol-forming substrate 300 in FIG. 3 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 400 as illustrated in FIG. 4 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 500 as illustrated in FIG. 5 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 600 as illustrated in FIG. 6 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 650 as illustrated in FIG. 7) may be found in U.S. application Ser. No. 17 / 151,277 filed Jan. 18, 2021 and titled “Capsules Including Embedded Heaters And Heat-Not-Burn (HNB) Aerosol-Generating Devices,” which published as U.S. Pub. No. 2022 / 0225667, and / or U.S. application Ser. No. 17 / 151,327 filed Jan. 18, 2021 and titled “Heat-Not-Burn (HNB) Aerosol-Generating Devices And Capsules,” which published as U.S. Pub. No. 2022 / 0225672, and / or U.S. application Ser. No. 17 / 151,336 filed Jan. 18, 2021 and titled “Heat-Not-Burn (HNB) Aerosol-Generating Devices And Capsules”, which published as U.S. Pub. No. 2022 / 0225669, and / or U.S. application Ser. No. 17 / 151,340 filed Jan. 18, 2021 and titled “Heat-Not-Burn (HNB) Aerosol-Generating Devices And Capsules,” which published as U.S. Pub. No. 2022 / 0225670, and / or U.S. application Ser. No. 17 / 947,436 filed Sep. 19, 2022 and titled “Heat-Not-Burn (HNB) Aerosol-Generating Devices And Capsules,” which published as U.S. Pub. No. 2024 / 0090574, and / or U.S. application Ser. No. 17 / 981,973 filed Nov. 7, 2022 and titled “Capsules Having Electrical Contact Pads With Surface Discontinuities And Heat-Not-Burn (HNB) Aerosol-Generating Devices Including The Same,” which published as U.S. Pub. No. 2024 / 0091467, and / or U.S. application Ser. No. 29 / 859,073 filed Nov. 7, 2023 and titled “Aerosol-Generating Capsules,” which issued as U.S. Pat. No. D875,938, and / or U.S. application Ser. No. 29 / 859,076 filed Nov. 7, 2022 and titled “Electrical Contact Pads,” and / or U.S. application Ser. No. 29 / 853,736 filed Sep. 19, 2022 and titled “Heat-Not-Burn Aerosol Generating Device With A Flip-Top Lid,” and / or U.S. application Ser. No. 17 / 982,138 filed Nov. 7, 2022 and titled “Heat-Not-Burn (Hnb) Aerosol-Generating Devices And Capsules Having Electrical Contact Pads With Surface Discontinuities,” the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0196] While some example embodiments have been disclosed herein, it should be understood that other variations may be possible. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and all such modifications as would be obvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.

[0197] Although described with reference to specific examples and drawings, modifications, additions and substitutions of example embodiments may be variously made according to the description by those of ordinary skill in the art. For example, the described techniques may be performed in an order different with that of the methods described, and / or elements such as the described system, architecture, devices, circuit, and the like, may be connected or combined to be different from the above-described methods, or results may be appropriately achieved by other elements or equivalents.

[0198] Illustrative Embodiment 1. A capsule for an aerosol-generating device, the capsule comprising: an aerosol-forming substrate having a first section and a second section; and a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed within the aerosol-forming substrate, the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds including a first aerosol-forming compound having a first aerosolization temperature and a second aerosol-forming compound having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature, the first aerosol-forming compound being dispersed at a first concentration at the first section and at a second concentration different from the first concentration at the second section, the second aerosol-forming compound being dispersed at a first concentration at the first section and at a second concentration different from the first concentration at the second section.

[0199] Illustrative Embodiment 2. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 1, wherein the capsule further includes a heater configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol.

[0200] Illustrative Embodiment 3. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 2, wherein the first section is closer to the heater than the second section.

[0201] Illustrative Embodiment 4. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 2, wherein the capsule further includes a housing that encompasses the aerosol-forming substrate and heater.

[0202] Illustrative Embodiment 5. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 1-4, wherein the first section surrounds at least a portion of the second section.

[0203] Illustrative Embodiment 6. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 1-5, wherein the second section is downstream from the first section.

[0204] Illustrative Embodiment 7. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 1-6, wherein the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds includes an aerosol former, a solvent, an active ingredient, a pH-adjustor, a flavorant, a thermal conductivity modifier, or any combination thereof.

[0205] Illustrative Embodiment 8. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 7, wherein the aerosol former and solvent are independently selected from water, propylene glycol, glycerol, ethanol, 2-propanol, butanediol, or any combination thereof.

[0206] Illustrative Embodiment 9. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 7, wherein the active ingredient includes nicotine, nicotine salt, nicotine solution, encapsulated nicotine, and the combination thereof.

[0207] Illustrative Embodiment 10. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 9, wherein the nicotine salt is formed between nicotine and citrate, monotartrate, bitartrate, bitartrate dihydrate, salicylate, sulfate, bisulfate, phosphate, acid phosphate, acetate, lactate, succinate, maleate, fumarate, gluconate, saccharate, benzoate, methanesulfonate, hydrochloride, hydrobromide, hydroiodide, or any combination thereof.

[0208] Illustrative Embodiment 11. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 7, wherein the active ingredient includes 8-tetrahydrocannabinol (8-THC), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabinol (CBN), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabigerol (CBG), or any combination thereof.

[0209] Illustrative Embodiment 12. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 7, wherein the pH-adjustor includes pyruvic acid, formic acid, oxalic acid, glycolic acid, acetic acid, isovaleric acid, valeric acid, propionic acid, octanoic acid, lactic acid, levulinic acid, sorbic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, succinic acid, citric acid, benzoic acid, oleic acid, aconitic acid, butyric acid, cinnamic acid, decanoic acid, 3,7-dimethyl-6-octenoic acid, 1-glutamic acid, heptanoic acid, hexanoic acid, 3-hexenoic acid, trans-2-hexenoic acid, isobutyric acid, lauric acid, 2-methylbutyric acid, 2-methylvaleric acid, myristic acid, nonanoic acid, palmitic acid, pentenoic acid, phenylacetic acid, 3-phenylpropionic acid, hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, ammonia, or any combination thereof.

[0210] Illustrative Embodiment 13. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 7, wherein the flavorant includes menthol, peppermint, spearmint, wintergreen, menthol, cinnamon, chocolate, vanillin, licorice, clove, anise, sandalwood, geranium, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, cassia, fennel, ginger, ethyl acetate, isoamyl acetate, propyl isobutyrate, isobutyl butyrate, ethyl butyrate, ethyl valerate, benzyl formate, limonene, cymene, pinene, linalool, geraniol, citronellol, citral, orange oil, coriander oil, borneol, fruit extract, coffee, tea, cacao, mint, pomegranate, acai, raspberry, blueberry, strawberry, boysenberry, cranberry, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, cognac, hydrangea, lavender, apple, peach, pear, cherry, plum, orange, lime, lychee, grape, grapefruit, butter, rum, coconut, almond, pecan, walnut, hazelnut, french vanilla, macadamia, sugar cane, maple, cassis, caramel, banana, malt, espresso, kahlua, white chocolate, cinnamon, clove, cilantro, basil, oregano, garlic, mustard, nutmeg, rosemary, thyme, tarragon, dill, sage, anise, fennel, methyl salicylate, linalool, jasmine, coffee, olive oil, sesame oil, sunflower oil, bergamot oil, geranium oil, lemon oil, ginger oil, balsamic vinegar, rice wine vinegar, red wine vinegar, allspice, pimento, mango, soursop, sweetsop, naseberry, sorrel, terpenes, or any combination thereof.

[0211] Illustrative Embodiment 14. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 13, wherein the terpenes include 8-myrcene, 8-caryophyllene, d-limonene, linalool, pulegone, 1,8-cineole, α-pinene, α-terpineol, termine-4-ol, p-cymene, or any combination thereof.

[0212] Illustrative Embodiment 15. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 7, wherein the thermal conductivity modifier includes metal particles, metal granules, sheet metal slices, water, carbon fibers, graphene flakes, ceramic particles, or any combination thereof.

[0213] Illustrative Embodiment 16. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 1-15, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate includes a tobacco material.

[0214] Illustrative Embodiment 17. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 16, wherein the tobacco material includes tobacco lamina, a processed tobacco material, ground tobacco, processed tobacco stems, a reconstituted tobacco material, or any combination thereof.

[0215] Illustrative Embodiment 18. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 1-17, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate includes a tobacco substitute material.

[0216] Illustrative Embodiment 19. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 18, wherein the tobacco substitute material includes wood pulp, cotton, sugar beets, bran, citrus pulp fiber, switch grass, salix tea, populus, bamboo, hemp, cannabis, or any combination thereof.

[0217] Illustrative Embodiment 20. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 1-19, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds are surrounded by an encapsulating material.

[0218] Illustrative Embodiment 21. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 20, wherein one of the first and second aerosol-forming compounds includes the encapsulating material.

[0219] Illustrative Embodiment 22. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 20, wherein the first aerosol-forming compound includes a first encapsulating material having the first aerosolization temperature, and the second aerosol-forming compound includes a second encapsulating material having the second aerosolization temperature.

[0220] Illustrative Embodiment 23. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 20, wherein the encapsulating material includes pectin, gelatin, sodium alginate, maltodextrin, pullulan, xanthan, gum acacia, hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose, sodium carboxy methyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl caprolactam, polyvinyl acetate, starch, starch-derivatives, or any combination thereof.

[0221] Illustrative Embodiment 24. A capsule for an aerosol-generating device, the capsule comprising: an aerosol-forming substrate; and a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed within the aerosol-forming substrate, the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds including: a first aerosol-forming compound having a first aerosolization temperature, and a second aerosol-forming compound having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature, the first aerosol-forming compound and the second aerosol-forming compound each being dispersed throughout the aerosol-forming substrate, at least one of the first aerosol-forming compound or the second aerosol-forming compound having a non-uniform dispersion concentration.

[0222] Illustrative Embodiment 25. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 24, wherein the first aerosol-forming compound has a first non-uniform dispersion concentration, and the second aerosol-forming compound has a second non-uniform dispersion concentration.

[0223] Illustrative Embodiment 26. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 24-25, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate includes a first section, the first section includes a first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound, and the first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound is different from the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound.

[0224] Illustrative Embodiment 27. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 26, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate includes a second section, the second section includes a second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound, and the second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound is different from than the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound.

[0225] Illustrative Embodiment 28. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 27, wherein the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound is less than the first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound.

[0226] Illustrative Embodiment 29. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 27, wherein the second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound is greater than the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound.

[0227] Illustrative Embodiment 30. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 24-29, wherein the first aerosol-forming compound includes a first encapsulating material.

[0228] Illustrative Embodiment 31. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 30, wherein the second aerosol-forming compound includes a second encapsulating material.

[0229] Illustrative Embodiment 32. An aerosol-generating device comprising: a removable capsule including an aerosol-forming substrate, and a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed within the aerosol-forming substrate, the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds including: a first aerosol-forming compound having a first aerosolization temperature, and a second aerosol-forming compound having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature, the first aerosol-forming compound and the second aerosol-forming compound each being dispersed throughout the aerosol-forming substrate, at least one of the first aerosol-forming compound or the second aerosol-forming compound having a non-uniform dispersion concentration; and a heater configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol.

[0230] Illustrative Embodiment 33. The aerosol-generating device of illustrative embodiment 32, wherein the heater includes an induction heater.

[0231] Illustrative Embodiment 34. The aerosol-generating device of any of illustrative embodiments 32-33, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate includes a first section, the first section includes a first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound, and the first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound is different from the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound.

[0232] Illustrative Embodiment 35. The aerosol-generating device of illustrative embodiment 34, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate includes a second section, the second section includes a second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound, and the second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound is different from the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound.

[0233] Illustrative Embodiment 35. The aerosol-generating device of any of illustrative embodiments 32-35, wherein the heater heats the first section to a first temperature and the second section to a second temperature.

[0234] Illustrative Embodiment 36. The aerosol-generating device of illustrative embodiment 35, wherein the first temperature is greater than the first temperature.

[0235] Illustrative Embodiment 37. The aerosol-generating device of any of illustrative embodiments 32-36, wherein the first aerosol-forming compound includes a first encapsulating material.

[0236] Illustrative Embodiment 38. The aerosol-generating device of illustrative embodiment 37, wherein the second aerosol-forming compound includes a second encapsulating material.

[0237] Illustrative Embodiment 39. A capsule for an aerosol-generating device, the capsule comprising: an aerosol-forming substrate having a first section and a second section; and a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed within the aerosol-forming substrate, the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds including a first aerosol-forming compound having a first aerosolization temperature and a second aerosol-forming compound having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature, the first aerosol-forming compound being dispersed at a first concentration at the first section and at a second concentration different from the first concentration at the second section, the second aerosol-forming compound being dispersed at a first concentration at the first section and at a second concentration different from the first concentration at the second section.

[0238] Illustrative Embodiment 40. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 39, wherein the first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound in the first section is different than the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound in the first section and the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound in the second section is different than the second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound in the second section.

[0239] Illustrative Embodiment 41. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 39-40, wherein the capsule further includes: a heater configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol, the first section being closer to the heater than the second section.

[0240] Illustrative Embodiment 42. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 41, wherein the first section is greater than or equal to about 2% to less than or equal to about 25% of a total length of the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0241] Illustrative Embodiment 43. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 41, wherein the first section is a coating on the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0242] Illustrative Embodiment 44. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 43, wherein the first section is substantially free of the second aerosol-forming compound, and the second section is substantially free of the first aerosol-forming compound.

[0243] Illustrative Embodiment 45. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 39-44, wherein the second aerosolization temperature is greater than the first aerosolization temperature.

[0244] Illustrative Embodiment 46. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 39-45, wherein the first section surrounds at least a portion of the second section.

[0245] Illustrative Embodiment 47. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 39-46, wherein the second section is downstream from the first section.

[0246] Illustrative Embodiment 48. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 39-47, wherein the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds includes an aerosol former, a solvent, an active ingredient, a pH-adjustor, a flavorant, a thermal conductivity modifier, or any combination thereof.

[0247] Illustrative Embodiment 49. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 48, wherein the aerosol former and solvent are independently selected from water, propylene glycol, glycerol, ethanol, 2-propanol, butanediol, or any combination thereof; the active ingredient includes nicotine, nicotine salt, nicotine solution, encapsulated nicotine, 8-tetrahydrocannabinol (8-THC), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabinol (CBN), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabigerol (CBG), and any combination thereof; the nicotine salt is formed between nicotine and citrate, monotartrate, bitartrate, bitartrate dihydrate, salicylate, sulfate, bisulfate, phosphate, acid phosphate, acetate, lactate, succinate, maleate, fumarate, gluconate, saccharate, benzoate, methanesulfonate, hydrochloride, hydrobromide, hydroiodide, or any combination thereof; the pH-adjustor includes pyruvic acid, formic acid, oxalic acid, glycolic acid, acetic acid, isovaleric acid, valeric acid, propionic acid, octanoic acid, lactic acid, levulinic acid, sorbic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, succinic acid, citric acid, benzoic acid, oleic acid, aconitic acid, butyric acid, cinnamic acid, decanoic acid, 3,7-dimethyl-6-octenoic acid, 1-glutamic acid, heptanoic acid, hexanoic acid, 3-hexenoic acid, trans-2-hexenoic acid, isobutyric acid, lauric acid, 2-methylbutyric acid, 2-methylvaleric acid, myristic acid, nonanoic acid, palmitic acid, pentenoic acid, phenylacetic acid, 3-phenylpropionic acid, hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, ammonia, or any combination thereof; the flavorant includes menthol, peppermint, spearmint, wintergreen, menthol, cinnamon, chocolate, vanillin, licorice, clove, anise, sandalwood, geranium, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, cassia, fennel, ginger, ethyl acetate, isoamyl acetate, propyl isobutyrate, isobutyl butyrate, ethyl butyrate, ethyl valerate, benzyl formate, limonene, cymene, pinene, linalool, geraniol, citronellol, citral, orange oil, coriander oil, borneol, fruit extract, coffee, tea, cacao, mint, pomegranate, acai, raspberry, blueberry, strawberry, boysenberry, cranberry, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, cognac, hydrangea, lavender, apple, peach, pear, cherry, plum, orange, lime, lychee, grape, grapefruit, butter, rum, coconut, almond, pecan, walnut, hazelnut, french vanilla, macadamia, sugar cane, maple, cassis, caramel, banana, malt, espresso, kahlua, white chocolate, cinnamon, clove, cilantro, basil, oregano, garlic, mustard, nutmeg, rosemary, thyme, tarragon, dill, sage, anise, fennel, methyl salicylate, linalool, jasmine, coffee, olive oil, sesame oil, sunflower oil, bergamot oil, geranium oil, lemon oil, ginger oil, balsamic vinegar, rice wine vinegar, red wine vinegar, allspice, pimento, mango, soursop, sweetsop, naseberry, sorrel, terpenes, or any combination thereof; the terpenes include 8-myrcene, 8-caryophyllene, d-limonene, linalool, pulegone, 1,8-cineole, α-pinene, α-terpineol, termine-4-ol, p-cymene, or any combination thereof; and the thermal conductivity modifier includes metal particles, metal granules, sheet metal slices, water, carbon fibers, graphene flakes, ceramic particles, or any combination thereof.

[0248] Illustrative Embodiment 50. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 39-49, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate includes a tobacco material, and the tobacco material includes tobacco lamina, a processed tobacco material, ground tobacco, processed tobacco stems, a reconstituted tobacco material, or any combination thereof.

[0249] Illustrative Embodiment 51. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 39-51, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate includes a tobacco substitute material, and the tobacco substitute material includes wood pulp, cotton, sugar beets, bran, citrus pulp fiber, switch grass, salix tea, populus, bamboo, hemp, cannabis, or any combination thereof.

[0250] Illustrative Embodiment 52. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 39-51, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds are surrounded by an encapsulating material.

[0251] Illustrative Embodiment 53. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 52, wherein the first aerosol-forming compound includes a first encapsulating material having the first aerosolization temperature, and the second aerosol-forming compound includes a second encapsulating material having the second aerosolization temperature, the first and second encapsulating materials defining the encapsulating material.

[0252] Illustrative Embodiment 54. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 52-53, wherein the encapsulating material includes pectin, gelatin, sodium alginate, maltodextrin, pullulan, xanthan, gum acacia, hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose, sodium carboxy methyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl caprolactam, polyvinyl acetate, starch, starch-derivatives, or any combination thereof.

[0253] Illustrative Embodiment 55. A capsule for an aerosol-generating device, the capsule comprising: an aerosol-forming substrate; and a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed within the aerosol-forming substrate, the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds including: a first aerosol-forming compound having a first aerosolization temperature, and a second aerosol-forming compound having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature, the first aerosol-forming compound and the second aerosol-forming compound each being dispersed throughout the aerosol-forming substrate, at least one of the first aerosol-forming compound or the second aerosol-forming compound having a non-uniform dispersion concentration.

[0254] Illustrative Embodiment 56. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 55, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate includes a first section and a second section, the first section including a first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound, the first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound being different from the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound, the second section including a second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound, the second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound being different from the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound.

[0255] Illustrative Embodiment 57. An aerosol-generating device comprising: a removable capsule including an aerosol-forming substrate, and a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed within the aerosol-forming substrate, the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds including: a first aerosol-forming compound having a first aerosolization temperature, and a second aerosol-forming compound having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature, the first aerosol-forming compound and the second aerosol-forming compound each being dispersed throughout the aerosol-forming substrate, at least one of the first aerosol-forming compound or the second aerosol-forming compound having a non-uniform dispersion concentration; and a heater configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol.

[0256] Illustrative Embodiment 58. The aerosol-generating device of illustrative embodiment 57, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate includes a first section and a second section, the first section including a first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound, the first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound being different from the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound, the second section including a second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound, the second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound being different from the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0103]Some detailed example embodiments are disclosed herein. However, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merely representative for purposes of describing example embodiments. Example embodiments may, however, be embodied in many alternate forms and should not be construed as limited to only the example embodiments set forth herein.

[0104]Accordingly, while example embodiments are capable of various modifications and alternative forms, example embodiments thereof are shown by way of example in the drawings and will herein be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intent to limit example embodiments to the particular forms disclosed, but to the contrary, example embodiments are to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of example embodiments. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the description of the figures.

[0105]It should be understood that when an element or layer is re...

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 654,376, filed on May 31, 2024. The entire disclosure of the above application is incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUNDField

[0002] The present disclosure relates to aerosol-generating substrates and capsules including the same, such as for use in aerosol-generating devices, configured to generate an aerosol without involving a substantial pyrolysis of an aerosol-forming substrate.Description of Related Art

[0003] Some electronic devices are configured to heat an aerosol-forming substrate, such as a plant material, to a temperature that is sufficient to release constituents of the plant material while keeping the temperature below a combustion point of the plant material so as to avoid any substantial pyrolysis of the plant material. Such devices may be referred to as aerosol-generating devices (e.g., heated tobacco or heated tobacco product aerosol-generating devices), and the plant material heated may be tobacco and / or cannabis. In some instances, the plant material may be introduced directly into a heating chamber of an aerosol-generating device. In other instances, the plant material may be pre-packaged in individual containers to facilitate insertion and removal from an aerosol-generating device.SUMMARY

[0004] At least one example embodiment relates to an aerosol-forming substrate for an aerosol-generating device.

[0005] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate has a first section and a second section and includes a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed therewithin. The plurality of aerosol-forming compounds may include a first aerosol-forming compound having a first aerosolization temperature and a second aerosol-forming compound having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature. The first aerosolizable compound may be dispersed at a first concentration in the first section and at a second concentration different from the first concentration in the second section. The second aerosol-forming compound may be dispersed at a first concentration in the first section and at a second concentration different from the first concentration in the second section.

[0006] In at least one example embodiment, the first section may surround at least a portion of the second section.

[0007] In at least one example embodiment, the second section may be downstream from the first section.

[0008] In at least one example embodiment, the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds may include an aerosol former, a solvent, an active ingredient, a pH-adjustor, a flavorant, a thermal conductivity modifier, or any combination thereof.

[0009] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol former and solvent may be independently selected from water, propylene glycol, glycerol, ethanol, 2-propanol, butanediol, or any combination thereof.

[0010] In at least one example embodiment, the active ingredient may include nicotine, nicotine salt, nicotine solution, encapsulated nicotine, and the combination of thereof.

[0011] In at least one example embodiment, the nicotine salt may be formed between nicotine and citrate, monotartrate, bitartrate, bitartrate dihydrate, salicylate, sulfate, bisulfate, phosphate, acid phosphate, acetate, lactate, succinate, maleate, fumarate, gluconate, saccharate, benzoate, methanesulfonate, hydrochloride, hydrobromide, hydroiodide, or any combination thereof.

[0012] In at least one example embodiment, the active ingredient may include 8-tetrahydrocannabinol (8-THC), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabinol (CBN), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabigerol (CBG), or any combination thereof.

[0013] In at least one example embodiment, the pH-adjustor may include pyruvic acid, formic acid, oxalic acid, glycolic acid, acetic acid, isovaleric acid, valeric acid, propionic acid, octanoic acid, lactic acid, levulinic acid, sorbic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, succinic acid, citric acid, benzoic acid, oleic acid, aconitic acid, butyric acid, cinnamic acid, decanoic acid, 3,7-dimethyl-6-octenoic acid, 1-glutamic acid, heptanoic acid, hexanoic acid, 3-hexenoic acid, trans-2-hexenoic acid, isobutyric acid, lauric acid, 2-methylbutyric acid, 2-methylvaleric acid, myristic acid, nonanoic acid, palmitic acid, pentenoic acid, phenylacetic acid, 3-phenylpropionic acid, hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, ammonia, or any combination thereof.

[0014] In at least one example embodiment, the flavorant may include menthol, peppermint, spearmint, wintergreen, menthol, cinnamon, chocolate, vanillin, licorice, clove, anise, sandalwood, geranium, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, cassia, fennel, ginger, ethyl acetate, isoamyl acetate, propyl isobutyrate, isobutyl butyrate, ethyl butyrate, ethyl valerate, benzyl formate, limonene, cymene, pinene, linalool, geraniol, citronellol, citral, orange oil, coriander oil, borneol, fruit extract, coffee, tea, cacao, mint, pomegranate, acai, raspberry, blueberry, strawberry, boysenberry, cranberry, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, cognac, hydrangea, lavender, apple, peach, pear, cherry, plum, orange, lime, lychee, grape, grapefruit, butter, rum, coconut, almond, pecan, walnut, hazelnut, french vanilla, macadamia, sugar cane, maple, cassis, caramel, banana, malt, espresso, kahlua, white chocolate, cinnamon, clove, cilantro, basil, oregano, garlic, mustard, nutmeg, rosemary, thyme, tarragon, dill, sage, anise, fennel, methyl salicylate, linalool, jasmine, coffee, olive oil, sesame oil, sunflower oil, bergamot oil, geranium oil, lemon oil, ginger oil, balsamic vinegar, rice wine vinegar, red wine vinegar, allspice, pimento, mango, soursop, sweetsop, naseberry, sorrel, terpenes, or any combination thereof.

[0015] In at least one example embodiment, the terpenes may include 8-myrcene, 8-caryophyllene, d-limonene, linalool, pulegone, 1,8-cineole, α-pinene, α-terpineol, termine-4-ol, p-cymene, or any combination thereof.

[0016] In at least one example embodiment, the thermal conductivity modifier may include metal particles, metal granules, sheet metal slices, water, carbon fibers, graphene flakes, ceramic particles, or any combination thereof.

[0017] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may further include a tobacco material.

[0018] In at least one example embodiment, the tobacco material may include tobacco lamina, a processed tobacco material, ground tobacco, processed tobacco stems, a reconstituted tobacco material, or any combination thereof.

[0019] In at least one example embodiment, at least a portion of the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds may be surrounded by an encapsulating material.

[0020] In at least one example embodiment, one of the first and second aerosol-forming compounds may include the encapsulating material.

[0021] In at least one example embodiment, the first aerosol-forming compound may include a first encapsulating material having the first aerosolization temperature and the second aerosol-forming compound may include a second encapsulating material having the second aerosolization temperature.

[0022] In at least one example embodiment, the encapsulating material may include pectin, gelatin, sodium alginate, maltodextrin, pullulan, xanthan, gum acacia, hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose, sodium carboxy methyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl caprolactam, polyvinyl acetate, starch, starch-derivatives, or any combination thereof.

[0023] At least one example embodiment relates to a capsule for an aerosol-generating device.

[0024] In at least one example embodiment, the capsule includes an aerosol-forming substrate having a first section and a second section and a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed within the aerosol-forming substrate, where the plurality of aerosol-forming compound includes a first aerosol-forming compound having a first aerosolization temperature and a second aerosol-forming compound having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature. The first aerosol-forming compound may be dispersed at a first concentration at the first section and at a second concentration different from the first concentration at the second section. The second aerosol-forming compound may be dispersed at a first concentration at the first section and at a second concentration different from the first concentration at the second section.

[0025] In at least one example embodiment, the capsule may further include a heater configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol.

[0026] In at least one example embodiment, the first section may be closer to the heater than the second section.

[0027] In at least one example embodiment, the capsule may further include a housing that encompasses the aerosol-forming substrate and heater.

[0028] In at least one example embodiment, the first section may surround at least a portion of the second section.

[0029] In at least one example embodiment, the second section may be downstream from the first section.

[0030] In at least one example embodiment, the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds may include an aerosol former, a solvent, an active ingredient, a pH-adjustor, a flavorant, a thermal conductivity modifier, or any combination thereof.

[0031] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol former and solvent may be independently selected from water, propylene glycol, glycerol, ethanol, 2-propanol, butanediol, or any combination thereof.

[0032] In at least one example embodiment, the active ingredient may include nicotine, nicotine salt, nicotine solution, encapsulated nicotine, and the combination of thereof.

[0033] In at least one example embodiment, the nicotine salt may be formed between nicotine and citrate, monotartrate, bitartrate, bitartrate dihydrate, salicylate, sulfate, bisulfate, phosphate, acid phosphate, acetate, lactate, succinate, maleate, fumarate, gluconate, saccharate, benzoate, methanesulfonate, hydrochloride, hydrobromide, hydroiodide, or any combination thereof.

[0034] In at least one example embodiment, the active ingredient may include 8-tetrahydrocannabinol (8-THC), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabinol (CBN), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabigerol (CBG), or any combination thereof.

[0035] In at least one example embodiment, the pH-adjustor may include pyruvic acid, formic acid, oxalic acid, glycolic acid, acetic acid, isovaleric acid, valeric acid, propionic acid, octanoic acid, lactic acid, levulinic acid, sorbic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, succinic acid, citric acid, benzoic acid, oleic acid, aconitic acid, butyric acid, cinnamic acid, decanoic acid, 3,7-dimethyl-6-octenoic acid, 1-glutamic acid, heptanoic acid, hexanoic acid, 3-hexenoic acid, trans-2-hexenoic acid, isobutyric acid, lauric acid, 2-methylbutyric acid, 2-methylvaleric acid, myristic acid, nonanoic acid, palmitic acid, pentenoic acid, phenylacetic acid, 3-phenylpropionic acid, hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, ammonia, or any combination thereof.

[0036] In at least one example embodiment, the flavorant may include menthol, peppermint, spearmint, wintergreen, menthol, cinnamon, chocolate, vanillin, licorice, clove, anise, sandalwood, geranium, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, cassia, fennel, ginger, ethyl acetate, isoamyl acetate, propyl isobutyrate, isobutyl butyrate, ethyl butyrate, ethyl valerate, benzyl formate, limonene, cymene, pinene, linalool, geraniol, citronellol, citral, orange oil, coriander oil, borneol, fruit extract, coffee, tea, cacao, mint, pomegranate, acai, raspberry, blueberry, strawberry, boysenberry, cranberry, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, cognac, hydrangea, lavender, apple, peach, pear, cherry, plum, orange, lime, lychee, grape, grapefruit, butter, rum, coconut, almond, pecan, walnut, hazelnut, french vanilla, macadamia, sugar cane, maple, cassis, caramel, banana, malt, espresso, kahlua, white chocolate, cinnamon, clove, cilantro, basil, oregano, garlic, mustard, nutmeg, rosemary, thyme, tarragon, dill, sage, anise, fennel, methyl salicylate, linalool, jasmine, coffee, olive oil, sesame oil, sunflower oil, bergamot oil, geranium oil, lemon oil, ginger oil, balsamic vinegar, rice wine vinegar, red wine vinegar, allspice, pimento, mango, soursop, sweetsop, naseberry, sorrel, terpenes, or any combination thereof.

[0037] In at least one example embodiment, the terpenes may include 8-myrcene, 8-caryophyllene, d-limonene, linalool, pulegone, 1,8-cineole, α-pinene, α-terpineol, termine-4-ol, p-cymene, or any combination thereof.

[0038] In at least one example embodiment, the thermal conductivity modifier may include metal particles, metal granules, sheet metal slices, ceramic particles, graphene flakes, water, carbon fibers, graphene flakes, ceramic particles, or any combination thereof.

[0039] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may include a tobacco material.

[0040] In at least one example embodiment, the tobacco material may include tobacco lamina, a processed tobacco material, ground tobacco, processed tobacco stems, a reconstituted tobacco material, or any combination thereof.

[0041] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate includes a tobacco substitute material.

[0042] In at least one example embodiment, the tobacco substitute material includes wood pulp, cotton, sugar beets, bran, citrus pulp fiber, switch grass, salix tea, populus, bamboo, hemp, cannabis, or any combination thereof.

[0043] In at least one example embodiment, at least a portion of the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds may be surrounded by an encapsulating material.

[0044] In at least one example embodiment, one of the first and second aerosol-forming compounds may include the encapsulating material.

[0045] In at least one example embodiment, the first aerosol-forming compound may include a first encapsulating material having the first aerosolization temperature and the second aerosol-forming compound may include a second encapsulating material having the second aerosolization temperature.

[0046] In at least one example embodiment, the encapsulating material may include pectin, gelatin, sodium alginate, maltodextrin, pullulan, xanthan, gum acacia, hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose, sodium carboxy methyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl caprolactam, polyvinyl acetate, starch, starch-derivatives, or any combination thereof.

[0047] At least one example embodiment relates to a capsule for an aerosol-generating device.

[0048] In at least one example embodiment, the capsule may include an aerosol-forming substrate and a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed within the aerosol-forming substrate. The plurality of aerosol-forming compounds may include a first aerosol-forming compound having a first aerosolization temperature and a second aerosol-forming compound having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature. The first aerosol-forming compound and the second aerosol-forming compound may each be dispersed throughout the aerosol-forming substrate, and at least one of the first aerosol-forming compound or the second aerosol-forming compound may have a non-uniform dispersion concentration.

[0049] In at least one example embodiment, the first aerosol-forming compound may have a first non-uniform dispersion concentration, and the second aerosol-forming compound may have a second non-uniform dispersion concentration.

[0050] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may include a first section. The first section may include a first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound. The first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound may be different from the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound.

[0051] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may include a second section. The second section may include a second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound. The second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound may be different from than the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound.

[0052] In at least one example embodiment, the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound may be less than the first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound.

[0053] In at least one example embodiment, the second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound may be greater than the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound.

[0054] In at least one example embodiment, the first aerosol-forming compound may include a first encapsulating material.

[0055] In at least one example embodiment, the second aerosol-forming compound may include a second encapsulating material.

[0056] At least one example embodiment relates to an aerosol-generating device.

[0057] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-generating device may include a removable capsule that includes an aerosol-forming substrate and a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed within the aerosol-forming substrate. The plurality of aerosol-forming compounds may include a first aerosol-forming compound having a first aerosolization temperature, and a second aerosol-forming compound having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature. The first aerosol-forming compound and the second aerosol-forming compound may each be dispersed throughout the aerosol-forming substrate. At least one of the first aerosol-forming compound or the second aerosol-forming compound may have a non-uniform dispersion concentration. The aerosol-generating device may further include a heater configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol.

[0058] In at least one example embodiment, the heater may include an induction heater.

[0059] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may include a first section. The first section may include a first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound. The first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound may be different from the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound.

[0060] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may include a second section. The second section may include a second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound. The second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound may be different from the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound.

[0061] In at least one example embodiment, the heater may heat the first section to a first temperature and the second section to a second temperature.

[0062] In at least one example embodiment, the first temperature may be greater than the second temperature.

[0063] In at least one example embodiment, the first aerosol-forming compound may include a first encapsulating material.

[0064] In at least one example embodiment, the second aerosol-forming compound may include a second encapsulating material.

[0065] At least one example embodiment relates to a capsule for an aerosol-generating device.

[0066] In at least one example embodiment, the capsule may include an aerosol-forming substrate having a first section and a second section and a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed within the aerosol-forming substrate. The plurality of aerosol-forming compounds may include a first aerosol-forming compound having a first aerosolization temperature and a second aerosol-forming compound having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature. The first aerosol-forming compound may be dispersed at a first concentration at the first section and at a second concentration different from the first concentration at the second section. The second aerosol-forming compound may be dispersed at a first concentration at the first section and at a second concentration different from the first concentration at the second section.

[0067] In at least one example embodiment, the first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound in the first section may be different than the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound in the first section and the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound in the second section may be different than the second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound in the second section.

[0068] In at least one example embodiment, the capsule may further include a heater configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol. The first section may be closer to the heater than the second section.

[0069] In at least one example embodiment, the first section may be greater than or equal to about 2% to less than or equal to about 50% of a total length of the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0070] In at least one example embodiment, the first section may be a coating on the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0071] In at least one example embodiment, the first section may be substantially free of the second aerosol-forming compound.

[0072] In at least one example embodiment, the second section may be substantially free of the first aerosol-forming compound.

[0073] In at least one example embodiment, the second aerosolization temperature may be greater than the first aerosolization temperature.

[0074] In at least one example embodiment, the first section may surround at least a portion of the second section.

[0075] In at least one example embodiment, the second section may be downstream from the first section.

[0076] In at least one example embodiment, the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds may include an aerosol former, a solvent, an active ingredient, a pH-adjustor, a flavorant, a thermal conductivity modifier, or any combination thereof.

[0077] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol former and solvent may be independently selected from water, propylene glycol, glycerol, ethanol, 2-propanol, butanediol, or any combination thereof; the active ingredient may include nicotine, nicotine salt, nicotine solution, encapsulated nicotine, 8-tetrahydrocannabinol (8-THC), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabinol (CBN), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabigerol (CBG), and any combination thereof; the nicotine salt may be formed between nicotine and citrate, monotartrate, bitartrate, bitartrate dihydrate, salicylate, sulfate, bisulfate, phosphate, acid phosphate, acetate, lactate, succinate, maleate, fumarate, gluconate, saccharate, benzoate, methanesulfonate, hydrochloride, hydrobromide, hydroiodide, or any combination thereof; the pH-adjustor may include pyruvic acid, formic acid, oxalic acid, glycolic acid, acetic acid, isovaleric acid, valeric acid, propionic acid, octanoic acid, lactic acid, levulinic acid, sorbic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, succinic acid, citric acid, benzoic acid, oleic acid, aconitic acid, butyric acid, cinnamic acid, decanoic acid, 3,7-dimethyl-6-octenoic acid, 1-glutamic acid, heptanoic acid, hexanoic acid, 3-hexenoic acid, trans-2-hexenoic acid, isobutyric acid, lauric acid, 2-methylbutyric acid, 2-methylvaleric acid, myristic acid, nonanoic acid, palmitic acid, pentenoic acid, phenylacetic acid, 3-phenylpropionic acid, hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, ammonia, or any combination thereof; the flavorant may include menthol, peppermint, spearmint, wintergreen, menthol, cinnamon, chocolate, vanillin, licorice, clove, anise, sandalwood, geranium, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, cassia, fennel, ginger, ethyl acetate, isoamyl acetate, propyl isobutyrate, isobutyl butyrate, ethyl butyrate, ethyl valerate, benzyl formate, limonene, cymene, pinene, linalool, geraniol, citronellol, citral, orange oil, coriander oil, borneol, fruit extract, coffee, tea, cacao, mint, pomegranate, acai, raspberry, blueberry, strawberry, boysenberry, cranberry, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, cognac, hydrangea, lavender, apple, peach, pear, cherry, plum, orange, lime, lychee, grape, grapefruit, butter, rum, coconut, almond, pecan, walnut, hazelnut, french vanilla, macadamia, sugar cane, maple, cassis, caramel, banana, malt, espresso, kahlua, white chocolate, cinnamon, clove, cilantro, basil, oregano, garlic, mustard, nutmeg, rosemary, thyme, tarragon, dill, sage, anise, fennel, methyl salicylate, linalool, jasmine, coffee, olive oil, sesame oil, sunflower oil, bergamot oil, geranium oil, lemon oil, ginger oil, balsamic vinegar, rice wine vinegar, red wine vinegar, allspice, pimento, mango, soursop, sweetsop, naseberry, sorrel, terpenes, or any combination thereof; the terpenes may include 8-myrcene, 8-caryophyllene, d-limonene, linalool, pulegone, 1,8-cineole, α-pinene, α-terpineol, termine-4-ol, p-cymene, or any combination thereof; and the thermal conductivity modifier may include metal particles, metal granules, sheet metal slices, water, carbon fibers, graphene flakes, ceramic particles, or any combination thereof.

[0078] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may include a tobacco material. The tobacco material may include tobacco lamina, a processed tobacco material, ground tobacco, processed tobacco stems, a reconstituted tobacco material, or any combination thereof.

[0079] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may include a tobacco substitute material. The tobacco substitute material may include wood pulp, cotton, sugar beets, bran, citrus pulp fiber, switch grass, salix tea, populus, bamboo, hemp, cannabis, or any combination thereof.

[0080] In at least one example embodiment, at least a portion of the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds may be surrounded by an encapsulating material.

[0081] In at least one example embodiment, the first aerosol-forming compound may include a first encapsulating material having the first aerosolization temperature, the second aerosol-forming compound may include a second encapsulating material having the second aerosolization temperature, and the first and second encapsulating materials defining the encapsulating material.

[0082] In at least one example embodiment, the encapsulating material may include pectin, gelatin, sodium alginate, maltodextrin, pullulan, xanthan, gum acacia, hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose, sodium carboxy methyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl caprolactam, polyvinyl acetate, starch, starch-derivatives, or any combination thereof.

[0083] At least one example embodiment relates to a capsule for an aerosol-generating device.

[0084] In at least one example embodiment, the capsule may include an aerosol-forming substrate and a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed within the aerosol-forming substrate. The plurality of aerosol-forming compounds may include a first aerosol-forming compound having a first aerosolization temperature and a second aerosol-forming compound having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature. The first aerosol-forming compound and the second aerosol-forming compound may each be dispersed throughout the aerosol-forming substrate and at least one of the first aerosol-forming compound or the second aerosol-forming compound may have a non-uniform dispersion concentration.

[0085] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate includes a first section and a second section. The first section may include a first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound, the first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound being different from the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound. The second section may include a second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound, the second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound being different from the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound.

[0086] At least one example embodiment relates to an aerosol-generating device.

[0087] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-generating device may include a removable capsule and a heater configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol. The removable capsule may include an aerosol-forming substrate and a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed within the aerosol-forming substrate. The plurality of aerosol-forming compounds including: a first aerosol-forming compound having a first aerosolization temperature and a second aerosol-forming compound having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature. The first aerosol-forming compound and the second aerosol-forming compound may each be dispersed throughout the aerosol-forming substrate. At least one of the first aerosol-forming compound or the second aerosol-forming compound may have a non-uniform dispersion concentration.

[0088] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may include a first section and a second section, the first section including a first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound. The first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound may be different from the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound. The second section may include a second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound. The second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound may be different from the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0089] The various features and advantages of the non-limiting embodiments herein may become more apparent upon review of the detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are merely provided for illustrative purposes and should not be interpreted to limit the scope of the claims. The accompanying drawings are not to be considered as drawn to scale unless explicitly noted. For purposes of clarity, various dimensions of the drawings may have been exaggerated.

[0090] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol-forming substrate in consolidated form according to at least one example embodiment.

[0091] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of another aerosol-forming substrate in consolidated form according to at least one example embodiment.

[0092] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an aerosol-forming substrate in rod form according to at least one example embodiment.

[0093] FIG. 4 is an illustration of an aerosol-forming substrate including a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds according to at least one example embodiment.

[0094] FIG. 5 is an illustration of another aerosol-forming substrate including a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds according to at least one example embodiment.

[0095] FIG. 6 is an illustration of another aerosol-forming substrate including a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds according to at least one example embodiment.

[0096] FIG. 7 is an illustration of another aerosol-forming substrate including a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds according to at least one example embodiment.

[0097] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an example aerosol-forming compound for inclusion in an aerosol-forming substrate according to at least one example embodiment.

[0098] FIG. 9 is a top right perspective view of a capsule that includes an aerosol-forming substrate according to at least one example embodiment.

[0099] FIG. 10 is a sectional view of the capsule of FIG. 9 along line XI-XI of FIG. 9 according to at least one example embodiment.

[0100] FIG. 11 is an exploded view of the capsule of FIG. 9 according to at least one example embodiment.

[0101] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an aerosol-generating device configured to receive a capsule and having a lid in a closed position according to at least one example embodiment.

[0102] FIG. 13 is a partial perspective view of the aerosol-generating device of FIG. 12 with the lid in an open position according to at least one example embodiment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

[0103] Some detailed example embodiments are disclosed herein. However, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merely representative for purposes of describing example embodiments. Example embodiments may, however, be embodied in many alternate forms and should not be construed as limited to only the example embodiments set forth herein.

[0104] Accordingly, while example embodiments are capable of various modifications and alternative forms, example embodiments thereof are shown by way of example in the drawings and will herein be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intent to limit example embodiments to the particular forms disclosed, but to the contrary, example embodiments are to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of example embodiments. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the description of the figures.

[0105] It should be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being “on,”“connected to,”“coupled to,” or “covering” another element or layer, it may be directly on, connected to, coupled to, or covering the other element or layer or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,”“directly connected to,” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers present. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the specification. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0106] It should be understood that, although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, regions, layers and / or sections, these elements, regions, layers, and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, region, layer, or section from another region, layer, or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed below could be termed a second element, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of example embodiments.

[0107] Spatially relative terms (e.g., “beneath,”“below,”“lower,”“above,”“upper,” and the like) may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It should be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the term “below” may encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

[0108] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing various example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of example embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms “a,”“an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “includes,”“including,”“comprises,” and / or “comprising,” specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, and / or elements, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or groups thereof.

[0109] When the terms “about” or “substantially” are used in this specification in connection with a numerical value, it is intended that the associated numerical value includes a manufacturing or operational tolerance (e.g., +10%) around the stated numerical value. Moreover, when the terms “generally” or “substantially” are used in connection with geometric shapes, it is intended that precision of the geometric shape is not required but that latitude for the shape is within the scope of the disclosure. Furthermore, regardless of whether numerical values or shapes are modified as “about,”“generally,” or “substantially,” it will be understood that these values and shapes should be construed as including a manufacturing or operational tolerance (e.g., +10%) around the stated numerical values or shapes.

[0110] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which example embodiments belong. It will be further understood that terms, including those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0111] At least one example embodiment relates to an aerosol-forming substrate for use in an aerosol-generating device.

[0112] An aerosol-forming substrate includes a material or combination of materials that may yield an aerosol. An aerosol relates to the matter generated or output by the devices disclosed, claimed, and equivalents thereof, including, for example, heated tobacco or heated tobacco products aerosol-generating devices. The material may include a compound (e.g., nicotine, cannabinoid), where an aerosol including the compound is produced when the material is heated. The heating may be below the combustion temperature so as to produce the aerosol without involving a substantial pyrolysis of the aerosol-forming substrate or the substantial generation of combustion byproducts (if any). Thus, in at least one example embodiment, pyrolysis does not occur during the heating and resulting production of aerosol. In other instances, however, there may be some pyrolysis and combustion byproducts, but the extent of the pyrolysis and combustion byproducts may be considered relatively minor and / or merely incidental.

[0113] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may include a fibrous material. The fibrous material is configured to release a compound when heated. The compound may be a naturally occurring constituent of the fibrous material. In at least one example embodiment, the fibrous material may include a botanical material. For instance, the fibrous material may include tobacco and the compound released may be nicotine. The term “tobacco” includes any tobacco plant material including tobacco leaf, tobacco plug, reconstituted tobacco, compressed tobacco, shaped tobacco, powder tobacco, or any combination thereof from one or more species of tobacco plants, including, for example, Nicotiana rustica and Nicotiana tabacum.

[0114] In at least one example embodiment, the tobacco material may include material from any member of the genus Nicotiana. In at least one example embodiment, the tobacco material may include a blend of two or more different tobacco varieties. Examples of suitable types of tobacco materials that may be used include, but are not limited to, flue-cured tobacco, Burley tobacco, Dark tobacco, Maryland tobacco, Oriental tobacco, rare tobacco, specialty tobacco, blends thereof, and the like. The tobacco material may be provided in any suitable form, including, but not limited to, tobacco lamina, processed tobacco materials (such as volume expanded or puffed tobacco), processed tobacco stems (such as cut-rolled or cut-puffed stems), reconstituted tobacco materials, blends thereof, and the like. In at least one example embodiment, the tobacco material may be in the form of a substantially dry tobacco mass.

[0115] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may include a naturally occurring constituent of a medicinal plant that has a medically accepted therapeutic effect. In at least one example embodiment, the medicinal plant may be a cannabis plant and the compound may be a cannabinoid. Cannabinoids may interact with receptors in the body to produce a wide range of effects. As a result, cannabinoids have been used for a variety of medicinal purposes (e.g., treatment of pain, nausea, epilepsy, psychiatric disorders). In at least one example embodiment, the fibrous material as included in (e.g., defining) the aerosol-forming substrate may include the leaf and / or flower material from one or more species of cannabis plants including, for example, Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and / or Cannabis ruderalis. In at least one example embodiment, the fibrous material may include a mixture that includes greater than or equal to about 60% to less than or equal to about 80% (e.g., about 70%) of Cannabis sativa and greater than or equal to about 20% to less than or equal to about 40% (e.g., about 30%) of Cannabis indica.

[0116] Cannabinoids include, for example, tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol (CBN), cannabicyclol (CBL), cannabichromene (CBC), and cannabigerol (CBG). Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) may be a precursor of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), while cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) may be precursor of cannabidiol (CBD). In certain instances, tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) may be converted to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), for example, via heating. In certain instances, cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) may be converted to cannabidiol (CBD) via heating. In at least one example embodiment, heat from a heater may cause decarboxylation so as to convert the tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and / or to convert the cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) to cannabidiol (CBD).

[0117] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate includes both tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). In such instances, decarboxylation and resulting conversion upon the application of heat may cause a decrease in tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) and an increase in tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). For example, at least about 50% (e.g., at least about 87%) of the tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) may be converted to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) upon the application of heat. In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate includes both cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) and cannabidiol (CBD). In such instances, the decarboxylation and resulting conversion may cause a decrease in cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) and an increase in cannabidiol (CBD). For example, at least about 50% (e.g., at least about 87%) of the cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) may be converted to cannabidiol (CBD) upon the application of heat.

[0118] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may have a resistance to draw (RTD) of greater than or equal to about 30 mmH2O (e.g., greater than or equal to about 40 mmH2O, greater than or equal to about 50 mmH2O, greater than or equal to about 60 mmH2O, greater than or equal to about 70 mmH2O, greater than or equal to about 80 mmH2O, greater than or equal to about 90 mmH2O, greater than or equal to about 100 mmH2O, greater than or equal to about 110 mmH2O, or greater than or equal to about 120 mmH2O). In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may have a resistance to draw (RTD) of less than or equal to about 130 mmH2O (e.g., less than or equal to about 120 mmH2O, less than or equal to about 110 mmH2O, less than or equal to about 100 mmH2O, less than or equal to about 90 mmH2O, less than or equal to about 80 mmH2O, less than or equal to about 70 mmH2O, less than or equal to about 60 mmH2O, less than or equal to about 50 mmH2O, or less than or equal to about 40 mmH2O). In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may have a resistance to draw (RTD) that ranges from about 30 mmH2O to about 130 mmH2O (e.g., greater than or equal to about 60 mmH2O to less than or equal to about 80 mmH2O, greater than or equal to about 65 mmH2O to less than or equal to about 75 mmH2O, greater than or equal to about 67 mmH2O to less than or equal to about 73 mmH2O, or greater than or equal to about 69 mmH2O to less than or equal to about 71 mmH2O).

[0119] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may have a bulk density of greater than or equal to about 0.2 g / cm3 (e.g., greater than or equal to about 0.25 g / cm3, greater than or equal to about 0.3 g / cm3, greater than or equal to about 0.35 g / cm3, greater than or equal to about 0.4 g / cm3, greater than or equal to about 0.45 g / cm3, greater than or equal to about 0.5 g / cm3, greater than or equal to about 0.55 g / cm3, greater than or equal to about 0.6 g / cm3, greater than or equal to about 0.65 g / cm3, greater than or equal to about 0.7 g / cm3, greater than or equal to about 0.75 g / cm3). In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may have a bulk density of less than or equal to about 0.8 g / cm3 (e.g., less than or equal to about 0.75 g / cm3, less than or equal to about 0.7 g / cm3, less than or equal to about 0.65 g / cm3, less than or equal to about 0.6 g / cm3, less than or equal to about 0.55 g / cm3, less than or equal to about 0.5 g / cm3, less than or equal to about 0.45 g / cm3, less than or equal to about 0.4 g / cm3, less than or equal to about 0.35 g / cm3, less than or equal to about 0.3 g / cm3, or less than or equal to about 0.25 g / cm3). In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may have a bulk density that ranges from about 0.2 g / cm3 to about 0.8 g / cm3 (e.g., greater than or equal to about 0.3 g / cm3 to less than or equal to about 0.5 g / cm3, greater than or equal to about 0.35 g / cm3 to less than or equal to about 0.45 g / cm3, or greater than or equal to about 0.37 g / cm3 to less than or equal to about 0.43 g / cm3).

[0120] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol-forming substrate 100 in consolidated form according to at least one example embodiment.

[0121] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate 100 may include a first aerosol-forming substrate 102a and a second aerosol-forming substrate 102b to facilitate substrate loading during an assembly of a capsule that is configured, for example, for insertion into or use with an aerosol-generating device (e.g., capsule 800 in FIGS. 9-11 and aerosol-generating device 1100 in FIGS. 12 and 13). Each of the first aerosol-forming substrate 102a and the second aerosol-forming substrate 102b may be in a consolidated form that is configured to maintain its shape so as to allow placement in a unified manner within a chamber of the capsule. For instance, the first aerosol-forming substrate 102a and the second aerosol-forming substrate 102b may be in the form of rectangular sheets / slabs dimensioned for insertion into the capsule.

[0122] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of another aerosol-forming substrate 200 in consolidated form according to at least one example embodiment.

[0123] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate 200 as illustrated in FIG. 2 may differ from the aerosol-forming substrate 100 as illustrated in FIG. 1 with regard only to its shape and dimensions. Otherwise, the aerosol-forming substrate 200 illustrated in FIG. 2 may be the same as described above in connection with the aerosol-forming substrate 100 as illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0124] The aerosol-forming substrate 200 may include a first aerosol-forming substrate 202a and a second aerosol-forming substrate 202b, where each may be in a consolidated form. For instance, the first aerosol-forming substrate 202a and the second aerosol-forming substrate 202b may be in the form of slabs or pallets with a semi-obround cross-section dimensioned for insertion into a capsule that is configured, for example, for insertion into or use with an aerosol-generating device. (e.g., capsule 800 in FIGS. 9-11 and aerosol-generating device 1100 in FIGS. 12 and 13).

[0125] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an aerosol-forming substrate 300 in rod form according to at least one example embodiment.

[0126] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate 300 may be consolidated in the form of a rod 302. An exterior (e.g., circumference) of the aerosol-forming substrate 300 may be surrounded by a wrap 304. For instance, the wrap 304 may include a tipping paper or other suitable sheet material for wrapping. In at least one example embodiment, the rod 302 may be used in an aerosol-generating device without being in a capsule. It should be understood that the aerosol-forming substrate 300 may be in a consolidated form that retains its shape in the absence of the wrap 304 or, alternatively, in loose form so as to have a shape that is defined by the wrap 304.

[0127] Although not illustrated, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate may be in loose form (e.g., larger substrate that is ground into smaller pieces of the substrate). In such an instance, the aerosol-forming substrate may assume the shape of the space that contains it (e.g., chamber of a capsule). Additionally, for an aerosol-forming substrate in loose form, a vacuum-assisted filling process may be used to load the aerosol-forming substrate (e.g., into a capsule).

[0128] It should be appreciated that in each instance—i.e., the aerosol-forming substrate 100 as illustrated in FIG. 1 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 200 as illustrated in FIG. 2 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 300 as illustrated in FIG. 3 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate in loose form—the aerosol-forming substrate may include a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed within the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0129] FIG. 4 is an illustration of an aerosol-forming substrate 400 including a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 410 according to at least one example embodiment.

[0130] In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, an aerosol-forming substrate 400 may include a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 410 dispersed within a matrix 420 defined by a fibrous material.

[0131] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate 400 may include an amount of the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 410 greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt. % (e.g., greater than or equal to about 1 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 10 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 15 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 20 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 25 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 30 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 35 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 40 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 45 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 50 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 55 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 60 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 65 wt. %, or greater than or equal to about 70 wt. %). In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate 400 may include an amount of the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 410 less than or equal to about 75 wt. % (e.g., less than or equal to about 70 wt. %, less than or equal to about 65 wt. %, less than or equal to about 60 wt. %, less than or equal to about 55 wt. %, less than or equal to about 50 wt. %, less than or equal to about 45 wt. %, less than or equal to about 40 wt. %, less than or equal to about 35 wt. %, less than or equal to about 30 wt. %, less than or equal to about 25 wt. %, less than or equal to about 20 wt. %, less than or equal to about 15 wt. %, less than or equal to about 10 wt. %, less than or equal to about 5 wt. %, or less than or equal to about 1 wt. %). In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate 400 may include greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt. % to less than or equal to about 75 wt. % of the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 410.

[0132] In at least one example embodiment, the matrix 420 may include tobacco material. The tobacco material may include tobacco lamina, a processed tobacco material, ground tobacco, processed tobacco stems, a reconstituted tobacco material, or any combination thereof.

[0133] In at least one example embodiment, the matrix 420 may include a tobacco substitute material. The tobacco substitute material may include wood pulp, cotton, sugar beets, bran, citrus pulp fiber, switch grass, salix tea, populus, bamboo, hemp, cannabis, or any combination thereof.

[0134] The plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 410 may include an aerosol former, a solvent, an active ingredient, a pH-adjustor, a flavorant, a thermal conductivity modifier, or any combination thereof.

[0135] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol former and solvent may be independently selected from water, propylene glycol, glycerol, ethanol, 2-propanol, butanediol, or any combination thereof.

[0136] In at least one example embodiment, the active ingredient includes nicotine, nicotine salt, nicotine solution, encapsulated nicotine, and any combination thereof.

[0137] In at least one example embodiment, the nicotine salt is formed between nicotine and citrate, monotartrate, bitartrate, bitartrate dihydrate, salicylate, sulfate, bisulfate, phosphate, acid phosphate, acetate, lactate, succinate, maleate, fumarate, gluconate, saccharate, benzoate, methanesulfonate, hydrochloride, hydrobromide, hydroiodide, caffeate, or any combination thereof.

[0138] In at least one example embodiment, the active ingredient includes 8-tetrahydrocannabinol (8-THC), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabinol (CBN), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabigerol (CBG), or any combination thereof.

[0139] In at least one example embodiment, the active ingredient includes nicotine, nicotine salt, nicotine solution, encapsulated nicotine, 8-tetrahydrocannabinol (8-THC), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabinol (CBN), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabigerol (CBG), or any combination thereof.

[0140] In at least one example embodiment, the pH-adjustor includes pyruvic acid, formic acid, oxalic acid, glycolic acid, acetic acid, isovaleric acid, valeric acid, propionic acid, octanoic acid, lactic acid, levulinic acid, sorbic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, succinic acid, citric acid, benzoic acid, oleic acid, aconitic acid, butyric acid, cinnamic acid, decanoic acid, 3,7-dimethyl-6-octenoic acid, 1-glutamic acid, heptanoic acid, hexanoic acid, 3-hexenoic acid, trans-2-hexenoic acid, isobutyric acid, lauric acid, 2-methylbutyric acid, 2-methylvaleric acid, myristic acid, nonanoic acid, palmitic acid, pentenoic acid, phenylacetic acid, 3-phenylpropionic acid, hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, caffeic acid, ammonia, or any combination thereof.

[0141] In at least one example embodiment, the flavorant includes menthol, peppermint, spearmint, wintergreen, menthol, cinnamon, chocolate, vanillin, licorice, clove, anise, sandalwood, geranium, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, cassia, fennel, ginger, ethyl acetate, isoamyl acetate, propyl isobutyrate, isobutyl butyrate, ethyl butyrate, ethyl valerate, benzyl formate, limonene, cymene, pinene, linalool, geraniol, citronellol, citral, orange oil, coriander oil, borneol, fruit extract, coffee, tea, cacao, mint, pomegranate, acai, raspberry, blueberry, strawberry, boysenberry, cranberry, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, cognac, hydrangea, lavender, apple, peach, pear, cherry, plum, orange, lime, lychee, grape, grapefruit, butter, rum, coconut, almond, pecan, walnut, hazelnut, french vanilla, macadamia, sugar cane, maple, cassis, caramel, banana, malt, espresso, kahlua, white chocolate, cinnamon, clove, cilantro, basil, oregano, garlic, mustard, nutmeg, rosemary, thyme, tarragon, dill, sage, anise, fennel, methyl salicylate, linalool, jasmine, coffee, olive oil, sesame oil, sunflower oil, bergamot oil, geranium oil, lemon oil, ginger oil, balsamic vinegar, rice wine vinegar, red wine vinegar, allspice, pimento, mango, soursop, sweetsop, naseberry, sorrel, terpenes, or any combination thereof.

[0142] In at least one example embodiment, terpenes include 8-myrcene, 8-caryophyllene, d-limonene, linalool, pulegone, 1,8-cineole, α-pinene, α-terpineol, termine-4-ol, p-cymene, or any combination thereof.

[0143] In at least one example embodiment, the thermal conductivity modifier includes metal particles, metal granules, sheet metal (e.g., pieces, slivers), water, carbon fibers, graphene flakes, ceramic particles, or any combination thereof.

[0144] It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the first aerosol-forming substrate 102a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 102b of the aerosol-forming substrate 100 as illustrated in FIG. 1 may include a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds, like the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 410 as illustrated in FIG. 4. It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the first aerosol-forming substrate 202a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 202b of the aerosol-forming substrate 200 as illustrated in FIG. 2 may include a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds, like the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 410 as illustrated in FIG. 4. It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the rod 302 as illustrated in FIG. 3 may include a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds, like the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 410 as illustrated in FIG. 4.

[0145] It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 420 as illustrated in FIG. 4 may be prepared in a manner similar to the first aerosol-forming substrate 102a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 102b of the aerosol-forming substrate 100 as illustrated in FIG. 1. That is, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 420 as illustrated in FIG. 4 may include a first substrate or portion or section or half or region and a second substrate or portion or section or half or region. Further, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 420 as illustrated in FIG. 4 may be prepared in a manner similar to the first aerosol-forming substrate 202a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 202b of the aerosol-forming substrate 200 as illustrated in FIG. 2. That is, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 420 as illustrated in FIG. 4 may include a first substrate or portion or section or half or region and a second substrate or portion or section or half or region. Further still, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 420 as illustrated in FIG. 4 may be prepared in a manner similar to the rod 302 as illustrated in FIG. 3. That is, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 420 as illustrated in FIG. 4 may be formed as a rod.

[0146] FIG. 5 is an illustration of another aerosol-forming substrate 500 including a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 512, 514 according to at least one example embodiment.

[0147] In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, an aerosol-forming substrate 500 may differ from the aerosol-forming substrate 400 as illustrated in FIG. 4 in that the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds may include a first aerosol-forming compound 512 having a first aerosolization temperature and a second aerosol-forming compound 514 having a second aerosolization temperature, and a matrix 520 may include a first portion or section or zone or region 522 that includes a first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 and a first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 and a second portion or section or zone or region 524 that includes a second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 and a second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound 514, where the first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 is different from the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 and the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 is different from the second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound 514. Otherwise, the aerosol-forming substrate 500 as illustrated in FIG. 5 may be the same as described in connection with the aerosol-forming substrate 400 as illustrated in FIG. 4.

[0148] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate 500 may include an amount of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt. % (e.g., greater than or equal to about 1 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 10 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 15 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 20 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 25 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 30 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 35 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 40 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 45 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 50 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 55 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 60 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 65 wt. %, or greater than or equal to about 70 wt. %). In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate 500 may include an amount of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 less than or equal to about 75 wt. % (e.g., less than or equal to about 70 wt. %, less than or equal to about 65 wt. %, less than or equal to about 60 wt. %, less than or equal to about 55 wt. %, less than or equal to about 50 wt. %, less than or equal to about 45 wt. %, less than or equal to about 40 wt. %, less than or equal to about 35 wt. %, less than or equal to about 30 wt. %, less than or equal to about 25 wt. %, less than or equal to about 20 wt. %, less than or equal to about 15 wt. %, less than or equal to about 10 wt. %, less than or equal to about 5 wt. %, or less than or equal to about 1 wt. %). In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate 500 may include greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt. % to less than or equal to about 75 wt. % of the first aerosol-forming compound 512.

[0149] In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate 500 may include an amount of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt. % (e.g., greater than or equal to about 1 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 10 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 15 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 20 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 25 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 30 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 35 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 40 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 45 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 50 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 55 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 60 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 65 wt. %, or greater than or equal to about 70 wt. %). In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate 500 may include an amount of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 less than or equal to about 75 wt. % (e.g., less than or equal to about 70 wt. %, less than or equal to about 65 wt. %, less than or equal to about 60 wt. %, less than or equal to about 55 wt. %, less than or equal to about 50 wt. %, less than or equal to about 45 wt. %, less than or equal to about 40 wt. %, less than or equal to about 35 wt. %, less than or equal to about 30 wt. %, less than or equal to about 25 wt. %, less than or equal to about 20 wt. %, less than or equal to about 15 wt. %, less than or equal to about 10 wt. %, less than or equal to about 5 wt. %, or less than or equal to about 1 wt. %). In at least one example embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate 500 may include greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt. % to less than or equal to about 75 wt. % of the second aerosol-forming compound 514.

[0150] The second aerosolization temperature of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 may be different from (e.g., different temperature or immediacy of heating) the first aerosolization temperature. For example, in at least one example embodiment, the second aerosolization temperature of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 may be greater than the first aerosolization temperature. In at least one example embodiment, the second aerosolization temperature may be greater than or equal to about 25 degrees Celsius (e.g., greater than or equal to about 30 degrees Celsius, greater than or equal to about 40 degrees Celsius, greater than or equal to about 50 degrees Celsius, greater than or equal to about 60 degrees Celsius, greater than or equal to about 70 degrees Celsius, greater than or equal to about 80 degrees Celsius, greater than or equal to about 90 degrees Celsius, greater than or equal to about 100 degrees Celsius, greater than or equal to about 110 degrees Celsius, greater than or equal to about 120 degrees Celsius, greater than or equal to about 130 degrees Celsius, greater than or equal to about 140 degrees Celsius, greater than or equal to about 150 degrees Celsius, greater than or equal to about 160 degrees Celsius, or greater than or equal to about 170 degrees Celsius) greater than the first aerosolization temperature. In at least one example embodiment, the second aerosolization temperature may be less than or equal to about 175 degrees (e.g., less than or equal to about 170 degrees, less than or equal to about 160 degrees, less than or equal to about 150 degrees, less than or equal to about 140 degrees, less than or equal to about 130 degrees, less than or equal to about 120 degrees, less than or equal to about 110 degrees, less than or equal to about 100 degrees, less than or equal to about 90 degrees, less than or equal to about 80 degrees, less than or equal to about 70 degrees, less than or equal to about 60 degrees, less than or equal to about 50 degrees, less than or equal to about 40 degrees, or less than or equal to about 30 degrees) greater than the first aerosolization temperature.

[0151] In at least one example embodiment, the second section 524 may be located downstream of the first section 522. The arrows 530 in FIG. 5 represent the movement of air through the aerosol-forming substrate 500. The second section 524 may correspond with a portion or section or zone or region of the aerosol-forming substrate 500 that experiences higher temperatures or more immediate heat as compared to the first section 522. The first portion 522 may include more of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 than of the second aerosol-forming compound 514. For example, the first aerosol-forming compound 512 may be dispersed at a first concentration in the first section 522 and at a second concentration that is different from the first concentration in the second section 524, where the first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 is different from (e.g., greater than) the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound 512. The second aerosol-forming compound 514 may be dispersed at a first concentration in the first section 522 and at a second concentration that is different from the first concentration in the second section 524, where the second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 is different from (e.g., greater than) the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound 514. The first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 may be greater than the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound 514. The second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 may be greater than the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound 512. Thus, in at least one example embodiment, the second aerosol-forming compound 514 which may have the higher second aerosolization temperature may be more heavily dispersed in the section of the aerosol-forming substrate 500 that experiences the higher temperatures or more immediate heat.

[0152] In at least one example embodiment, the first portion 522 may include an amount of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt. % (e.g., greater than or equal to about 1 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 10 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 15 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 20 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 25 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 30 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 35 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 40 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 45 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 50 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 55 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 60 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 65 wt. %, or greater than or equal to about 70 wt. %). In at least one example embodiment, the first portion 522 may include an amount of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 less than or equal to about 75% (e.g., less than or equal to about 70 wt. %, less than or equal to about 65 wt. %, less than or equal to about 60 wt. %, less than or equal to about 55 wt. %, less than or equal to about 50 wt. %, less than or equal to about 45 wt. %, less than or equal to about 40 wt. %, less than or equal to about 35 wt. %, less than or equal to about 30 wt. %, less than or equal to about 25 wt. %, less than or equal to about 20 wt. %, less than or equal to about 15 wt. %, less than or equal to about 10 wt. %, less than or equal to about 5 wt. %, or less than or equal to about 1 wt. %). In at least one example embodiment, the first portion 522 may include greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt. % to less than or equal to about 75 wt. % of the first aerosol-forming compound 512.

[0153] In at least one example embodiment, the first portion 522 may include an amount of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt. % (e.g., greater than or equal to about 1 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 10 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 15 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 20 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 25 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 30 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 35 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 40 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 45 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 50 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 55 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 60 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 65 wt. %, or greater than or equal to about 70 wt. %). In at least one example embodiment, the first portion 522 may include an amount of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 less than or equal to about 75 wt. % (e.g., less than or equal to about 70 wt. %, less than or equal to about 65 wt. %, less than or equal to about 60 wt. %, less than or equal to about 55 wt. %, less than or equal to about 50 wt. %, less than or equal to about 45 wt. %, less than or equal to about 40 wt. %, less than or equal to about 35 wt. %, less than or equal to about 30 wt. %, less than or equal to about 25 wt. %, less than or equal to about 20 wt. %, less than or equal to about 15 wt. %, less than or equal to about 10 wt. %, less than or equal to about 5 wt. %, or less than or equal to about 1 wt. %). In at least one example embodiment, the first portion 522 may include greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt. % to less than or equal to about 75 wt. % of the second aerosol-forming compound 514.

[0154] In at least one example embodiment, the second portion 524 may include an amount of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt. % (e.g., greater than or equal to about 1 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 10 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 15 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 20 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 25 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 30 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 35 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 40 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 45 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 50 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 55 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 60 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 65 wt. %, or greater than or equal to about 70 wt. %). In at least one example embodiment, the second portion 524 may include an amount of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 less than or equal to about 75% (e.g., less than or equal to about 70 wt. %, less than or equal to about 65 wt. %, less than or equal to about 60 wt. %, less than or equal to about 55 wt. %, less than or equal to about 50 wt. %, less than or equal to about 45 wt. %, less than or equal to about 40 wt. %, less than or equal to about 35 wt. %, less than or equal to about 30 wt. %, less than or equal to about 25 wt. %, less than or equal to about 20 wt. %, less than or equal to about 15 wt. %, less than or equal to about 10 wt. %, less than or equal to about 5 wt. %, or less than or equal to about 1 wt. %). In at least one example embodiment, the second portion 524 may include greater than or equal to about 0.01 wt. % to less than or equal to about 75 wt. % of the first aerosol-forming compound 512.

[0155] In at least one example embodiment, the second portion 524 may include an amount of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 greater than or equal to about 0.01% (e.g., greater than or equal to about 1 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 5 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 10 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 15 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 20 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 25 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 30 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 35 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 40 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 45 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 50 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 55 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 60 wt. %, greater than or equal to about 65 wt. %, or greater than or equal to about 70 wt. %). In at least one example embodiment, the second portion 524 may include an amount of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 less than or equal to about 75 wt. % (e.g., less than or equal to about 70 wt. %, less than or equal to about 65 wt. %, less than or equal to about 60 wt. %, less than or equal to about 55 wt. %, less than or equal to about 50 wt. %, less than or equal to about 45 wt. %, less than or equal to about 40 wt. %, less than or equal to about 35 wt. %, less than or equal to about 30 wt. %, less than or equal to about 25 wt. %, less than or equal to about 20 wt. %, less than or equal to about 15 wt. %, less than or equal to about 10 wt. %, less than or equal to about 5 wt. %, or less than or equal to about 1 wt. %). In at least one example embodiment, the second portion 524 may include greater than or equal to about 0.01% to less than or equal to about 75% of the second aerosol-forming compound 514.

[0156] Although the second section 524 is illustrated as including at least a portion (e.g., second concentration) of the first aerosol-forming compound 512, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the second section 524 may be substantially free of the first aerosol-forming compound 512. Similarly, although the first section 522 is illustrated as including at least a portion (e.g., first concentration) of the second aerosol-forming compound 514, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the first section 522 may be substantially free of the second aerosol-forming compound 514. Further, although the first section 522 is illustrated as including more of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 than the second section 524, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the second section 524 may include more of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 than the first section 522. Similarly, although, the second section 524 is illustrated as including more of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 than the first second 522, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the first section 522 may include more of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 than the second section 524. Further still, although the first section 522 is illustrated as including more of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 than the second aerosol-forming compound 514, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the first section 522 may include substantially equal amounts of the first aerosol-forming compound 512 and the second aerosol-forming compound 515. Similarly, although the second section 524 is illustrated as including more of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 than the first aerosol-forming compound 512, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the second section may include substantially equal amounts of the second aerosol-forming compound 514 and the first aerosol-forming compound 512.

[0157] The first section 522 may have a first length (L1). In at least one example embodiment, the first length (L1) may be greater than or equal to about 2% (e.g., greater than or equal to about 4%, greater than or equal to about 6%, greater than or equal to about 8%, greater than or equal to about 10%, greater than or equal to about 12%, greater than or equal to about 14%, greater than or equal to about 16%, greater than or equal to about 18%, greater than or equal to about 20%, greater than or equal to about 22%, or greater than or equal to about 24%) of a total length (L) of the aerosol-forming substrate 500. In at least one example embodiment, the first length (L1) may be less than or equal to about 50% (e.g., less than or equal to about 48%, less than or equal to about 46%, less than or equal to about 44%, less than or equal to about 42%, less than or equal to about 40%, less than or equal to about 38%, less than or equal to about 36%, less than or equal to about 34%, less than or equal to about 32%, less than or equal to about 30%, less than or equal to about 28%, less than or equal to about 26%, less than or equal to about 24%, less than or equal to about 22%, less than or equal to about 20%, less than or equal to about 18%, less than or equal to about 16%, less than or equal to about 14%, less than or equal to about 12%, less than or equal to about 10%, less than or equal to about 8%, less than or equal to about 6%, or less than or equal to about 4%) of the total length (L) of the aerosol-forming substrate 500. In at least one example embodiment, the first length (L1) may be greater than or equal to about 2% to less than or equal to about 50% of the total length (L) of the aerosol-forming substrate 500. In at least one example embodiment, the first length (L1) may be greater than or equal to about 2% to less than or equal to about 25% of the total length (L) of the aerosol-forming substrate 500.

[0158] The second section 524 may have a second length (L2). In at least one example embodiment, the second length (L2) may be greater than or equal to about 75% (e.g., greater than or equal to about 77%, greater than or equal to about 79%, greater than or equal to about 81%, greater than or equal to about 83%, greater than or equal to about 85%, greater than or equal to about 87%, greater than or equal to about 89%, greater than or equal to about 91%, greater than or equal to about 93%, greater than or equal to about 95%, or greater than or equal to about 97%) of the total length (L) of the aerosol-forming substrate 500. In at least one example embodiment, the second length (L2) may be less than or equal to about 98% (e.g., less than or equal to about 97%, less than or equal to about 95%, less than or equal to about 93%, less than or equal to about 91%, less than or equal to about 89%, less than or equal to about 87%, less than or equal to about 85%, less than or equal to about 83%, less than or equal to about 81%, less than or equal to about 79%, or less than or equal to about 77%) of the total length (L) of the aerosol-forming substrate 500. In at least one example embodiment, the second length (L2) may be greater than or equal to about 75% to less than or equal to about 98% of the total length (L) of the aerosol-forming substrate 500.

[0159] It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the first aerosol-forming substrate 102a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 102b of the aerosol-forming substrate 100 as illustrated in FIG. 1 may include a first aerosol-forming compound and a second aerosol-forming compound disposed in one or more sections, like the first aerosol-forming compound 512 and the second aerosol-forming compound 514 disposed in the first and second sections 522, 524 as illustrated in FIG. 5. It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the first aerosol-forming substrate 202a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 202b of the aerosol-forming substrate 200 as illustrated in FIG. 2 may include a first aerosol-forming compound and a second aerosol-forming compound disposed in one or more sections, like the first aerosol-forming compound 512 and the second aerosol-forming compound 514 disposed in the first and second sections 522, 524 as illustrated in FIG. 5. It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the rod 302 as illustrated in FIG. 3 may include a first aerosol-forming compound and a second aerosol-forming compound disposed in one or more sections, like the first aerosol-forming compound 512 and the second aerosol-forming compound 514 disposed in the first and second sections 522, 524 as illustrated in FIG. 5.

[0160] It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 520 as illustrated in FIG. 5 may be prepared in a manner similar to the first aerosol-forming substrate 102a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 102b of the aerosol-forming substrate 100 as illustrated in FIG. 1. That is, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 520 as illustrated in FIG. 5 may include a first substrate or portion or section or half and a second substrate or portion or section or half. Further, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 520 as illustrated in FIG. 5 may be prepared in a manner similar to the first aerosol-forming substrate 202a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 202b of the aerosol-forming substrate 200 as illustrated in FIG. 2. That is, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 520 as illustrated in FIG. 5 may include a first substrate or portion or section or half and a second substrate or portion or section or half. Further still, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 520 as illustrated in FIG. 5 may be prepared in a manner similar to the rod 302 as illustrated in FIG. 3. That is, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 520 as illustrated in FIG. 5 may be formed as a rod.

[0161] FIG. 6 is an illustration of another aerosol-forming substrate 600 including a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 612, 614 according to at least one example embodiment.

[0162] In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, the aerosol-forming substrate 600 may differ from the aerosol-forming substrate 500 as illustrated in FIG. 5 in that a first portion or section or zone or region 622 at least partially surrounds a second portion or section or zone or region 624. As illustrated, in at least one example embodiment, the first section 622 may surround three or more sides of the second section 624. For example, the first section 622 may form a U-shape (e.g., cross-sectional view) around the second section 624. Otherwise, the aerosol-forming substrate 600 as illustrated in FIG. 6 may be the same as described in connection with the aerosol-forming substrate 500 as illustrated in FIG. 5.

[0163] The first section 622 may include a first concentration of a first aerosol-forming compound 612 and a first concentration of a second aerosol-forming compound 614. The first concentration of a first aerosol-forming compound 612 may be different from (e.g., greater than) the first concentration of a second aerosol-forming compound 614. The second section 624 may include a second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound 612 and a second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound 614. The second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound 614 may be different from (e.g., greater than) the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound 612. The first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound 612 may be different from (e.g., greater than) the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound 612. The second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound 614 may be different from (e.g., greater than) the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound 614. The second section 624 may correspond with a portion or section or zone or region of the aerosol-forming substrate 600 that experiences higher temperatures or more immediate heat as compared to the first section 622. The second aerosol-forming compound 614 which may have the higher second aerosolization temperature may be more heavily dispersed in the section of the aerosol-forming substrate 600 that experiences the higher temperatures or more immediate heat. The arrows 630 in FIG. 6 represent the movement of air through the aerosol-forming substrate 600.

[0164] Although the first section 622 is illustrated as including none of the second aerosol-forming compound 614, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the first section 622 includes at least a portion (e.g., first concentration) of the second aerosol-forming compound 614. Similarly, although the second section 624 is illustrated as including none of the first aerosol-forming compound 612, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the second section 624 includes at least a portion (e.g., second concentration) of the first aerosol-forming compound 612.

[0165] It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the first aerosol-forming substrate 102a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 102b of the aerosol-forming substrate 100 as illustrated in FIG. 1 may include a first aerosol-forming compound and a second aerosol-forming compound disposed in one or more sections, like the first aerosol-forming compound 612 and the second aerosol-forming compound 614 disposed in the first and second sections 622, 624 as illustrated in FIG. 6. It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the first aerosol-forming substrate 202a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 202b of the aerosol-forming substrate 200 as illustrated in FIG. 2 may include a first aerosol-forming compound and a second aerosol-forming compound disposed in one or more sections, like the first aerosol-forming compound 612 and the second aerosol-forming compound 614 disposed in the first and second sections 622, 624 as illustrated in FIG. 6. It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the rod 302 as illustrated in FIG. 3 may include a first aerosol-forming compound and a second aerosol-forming compound disposed in one or more sections, like the first aerosol-forming compound 612 and the second aerosol-forming compound 614 disposed in the first and second sections 622, 624 as illustrated in FIG. 6.

[0166] It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 620 as illustrated in FIG. 6 may be prepared in a manner similar to the first aerosol-forming substrate 102a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 102b of the aerosol-forming substrate 100 as illustrated in FIG. 1. That is, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 620 as illustrated in FIG. 6 may include a substrate or portion or section or half and second substrate or portion or section or half. Further, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 620 as illustrated in FIG. 6 may be prepared in a manner similar to the first aerosol-forming substrate 202a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 202b of the aerosol-forming substrate 200 as illustrated in FIG. 2. That is, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 620 as illustrated in FIG. 6 may include a substrate or portion or section or half and second substrate or portion or section or half. Further still, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 620 as illustrated in FIG. 6 may be prepared in a manner similar to the rod 302 as illustrated in FIG. 3. That is, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 620 as illustrated in FIG. 6 may be formed as a rod.

[0167] FIG. 7 is an illustration of another aerosol-forming substrate 650 including a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 652, 654 according to at least one example embodiment.

[0168] In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, the aerosol-forming substrate 650 may differ from the aerosol-forming substrate 500 as illustrated in FIG. 5 in that a first section 562 is substantially free of a second aerosol-forming compound 654 and a second section 564 is substantially free of the first aerosol-forming compound 652. For example, in at least one example embodiment, the first section 562 may be provided as a coating on the second section 564. Otherwise, the aerosol-forming substrate 650 as illustrated in FIG. 7 may be the same as described in connection with the aerosol-forming substrate 500 as illustrated in FIG. 5.

[0169] In at least one example embodiment, the coating may have an average thickness of greater than or equal to about 0.2% (e.g., greater than or equal to about 1%, greater than or equal to about 2%, greater than or equal to about 3%, or greater than or equal to about 4%) of a total (L) length of a matrix 670 of the aerosol-forming substrate 650. In at least one example embodiment, the coating may have an average thickness less than or equal to about 5% (e.g., less than or equal to about 4%, less than or equal to about 3%, less than or equal to about 2%, or less than or equal to about 1%) of a total (L) length of a matrix 670 of the aerosol-forming substrate 650. In at least one example embodiment, the coating may have an average thickness greater than or equal to about 0.2% to less than or equal to about 5% of a total (L) length of a matrix 670 of the aerosol-forming substrate 650.

[0170] It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the first aerosol-forming substrate 102a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 102b of the aerosol-forming substrate 100 as illustrated in FIG. 1 may include a first aerosol-forming compound and a second aerosol-forming compound disposed in one or more sections, like the first aerosol-forming compound 652 and the second aerosol-forming compound 654 disposed in the first and second sections 562, 564 as illustrated in FIG. 7. It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the first aerosol-forming substrate 202a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 202b of the aerosol-forming substrate 200 as illustrated in FIG. 2 may include a first aerosol-forming compound and a second aerosol-forming compound disposed in one or more sections, like the first aerosol-forming compound 652 and the second aerosol-forming compound 654 disposed in the first and second sections 562, 564 as illustrated in FIG. 7. It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the rod 302 as illustrated in FIG. 3 may include a first aerosol-forming compound and a second aerosol-forming compound disposed in one or more sections, like the first aerosol-forming compound 652 and the second aerosol-forming compound 654 disposed in the first and second sections 562, 564 as illustrated in FIG. 7.

[0171] It should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 670 as illustrated in FIG. 7 may be prepared in a manner similar to the first aerosol-forming substrate 102a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 102b of the aerosol-forming substrate 100 as illustrated in FIG. 1. That is, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 670 as illustrated in FIG. 7 may include a first substrate or portion or section or half and a second substrate or portion or section or half. Further, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 670 as illustrated in FIG. 7 may be prepared in a manner similar to the first aerosol-forming substrate 202a and / or a second aerosol-forming substrate 202b of the aerosol-forming substrate 200 as illustrated in FIG. 2. That is, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 670 as illustrated in FIG. 7 may include a first substrate or portion or section or half and a second substrate or portion or section or half. Further still, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 670 as illustrated in FIG. 7 may be prepared in a manner similar to the rod 302 as illustrated in FIG. 3. That is, in at least one example embodiment, the matrix 670 as illustrated in FIG. 7 may be formed as a rod.

[0172] In at least one example embodiment, aerosol-forming compounds may be substantially surrounded by an encapsulating material. For example, at least a portion of the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 410 as illustrated in FIG. 4 and / or at least a portion of the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 512, 514 as illustrated in FIG. 5 (for example, the encapsulating material may substantially surround at least a portion of either or both the first aerosol-forming compound 512 and the second aerosol-forming compound 514) and / or at least a portion of the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 612, 614 (for example, the encapsulating material may substantially surround at least a portion of either or both the first aerosol-forming compound 612 and the second aerosol-forming compound 614) and / or at least a portion of the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds 652, 654 (for example, the encapsulating material may substantially surround at least a portion of either or both the first aerosol-forming compound 652 and the second aerosol-forming compound 654) may be substantially surrounded by an encapsulating material.

[0173] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of an example aerosol-forming compound for inclusion in an aerosol-forming substrate (like the aerosol-forming substrate 100 of FIG. 1 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 200 of FIG. 2 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 300 of FIG. 3 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 400 of FIG. 4 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 500 of FIG. 5 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 600 of FIG. 6 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 650 as illustrated in FIG. 7) according to at least one example embodiment.

[0174] In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, an aerosol-forming compound 700 (or composite particle) may include a core 710 that includes the aerosol former, the solvent, the active ingredient, the pH-adjustor, the flavorant, the thermal conductivity modifier, or any combination thereof and that is substantially surrounded by an encapsulated material 720. Although, the encapsulating material 720 (which may also be referred to as an encapsulating layer or coating) is illustrated in FIG. 8 as a continuous layer, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the encapsulating material may cover anywhere from greater than or equal to about 50% (e.g., greater than or equal to about 55%, greater than or equal to about 60%, greater than or equal to about 65%, greater than or equal to about 70%, greater than or equal to about 75%, greater than or equal to about 80%, greater than or equal to about 85%, greater than or equal to about 90%, greater than or equal to about 95%, greater than or equal to about 96%, greater than or equal to about 97%, greater than or equal to about 98%, or greater than or equal to about 99%) of a total surface area of the core 710. Similarly, although the core 710 is illustrated as a single particle, it should be appreciated that, in at least one example embodiment, the core 710 may include a collection or accumulation or agglomeration of particles.

[0175] In at least one example embodiment, the encapsulating layer 720 may include one or more first encapsulating materials having a first aerosolization temperature and one or more second encapsulating materials having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature. The first encapsulating material may form the encapsulating layer 720 over a core 710 that has a first aerosolization temperature. The second encapsulating material may form the encapsulating layer 720 over a core 710 that has a second aerosolization temperature.

[0176] In at least one example embodiment, the encapsulating layer 720 may include pectin, gelatin, sodium alginate, maltodextrin, pullulan, xanthan, gum acacia, hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose, sodium carboxy methyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl caprolactam, polyvinyl acetate, starch, starch-derivatives, or any combination thereof.

[0177] In at least one example embodiment, an aerosol-forming substrate may be included in a capsule that is configured, for example, for insertion or use with an aerosol-generating device. The aerosol-forming substrate may include or be similar to the aerosol-forming substrate 100 as illustrated in FIG. 1 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 200 as illustrated in FIG. 2 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 300 as illustrated in FIG. 3 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 400 as illustrated in FIG. 4 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 500 as illustrated in FIG. 5 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 600 as illustrated in FIG. 6 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 650 as illustrated in FIG. 7.

[0178] FIG. 9 is a top right perspective view of a capsule that includes an aerosol-forming substrate (like the aerosol-forming substrate of FIG. 1 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate of FIG. 2 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate of FIG. 3 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate of FIG. 4 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate of FIG. 5 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate of FIG. 6 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 650 as illustrated in FIG. 7) according to at least one example embodiment.

[0179] In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, a capsule 800 has a housing 802 configured to contain an aerosol-forming substrate (e.g., aerosol-forming substrate 200 in FIG. 2 and / or aerosol-forming substrate 300 in FIG. 3 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 400 as illustrated in FIG. 4 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 500 as illustrated in FIG. 5 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 600 as illustrated in FIG. 6 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 650 as illustrated in FIG. 7). A downstream portion of the housing 802 may be in the form of a first end cap 806 (e.g., downstream cap). An upstream portion of the housing 802 may be in the form of a second end cap 808 (e.g., upstream cap, connector cap). The body portion of the housing may be in the form of a cover 810 (e.g., shell, box sleeve). The first end cap 806 may define a first opening 812. In at least one example embodiment, the first opening 812 may include a series of outlet openings (e.g., nine outlet openings).

[0180] FIG. 10 is a sectional view of the capsule of FIG. 9 along line XI-XI according to at least one example embodiment.

[0181] In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10, the housing 802 at least partially encloses and / or contains a heater 900. The heater 900 may include a conductive component having a first end section 902, an intermediate section 904, and a second end section 906. The intermediate section 904 may include an internal segment configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate within the capsule 800. The first end section 902 and the second end section 906 may be external segments configured to establish an electrical connection with a power source.

[0182] In at least one example embodiment, as illustrated, the intermediate section 904 of the heater 900 may have a planar and winding form resembling a compressed oscillation or zigzag with a plurality of parallel segments (e.g., eight to sixteen parallel segments). However, it should be understood that other forms for the intermediate section 904 of the heater 900 are also possible (e.g., spiral form, flower-like form). The terminus of each of the first end section 902 and the second end section 906 may be oriented orthogonally to the plane of the intermediate section 904. Each of the first end section 902 and the second end section 906 may also include segments having a sideways J-shape. As a result, the first end section 902 and the second end section 906 may be embedded relatively securely within the second end cap 808 while providing a pair of electrical contact surfaces.

[0183] The second end cap 808 may define a second opening 910. In at least one example embodiment, as illustrated, the second opening 910 may be in the form of a series of inlet openings (e.g., eight inlet openings). In at least one example embodiment, the second end cap 808 may expose the first end section 902 and the second end section 906 of the heater 900. For example, as illustrated, the second opening 910 may be between the exposed portions of the first end section 902 and the second end section 906. In at least one example embodiment, the first end cap 806 and / or the second end cap 808 may be transparent so as to serve as windows configured to permit a viewing of the contents / components (e.g., aerosol-forming substrate and / or heater) within the capsule 800.

[0184] In addition to the second opening 910, the second end cap 808 may also define an alignment recess 912 and an inlet recess 914. The alignment recess 912 and the inlet recess 914 may be viewed as being in a multi-level arrangement, where the base / inner end surface of the alignment recess 912 (which exposes the first end section 902 and the second end section 906) may be regarded as being on one level and the base / inner end surface of the inlet recess 914 (or the grille-like surface of the second opening 910) may be regarded as being on another level. The alignment recess 912 may be configured to facilitate a positioning of the capsule 800 during its insertion into a device body of an aerosol-generating device (e.g., aerosol-generating device 1100 of FIGS. 12-13). In at least one example embodiment, the alignment recess 912 may have angled sidewalls that taper inward toward the inlet recess 914. With the angled sidewalls, the alignment recess 912 may be quickly coupled with a corresponding engagement member of the device body with greater ease.

[0185] FIG. 11 is an exploded view of the capsule of FIG. 9 according to at least one example embodiment.

[0186] In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, the first end cap 806 includes a first sealing ridge 1000 and the second end cap 808 includes a second sealing ridge 1002. The first sealing ridge 1000 may be in the form of a series of ribs (e.g., four ribs), and the second sealing ridge 1002 may be in the form of a series of ribs (e.g., four ribs). In at least one example embodiment, the ribs in each of the series may be of different heights to ensure a desired contact with the cover 810. When the capsule 800 is assembled, the first sealing ridge 1000 of the first end cap 806 and the second sealing ridge 1002 of the second end cap 808 may be configured to interface with the inner surface of the cover 810 (e.g., via an interference fit) to provide an air seal. As a result, when air is directed to the capsule 800 during an operation of the aerosol-generating device (e.g., aerosol-generating device 1100 of FIGS. 11-12), the air may enter the capsule 800 via the inlet recess 914 and the second opening 910 in the second end cap 808 (as opposed to entering the capsule 800 via a gap between the second end cap 808 and the cover 810, where such air may essentially just flow along the inner surface of the cover 810 so as to primarily bypass the aerosol-forming substrate and / or the intermediate section 904 of the heater 900). Similarly, with an appropriate seal, the aerosol generated within the chamber of the capsule 800 may be drawn out through the first opening 812 in the first end cap 806 (as opposed to leaking out through a gap between the first end cap 806 and the cover 810).

[0187] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an aerosol-generating device configured to receive a capsule (like the capsule illustrated in FIGS. 9-11) and having a lid in a closed position according to at least one example embodiment.

[0188] In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12, an aerosol-generating device 1100 (e.g., heated tobacco or heated tobacco product aerosol-generating device) has a general oblong or pebble shape and a replaceable mouthpiece 1102 that extends from the main body of the aerosol-generating device 1100. For example, the aerosol-generating device 1100 may include a housing 1104 that receives a capsule, such as the capsule 800 as illustrated in FIGS. 9-11). The aerosol-generating device 1100 may further include a lid 1106 that is configured to open and close relative to the housing 1104. The lid 1106 may be configured to be coupled to the replaceable mouthpiece 1102.

[0189] In at least one example embodiment, an exterior of the housing 1104 and / or lid 1106 may be formed from a metal (such as aluminum, stainless steel, and / or the like); an aesthetic, food contact rated plastic (such as a polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) material, liquid crystalline polymer (LCP), a copolyester plastic, and / or any other suitable polymer and / or plastic); or any combination thereof. The replaceable mouthpiece 1102 may be similarly formed from a metal (such as aluminum, stainless steel, and / or the like); an aesthetic, food contact rated plastic (such as a polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) material, liquid crystalline polymer (LCP), a copolyester plastic, and / or any other suitable polymer and / or plastic); and / or plant-based materials (such as wood, bamboo, and / or the like). One or more interior surfaces or the housing 1104 and / or lid 1106 may be formed from or coated with a high temperature plastic (such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK), liquid crystal polymer (LCP), and / or the like). The lid 1106 and the housing 1104 may be collectively regarded as the main body of the aerosol-generating device 1100.

[0190] In at least one example embodiment, the housing 1104 encases or houses a latch release mechanism for the lid 1106, a power source, and a processing or control circuitry. The control circuitry may be hardware including logic circuits; a hardware / software combination (such as a processor executing software); or any combination thereof. For example, the control circuitry may include, but is not limited to, a central processing unit (CPU), an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), a digital signal processor, a microcomputer, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a System-on-Chip (SoC), a programmable logic unit, a microprocessor, application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), and / or the like. The supply of current from the power source may be in response to a manual operation (e.g., button activation) or an automatic operation (e.g., puff-activation). The power source may include one or more batteries (e.g., rechargeable dual battery arrangement, lithium-ion battery, and / or fuel cells). In at least some example embodiments, the control circuitry may further include a haptic motor that may be disposed on a side of the power source.

[0191] FIG. 13 is a partial perspective view of the aerosol-generating device of FIG. 12 with the lid in an open position according to at least one example embodiment.

[0192] In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13, the housing 1104 is configured to enclose a capsule connector 1200. In at least one example embodiment, the capsule connector 1200 may be mounted or otherwise secured to a printed circuit board (PCB) within the housing 1204. In at least one example embodiment, the capsule connector 1200 defines the capsule-receiving cavity 1202.

[0193] In at least one example embodiment, the method of control / heating and associated circuitry and electrical contacts (e.g., capsule connector 1200 having electrical contacts) may be as described in U.S. application Ser. No. 17 / 151,375 filed Jan. 18, 2021 and titled “Heat-Not-Burn (HNB) Aerosol-Generating Devices Including Energy Based Heater Control, And Methods Of Controlling A Heater,” which published as U.S. Pub. No. 2022 / 0225685, and / or U.S. application Ser. No. 17 / 151,409 filed Jan. 18, 2021 and titled “Heat-Not-Burn (HNB) Aerosol-Generating Devices Including Intra-Draw Heater Control, and Methods of Controlling a Heater,” which published as U.S. Pub. No. 2022 / 0229453, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0194] In at least one example embodiment, the capsule 800 may be loaded into the aerosol-generating device 1100 by initially inserting the capsule 800 into the capsule-receiving cavity 1202 defined by the capsule connector 1200. In at least one example embodiment, the capsule 800 may make contact (e.g., full contact) with electrical contacts within capsule-receiving cavity 1202 only upon the application of force (e.g., downward / inward force) to the capsule 800. In at least one example embodiment, a force may be applied to the capsule 800 by the closure and / or latching of the lid 1106. In other example embodiments, a force may be applied to the capsule 800 by an adult consumer. In still other example embodiments, a force may be applied by a combination of pressure applied by the adult consumer and the closure and / or latching of the lid 1106. In each instance, a forced may be applied until a resistance is felt and / or a clicking sound is heard, which signals a complete engagement of the capsule 800 in the capsule-receiving cavity 1202.

[0195] Additional details and / or alternatives for the aerosol-generating device 1100, the capsule 800, and / or the aerosol-forming substrate (e.g., aerosol-forming substrate 200 in FIG. 2 and / or aerosol-forming substrate 300 in FIG. 3 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 400 as illustrated in FIG. 4 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 500 as illustrated in FIG. 5 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 600 as illustrated in FIG. 6 and / or the aerosol-forming substrate 650 as illustrated in FIG. 7) may be found in U.S. application Ser. No. 17 / 151,277 filed Jan. 18, 2021 and titled “Capsules Including Embedded Heaters And Heat-Not-Burn (HNB) Aerosol-Generating Devices,” which published as U.S. Pub. No. 2022 / 0225667, and / or U.S. application Ser. No. 17 / 151,327 filed Jan. 18, 2021 and titled “Heat-Not-Burn (HNB) Aerosol-Generating Devices And Capsules,” which published as U.S. Pub. No. 2022 / 0225672, and / or U.S. application Ser. No. 17 / 151,336 filed Jan. 18, 2021 and titled “Heat-Not-Burn (HNB) Aerosol-Generating Devices And Capsules”, which published as U.S. Pub. No. 2022 / 0225669, and / or U.S. application Ser. No. 17 / 151,340 filed Jan. 18, 2021 and titled “Heat-Not-Burn (HNB) Aerosol-Generating Devices And Capsules,” which published as U.S. Pub. No. 2022 / 0225670, and / or U.S. application Ser. No. 17 / 947,436 filed Sep. 19, 2022 and titled “Heat-Not-Burn (HNB) Aerosol-Generating Devices And Capsules,” which published as U.S. Pub. No. 2024 / 0090574, and / or U.S. application Ser. No. 17 / 981,973 filed Nov. 7, 2022 and titled “Capsules Having Electrical Contact Pads With Surface Discontinuities And Heat-Not-Burn (HNB) Aerosol-Generating Devices Including The Same,” which published as U.S. Pub. No. 2024 / 0091467, and / or U.S. application Ser. No. 29 / 859,073 filed Nov. 7, 2023 and titled “Aerosol-Generating Capsules,” which issued as U.S. Pat. No. D875,938, and / or U.S. application Ser. No. 29 / 859,076 filed Nov. 7, 2022 and titled “Electrical Contact Pads,” and / or U.S. application Ser. No. 29 / 853,736 filed Sep. 19, 2022 and titled “Heat-Not-Burn Aerosol Generating Device With A Flip-Top Lid,” and / or U.S. application Ser. No. 17 / 982,138 filed Nov. 7, 2022 and titled “Heat-Not-Burn (Hnb) Aerosol-Generating Devices And Capsules Having Electrical Contact Pads With Surface Discontinuities,” the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0196] While some example embodiments have been disclosed herein, it should be understood that other variations may be possible. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and all such modifications as would be obvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.

[0197] Although described with reference to specific examples and drawings, modifications, additions and substitutions of example embodiments may be variously made according to the description by those of ordinary skill in the art. For example, the described techniques may be performed in an order different with that of the methods described, and / or elements such as the described system, architecture, devices, circuit, and the like, may be connected or combined to be different from the above-described methods, or results may be appropriately achieved by other elements or equivalents.

[0198] Illustrative Embodiment 1. A capsule for an aerosol-generating device, the capsule comprising: an aerosol-forming substrate having a first section and a second section; and a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed within the aerosol-forming substrate, the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds including a first aerosol-forming compound having a first aerosolization temperature and a second aerosol-forming compound having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature, the first aerosol-forming compound being dispersed at a first concentration at the first section and at a second concentration different from the first concentration at the second section, the second aerosol-forming compound being dispersed at a first concentration at the first section and at a second concentration different from the first concentration at the second section.

[0199] Illustrative Embodiment 2. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 1, wherein the capsule further includes a heater configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol.

[0200] Illustrative Embodiment 3. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 2, wherein the first section is closer to the heater than the second section.

[0201] Illustrative Embodiment 4. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 2, wherein the capsule further includes a housing that encompasses the aerosol-forming substrate and heater.

[0202] Illustrative Embodiment 5. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 1-4, wherein the first section surrounds at least a portion of the second section.

[0203] Illustrative Embodiment 6. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 1-5, wherein the second section is downstream from the first section.

[0204] Illustrative Embodiment 7. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 1-6, wherein the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds includes an aerosol former, a solvent, an active ingredient, a pH-adjustor, a flavorant, a thermal conductivity modifier, or any combination thereof.

[0205] Illustrative Embodiment 8. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 7, wherein the aerosol former and solvent are independently selected from water, propylene glycol, glycerol, ethanol, 2-propanol, butanediol, or any combination thereof.

[0206] Illustrative Embodiment 9. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 7, wherein the active ingredient includes nicotine, nicotine salt, nicotine solution, encapsulated nicotine, and the combination thereof.

[0207] Illustrative Embodiment 10. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 9, wherein the nicotine salt is formed between nicotine and citrate, monotartrate, bitartrate, bitartrate dihydrate, salicylate, sulfate, bisulfate, phosphate, acid phosphate, acetate, lactate, succinate, maleate, fumarate, gluconate, saccharate, benzoate, methanesulfonate, hydrochloride, hydrobromide, hydroiodide, or any combination thereof.

[0208] Illustrative Embodiment 11. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 7, wherein the active ingredient includes 8-tetrahydrocannabinol (8-THC), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabinol (CBN), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabigerol (CBG), or any combination thereof.

[0209] Illustrative Embodiment 12. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 7, wherein the pH-adjustor includes pyruvic acid, formic acid, oxalic acid, glycolic acid, acetic acid, isovaleric acid, valeric acid, propionic acid, octanoic acid, lactic acid, levulinic acid, sorbic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, succinic acid, citric acid, benzoic acid, oleic acid, aconitic acid, butyric acid, cinnamic acid, decanoic acid, 3,7-dimethyl-6-octenoic acid, 1-glutamic acid, heptanoic acid, hexanoic acid, 3-hexenoic acid, trans-2-hexenoic acid, isobutyric acid, lauric acid, 2-methylbutyric acid, 2-methylvaleric acid, myristic acid, nonanoic acid, palmitic acid, pentenoic acid, phenylacetic acid, 3-phenylpropionic acid, hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, ammonia, or any combination thereof.

[0210] Illustrative Embodiment 13. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 7, wherein the flavorant includes menthol, peppermint, spearmint, wintergreen, menthol, cinnamon, chocolate, vanillin, licorice, clove, anise, sandalwood, geranium, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, cassia, fennel, ginger, ethyl acetate, isoamyl acetate, propyl isobutyrate, isobutyl butyrate, ethyl butyrate, ethyl valerate, benzyl formate, limonene, cymene, pinene, linalool, geraniol, citronellol, citral, orange oil, coriander oil, borneol, fruit extract, coffee, tea, cacao, mint, pomegranate, acai, raspberry, blueberry, strawberry, boysenberry, cranberry, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, cognac, hydrangea, lavender, apple, peach, pear, cherry, plum, orange, lime, lychee, grape, grapefruit, butter, rum, coconut, almond, pecan, walnut, hazelnut, french vanilla, macadamia, sugar cane, maple, cassis, caramel, banana, malt, espresso, kahlua, white chocolate, cinnamon, clove, cilantro, basil, oregano, garlic, mustard, nutmeg, rosemary, thyme, tarragon, dill, sage, anise, fennel, methyl salicylate, linalool, jasmine, coffee, olive oil, sesame oil, sunflower oil, bergamot oil, geranium oil, lemon oil, ginger oil, balsamic vinegar, rice wine vinegar, red wine vinegar, allspice, pimento, mango, soursop, sweetsop, naseberry, sorrel, terpenes, or any combination thereof.

[0211] Illustrative Embodiment 14. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 13, wherein the terpenes include 8-myrcene, 8-caryophyllene, d-limonene, linalool, pulegone, 1,8-cineole, α-pinene, α-terpineol, termine-4-ol, p-cymene, or any combination thereof.

[0212] Illustrative Embodiment 15. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 7, wherein the thermal conductivity modifier includes metal particles, metal granules, sheet metal slices, water, carbon fibers, graphene flakes, ceramic particles, or any combination thereof.

[0213] Illustrative Embodiment 16. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 1-15, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate includes a tobacco material.

[0214] Illustrative Embodiment 17. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 16, wherein the tobacco material includes tobacco lamina, a processed tobacco material, ground tobacco, processed tobacco stems, a reconstituted tobacco material, or any combination thereof.

[0215] Illustrative Embodiment 18. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 1-17, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate includes a tobacco substitute material.

[0216] Illustrative Embodiment 19. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 18, wherein the tobacco substitute material includes wood pulp, cotton, sugar beets, bran, citrus pulp fiber, switch grass, salix tea, populus, bamboo, hemp, cannabis, or any combination thereof.

[0217] Illustrative Embodiment 20. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 1-19, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds are surrounded by an encapsulating material.

[0218] Illustrative Embodiment 21. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 20, wherein one of the first and second aerosol-forming compounds includes the encapsulating material.

[0219] Illustrative Embodiment 22. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 20, wherein the first aerosol-forming compound includes a first encapsulating material having the first aerosolization temperature, and the second aerosol-forming compound includes a second encapsulating material having the second aerosolization temperature.

[0220] Illustrative Embodiment 23. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 20, wherein the encapsulating material includes pectin, gelatin, sodium alginate, maltodextrin, pullulan, xanthan, gum acacia, hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose, sodium carboxy methyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl caprolactam, polyvinyl acetate, starch, starch-derivatives, or any combination thereof.

[0221] Illustrative Embodiment 24. A capsule for an aerosol-generating device, the capsule comprising: an aerosol-forming substrate; and a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed within the aerosol-forming substrate, the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds including: a first aerosol-forming compound having a first aerosolization temperature, and a second aerosol-forming compound having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature, the first aerosol-forming compound and the second aerosol-forming compound each being dispersed throughout the aerosol-forming substrate, at least one of the first aerosol-forming compound or the second aerosol-forming compound having a non-uniform dispersion concentration.

[0222] Illustrative Embodiment 25. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 24, wherein the first aerosol-forming compound has a first non-uniform dispersion concentration, and the second aerosol-forming compound has a second non-uniform dispersion concentration.

[0223] Illustrative Embodiment 26. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 24-25, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate includes a first section, the first section includes a first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound, and the first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound is different from the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound.

[0224] Illustrative Embodiment 27. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 26, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate includes a second section, the second section includes a second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound, and the second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound is different from than the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound.

[0225] Illustrative Embodiment 28. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 27, wherein the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound is less than the first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound.

[0226] Illustrative Embodiment 29. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 27, wherein the second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound is greater than the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound.

[0227] Illustrative Embodiment 30. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 24-29, wherein the first aerosol-forming compound includes a first encapsulating material.

[0228] Illustrative Embodiment 31. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 30, wherein the second aerosol-forming compound includes a second encapsulating material.

[0229] Illustrative Embodiment 32. An aerosol-generating device comprising: a removable capsule including an aerosol-forming substrate, and a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed within the aerosol-forming substrate, the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds including: a first aerosol-forming compound having a first aerosolization temperature, and a second aerosol-forming compound having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature, the first aerosol-forming compound and the second aerosol-forming compound each being dispersed throughout the aerosol-forming substrate, at least one of the first aerosol-forming compound or the second aerosol-forming compound having a non-uniform dispersion concentration; and a heater configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol.

[0230] Illustrative Embodiment 33. The aerosol-generating device of illustrative embodiment 32, wherein the heater includes an induction heater.

[0231] Illustrative Embodiment 34. The aerosol-generating device of any of illustrative embodiments 32-33, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate includes a first section, the first section includes a first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound, and the first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound is different from the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound.

[0232] Illustrative Embodiment 35. The aerosol-generating device of illustrative embodiment 34, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate includes a second section, the second section includes a second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound, and the second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound is different from the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound.

[0233] Illustrative Embodiment 35. The aerosol-generating device of any of illustrative embodiments 32-35, wherein the heater heats the first section to a first temperature and the second section to a second temperature.

[0234] Illustrative Embodiment 36. The aerosol-generating device of illustrative embodiment 35, wherein the first temperature is greater than the first temperature.

[0235] Illustrative Embodiment 37. The aerosol-generating device of any of illustrative embodiments 32-36, wherein the first aerosol-forming compound includes a first encapsulating material.

[0236] Illustrative Embodiment 38. The aerosol-generating device of illustrative embodiment 37, wherein the second aerosol-forming compound includes a second encapsulating material.

[0237] Illustrative Embodiment 39. A capsule for an aerosol-generating device, the capsule comprising: an aerosol-forming substrate having a first section and a second section; and a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed within the aerosol-forming substrate, the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds including a first aerosol-forming compound having a first aerosolization temperature and a second aerosol-forming compound having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature, the first aerosol-forming compound being dispersed at a first concentration at the first section and at a second concentration different from the first concentration at the second section, the second aerosol-forming compound being dispersed at a first concentration at the first section and at a second concentration different from the first concentration at the second section.

[0238] Illustrative Embodiment 40. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 39, wherein the first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound in the first section is different than the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound in the first section and the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound in the second section is different than the second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound in the second section.

[0239] Illustrative Embodiment 41. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 39-40, wherein the capsule further includes: a heater configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol, the first section being closer to the heater than the second section.

[0240] Illustrative Embodiment 42. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 41, wherein the first section is greater than or equal to about 2% to less than or equal to about 25% of a total length of the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0241] Illustrative Embodiment 43. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 41, wherein the first section is a coating on the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0242] Illustrative Embodiment 44. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 43, wherein the first section is substantially free of the second aerosol-forming compound, and the second section is substantially free of the first aerosol-forming compound.

[0243] Illustrative Embodiment 45. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 39-44, wherein the second aerosolization temperature is greater than the first aerosolization temperature.

[0244] Illustrative Embodiment 46. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 39-45, wherein the first section surrounds at least a portion of the second section.

[0245] Illustrative Embodiment 47. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 39-46, wherein the second section is downstream from the first section.

[0246] Illustrative Embodiment 48. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 39-47, wherein the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds includes an aerosol former, a solvent, an active ingredient, a pH-adjustor, a flavorant, a thermal conductivity modifier, or any combination thereof.

[0247] Illustrative Embodiment 49. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 48, wherein the aerosol former and solvent are independently selected from water, propylene glycol, glycerol, ethanol, 2-propanol, butanediol, or any combination thereof; the active ingredient includes nicotine, nicotine salt, nicotine solution, encapsulated nicotine, 8-tetrahydrocannabinol (8-THC), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabinol (CBN), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabigerol (CBG), and any combination thereof; the nicotine salt is formed between nicotine and citrate, monotartrate, bitartrate, bitartrate dihydrate, salicylate, sulfate, bisulfate, phosphate, acid phosphate, acetate, lactate, succinate, maleate, fumarate, gluconate, saccharate, benzoate, methanesulfonate, hydrochloride, hydrobromide, hydroiodide, or any combination thereof; the pH-adjustor includes pyruvic acid, formic acid, oxalic acid, glycolic acid, acetic acid, isovaleric acid, valeric acid, propionic acid, octanoic acid, lactic acid, levulinic acid, sorbic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, succinic acid, citric acid, benzoic acid, oleic acid, aconitic acid, butyric acid, cinnamic acid, decanoic acid, 3,7-dimethyl-6-octenoic acid, 1-glutamic acid, heptanoic acid, hexanoic acid, 3-hexenoic acid, trans-2-hexenoic acid, isobutyric acid, lauric acid, 2-methylbutyric acid, 2-methylvaleric acid, myristic acid, nonanoic acid, palmitic acid, pentenoic acid, phenylacetic acid, 3-phenylpropionic acid, hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, ammonia, or any combination thereof; the flavorant includes menthol, peppermint, spearmint, wintergreen, menthol, cinnamon, chocolate, vanillin, licorice, clove, anise, sandalwood, geranium, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, cassia, fennel, ginger, ethyl acetate, isoamyl acetate, propyl isobutyrate, isobutyl butyrate, ethyl butyrate, ethyl valerate, benzyl formate, limonene, cymene, pinene, linalool, geraniol, citronellol, citral, orange oil, coriander oil, borneol, fruit extract, coffee, tea, cacao, mint, pomegranate, acai, raspberry, blueberry, strawberry, boysenberry, cranberry, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, cognac, hydrangea, lavender, apple, peach, pear, cherry, plum, orange, lime, lychee, grape, grapefruit, butter, rum, coconut, almond, pecan, walnut, hazelnut, french vanilla, macadamia, sugar cane, maple, cassis, caramel, banana, malt, espresso, kahlua, white chocolate, cinnamon, clove, cilantro, basil, oregano, garlic, mustard, nutmeg, rosemary, thyme, tarragon, dill, sage, anise, fennel, methyl salicylate, linalool, jasmine, coffee, olive oil, sesame oil, sunflower oil, bergamot oil, geranium oil, lemon oil, ginger oil, balsamic vinegar, rice wine vinegar, red wine vinegar, allspice, pimento, mango, soursop, sweetsop, naseberry, sorrel, terpenes, or any combination thereof; the terpenes include 8-myrcene, 8-caryophyllene, d-limonene, linalool, pulegone, 1,8-cineole, α-pinene, α-terpineol, termine-4-ol, p-cymene, or any combination thereof; and the thermal conductivity modifier includes metal particles, metal granules, sheet metal slices, water, carbon fibers, graphene flakes, ceramic particles, or any combination thereof.

[0248] Illustrative Embodiment 50. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 39-49, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate includes a tobacco material, and the tobacco material includes tobacco lamina, a processed tobacco material, ground tobacco, processed tobacco stems, a reconstituted tobacco material, or any combination thereof.

[0249] Illustrative Embodiment 51. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 39-51, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate includes a tobacco substitute material, and the tobacco substitute material includes wood pulp, cotton, sugar beets, bran, citrus pulp fiber, switch grass, salix tea, populus, bamboo, hemp, cannabis, or any combination thereof.

[0250] Illustrative Embodiment 52. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 39-51, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds are surrounded by an encapsulating material.

[0251] Illustrative Embodiment 53. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 52, wherein the first aerosol-forming compound includes a first encapsulating material having the first aerosolization temperature, and the second aerosol-forming compound includes a second encapsulating material having the second aerosolization temperature, the first and second encapsulating materials defining the encapsulating material.

[0252] Illustrative Embodiment 54. The capsule of any of illustrative embodiments 52-53, wherein the encapsulating material includes pectin, gelatin, sodium alginate, maltodextrin, pullulan, xanthan, gum acacia, hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose, sodium carboxy methyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl caprolactam, polyvinyl acetate, starch, starch-derivatives, or any combination thereof.

[0253] Illustrative Embodiment 55. A capsule for an aerosol-generating device, the capsule comprising: an aerosol-forming substrate; and a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed within the aerosol-forming substrate, the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds including: a first aerosol-forming compound having a first aerosolization temperature, and a second aerosol-forming compound having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature, the first aerosol-forming compound and the second aerosol-forming compound each being dispersed throughout the aerosol-forming substrate, at least one of the first aerosol-forming compound or the second aerosol-forming compound having a non-uniform dispersion concentration.

[0254] Illustrative Embodiment 56. The capsule of illustrative embodiment 55, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate includes a first section and a second section, the first section including a first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound, the first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound being different from the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound, the second section including a second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound, the second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound being different from the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound.

[0255] Illustrative Embodiment 57. An aerosol-generating device comprising: a removable capsule including an aerosol-forming substrate, and a plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed within the aerosol-forming substrate, the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds including: a first aerosol-forming compound having a first aerosolization temperature, and a second aerosol-forming compound having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature, the first aerosol-forming compound and the second aerosol-forming compound each being dispersed throughout the aerosol-forming substrate, at least one of the first aerosol-forming compound or the second aerosol-forming compound having a non-uniform dispersion concentration; and a heater configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol.

[0256] Illustrative Embodiment 58. The aerosol-generating device of illustrative embodiment 57, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate includes a first section and a second section, the first section including a first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound, the first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound being different from the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound, the second section including a second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound, the second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound being different from the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0103]Some detailed example embodiments are disclosed herein. However, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merely representative for purposes of describing example embodiments. Example embodiments may, however, be embodied in many alternate forms and should not be construed as limited to only the example embodiments set forth herein.

[0104]Accordingly, while example embodiments are capable of various modifications and alternative forms, example embodiments thereof are shown by way of example in the drawings and will herein be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intent to limit example embodiments to the particular forms disclosed, but to the contrary, example embodiments are to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of example embodiments. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the description of the figures.

[0105]It should be understood that when an element or layer is re...

Claims

1. A capsule for an aerosol-generating device, the capsule comprising:an aerosol-forming substrate having a first section and a second section; anda plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed within the aerosol-forming substrate, the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds including a first aerosol-forming compound having a first aerosolization temperature and a second aerosol-forming compound having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature, the first aerosol-forming compound being dispersed at a first concentration at the first section and at a second concentration different from the first concentration at the second section, the second aerosol-forming compound being dispersed at a first concentration at the first section and at a second concentration different from the first concentration at the second section.

2. The capsule of claim 1, wherein the first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound in the first section is different than the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound in the first section and the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound in the second section is different than the second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound in the second section.

3. The capsule of claim 1, wherein the capsule further includes:a heater configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol, the first section being closer to the heater than the second section.

4. The capsule of claim 3, wherein the first section is greater than or equal to about 2% to less than or equal to about 50% of a total length of the aerosol-forming substrate.

5. The capsule of claim 3, wherein the first section is a coating on the aerosol-forming substrate.

6. The capsule of claim 5, whereinthe first section is substantially free of the second aerosol-forming compound, andthe second section is substantially free of the first aerosol-forming compound.

7. The capsule of claim 1, wherein the second aerosolization temperature is greater than the first aerosolization temperature.

8. The capsule of claim 1, wherein the first section surrounds at least a portion of the second section.

9. The capsule of claim 1, wherein the second section is downstream from the first section.

10. The capsule of claim 1, wherein the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds includes an aerosol former, a solvent, an active ingredient, a pH-adjustor, a flavorant, a thermal conductivity modifier, or any combination thereof.

11. The capsule of claim 10, whereinthe aerosol former and solvent are independently selected from water, propylene glycol, glycerol, ethanol, 2-propanol, butanediol, or any combination thereof;the active ingredient includes nicotine, nicotine salt, nicotine solution, encapsulated nicotine, 8-tetrahydrocannabinol (8-THC), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabinol (CBN), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabigerol (CBG), and any combination thereof;the nicotine salt is formed between nicotine and citrate, monotartrate, bitartrate, bitartrate dihydrate, salicylate, sulfate, bisulfate, phosphate, acid phosphate, acetate, lactate, succinate, maleate, fumarate, gluconate, saccharate, benzoate, methanesulfonate, hydrochloride, hydrobromide, hydroiodide, or any combination thereof;the pH-adjustor includes pyruvic acid, formic acid, oxalic acid, glycolic acid, acetic acid, isovaleric acid, valeric acid, propionic acid, octanoic acid, lactic acid, levulinic acid, sorbic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, succinic acid, citric acid, benzoic acid, oleic acid, aconitic acid, butyric acid, cinnamic acid, decanoic acid, 3,7-dimethyl-6-octenoic acid, 1-glutamic acid, heptanoic acid, hexanoic acid, 3-hexenoic acid, trans-2-hexenoic acid, isobutyric acid, lauric acid, 2-methylbutyric acid, 2-methylvaleric acid, myristic acid, nonanoic acid, palmitic acid, pentenoic acid, phenylacetic acid, 3-phenylpropionic acid, hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid, sulfuric acid, ammonia, or any combination thereof;the flavorant includes menthol, peppermint, spearmint, wintergreen, menthol, cinnamon, chocolate, vanillin, licorice, clove, anise, sandalwood, geranium, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, cassia, fennel, ginger, ethyl acetate, isoamyl acetate, propyl isobutyrate, isobutyl butyrate, ethyl butyrate, ethyl valerate, benzyl formate, limonene, cymene, pinene, linalool, geraniol, citronellol, citral, orange oil, coriander oil, borneol, fruit extract, coffee, tea, cacao, mint, pomegranate, acai, raspberry, blueberry, strawberry, boysenberry, cranberry, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, cognac, hydrangea, lavender, apple, peach, pear, cherry, plum, orange, lime, lychee, grape, grapefruit, butter, rum, coconut, almond, pecan, walnut, hazelnut, french vanilla, macadamia, sugar cane, maple, cassis, caramel, banana, malt, espresso, kahlua, white chocolate, cinnamon, clove, cilantro, basil, oregano, garlic, mustard, nutmeg, rosemary, thyme, tarragon, dill, sage, anise, fennel, methyl salicylate, linalool, jasmine, coffee, olive oil, sesame oil, sunflower oil, bergamot oil, geranium oil, lemon oil, ginger oil, balsamic vinegar, rice wine vinegar, red wine vinegar, allspice, pimento, mango, soursop, sweetsop, naseberry, sorrel, terpenes, or any combination thereof;the terpenes include 8-myrcene, 8-caryophyllene, d-limonene, linalool, pulegone, 1,8-cineole, α-pinene, α-terpineol, termine-4-ol, p-cymene, or any combination thereof; andthe thermal conductivity modifier includes metal particles, metal granules, sheet metal slices, water, carbon fibers, graphene flakes, ceramic particles, or any combination thereof.

12. The capsule of claim 1, whereinthe aerosol-forming substrate includes a tobacco material, andthe tobacco material includes tobacco lamina, a processed tobacco material, ground tobacco, processed tobacco stems, a reconstituted tobacco material, or any combination thereof.

13. The capsule of claim 1, whereinthe aerosol-forming substrate includes a tobacco substitute material, andthe tobacco substitute material includes wood pulp, cotton, sugar beets, bran, citrus pulp fiber, switch grass, salix tea, populus, bamboo, hemp, cannabis, or any combination thereof.

14. The capsule of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds are surrounded by an encapsulating material.

15. The capsule of claim 14, whereinthe first aerosol-forming compound includes a first encapsulating material having the first aerosolization temperature, andthe second aerosol-forming compound includes a second encapsulating material having the second aerosolization temperature,the first and second encapsulating materials defining the encapsulating material.

16. The capsule of claim 15, wherein the encapsulating material includes pectin, gelatin, sodium alginate, maltodextrin, pullulan, xanthan, gum acacia, hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose, sodium carboxy methyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl caprolactam, polyvinyl acetate, starch, starch-derivatives, or any combination thereof.

17. A capsule for an aerosol-generating device, the capsule comprising:an aerosol-forming substrate; anda plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed within the aerosol-forming substrate, the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds including:a first aerosol-forming compound having a first aerosolization temperature, anda second aerosol-forming compound having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature,the first aerosol-forming compound and the second aerosol-forming compound each being dispersed throughout the aerosol-forming substrate,at least one of the first aerosol-forming compound or the second aerosol-forming compound having a non-uniform dispersion concentration.

18. The capsule of claim 17, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate includes a first section and a second section, the first section including a first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound, the first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound being different from the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound, the second section including a second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound, the second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound being different from the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound.

19. An aerosol-generating device comprising:a removable capsule includingan aerosol-forming substrate, anda plurality of aerosol-forming compounds dispersed within the aerosol-forming substrate, the plurality of aerosol-forming compounds including:a first aerosol-forming compound having a first aerosolization temperature, anda second aerosol-forming compound having a second aerosolization temperature that is different from the first aerosolization temperature,the first aerosol-forming compound and the second aerosol-forming compound each being dispersed throughout the aerosol-forming substrate,at least one of the first aerosol-forming compound or the second aerosol-forming compound having a non-uniform dispersion concentration; anda heater configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol.

20. The aerosol-generating device of claim 19, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate includes a first section and a second section, the first section including a first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound, the first concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound being different from the first concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound, the second section including a second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound and a second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound, the second concentration of the second aerosol-forming compound being different from the second concentration of the first aerosol-forming compound.

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