Stabilized aerosol precursor formulations

Abstract

The disclosure provides methods of stabilizing liquid aerosol precursor compositions adapted for use in an aerosol delivery device by incorporating one or more stabilizing agents. The disclosure further provides liquid aerosol precursor compositions containing one or more stabilizing agent. The disclosure further provides devices and kits incorporating such compositions.

Description

TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to aerosol provision systems such as smoking articles designed to deliver at least one substance to a user, and to formulations for use therein.BACKGROUND

[0002] Many aerosol provision systems and in particular non-combustible aerosol provision systems have been proposed through the years as improvements upon, or alternatives to, smoking products that require combusting tobacco for use. These systems are generally designed to deliver at least one substance to a user, such as to satisfy a particular “consumer moment.” To this end, the substance may include constituents that impart a physiological effect on the user, a sensorial effect on the user, or both. The substance may be generally present in an aerosol precursor composition that may contain one or more constituents of a range of constituents, such as active substances, flavors, aerosol-former materials and other functional materials like fillers.

[0003] Aerosol provision systems include, for example, vapor products commonly known as “electronic cigarettes,”“e-cigarettes” or electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), as well as heat-not-burn products including tobacco heating products (THPs) and carbon-tipped tobacco heating products (CTHPs). Many of these products take the form of a system including a device and a consumable, and it is the consumable that includes the material from which the substance to be delivered originates. Typically, the device is reusable, and the consumable is single-use (although some consumables are refillable). Therefore, in many cases, the consumable is sold separately from the device, and often in a multipack. Moreover, subsystems and some individual components of devices or consumables may be sourced from specialist manufacturers.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0004] Example implementations of the present disclosure are directed to formulations (liquid aerosol precursor compositions) for use in an aerosol delivery device. Such formulations advantageously comprise, in addition to an active ingredient and at least one aerosol former, one or more stabilizing agents. In particular embodiments, the stabilizing agent is particularly useful in stabilizing a flavorant within the liquid aerosol precursor composition (e.g., avoiding precipitation of the flavorant or other component and / or avoiding liquid layer separation within the composition). The use of stabilizing agents, as demonstrated herein, may lead to longer shelf life for e-liquids.

[0005] In one aspect of the present disclosure is provided a method of enhancing the stability of a flavorant within a liquid aerosol precursor composition, comprising incorporating one or more stabilizing agents in a liquid aerosol precursor composition to give a stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition with enhanced shelf life as compared to the liquid aerosol precursor composition, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are selected from the group consisting of polysorbates, sorbitan esters, binders, monoglycerides, diglycerides, triglycerides, free fatty acids, waxes, preservatives, and combinations thereof, and wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are different than any components otherwise present in the liquid aerosol precursor composition.

[0006] In some embodiments, the one or more stabilizing agents are one or more polysorbates, one or more sorbitan esters, or a combination thereof. For example, in certain embodiments, the one or more stabilizing agents are selected from the group consisting of sorbitan monostearate (Span 60), sorbitan monolaurate (Span 20), sorbitan tristearate (Span 65), sorbitan monooleate (Span 80), sorbitan monopalmitate (Span 40), polysorbate 20 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate, TWEEN® 20), polysorbate 60 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monostearate, TWEEN® 60), polysorbate 80 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate, TWEEN® 80), polysorbate 65 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan tristearate, TWEEN® 65), and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the one or more stabilizing agents are incorporated in an amount about 2% to about 18% by volume, based on a total volume of the stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition, e.g., in an amount about 6% to about 12% by volume, based on a total volume of the stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition.

[0007] In some embodiments, the one or more stabilizing agents are selected from the group consisting of one or more binders, monoglycerides, diglycerides, triglycerides, free fatty acids, waxes, or any combination thereof.

[0008] For example, in certain embodiments, the one or more stabilizing agents are binders selected from the group consisting of gums, alginates, starches, carrageenans, agar, pectin, cellulose derivatives, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the one or more stabilizing agents are selected from the group consisting of xanthan gum, guar gum, gum arabic, ghatti gum, gum tragacanth, karaya gum, locust bean gum, gellan gum, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the gum comprises xanthan gum, guar gum, gum acacia, locust bean gum, gum tragacanth, or a combination thereof. Other suitable gums include modified gums, such as hydroxyethyl guar, hydroxypropyl guar, hydroxyethyl locust bean gum, hydroxypropyl locust bean gum, ammonium alginate, propylene glycol alginate, potassium alginate, sodium alginate, corn starch, rice starch, monostarch phosphate, distarch glycerol, distarch phosphate esterified with sodium trimetaphosphate, phosphate distarch phosphate, acetylated distarch phosphate, starch acetate esterified with acetic anhydride, starch acetate esterified with vinyl acetate, acetylated distarch adipate, acetylated distarch glycerol, hydroxypropyl starch, hydroxypropyl distarch glycerol, and starch sodium octenyl succinate, methylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose (“CMC”), hydroxypropylcellulose (“HPC”), hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (“HPMC”), hydroxyethyl cellulose, and combinations thereof.

[0009] In some embodiments, the one or more stabilizing agents are monoglycerides, diglycerides, triglycerides, free fatty acids, waxes, or any combination thereof, selected from the group consisting of palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, sapienic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, lauric acid, arachidic acid, behenic acid, lignoceric acid, cerotic acid, arachidonic acid, myristic acid, myristoleic acid, petroselinic acid, vaccenic acid, godoleic acid, gondoic acid, brassidic acid, elaidic acid, vaccenic acid, linoleic acid, linoelaidic acid, elcosapentaenoic acid, erucic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, nervonic acid, capric acid, caprylic acid, monolaurin, glycerol monostearate, glycerol hydroxystearate, diacetin, dibutyrin, dipalmitin, diolein, dicaprin, triolein, tributyrin, tripalmitin, tricaprin, tristearin, tricaproin, glycerol 1,3-distearate-2-octanoate; glycerol 2,3-diolate-1-palmitate, glycerol 2,3-dioleate-1-palmitate, glycerol-2-linoleate-3-oleate-1-palmitate, and glycerol 1,2-distearate-3-octanoate, bees wax, carnauba wax, candelila wax, paraffin wax, sugarcane wax, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the one or more stabilizing agents are monoglycerides, diglycerides, triglycerides, free fatty acids, waxes, or any combination thereof, selected from the group consisting of palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, sapienic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, arachidic acid, behenic acid, lignoceric acid, cerotic acid, arachidonic acid, myristoleic acid, petroselinic acid, vaccenic acid, godoleic acid, gondoic acid, brassidic acid, elaidic acid, vaccenic acid, linoleic acid, linoelaidic acid, elcosapentaenoic acid, erucic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, nervonic acid, capric acid, caprylic acid, monolaurin, glycerol monostearate, glycerol hydroxystearate, dibutyrin, dipalmitin, diolein, dicaprin, triolein, tripalmitin, tricaprin, tristearin, tricaproin, glycerol 1,3-distearate-2-octanoate; glycerol 2,3-diolate-1-palmitate, glycerol 2,3-dioleate-1-palmitate, glycerol-2-linoleate-3-oleate-1-palmitate, and glycerol 1,2-distearate-3-octanoate, bees wax, carnauba wax, candelila wax, paraffin wax, sugarcane wax, and combinations thereof.

[0010] In some embodiments, the one or more stabilizing agents are one or more preservatives selected from the group consisting of sodium sorbate, sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, sodium ascorbate, or any combination thereof. In some such embodiments, the method comprises combining the one or more stabilizing agents with an aerosol-former material to give a mixture and then combining the mixture with additional components to form the stabilized aerosol precursor composition.

[0011] In some embodiments, the one or more stabilizing agents are incorporated in an amount about 0.1% to about 3% by volume, based on a total volume of the stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition, e.g., in an amount about 0.1% to about 1% by volume, based on a total volume of the stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition.

[0012] In another aspect of the disclosure is provided a method of enhancing the stability of a flavorant within a liquid aerosol precursor composition, comprising incorporating one or more stabilizing agents in a liquid aerosol precursor composition to give a stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition with enhanced shelf life as compared to the liquid aerosol precursor composition, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents comprise a sugar alcohol in an amount greater than 10% by weight of the stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition, and wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are different than any components otherwise present in the liquid aerosol precursor composition.

[0013] In some embodiments, the sugar alcohol is selected from the group consisting of sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol, xylitol, erythritol, threitol, arabitol, ribitol, dulcitol, iditol, lactitol, polyglycitol, isomalt, hydrogenated starch hydrosylates, and combinations thereof. For example, in some embodiments, the sugar alcohol is selected from the group consisting of sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol (e.g., in the form of maltitol syrup), xylitol, erythritol, isomalt, and combinations thereof.

[0014] In a further aspect is provided a method of enhancing the stability of a flavorant within a liquid aerosol precursor composition, comprising incorporating one or more stabilizing agents in a liquid aerosol precursor composition to give a stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition with enhanced shelf life as compared to the liquid aerosol precursor composition, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents comprise a non-sugar based polyol, and wherein the non-sugar based polyol is different than any non-sugar based polyol otherwise present in the liquid aerosol precursor composition.

[0015] In some embodiments, the one or more stabilizing agents are selected from the group consisting of propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 1,3-propanediol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, glycerin, glycerol, trimetholpropane, 1,3-butylene glycol, pentaerythritol and combinations thereof. For example, the one or more stabilizing agents can be selected from the group consisting of ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 1,3-propanediol, trimetholpropane, pentaerythritol and combinations thereof.

[0016] As a still further aspect, the disclosure provides a liquid aerosol precursor composition adapted for use in an aerosol delivery device, comprising: at least one aerosol-former material, at least one active agent, at least one flavorant, and at least one stabilizing agent selected from the group consisting of sorbitan monostearate (Span 60), sorbitan monolaurate (Span 20), sorbitan tristearate (Span 65), sorbitan monooleate (Span 80), sorbitan monopalmitate (Span 40), polysorbate 20 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate, TWEEN® 20), polysorbate 60 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monostearate, TWEEN® 60), polysorbate 80 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate, TWEEN® 80), polysorbate 65 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan tristearate, TWEEN® 65), palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, sapienic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, arachidic acid, behenic acid, lignoceric acid, cerotic acid, arachidonic acid, myristoleic acid, petroselinic acid, vaccenic acid, godoleic acid, gondoic acid, brassidic acid, elaidic acid, vaccenic acid, linoleic acid, linoelaidic acid, elcosapentaenoic acid, erucic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, nervonic acid, capric acid, caprylic acid, monolaurin, glycerol monostearate, glycerol hydroxystearate, dibutyrin, dipalmitin, diolein, dicaprin, triolein, tripalmitin, tricaprin, tristearin, tricaproin, glycerol 1,3-distearate-2-octanoate; glycerol 2,3-diolate-1-palmitate, glycerol 2,3-dioleate-1-palmitate, glycerol-2-linoleate-3-oleate-1-palmitate, glycerol 1,2-distearate-3-octanoate, bees wax, camauba wax, candelila wax, paraffin wax, sugarcane wax, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 1,3-propanediol, trimetholpropane, pentaerythritol and combinations thereof.

[0017] In some such embodiments, the stabilizing agent can be selected from the group consisting of sorbitan monostearate (Span 60), sorbitan monolaurate (Span 20), sorbitan tristearate (Span 65), sorbitan monooleate (Span 80), sorbitan monopalmitate (Span 40), polysorbate 20 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate, TWEEN® 20), polysorbate 60 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monostearate, TWEEN® 60), polysorbate 80 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate, TWEEN® 80), polysorbate 65 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan tristearate, TWEEN® 65), and combinations thereof, and wherein the stabilizing agent is present in an amount of about 5% to about 15% by volume, based on a total volume of the aerosol precursor composition.

[0018] In some such embodiments, the stabilizing agent is selected from the group consisting of palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, sapienic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, arachidic acid, behenic acid, lignoceric acid, cerotic acid, arachidonic acid, myristoleic acid, petroselinic acid, vaccenic acid, godoleic acid, gondoic acid, brassidic acid, elaidic acid, vaccenic acid, linoleic acid, linoelaidic acid, elcosapentaenoic acid, erucic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, nervonic acid, capric acid, caprylic acid, monolaurin, glycerol monostearate, glycerol hydroxystearate, dibutyrin, dipalmitin, diolein, dicaprin, triolein, tripalmitin, tricaprin, tristearin, tricaproin, glycerol 1,3-distearate-2-octanoate; glycerol 2,3-diolate-1-palmitate, glycerol 2,3-dioleate-1-palmitate, glycerol-2-linoleate-3-oleate-1-palmitate, and glycerol 1,2-distearate-3-octanoate, bees wax, carnauba wax, candelila wax, paraffin wax, sugarcane wax, and combinations thereof, and wherein the stabilizing agent is present in an amount of about 0.1% to about 2% by volume, based on a total volume of the aerosol precursor composition.

[0019] In some such embodiments, the stabilizing agent is selected from the group consisting of ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 1,3-propanediol, trimetholpropane, pentaerythritol and combinations thereof, and wherein the stabilizing agent is present in an amount of about 0.5% to about 5% by volume, based on a total volume of the aerosol precursor composition.

[0020] In some embodiments, the liquid aerosol precursor composition comprises one or more aerosol-former materials and one or more active agents. In some embodiments, the flavorant comprises menthol. In some embodiments, the one or more aerosol-former materials comprise glycerin and propylene glycol. In some embodiments, the one or more active agents comprise nicotine. In some embodiments, the one or more active agents comprise a cannabinoid. In some embodiments, the pH of the liquid aerosol precursor composition is about 5 to about 7.5.

[0021] The disclosure also provides an aerosol delivery device, comprising: a housing enclosing a chamber containing a liquid aerosol precursor composition as disclosed herein, a heat source in fluid communication with the chamber and configured to heat the liquid aerosol precursor composition to form an aerosol; and an aerosol pathway positioned to carry the aerosol to a mouth-end of the aerosol delivery device.

[0022] In some embodiments, the heat source comprises an electrically powered heating element, and the aerosol delivery device further comprises a power source electronically connected to the heating element. In some embodiments, the device further comprises a controller configured to control the power transmitted by the power source to the heating element.

[0023] In an additional aspect of the disclosure is provided a kit, comprising: a control body; and one or more cartridges, each cartridge comprising a housing enclosing a chamber containing a liquid aerosol precursor composition as disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the kit further comprises one or more charging components or one or more batteries.

[0024] The present disclosure includes, without limitation, the following embodiments.

[0025] Embodiment 1: A method of enhancing the stability of a flavorant within a liquid aerosol precursor composition, comprising incorporating one or more stabilizing agents in a liquid aerosol precursor composition to give a stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition with enhanced shelf life as compared to the liquid aerosol precursor composition, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are selected from the group consisting of polysorbates, sorbitan esters, binders, monoglycerides, diglycerides, triglycerides, free fatty acids, waxes, preservatives, and combinations thereof, and wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are different than any components otherwise present in the liquid aerosol precursor composition.

[0026] Embodiment 2: The method of Embodiment 1, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are one or more polysorbates, one or more sorbitan esters, or a combination thereof.

[0027] Embodiment 3: The method of Embodiment 2, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are selected from the group consisting of sorbitan monostearate (Span 60), sorbitan monolaurate (Span 20), sorbitan tristearate (Span 65), sorbitan monooleate (Span 80), sorbitan monopalmitate (Span 40), polysorbate 20 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate, TWEEN® 20), polysorbate 60 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monostearate, TWEEN® 60), polysorbate 80 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate, TWEEN® 80), polysorbate 65 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan tristearate, TWEEN® 65), and combinations thereof.

[0028] Embodiment 4: The method of any of Embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are incorporated in an amount about 2% to about 18% by volume, based on a total volume of the stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition.

[0029] Embodiment 5: The method of Embodiment 4, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are incorporated in an amount about 6% to about 12% by volume, based on a total volume of the stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition.

[0030] Embodiment 6: The method of Embodiment 1, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are selected from the group consisting of one or more binders, monoglycerides, diglycerides, triglycerides, free fatty acids, waxes, or any combination thereof.

[0031] Embodiment 7: The method of Embodiment 6, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are binders selected from the group consisting of gums, alginates, starches, carrageenans, agar, pectin, cellulose derivatives, and combinations thereof.

[0032] Embodiment 8: The method of Embodiment 6 or 7, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are selected from the group consisting of xanthan gum, guar gum, gum arabic, ghatti gum, gum tragacanth, karaya gum, locust bean gum, gellan gum, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the gum comprises xanthan gum, guar gum, gum acacia, locust bean gum, gum tragacanth, or a combination thereof. Other suitable gums include modified gums, such as hydroxyethyl guar, hydroxypropyl guar, hydroxyethyl locust bean gum, hydroxypropyl locust bean gum, ammonium alginate, propylene glycol alginate, potassium alginate, sodium alginate, corn starch, rice starch, monostarch phosphate, distarch glycerol, distarch phosphate esterified with sodium trimetaphosphate, phosphate distarch phosphate, acetylated distarch phosphate, starch acetate esterified with acetic anhydride, starch acetate esterified with vinyl acetate, acetylated distarch adipate, acetylated distarch glycerol, hydroxypropyl starch, hydroxypropyl distarch glycerol, and starch sodium octenyl succinate, methylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose (“CMC”), hydroxypropylcellulose (“HPC”), hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (“HPMC”), hydroxyethyl cellulose, and combinations thereof.

[0033] Embodiment 9: The method of Embodiment 6 or 7, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are monoglycerides, diglycerides, triglycerides, free fatty acids, waxes, or any combination thereof, selected from the group consisting of palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, sapienic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, lauric acid, arachidic acid, behenic acid, lignoceric acid, cerotic acid, arachidonic acid, myristic acid, myristoleic acid, petroselinic acid, vaccenic acid, godoleic acid, gondoic acid, brassidic acid, elaidic acid, vaccenic acid, linoleic acid, linoelaidic acid, elcosapentaenoic acid, erucic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, nervonic acid, capric acid, caprylic acid, monolaurin, glycerol monostearate, glycerol hydroxystearate, diacetin, dibutyrin, dipalmitin, diolein, dicaprin, triolein, tributyrin, tripalmitin, tricaprin, tristearin, tricaproin, glycerol 1,3-distearate-2-octanoate; glycerol 2,3-diolate-1-palmitate, glycerol 2,3-dioleate-1-palmitate, glycerol-2-linoleate-3-oleate-1-palmitate, and glycerol 1,2-distearate-3-octanoate, bees wax, carnauba wax, candelila wax, paraffin wax, sugarcane wax, and combinations thereof.

[0034] Embodiment 10: The method of Embodiment 6 or 7, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are monoglycerides, diglycerides, triglycerides, free fatty acids, waxes, or any combination thereof, selected from the group consisting of palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, sapienic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, arachidic acid, behenic acid, lignoceric acid, cerotic acid, arachidonic acid, myristoleic acid, petroselinic acid, vaccenic acid, godoleic acid, gondoic acid, brassidic acid, elaidic acid, vaccenic acid, linoleic acid, linoelaidic acid, elcosapentaenoic acid, erucic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, nervonic acid, capric acid, caprylic acid, monolaurin, glycerol monostearate, glycerol hydroxystearate, dibutyrin, dipalmitin, diolein, dicaprin, triolein, tripalmitin, tricaprin, tristearin, tricaproin, glycerol 1,3-distearate-2-octanoate; glycerol 2,3-diolate-1-palmitate, glycerol 2,3-dioleate-1-palmitate, glycerol-2-linoleate-3-oleate-1-palmitate, and glycerol 1,2-distearate-3-octanoate, bees wax, carnauba wax, candelila wax, paraffin wax, sugarcane wax, and combinations thereof.

[0035] Embodiment 11: The method of Embodiment 1, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are one or more preservatives selected from the group consisting of sodium sorbate, sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, sodium ascorbate, or any combination thereof.

[0036] Embodiment 12: The method of Embodiment 11, comprising combining the one or more stabilizing agents with an aerosol-former material to give a mixture and then combining the mixture with additional components to form the stabilized aerosol precursor composition.

[0037] Embodiment 13: The method of any of Embodiments 6 to 12, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are incorporated in an amount about 0.1% to about 3% by volume, based on a total volume of the stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition.

[0038] Embodiment 14: The method of Embodiment 13, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are incorporated in an amount about 0.1% to about 1% by volume, based on a total volume of the stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition.

[0039] Embodiment 15: A method of enhancing the stability of a flavorant within a liquid aerosol precursor composition, comprising incorporating one or more stabilizing agents in a liquid aerosol precursor composition to give a stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition with enhanced shelf life as compared to the liquid aerosol precursor composition, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents comprise a sugar alcohol in an amount greater than 10% by weight of the stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition, and wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are different than any components otherwise present in the liquid aerosol precursor composition.

[0040] Embodiment 16: The method of Embodiment 15, wherein the sugar alcohol is selected from the group consisting of sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol (e.g., in the form of maltitol syrup), xylitol, erythritol, threitol, arabitol, ribitol, dulcitol, iditol, lactitol, polyglycitol, isomalt, hydrogenated starch hydrosylates, and combinations thereof.

[0041] Embodiment 17: The method of Embodiment 15, wherein the sugar alcohol is selected from the group consisting of sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol (e.g., in the form of maltitol syrup), xylitol, erythritol, isomalt, and combinations thereof.

[0042] Embodiment 18: A method of enhancing the stability of a flavorant within a liquid aerosol precursor composition, comprising incorporating one or more stabilizing agents in a liquid aerosol precursor composition to give a stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition with enhanced shelf life as compared to the liquid aerosol precursor composition, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents comprise a non-sugar based polyol, and wherein the non-sugar based polyol is different than any non-sugar based polyol otherwise present in the liquid aerosol precursor composition.

[0043] Embodiment 19: The method of Embodiment 18, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are selected from the group consisting of propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 1,3-propanediol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, glycerin, glycerol, trimetholpropane, 1,3-butylene glycol, pentaerythritol and combinations thereof.

[0044] Embodiment 20: The method of Embodiment 18 or 19, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are selected from the group consisting of ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 1,3-propanediol, trimetholpropane, pentaerythritol and combinations thereof).

[0045] Embodiment 21: The method of any of Embodiments 1-20, wherein the liquid aerosol precursor composition comprises one or more aerosol-former materials and one or more active agents.

[0046] Embodiment 22: The method of any of Embodiments 1-21, wherein the flavorant comprises menthol.

[0047] Embodiment 23: The method of Embodiment 21 or 22, wherein the one or more aerosol-former materials comprise glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0048] Embodiment 24: The method of any of Embodiments 21 to 23, wherein the one or more active agents comprise nicotine.

[0049] Embodiment 25: The method of any of Embodiments 21 to 24, wherein the one or more active agents comprise a cannabinoid.

[0050] Embodiment 26: A liquid aerosol precursor composition adapted for use in an aerosol delivery device, comprising: at least one aerosol-former material, at least one active agent, at least one flavorant, and at least one stabilizing agent selected from the group consisting of sorbitan monostearate (Span 60), sorbitan monolaurate (Span 20), sorbitan tristearate (Span 65), sorbitan monooleate (Span 80), sorbitan monopalmitate (Span 40), polysorbate 20 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate, TWEEN® 20), polysorbate 60 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monostearate, TWEEN® 60), polysorbate 80 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate, TWEEN® 80), polysorbate 65 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan tristearate, TWEEN® 65), palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, sapienic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, arachidic acid, behenic acid, lignoceric acid, cerotic acid, arachidonic acid, myristoleic acid, petroselinic acid, vaccenic acid, godoleic acid, gondoic acid, brassidic acid, elaidic acid, vaccenic acid, linoleic acid, linoelaidic acid, elcosapentaenoic acid, erucic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, nervonic acid, capric acid, caprylic acid, monolaurin, glycerol monostearate, glycerol hydroxystearate, dibutyrin, dipalmitin, diolein, dicaprin, triolein, tripalmitin, tricaprin, tristearin, tricaproin, glycerol 1,3-distearate-2-octanoate; glycerol 2,3-diolate-1-palmitate, glycerol 2,3-dioleate-1-palmitate, glycerol-2-linoleate-3-oleate-1-palmitate, glycerol 1,2-distearate-3-octanoate, bees wax, carnauba wax, candelila wax, paraffin wax, sugarcane wax, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 1,3-propanediol, trimetholpropane, pentaerythritol and combinations thereof.

[0051] Embodiment 27: The aerosol precursor composition of Embodiment 26, wherein the stabilizing agent is selected from the group consisting of sorbitan monostearate (Span 60), sorbitan monolaurate (Span 20), sorbitan tristearate (Span 65), sorbitan monooleate (Span 80), sorbitan monopalmitate (Span 40), polysorbate 20 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate, TWEEN® 20), polysorbate 60 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monostearate, TWEEN® 60), polysorbate 80 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate, TWEEN® 80), polysorbate 65 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan tristearate, TWEEN® 65), and combinations thereof, and wherein the stabilizing agent is present in an amount of about 5% to about 15% by volume, based on a total volume of the aerosol precursor composition.

[0052] Embodiment 28: The aerosol precursor composition of Embodiment 26, wherein the stabilizing agent is selected from the group consisting of palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, sapienic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, arachidic acid, behenic acid, lignoceric acid, cerotic acid, arachidonic acid, myristoleic acid, petroselinic acid, vaccenic acid, godoleic acid, gondoic acid, brassidic acid, elaidic acid, vaccenic acid, linoleic acid, linoelaidic acid, elcosapentaenoic acid, erucic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, nervonic acid, capric acid, caprylic acid, monolaurin, glycerol monostearate, glycerol hydroxystearate, dibutyrin, dipalmitin, diolein, dicaprin, triolein, tripalmitin, tricaprin, tristearin, tricaproin, glycerol 1,3-distearate-2-octanoate; glycerol 2,3-diolate-1-palmitate, glycerol 2,3-dioleate-1-palmitate, glycerol-2-linoleate-3-oleate-1-palmitate, and glycerol 1,2-distearate-3-octanoate, bees wax, carnauba wax, candelila wax, paraffin wax, sugarcane wax, and combinations thereof, and wherein the stabilizing agent is present in an amount of about 0.1% to about 2% by volume, based on a total volume of the aerosol precursor composition.

[0053] Embodiment 29: The aerosol precursor composition of Embodiment 26, wherein the stabilizing agent is selected from the group consisting of ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 1,3-propanediol, trimetholpropane, pentaerythritol and combinations thereof, and wherein the stabilizing agent is present in an amount of about 0.5% to about 5% by volume, based on a total volume of the aerosol precursor composition.

[0054] Embodiment 30: The liquid aerosol precursor composition of any of Embodiments 26 to 29, wherein the one or more flavorants comprise menthol.

[0055] Embodiment 31: The liquid aerosol precursor composition of any of Embodiments 26 to 30, wherein the one or more aerosol-former materials comprise glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0056] Embodiment 32: The liquid aerosol precursor composition of any of Embodiments 26 to 31, wherein the one or more active agents comprise nicotine.

[0057] Embodiment 33: The liquid aerosol precursor composition of any of Embodiments 26 to 32, wherein the one or more active agents comprise a cannabinoid.

[0058] Embodiment 34: The liquid aerosol precursor composition of any of Embodiments 26 to 33, wherein the pH of the liquid aerosol precursor composition is about 5 to about 7.5.

[0059] Embodiment 35: An aerosol delivery device, comprising: a housing enclosing a chamber containing the liquid aerosol precursor composition of any one of Embodiments 26 to 34, a heat source in fluid communication with the chamber and configured to heat the liquid aerosol precursor composition to form an aerosol; and an aerosol pathway positioned to carry the aerosol to a mouth-end of the aerosol delivery device.

[0060] Embodiment 36: The aerosol delivery device of Embodiment 35, wherein the heat source comprises an electrically powered heating element, and the aerosol delivery device further comprises a power source electronically connected to the heating element.

[0061] Embodiment 37: The aerosol delivery device of Embodiment 36, further comprising a controller configured to control the power transmitted by the power source to the heating element.

[0062] Embodiment 38: A kit, comprising: a control body; and one or more cartridges, each cartridge comprising a housing enclosing a chamber containing the liquid aerosol precursor composition of any one of Embodiments 26 to 34.

[0063] Embodiment 39: The kit of Embodiment 38, further comprising one or more charging components or one or more batteries.

[0064] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent from a reading of the following detailed description together with the accompanying figures, which are briefly described below. The present disclosure includes any combination of two, three, four or more features or elements set forth in this disclosure, regardless of whether such features or elements are expressly combined or otherwise recited in a specific example implementation described herein. This disclosure is intended to be read holistically such that any separable features or elements of the disclosure, in any of its aspects and example implementations, should be viewed as combinable, unless the context of the disclosure clearly dictates otherwise.

[0065] It will therefore be appreciated that this Brief Summary is provided merely for purposes of summarizing some example implementations so as to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosure. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the above described example implementations are merely examples and should not be construed to narrow the scope or spirit of the disclosure in any way. Other example implementations, aspects and advantages will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of some described example implementations.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0066] Having thus described aspects of the disclosure in the foregoing general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying figures, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

[0067] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol provision system according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0068] FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate an aerosol provision system in the form of a vapor product, according to some example implementations;

[0069] FIG. 4 illustrates a nebulizer that may be used to implement an aerosol generator of an aerosol provision system, according to some example implementations; and

[0070] FIGS. 5, 6 and 7 illustrate an aerosol provision system in the form of a tobacco heating product (THP), according to some example implementations.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0071] Some implementations of the present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying figures, in which some, but not all implementations of the disclosure are shown. Indeed, various implementations of the disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the implementations set forth herein; rather, these example implementations are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout.

[0072] Unless specified otherwise or clear from context, references to first, second or the like should not be construed to imply a particular order. A feature described as being above another feature (unless specified otherwise or clear from context) may instead be below, and vice versa; and similarly, features described as being to the left of another feature else may instead be to the right, and vice versa. Also, while reference may be made herein to quantitative measures, values, geometric relationships or the like, unless otherwise stated, any one or more if not all of these may be absolute or approximate to account for acceptable variations that may occur, such as those due to engineering tolerances or the like. As used in the specification and claims, the singular forms “a,”“an,” and “the,” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0073] As used herein, unless specified otherwise or clear from context, the “of” of a set of operands is the “inclusive or” and thereby true if and only if one or more of the operands is true, as opposed to the “exclusive or” which is false when all of the operands are true. Thus, for example, “[A] or [B]” is true if [A] is true, or if [B] is true, or if both [A] and [B] are true. Further, the articles “a” and “an” mean “one or more,” unless specified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a singular form. Furthermore, it should be understood that unless otherwise specified, the terms “data,”“content,”“digital content,”“information,” and similar terms may be at times used interchangeably.

[0074] Aerosol precursor compositions commonly comprise one or more aerosol formers (often present as the majority component of the composition), an active ingredient, and optionally one or more flavorants. Often, the type and amount of aerosol former(s) affect whether a flavorant stays in solution within the composition. For example, flavorants can be polar or non-polar, and the polarity of the aerosol former(s) may affect the stability of the aerosol precursor composition (which is governed largely by surface tension as well as other physical properties (e.g., ionic and non-ionic species to keep all components in balance). The quality and stability of an aerosol precursor composition plays a large role in its shelf stability.

[0075] The disclosure provides, for example, an aerosol precursor composition 124 (also referred to herein as “aerosol-generating material”) adapted for use in an aerosol delivery device, wherein the aerosol precursor composition comprises an active substance 126, an aerosol-former material 130, a flavorant 128, and a stabilizing agent 136. A “stabilizing agent” as used herein is a compound that enhances shelf life of an aerosol precursor composition. Typically, within an aerosol precursor composition, the ratio of polar to non-polar components (e.g., aerosol-former material(s) 130 and / or water) and the polarity of the flavorant 128 dictates whether the flavorant stays in solution (as flavorants can be polar or non-polar in nature). The stabilizing agent 136 provided herein promotes the ability of the flavorant 128 (and, in some embodiments, one or more additional components) within the aerosol precursor composition 128 to stay in solution.

[0076] In some embodiments, the stabilizing agent serves to provide emulsification properties to the aerosol precursor composition. In some embodiments, the stabilizing agent affects the phase separation or layer separation within an aerosol precursor composition (e.g., decreasing or eliminating such separation over a given time period). In particular, the stabilizing agent can serve to stabilize the flavorant(s) present within the composition, reducing or eliminating precipitation and / or phase separation thereof over time. In some embodiments, the stabilizing agent affects (e.g., increases) the viscosity of the aerosol precursor composition. In some embodiments, the stabilizing agent can serve additional functions in addition to its stabilizing functions, e.g., improving palatability (serving as a flavor enhancer and / or improving mouthfeel) and / or reducing throat irritation / throat impact associated with an aerosol produced via the aerosol precursor composition.Sorbitan Esters and Polysorbates

[0077] Certain suitable classes of stabilizing agents 136 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure are sorbitan esters and / or polysorbates. These stabilizing agents can, in some embodiments, improve stability of an aerosol precursor composition 124, e.g., by decreasing layer separation between the aerosol-former material 130 and the flavorant(s) 128 within the composition. In some embodiments, sorbitan esters and polysorbates may have aerosol-forming potential, e.g., at temperatures of greater than 110° C. and thus, sorbitan esters and polysorbate stabilizing agents may be a component of an aerosol produced from such an aerosol precursor composition where incorporated within the composition.

[0078] Sorbitan esters and polysorbates can be incorporated within an aerosol precursor composition in varying amounts relative to the other components within the formulation. In some embodiments, an aerosol precursor composition is provided that comprises at least about 0.5%, at least about 1%, at least about 2%, at least about 3%, 4%, at least about 5%, at least about 6%, at least about 7%, or at least about 8% by volume, with an upper limit in some embodiments of about 20%, about 18%, about 16%, about 15%, about 14%, about 12%, or about 10% by volume. Certain examples of suitable ranges for sorbitan esters and polysorbates within an aerosol precursor composition include, but are not limited to, about 0.5% to about 20% by volume, about 2% to about 18% by volume, about 4% to about 15% by volume, or about 6% to about 12% by volume. In some embodiments, the aerosol precursor formulation comprises only one or more sorbitan esters; in some embodiments, the aerosol precursor formulation comprises only one or more polysorbates; in some embodiments, the aerosol precursor formulation comprises both one or more sorbitan esters and one or more polysorbates. Where the aerosol precursor formulation comprises one or more sorbitan esters and one or more polysorbates, the total content of sorbitan ester(s) and polysorbate(s) is generally within the amounts referenced above.

[0079] In some embodiments, such sorbitan esters and polysorbates are particularly useful as stabilizers for inclusion within aerosol precursor compositions comprising an aerosol-former material 130 with a higher percentage by volume of polar material (e.g., glycerin) than non-polar material (e.g., propylene glycol). In some embodiments, such sorbitan esters and polysorbates are particularly useful for inclusion within aerosol precursor compositions comprising a polar flavorant (e.g., menthol or mint), although their use is certainly not limited thereto. One specific, non-limiting aerosol precursor composition 124 comprises about 50 to about 60 percent by volume glycerin, about 20 to about 30 percent by volume propylene glycol, about 5 to about 15 percent by volume sorbitan ester or polysorbate, about 5 to about 15 percent by volume water, and about 0.5 to about 5 percent by volume of a flavorant (e.g., a polar flavorant).

[0080] Sorbitan esters (at least some of which are commonly referred to by the commercial tradename “SPAN®”) are partial esters of fatty acids and hexitol anhydrides derived from sorbitol. Sorbitan esters comprise hydrophobic / non-ionic groups. They are commonly used as nonionic surface active agents. Non-limiting examples of sorbitan esters include sorbitan monostearate (Span 60), sorbitan monolaurate (Span 20), sorbitan tristearate (Span 65), sorbitan monooleate (Span 20), and sorbitan monopalmitate (Span 40).

[0081] Polysorbates (some of which are commonly referred to by the commercial tradename “TWEEN®”) are compounds derived from ethoxylated sorbitan or isorbide (a derivative of sorbitol) esterified with fatty acids. Polysorbates can be synthesized, e.g., by the addition (via polymerization) of ethylene oxide to sorbitan fatty acid esters (as referenced above). They can be, e.g., mono-, di-, or tri-esters of fatty acids and sorbitan. Polysorbates are generally soluble or dispersible in water and certain high polarity organic liquids. Polysorbates comprise hydrophilic and hydrophobic groups and are generally non-ionic. Polysorbates are also referred to as sorbitan fatty acid esters, and are known to function as surfactants. Non-limiting examples of polysorbates include polysorbate 20 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate, with lauric acid as the primary fatty acid portion of the molecule, also referred to as TWEEN® 20), polysorbate 60 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monostearate, with stearate as the primary fatty acid portion of the molecule, also referred to as TWEEN® 60), polysorbate 80 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate, with oleate as the primary fatty acid portion of the molecule, also referred to as TWEEN® 80), and polysorbate 65 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan tristearate, also referred to as TWEEN® 65).Binders

[0082] Another suitable type of stabilizing agent 136 for use according to the present disclosure is a binder. In some embodiments, these types of stabilizing agents can lend emulsification and / or viscosity building properties to the aerosol precursor composition 124. The amount of binder stabilizing agents to be included within an aerosol precursor composition according to the present disclosure can vary; in various embodiments, an aerosol precursor composition can include at least about 0.1% or at least about 0.2% by volume of the stabilizing agent, e.g., about 0.1% to about 3% by volume of the stabilizing agent or about 0.1% to about 2% by volume of the stabilizing agent, or about 0.1% to about 1% by volume of the stabilizing agent, e.g., about 0.1%, about 0.2%, about 0.3%, about 0.4%, about 0.5%, about 0.6%, about 0.7%, about 0.8%, about 0.9%, or about 1.0% by volume of the stabilizing agent.

[0083] In some embodiments, such binders are particularly useful as stabilizers for inclusion within aerosol precursor compositions comprising an aerosol-former material 130 with a higher percentage by volume of polar material (e.g., glycerin) than non-polar material (e.g., propylene glycol). In some embodiments, such binders are particularly useful for inclusion within aerosol precursor compositions comprising a polar flavorant (e.g., menthol or mint), although their use is certainly not limited thereto. One specific, non-limiting aerosol precursor composition 124 comprises about 60 to about 70 percent by volume glycerin, about 20 to about 30 percent by volume propylene glycol, about 0.1 to about 2 percent by volume binder, about 5 to about 15 percent by volume water, and about 0.5 to about 5 percent by volume of a flavorant (e.g., a polar flavorant).

[0084] Certain suitable binders that can be used as stabilizing agents 136 according to the disclosure are hydrocolloids. Hydrocolloids are long-chain polymers (polysaccharides and proteins) characterized by their ability to form viscous dispersions and / or gels when dispersed in water. They generally comprise a large number of hydroxyl (OH) groups, giving them high affinity for binding water molecules (making them hydrophilic) and in water, they produce a dispersion (intermediate between a solution and suspension). Hydrocolloids can provide thickening functions and / or gelling functions within a liquid as described herein. Hydrocolloids include, e.g., gums (both natural gums (e.g., carbohydrate-based natural gums) and synthetic gums), alginates, starches, carrageenans, agar, pectin, and cellulose derivatives, and as described in further detail below.

[0085] As used herein, a natural gum refers to a polysaccharide material of natural origin that has binding properties, and which is also useful as a thickening or gelling agents. Representative natural gums derived from plants, which are typically water soluble to some degree, include xanthan gum, guar gum, gum arabic, ghatti gum, gum tragacanth, karaya gum, locust bean gum, gellan gum, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the gum comprises xanthan gum, guar gum, gum acacia, locust bean gum, gum tragacanth, or a combination thereof. Other suitable gums include modified gums, such as hydroxyethyl guar, hydroxypropyl guar, hydroxyethyl locust bean gum, or hydroxypropyl locust bean gum.

[0086] Alginates are linear unbranched anionic heteropolysaccharides as known in the art. Alginates consist of different amounts of linear copolymers of β-(1-4) linked D-mannuronic acid and β-(1-4) linked L-guluronic acid (often referred to, respectively, as “M” and “G” residues). Alginates are typically block copolymers, with blocks of consecutive residues (e.g., GGGGG and MVIMMMM) and regions of alternating residues GMGMGMGMG. The molecular weights of alginates can vary widely, e.g., between about 32,000 and 400,000, with higher molecular weight alginates typically providing a more viscous slurry and lower molecular weight alginates providing a less viscous slurry. Alginates are typically natural polymers and can, in some embodiments, be derived from seaweeds. Certain commercially available alginates are extracted from brown algae (Phaeophycae), including (but not limited to) Laminaria hyperborean, Laminaria digitate, Laminaria japonica, Ascophyllum nodosum, and Macrocystis pyrifera. Alginates from different sources differ in M and G residue content and block lengths. Alginates can also be in the form of a synthetic polymer (provided via bacterial biosynthesis, e.g., produced from Azotobacter or Pseudomonas). Alginates are typically in the form of a sodium, calcium, or manganese salt (but can also be in the form of other alginate salts). In some embodiments, alginate is employed in a water-soluble form. Certain examples of alginates include, but are not limited to, ammonium alginate, propylene glycol alginate, potassium alginate, or sodium alginate. Alginates, and particularly high viscosity alginates, may, in some embodiments, be employed in conjunction with controlled levels of free calcium ions.

[0087] “Starches” as used herein may refer to pure starches from any source, modified starches, or starch derivatives. Starch is present, typically in granular form, in almost all green plants and in various types of plant tissues and organs (e.g., seeds, leaves, rhizomes, roots, tubers, shoots, fruits, grains, and stems). Starch can vary in composition, as well as in granular shape and size. Often, starch from different sources has different chemical and physical characteristics. A specific starch can be selected for inclusion in the beads based on the ability of the starch material to impart a specific organoleptic property to the beads. Starches derived from various sources can be used. For example, major sources of starch include cereal grains (e.g., rice, wheat, and maize) and root vegetables (e.g., potatoes and cassava). Other examples of sources of starch include acorns, arrowroot, arracacha, bananas, barley, beans (e.g., favas, lentils, mung beans, peas, chickpeas), breadfruit, buckwheat, canna, chestnuts, colacasia, katakuri, kudzu, malanga, millet, oats, oca, Polynesian arrowroot, sago, sorghum, sweet potato, quinoa, rye, tapioca, taro, tobacco, water chestnuts, and yams. Suitable starches include, but are not limited to, corn starch, rice starch, and modified food starches. Certain starches are modified starches. A modified starch has undergone one or more structural modifications, often designed to alter its high heat properties. Some starches have been developed by genetic modifications, and are considered to be “modified” starches. Other starches are obtained and subsequently modified. For example, modified starches can be starches that have been subjected to chemical reactions, such as esterification, etherification, oxidation, depolymerization (thinning) by acid catalysis or oxidation in the presence of base, bleaching, transglycosylation and depolymerization (e.g., dextrinization in the presence of a catalyst), cross-linking, enzyme treatment, acetylation, hydroxypropylation, and / or partial hydrolysis. Other starches are modified by heat treatments, such as pregelatinization, dextrinization, and / or cold water swelling processes. Certain modified starches include monostarch phosphate, distarch glycerol, distarch phosphate esterified with sodium trimetaphosphate, phosphate distarch phosphate, acetylated distarch phosphate, starch acetate esterified with acetic anhydride, starch acetate esterified with vinyl acetate, acetylated distarch adipate, acetylated distarch glycerol, hydroxypropyl starch, hydroxypropyl distarch glycerol, and starch sodium octenyl succinate.

[0088] Carrageenans are sulfated polysaccharides extracted from a red seaweed that provide gelling, thickening, and / or stabilizing properties. Suitable carrageenans can be, e.g., kappa-carrageenan, iota-carrageenan, or lambda-carrageenan (with one, two, and three sulfate groups per disaccharide, correspondingly).

[0089] Agar (also sometimes referred to as “agar agar”) is a plant-based gelatinous substance that is derived from seaweed (red algae of the class Rhodophyceae). Agar is a heterogenous mixture of polysaccharides, comprising agarose (typically the primary component, made up of repeating units of agarobiose) and agaropectin (a charged sulfated polysaccharide) in various ratios.

[0090] Pectins are natural polymers related to carbohydrates and which are acidic heteropolysaccharides (polysaccharides comprising multiple monosaccharide units). As opposed to carbohydrates, the pectin C-6 position contains a carboxylic acid (or corresponding methyl ester or carboxamide) group instead of a hydroxymethyl group. The principal subunit is galacturonic acid; other sugars (e.g., galactose, rhamnose, arabinose, fucose, xylose, mannose, etc.) can be featured as side-chain substituents. Pectin can be isolated from sources such as apple pomace, citrus peels, sugarbeet waste from sugar manufacturing, sunflower heads discarded from seed harvesting, mango waste, and other fruits (e.g., apricot, blackberry, cherry, peach, pineapple). Pectin can, in some embodiments, be classified by its degree of esterification. In some embodiments, the binder comprises low methoxy pectin (with a degree of esterification less than 50%, typically 20%-40%). Suitable low methoxy pectins include, for example, “GENU® pectin type LM-104 AS”, available from CP Kelco, Atlanta, GA, USA. In some embodiments, the binder comprises high methoxy pectin (with a degree of esterification greater than 50%). In some embodiments, the binder comprises low methoxy amidated pectin, generally prepared via reaction of high methoxy pectin with ammonia. Pectins are generally known to act as hygroscopic agents, facilitating the retention of moisture.

[0091] In some embodiments, the binder comprises one or more cellulose derivatives (e.g., a single cellulose derivative or a combination of several cellulose derivatives, such as two or three, for example). In some embodiments, the cellulose derivative is a cellulose ether, meaning a cellulose polymer with the hydrogen of one or more hydroxyl groups in the cellulose structure replaced with an alkyl, hydroxyalkyl, or aryl group. In some embodiments, the cellulose derivative is a hydroxyalkyl cellulose ether. Non-limiting examples of such cellulose derivatives include methylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose (“CMC”), hydroxypropylcellulose (“HPC”), hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (“HPMC”), and hydroxyethyl cellulose. Suitable cellulose ethers include hydroxypropylcellulose, such as Klucel H from Aqualon Co.; hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, such as Methocel K4MS from DuPont; hydroxyethylcellulose, such as Natrosol 250 MRCS from Aqualon Co.; methylcellulose, such as Methocel A4M, K4M, and E15 from DuPont.; and sodium carboxymethylcellulose, such as CMC 7HF, CMC 7LF, and CMC 7H4F from Aqualon Company. The concentration, molecular weight, and degree of substitution can be selected so as to provide a cellulose derivative with a desired flow behavior. In some embodiments, the binder is selected from CMC and HPMC.Fatty Acids, Acyl Glycerides, Waxes

[0092] Another suitable type of stabilizing agent 136 for use according to the present disclosure includes fatty acids (e.g., free fatty acid), mono-, di-, or tri-acyl glycerides, and / or waxes. In some embodiments, such stabilizing agents are particularly useful not only to stabilize the aerosol precursor composition 124, but may also, in some embodiments, provide one or more of improved palatability and reduced throat irritation associated with aerosol produced from the composition.

[0093] The amount of such stabilizing agents to be included within an aerosol precursor composition according to the present disclosure can vary; in various embodiments, an aerosol precursor composition can include at least about 0.1% or at least about 0.2% of the stabilizing agent, e.g., about 0.1% to about 3% by weight of the stabilizing agent or about 0.1% to about 2% by weight of the stabilizing agent, or about 0.1% to about 1% by weight of the stabilizing agent, e.g., about 0.1%, about 0.2%, about 0.3%, about 0.4%, about 0.5%, about 0.6%, about 0.7%, about 0.8%, about 0.9%, or about 1.0% by weight of the stabilizing agent.

[0094] Free fatty acids (FFAs) are carboxylic acids with aliphatic chains (typically ranging in length from 4-28 carbon atoms). FFAs can be short-chain fatty acids (SCFA, typically with 5 or fewer carbons), medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA, typically with 6-12 carbons), long-chain fatty acids (LCFAs, with 13-21 carbons), or very long-chain fatty acids (VLCFA, with 22 or more carbons). Free fatty acids can be monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, or saturated. Examples of free fatty acids include, but are not limited to, lauric acid, palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, sapienic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, arachidic, behenic, lignoceric, cerotic, arachidonic acid, myristic acid, myristoleic acid, petroselinic acid, vaccenic acid, godoleic acid, gondoic acid, brassidic acid, elaidic acid, vaccenic acid, linoleic acid, linoelaidic acid, elcosapentaenoic acid, erucic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, nervonic acid, capric acid, and caprylic acid.

[0095] Monoglycerides, diglycerides, and triglycerides comprise a molecule of glycerol linked to one, two, or three fatty acids, respectively, via an ester bond. The fatty acids associated with monoglycerides, diglycerides, and triglycerides can be short-chain, medium-chain, long-chain, or very long-chain acids (or any combination thereof for diglycerides and triglycerides). Monoglycerides and diglycerides are typically synthetically prepared (although low amounts of monoglycerides and diglycerides are present in certain seed-based oils). Synthetically, monoglycerides and diglycerides can be prepared e.g., via heat treatment of a triglyceride-containing fat or oil in the presence of an alkaline catalyst. The resulting mixture contains a random mixture of mono-, di-, and tri-glycerides, which can then be separated, e.g., via distillation. In some embodiments, a monoglyceride, diglyceride, or triglyceride can be used as a stabilizer according to the present disclosure; in other embodiments, a combination of two (or three) is employed, e.g., a mixture of a monoglyceride and diglyceride.

[0096] Monoglycerides (also referred to as “acylglycerols” or “monoacylglycerols”) comprise glycerol functionalized with one fatty acid; monoglycerides can be characterized as 1-monoglycerides (where the fatty acid is attached to a primary alcohol on glycerol) or 2-monoglycerides (where the fatty acid is attached to the secondary alcohol on glycerol). The fatty acid can be e.g., one or more of the specific fatty acids disclosed above. Certain specific examples of monoglycerides include, but are not limited to, monolaurin, glycerol monostearate, and glycerol hydroxystearate.

[0097] Diglycerides (also referred to as “diacylglycerols”) comprise glycerol functionalized with two fatty acids. Diglycerides can be characterized as 1,2-diacylglycerides or 1,3-diacylglycerides, depending upon the position of the two fatty acid chains. The two fatty acids can be the same or different and can include any combination, e.g., of one or more of the specific fatty acids disclosed above. Certain non-limiting examples of diglycerides are diacetin, dibutyrin, dipalmitin, diolein, distearin, dicaprin, etc.

[0098] Triglycerides comprise glycerol functionalized with three fatty acids. The three fatty acids can be the same or different and can include any combination, e.g., of one or more of the specific fatty acids disclosed above. Specific triglycerides include, but are not limited to, triacetin, triolein (“glycerol trioleate”), tripalmitin (“glycerol tripaltmitate”), tricaprin (“glycerol tridecanoate”), tristearin (“glycerol tristearate”), tributyrin (“glycerol tributyrate”), tricaproin (“glycerol trihexanoate”), etc. (where all three fatty acids are the same). Further, non-limiting triglycerides are known which modify one or two of the fatty acid chains on one of these specific triglycerides, e.g., glycerol 1,3-distearate-2-octanoate; glycerol 2,3-diolate-1-palmitate, glycerol 2,3-dioleate-1-palmitate, glycerol-2-linoleate-3-oleate-1-palmitate, and glycerol 1,2-distearate-3-octanoate.

[0099] Waxes are lipophilic, malleable solids around ambient temperature, which melt to give low viscosity liquids. Waxes can comprise a combination of components; for example, paraffin wax comprises vegetable oils, palm oil derivatives, synthetic resins, and other materials. Certain specific waxes include bees wax, carnauba wax, candelilla wax, paraffin wax, and sugarcane wax. Waxes from various other plants are known, e.g., including, but not limited to, pumpkin, cucumber, plum, and cherry plants.Polyols

[0100] According to some embodiments, the disclosed formulations comprise a polyol (also referred to as a polyhydric alcohol or polyalcohol) as stabilizing agent 136. A polyol is generally an organic compound, containing multiple hydroxyl groups. Certain polyols have the general formula HOCH2(CHOH)nCH2OH and differ in length (based on the identity of “n” in the referenced general formula). Classes of polyols include sugar alcohols (relatively low molecular weight polyols) and larger, non-sugar polyols, including, e.g., polymeric polyols.

[0101] The amount of polyol suitable to serve as a stabilizing agent 136 can vary. In some embodiments, the amount of polyol is up to about 10%, e.g., about 1% to about 10% by volume based on the total volume of the aerosol precursor composition, e.g., about 1% to about 5%, about 3% to about 5%, about 5% to about 10%, or about 8% to about 10% by volume. In some embodiments, the amount of polyol is about 10% by volume based on the total volume of the aerosol precursor composition 124 or greater, e.g., about 10% to about 20% by volume, about 10% to about 18% by volume, about 10% to about 15% by volume, or about 10% to about 12% by volume. In some embodiments, the amount of polyol is greater than 10% by volume and in some embodiments, the amount of sugar alcohol is greater than 10% by weight.

[0102] Certain polyols are sugar alcohols. Sugar alcohols advantageously can, in some embodiments, serve as flavor enhancers to one or more flavorants (e.g., including, but not limited to, menthol and other volatile flavorants) contained within the aerosol precursor composition 124, and / or can improve mouthfeel, tactile, throat impact, and / or other sensory characteristics associated with an aerosol produced from aerosol precursor composition 124. In some embodiments, sugar alcohols can serve additional functions within such a composition (in addition to stabilizing the formulation), e.g., reducing carbonyl compounds formed in aerosols produced from the composition when heated to appropriate temperatures, e.g., when compared to the use of mono or disaccharide sugars for sensorial properties and / or reducing free radicals and metals such as disclosed, e.g., in U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2018 / 0103680A1 and 2018 / 0103681A1, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. Specific sugar alcohols include, but are not limited to, sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol (e.g., in the form of maltitol syrup), xylitol, erythritol, threitol, arabitol, ribitol, dulcitol, iditol, lactitol, polyglycitol, isomalt, and hydrogenated starch hydrosylates. In some embodiments, a sugar alcohol stabilizer is selected from the group consisting of sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol (e.g., in the form of maltitol syrup), xylitol, erythritol, and isomalt.

[0103] Further suitable stabilizing agents 136 include non-sugar-based polyols. Such polyols can be glycitols (“acyclic polyols”) or cyclitols (“cyclic polyols”). In some embodiments, such polyols are glycols. Specific examples of polyols include, but are not limited to, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 1,3-propanediol, 1,3-butylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, glycerin / glycerol, trimetholpropane, and pentaerythritol. In certain embodiments, a non-sugar-based polyol stabilizer is selected from 1,3-propane diol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, and ethylene glycol (as well as combinations thereof).Preservatives

[0104] In some embodiments, the stabilizing agent comprises one or more preservatives. Preservatives include, but are not limited to, sorbate and benzoate salts (e.g., sodium sorbate, sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate) and ascorbate salts (e.g., sodium ascorbate). Preservatives uniquely may serve not only as stabilizers but also, in some embodiments, as pH regulators. The amount of preservative included within an aerosol precursor composition according to the present disclosure can vary; in various embodiments, an aerosol precursor composition can include at least about 0.1% or at least about 0.2% of the stabilizing agent or combination of stabilizing agents, e.g., about 0.1% to about 3% by weight, about 0.1% to about 2% by weight, or about 0.1% to about 1% by weight, e.g., about 0.1%, about 0.2%, about 0.3%, about 0.4%, about 0.5%, about 0.6%, about 0.7%, about 0.8%, about 0.9%, or about 1.0% by weight of the stabilizing agent or stabilizing agents.

[0105] It is noted that the stabilizing agents described herein above can be included within an aerosol precursor composition singly or in any combination of two or more of the disclosed stabilizing agents. The selection of a particular stabilizing agent or combination of stabilizing agents may, in some embodiments, be made based on the properties of the other component(s) to be included within the composition. For example, as referenced above, the solubility of the flavorant(s) within the composition can impact the physical stability of the composition. By considering the polarity of the flavorant(s) relative to the aerosol former(s) within the composition, one of skill in the art can recognize suitable types of stabilizers and employ suitable amounts to provide greater stability to the composition (e.g., by helping to ensure greater solubility of the flavorant(s) within the aerosol precursor composition).

[0106] In certain embodiments, the stabilizing agent 136 is the same as one of the other components of the aerosol precursor composition. For example, in some embodiments, the stabilizing agent 136 is a polyol and the aerosol-former material 130 also comprises a polyol (e.g., glycerin, glycerol, propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, erythritol, or meso-erythritol); the stabilizing agent 136 is a fatty acid and the aerosol-former material also comprises a fatty acid (e.g., lauric acid or myristic acid), or the stabilizing agent 136 is a triglyceride and the aerosol-former material 130 also comprises a diglyceride or triglyceride (e.g., triacetin, butyrin, and / or diacetin). In such embodiments, the referenced amounts of stabilizing agent 136 in the disclosure above are provided in addition to the referenced amounts of aerosol-former material 130 present within the aerosol precursor composition 124 (such that a higher amount of that component is added, i.e., the sum of the referenced amounts of stabilizing agent 136 and aerosol-former material 130). In some embodiments, the selection of stabilizing agent 136 is made so as to exclude the compounds that may also serve as aerosol-former material, e.g., such that the selected stabilizing agent 136 can be a free fatty acid other than those listed as examples of aerosol-former material 130, e.g., a free fatty acid other than lauric acid or myristic acid. Similarly, in some embodiments, the selected stabilizing agent 136 can be a polyol other than those listed as examples of aerosol-former material 130, e.g., a polyol other than glycerin, glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, erythritol, and meso-erythritol. In some embodiments, the selected stabilizing agent 136 can be a diglyceride or triglyceride other than those listed as examples of aerosol-former material 130, e.g., a diglyceride or triglyceride other than triacetin, butyrin, and / or diacetin.

[0107] The other components of the aerosol precursor composition 124 (in addition to the stabilizing agent 136 provided herein) can vary. As noted above, an aerosol precursor composition commonly comprises one or more of each of a number of constituents such as an active ingredient / substance 126, flavorant 128, aerosol-former material 130 or other functional material 132. In some embodiments, the aerosol precursor composition further comprises one or more organic acids 134.Active Ingredients

[0108] As used herein, an “active ingredient” refers to one or more substances belonging to any of the following categories: API (active pharmaceutical ingredient), food additives, natural medicaments, and naturally occurring substances that can have an effect on humans. Example active ingredients that can be used in various embodiments include any ingredient known to impact one or more biological functions within the body, such as ingredients that furnish pharmacological activity or other direct effect in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, or which affect the structure or any function of the body of humans (e.g., provide a stimulating action on the central nervous system, have an energizing effect, an antipyretic or analgesic action, or an otherwise useful effect on the body). In some embodiments, the active ingredient may be of the type generally referred to as dietary supplements, nutraceuticals, “phytochemicals” or “functional foods.” These types of additives are sometimes defined in the art as encompassing substances typically available from naturally occurring sources (e.g., botanical materials) that provide one or more advantageous biological effects (e.g., health promotion, disease prevention, or other medicinal properties), but are not classified or regulated as drugs.

[0109] Non-limiting examples of active ingredients include those falling in the categories of botanical ingredients, stimulants, amino acids, and / or pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and medicinal ingredients (e.g., vitamins, such as A, B3, B6, B12, and C, and / or cannabinoids, such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD)). Each of these categories is further described herein below. The particular choice of active ingredients, where used, will vary depending upon the desired characteristics of the particular aerosol precursor composition 124 and / or the vapor / aerosol formed from such composition (e.g. during use).

[0110] In certain embodiments, the active ingredient is selected from the group consisting of caffeine, taurine, GABA, theanine, vitamin C, lemon balm extract, ginseng, citicoline, sunflower lecithin, and combinations thereof. For example, the active ingredient can include a combination of caffeine, theanine, and optionally ginseng. In another embodiment, the active ingredient includes a combination of theanine, gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA), and lemon balm extract. In a further embodiment, the active ingredient includes theanine, theanine and tryptophan, or theanine and one or more B vitamins (e.g., vitamin B6 or B12). In a still further embodiment, the active ingredient includes a combination of caffeine, taurine, and vitamin C.

[0111] The particular percentages of active ingredients present will vary depending upon the desired characteristics of the particular aerosol precursor composition 124. Typically, such additional active ingredient or combination thereof is included in a total concentration of at least about 0.001% by weight of the composition, such as in a range from about 0.001% to about 20%. In some embodiments, the optional additional active ingredient or combination of active ingredients, where present, is present in a concentration from about 0.1% w / w to about 10% by weight, such as, e.g., from about 0.5% w / w to about 10%, from about 1% to about 10%, from about 1% to about 5% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition. In some embodiments, the active ingredient or combination of active ingredients is included, where present, in a concentration of from about 0.001%, about 0.01%, about 0.1%, or about 1%, up to about 20% by weight, such as, e.g., from about 0.001%, about 0.002%, about 0.003%, about 0.004%, about 0.005%, about 0.006%, about 0.007%, about 0.008%, about 0.009%, about 0.01%, about 0.02%, about 0.03%, about 0.04%, about 0.05%, about 0.06%, about 0.07%, about 0.08%, about 0.09%, about 0.1%, about 0.2%, about 0.3%, about 0.4%, about 0.5% about 0.6%, about 0.7%, about 0.8%, or about 0.9%, to about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, about 10%, about 11%, about 12%, about 13%, about 14%, about 15%, about 16%, about 17%, about 18%, about 19%, or about 20% by weight, based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition 124. Further suitable ranges for specific active ingredients are provided herein below.Botanical

[0112] In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises a botanical ingredient. As used herein, the term “botanical ingredient” or “botanical” refers to any plant material or fungal-derived material, including plant material in its natural form and plant material derived from natural plant materials, such as extracts or isolates from plant materials or treated plant materials (e.g., plant materials subjected to heat treatment, fermentation, bleaching, or other treatment processes capable of altering the physical and / or chemical nature of the material). For the purposes of the present disclosure, a “botanical” includes, but is not limited to, “herbal materials,” which refer to seed-producing plants that do not develop persistent woody tissue and are often valued for their medicinal or sensory characteristics (e.g., teas or tisanes). Reference to botanical material as “non-tobacco” is intended to exclude tobacco materials (i.e., does not include any Nicotiana species). In some embodiments, the compositions as disclosed herein can be characterized as free of any tobacco material (e.g., any embodiment as disclosed herein may be completely or substantially free of any tobacco material). By “substantially free” is meant that no tobacco material has been intentionally added. For example, certain embodiments can be characterized as having less than 0.001% by weight of tobacco, or less than 0.0001%, or even 0% by weight of tobacco.

[0113] When present, a botanical is typically at a concentration of from about 0.01% w / w to about 10% by weight, such as, e.g., from about 0.01% w / w, about 0.05%, about 0.1%, or about 0.5%, to about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, or about 10%, about 11%, about 12%, about 13%, about 14%, or about 15% by weight, based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition 124.

[0114] The botanical materials useful in the present disclosure may comprise, without limitation, any of the compounds and sources set forth herein, including mixtures thereof. Certain botanical materials of this type are sometimes referred to as dietary supplements, nutraceuticals, “phytochemicals” or “functional foods.” Certain botanicals, as the plant material or an extract thereof, have found use in traditional herbal medicine, and are described further herein. Non-limiting examples of botanicals or botanical-derived materials include ashwagandha, Bacopa monniera, baobab, basil, Centella asiatica, Chai-hu, chamomile, cherry blossom, chlorophyll, cinnamon, citrus, cloves, cocoa, cordyceps, curcumin, damiana, Dorstenia arifolia, Dorstenia odorata, essential oils, eucalyptus, fennel, Galphimia glauca, ginger, Ginkgo biloba, ginseng (e.g., Panax ginseng), green tea, Griffonia simplicifolia, guarana, cannabis, hemp, hops, jasmine, Kaempferia parviflora (Thai ginseng), kava, lavender, lemon balm, lemongrass, licorice, lutein, maca, matcha, Nardostachys chinensis, oil-based extract of Viola odorata, peppermint, quercetin, resveratrol, Rhizoma gastrodiae, Rhodiola, rooibos, rose essential oil, rosemary, Sceletium tortuosum, Schisandra, Skullcap, spearmint extract, Spikenard, terpenes, tisanes, turmeric, Turnera aphrodisiaca, valerian, white mulberry, and Yerba mate.

[0115] In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises lemon balm. Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a mildly lemon-scented herb from the same family as mint (Lamiaceae). The herb is native to Europe, North Africa, and West Asia. The tea of lemon balm, as well as the essential oil and the extract, are used in traditional and alternative medicine. In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises lemon balm extract. In some embodiments, the lemon balm extract is present in an amount of from about 1 to about 4% by weight, based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition 124.

[0116] In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises ginseng. Ginseng is the root of plants of the genus Panax, which are characterized by the presence of unique steroid saponin phytochemicals (ginsenosides) and gintonin. Ginseng finds use as a dietary supplement in energy drinks or herbal teas, and in traditional medicine. Cultivated species include Korean ginseng (P. ginseng), South China ginseng (P. notoginseng), and American ginseng (P. quinquefolius). American ginseng and Korean ginseng vary in the type and quantity of various ginsenosides present. In some embodiments, the ginseng is American ginseng or Korean ginseng. In specific embodiments, the active ingredient comprises Korean ginseng. In some embodiments, ginseng is present in an amount of from about 0.4 to about 0.6% by weight, based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition 124.Stimulant

[0117] In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises one or more stimulants. As used herein, the term “stimulant” refers to a material that increases activity of the central nervous system and / or the body, for example, enhancing focus, cognition, vigor, mood, alertness, and the like. Non-limiting examples of stimulants include caffeine, theacrine, theobromine, and theophylline. Theacrine (1,3,7,9-tetramethyluric acid) is a purine alkaloid which is structurally related to caffeine, and possesses stimulant, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory effects. Present stimulants may be natural, naturally derived, or wholly synthetic. For example, certain botanical materials (guarana, tea, coffee, cocoa, and the like) may possess a stimulant effect by virtue of the presence of e.g., caffeine or related alkaloids, and accordingly are “natural” stimulants. By “naturally derived” is meant the stimulant (e.g., caffeine, theacrine) is in a purified form, outside its natural (e.g., botanical) matrix. For example, caffeine can be obtained by extraction and purification from botanical sources (e.g., tea). By “wholly synthetic”, it is meant that the stimulant has been obtained by chemical synthesis. In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises caffeine. In some embodiments, the caffeine is present in an encapsulated form. On example of an encapsulated caffeine is Vitashure®, available from Balchem Corp., 52 Sunrise Park Road, New Hampton, NY, 10958.

[0118] When present, a stimulant or combination of stimulants (e.g., caffeine, theacrine, and combinations thereof) is typically at a concentration of from about 0.1% w / w to about 15% by weight, such as, e.g., from about 0.1% w / w, about 0.2%, about 0.3%, about 0.4%, about 0.5% about 0.6%, about 0.7%, about 0.8%, or about 0.9%, to about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, about 10%, about 11%, about 12%, about 13%, about 14%, or about 15% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition. In some embodiments, the composition comprises caffeine in an amount of from about 1.5 to about 6% by weight, based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition 124.Amino Acid

[0119] In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises an amino acid. As used herein, the term “amino acid” refers to an organic compound that contains amine (—NH2) and carboxyl (—COOH) or sulfonic acid (SO3H) functional groups, along with a side chain (R group), which is specific to each amino acid. Amino acids may be proteinogenic or non-proteinogenic. By “proteinogenic” is meant that the amino acid is one of the twenty naturally occurring amino acids found in proteins. The proteinogenic amino acids include alanine, arginine, asparagine, aspartic acid, cysteine, glutamine, glutamic acid, glycine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, proline, serine, threonine, tryptophan, tyrosine, and valine. By “non-proteinogenic” is meant that either the amino acid is not found naturally in protein, or is not directly produced by cellular machinery (e.g., is the product of post-translational modification). Non-limiting examples of non-proteinogenic amino acids include gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), taurine (2-aminoethanesulfonic acid), theanine (L-γ-glutamylethylamide), hydroxyproline, and beta-alanine. In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises theanine. In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises GABA. In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises a combination of theanine and GABA. In some embodiments, the active ingredient is a combination of theanine, GABA, and lemon balm. In some embodiments, the active ingredient is a combination of caffeine, theanine, and ginseng. In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises taurine. In some embodiments, the active ingredient is a combination of caffeine and taurine.

[0120] When present, an amino acid or combination of amino acids (e.g., theanine, GABA, and combinations thereof) is typically at a concentration of from about 0.1% w / w to about 15% by weight, such as, e.g., from about 0.1% w / w, about 0.2%, about 0.3%, about 0.4%, about 0.5% about 0.6%, about 0.7%, about 0.8%, or about 0.9%, to about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, about 10%, about 11%, about 12%, about 13%, about 14%, or about 15% by weight, based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition 124.Vitamins

[0121] In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises a vitamin or combination of vitamins. As used herein, the term “vitamin” refers to an organic molecule (or related set of molecules) that is an essential micronutrient needed for the proper functioning of metabolism in a mammal. There are thirteen vitamins required by human metabolism, which are: vitamin A (as all-trans-retinol, all-trans-retinyl-esters, as well as all-trans-beta-carotene and other provitamin A carotenoids), vitamin B1 (thiamine), vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B3 (niacin), vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), vitamin B7 (biotin), vitamin B9 (folic acid or folate), vitamin B12 (cobalamins), vitamin C (ascorbic acid), vitamin D (calciferols), vitamin E (tocopherols and tocotrienols), and vitamin K (quinones). In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises vitamin C. In some embodiments, the active ingredient is a combination of vitamin C, caffeine, and taurine.

[0122] When present, a vitamin or combination of vitamins (e.g., vitamin B6, vitamin B12, vitamin E, vitamin C, or a combination thereof) is typically at a concentration of from about 0.01% w / w to about 6% by weight, such as, e.g., from about 0.01%, about 0.02%, about 0.03%, about 0.04%, about 0.05%, about 0.06%, about 0.07%, about 0.08%, about 0.09%, or about 0.1% w / w, to about 0.2%, about 0.3%, about 0.4%, about 0.5% about 0.6%, about 0.7%, about 0.8%, about 0.9%, about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, or about 6% by weight, based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition 124.Antioxidants

[0123] In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises one or more antioxidants. As used herein, the term “antioxidant” refers to a substance which prevents or suppresses oxidation by terminating free radical reactions and may delay or prevent some types of cellular damage. Antioxidants may be naturally occurring or synthetic. Naturally occurring antioxidants include those found in foods and botanical materials. Non-limiting examples of antioxidants include certain botanical materials, vitamins, polyphenols, and phenol derivatives.

[0124] Examples of botanical materials which are associated with antioxidant characteristics include without limitation acai berry, alfalfa, allspice, annatto seed, apricot oil, basil, bee balm, wild bergamot, black pepper, blueberries, borage seed oil, bugleweed, cacao, calamus root, catnip, catuaba, cayenne pepper, chaga mushroom, chervil, cinnamon, dark chocolate, potato peel, grape seed, ginseng, gingko biloba, Saint John's Wort, saw palmetto, green tea, black tea, black cohosh, cayenne, chamomile, cloves, cocoa powder, cranberry, dandelion, grapefruit, honeybush, echinacea, garlic, evening primrose, feverfew, ginger, goldenseal, hawthorn, hibiscus flower, jiaogulan, kava, lavender, licorice, marjoram, milk thistle, mints (menthe), oolong tea, beet root, orange, oregano, papaya, pennyroyal, peppermint, red clover, rooibos (red or green), rosehip, rosemary, sage, clary sage, savory, spearmint, spirulina, slippery elm bark, sorghum bran hi-tannin, sorghum grain hi-tannin, sumac bran, comfrey leaf and root, goji berries, gutu kola, thyme, turmeric, Uva ursi, valerian, wild yam root, wintergreen, yacon root, yellow dock, yerba mate, yerba santa, bacopa monniera, Withania somnifera, Lion's mane, and Silybum marianum. Such botanical materials may be provided in fresh or dry form, essential oils, or may be in the form of an extracts. The botanical materials (as well as their extracts) often include compounds from various classes known to provide antioxidant effects, such as minerals, vitamins, isoflavones, phytoesterols, allyl sulfides, dithiolthiones, isothiocyanates, indoles, lignans, flavonoids, polyphenols, and carotenoids. Examples of compounds found in botanical extracts or oils include ascorbic acid, peanut endocarb, resveratrol, sulforaphane, beta-carotene, lycopene, lutein, co-enzyme Q, carnitine, quercetin, kaempferol, and the like. See, e.g., Santhosh et al., Phytomedicine, 12(2005) 216-220, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0125] Non-limiting examples of other suitable antioxidants include citric acid, Vitamin E or a derivative thereof, a tocopherol, epicatechol, epigallocatechol, epigallocatechol gallate, erythorbic acid, sodium erythorbate, 4-hexylresorcinol, theaflavin, theaflavin monogallate A or B, theaflavin digallate, phenolic acids, glycosides, quercitrin, isoquercitrin, hyperoside, polyphenols, catechols, resveratrols, oleuropein, butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), tertiary butylhydroquinone (TBHQ), and combinations thereof.

[0126] When present, an antioxidant is typically at a concentration of from about 0.001% w / w to about 10% by weight, such as, e.g., from about 0.001%, about 0.005%, about 0.01% w / w, about 0.05%, about 0.1%, or about 0.5%, to about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, or about 10%, based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition 124.Cannabinoids

[0127] In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises one or more cannabinoids. As used herein, the term “cannabinoid” refers to a class of diverse chemical compounds that acts on cannabinoid receptors, also known as the endocannabinoid system, in cells that alter neurotransmitter release in the brain. Ligands for these receptor proteins include the endocannabinoids produced naturally in the body by animals; phytocannabinoids, found in cannabis; and synthetic cannabinoids, manufactured artificially. Cannabinoids found in cannabis include, without limitation: cannabigerol (CBG), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabidiol (CBD), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabinol (CBN), cannabinodiol (CBDL), cannabicyclol (CBL), cannabivarin (CBV), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), cannabidivarin (CBDV), cannabichromevarin (CBCV), cannabigerovarin (CBGV), cannabigerol monomethyl ether (CBGM), cannabinerolic acid, cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabinol propyl variant (CBNV), cannabitriol (CBO), tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), and tetrahydrocannabivarinic acid (THCV A). In certain embodiments, the cannabinoid is selected from tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, and cannabidiol (CBD) another major constituent of the plant, but which is devoid of psychoactivity. All of the above compounds can be used in the form of an isolate from plant material or synthetically derived.

[0128] Alternatively, the active ingredient can be a cannabimimetic, which is a class of compounds derived from plants other than cannabis that have biological effects on the endocannabinoid system similar to cannabinoids. Examples include yangonin, alpha-amyrin or beta-amyrin (also classified as terpenes), cyanidin, curcumin (tumeric), catechin, quercetin, salvinorin A, N-acylethanolamines, and N-alkylamide lipids.

[0129] When present, a cannabinoid (e.g., CBD) or cannabimimetic is typically in a concentration of at least about 0.1% by weight of the composition, such as in a range from about 0.1% to about 30%, such as, e.g., from about 0.1%, about 0.2%, about 0.3%, about 0.4%, about 0.5% about 0.6%, about 0.7%, about 0.8%, or about 0.9%, to about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, about 10%, about 15%, about 20%, or about 30% by weight, based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition 124.Terpenes

[0130] Active ingredients suitable for use in the present disclosure can also be classified as terpenes, many of which are associated with biological effects, such as calming effects. Terpenes are understood to have the general formula of (C5H8)n and include monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, and diterpenes. Terpenes can be acyclic, monocyclic or bicyclic in structure. Some terpenes provide an entourage effect when used in combination with cannabinoids or cannabimimetics. Examples include beta-caryophyllene, linalool, limonene, beta-citronellol, linalyl acetate, pinene (alpha or beta), geraniol, carvone, eucalyptol, menthone, iso-menthone, piperitone, myrcene, beta-bourbonene, and germacrene, which may be used singly or in combination.Pharmaceutical Ingredients

[0131] In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API). The API can be any known agent adapted for therapeutic, prophylactic, or diagnostic use. These can include, for example, synthetic organic compounds, proteins and peptides, polysaccharides and other sugars, lipids, phospholipids, inorganic compounds (e.g., magnesium, selenium, zinc, nitrate), neurotransmitters or precursors thereof (e.g., serotonin, 5-hydroxytryptophan, oxitriptan, acetylcholine, dopamine, melatonin), and nucleic acid sequences, having therapeutic, prophylactic, or diagnostic activity. Non-limiting examples of APIs include analgesics and antipyretics (e.g., acetylsalicylic acid, acetaminophen, 3-(4-isobutylphenyl)propanoic acid), phosphatidylserine, myoinositol, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, Omega-3), arachidonic acid (AA, Omega-6), S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate (HMB), citicoline (cytidine-5′-diphosphate-choline), and cotinine. In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises citicoline. In some embodiments, the active ingredient is a combination of citicoline, caffeine, theanine, and ginseng. In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises sunflower lecithin. In some embodiments, the active ingredient is a combination of sunflower lecithin, caffeine, theanine, and ginseng.

[0132] The amount of API may vary. For example, when present, an API is typically at a concentration of from about 0.001% w / w to about 10% by weight, such as, e.g., from about 0.01%, about 0.02%, about 0.03%, about 0.04%, about 0.05%, about 0.06%, about 0.07%, about 0.08%, about 0.09%, about 0.1% w / w, about 0.2%, about 0.3%, about 0.4%, about 0.5% about 0.6%, about 0.7%, about 0.8%, about 0.9%, or about 1%, to about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, or about 10% by weight, based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition 124.

[0133] In some embodiments, the aerosol precursor composition 124 is substantially free of any API. By “substantially free of any API” means that the composition does not contain, and specifically excludes, the presence of any API as defined herein, such as any Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved therapeutic agent intended to treat any medical condition.Tobacco Material

[0134] In some embodiments, the aerosol precursor composition 124 may include a tobacco material. The tobacco material can vary in species, type, and form. Generally, the tobacco material is obtained from for a harvested plant of the Nicotiana species. Example Nicotiana species include N. tabacum, N. rustica, N. alata, N. arentsii, N. excelsior, N. forgetiana, N. glauca, N. glutinosa, N. gossei, N. kawakamii, N. knightiana, N. langsdorffi, N. otophora, N. setchelli, N. sylvestris, N. tomentosa, N. tomentosiformis, N. undulata, N. x sanderae, N. africana, N. amplexicaulis, N. benavidesii, N. bonariensis, N. debneyi, N. longiflora, N. maritina, N. megalosiphon, N. occidentalis, N. paniculata, N. plumbaginifolia, N. raimondii, N. rosulata, N. simulans, N. stocktonii, N. suaveolens, N. umbratica, N. velutina, N. wigandioides, N. acaulis, N. acuminata, N. attenuata, N. benthamiana, N. cavicola, N. clevelandii, N. cordifolia, N. corymbosa, N. fragrans, N. goodspeedii, N. linearis, N. miersii, N. nudicaulis, N. obtusifolia, N. occidentalis subsp. Hersperis, N. pauciflora, N. petunioides, N. quadrivalvis, N. repanda, N. rotundifolia, N. solanifolia, and N. spegazzinii. Various representative other types of plants from the Nicotiana species are set forth in Goodspeed, The Genus Nicotiana, (Chonica Botanica) (1954); U.S. Pat. No. 4,660,577 to Sensabaugh, Jr. et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,387,416 to White et al., U.S. Pat. No. 7,025,066 to Lawson et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 7,798,153 to Lawrence, Jr. and U.S. Pat. No. 8,186,360 to Marshall et al.; each of which is incorporated herein by reference. Descriptions of various types of tobaccos, growing practices and harvesting practices are set forth in Tobacco Production, Chemistry and Technology, Davis et al. (Eds.) (1999), which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0135] Nicotiana species from which suitable tobacco materials can be obtained can be derived using genetic-modification or crossbreeding techniques (e.g., tobacco plants can be genetically engineered or crossbred to increase or decrease production of components, characteristics or attributes). See, for example, the types of genetic modifications of plants set forth in U.S. Pat. No. 5,539,093 to Fitzmaurice et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,668,295 to Wahab et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,705,624 to Fitzmaurice et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,844,119 to Weigl; U.S. Pat. No. 6,730,832 to Dominguez et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 7,173,170 to Liu et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 7,208,659 to Colliver et al. and U.S. Pat. No. 7,230,160 to Benning et al.; US Patent Appl. Pub. No. 2006 / 0236434 to Conkling et al.; and PCT WO2008 / 103935 to Nielsen et al. See, also, the types of tobaccos that are set forth in U.S. Pat. No. 4,660,577 to Sensabaugh, Jr. et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,387,416 to White et al.; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,730,832 to Dominguez et al., each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0136] Various parts or portions of the plant of the Nicotiana species can be included within an aerosol precursor composition 124 as disclosed herein. For example, virtually all of the plant (e.g., the whole plant) can be harvested, and employed as such. Alternatively, various parts or pieces of the plant can be harvested or separated for further use after harvest. For example, the flower, leaves, stem, stalk, roots, seeds, and various combinations thereof, can be isolated for further use or treatment. In some embodiments, the tobacco material comprises tobacco leaf (lamina). The aerosol precursor composition 124 disclosed herein can include processed tobacco parts or pieces, cured and aged tobacco in essentially natural lamina and / or stem form, a tobacco extract, extracted tobacco pulp (e.g., using water as a solvent), or a mixture of the foregoing (e.g., a mixture that combines extracted tobacco pulp with granulated cured and aged natural tobacco lamina).

[0137] For the preparation of various tobacco-containing products, it is typical for a harvested plant of the Nicotiana species to be subjected to a curing process. The tobacco materials incorporated within products as disclosed herein can be those that have been appropriately cured and / or aged. Descriptions of various types of curing processes for various types of tobaccos are set forth in Tobacco Production, Chemistry and Technology, Davis et al. (Eds.) (1999). Examples of techniques and conditions for curing flue-cured tobacco are set forth in Nestor et al., Beitrage Tabakforsch. Int., 20, 467-475 (2003) and U.S. Pat. No. 6,895,974 to Peele, which are incorporated herein by reference. Representative techniques and conditions for air curing tobacco are set forth in U.S. Pat. No. 7,650,892 to Groves et al.; Roton et al., Beitrage Tabakforsch. Int., 21, 305-320 (2005) and Staaf et al., Beitrage Tabakforsch. Int., 21, 321-330 (2005), which are incorporated herein by reference. Certain types of tobaccos can be subjected to alternative types of curing processes, such as fire curing or sun curing.

[0138] In certain embodiments, tobacco materials that can be employed include flue-cured or Virginia (e.g., K326), burley, sun-cured (e.g., Indian Kurnool and Oriental tobaccos, including Katerini, Prelip, Komotini, Xanthi and Yambol tobaccos), Maryland, dark, dark-fired, dark air cured (e.g., Madole, Passanda, Cubano, Jatin and Bezuki tobaccos), light air cured (e.g., North Wisconsin and Galpao tobaccos), Indian air cured, Red Russian and Rustica tobaccos, as well as various other rare or specialty tobaccos and various blends of any of the foregoing tobaccos.

[0139] Typical inclusion ranges for tobacco materials can vary depending on the nature and type of the tobacco material, and the intended effect on the final aerosol precursor composition 124, with an example range of up to about 30% by weight (or up to about 20% by weight or up to about 10% by weight or up to about 5% by weight), based on total weight of the mixture (e.g., about 0.1 to about 15% by weight). In some embodiments, a tobacco material is included in a relatively small amount (e.g., about 0.01% to about 0.1% by weight).

[0140] In some embodiments, the products of the disclosure can be characterized as completely free or substantially free of tobacco material (other than purified nicotine as an active ingredient, in some embodiments). For example, certain aerosol precursor compositions 124 can be characterized as having less than 1% by weight, or less than 0.5% by weight, or less than 0.1% by weight of tobacco material, or 0% by weight of tobacco material.

[0141] Typically, the aerosol precursor composition 124 includes a flavorant 128. As used herein, the terms “flavorant” and “flavor” refer to materials which, where local regulations permit, may be used to create a desired taste, aroma or other somatosensorial sensation in a product for adult consumers. Flavorants may include naturally occurring flavor materials, botanicals, extracts of botanicals, synthetically obtained materials, or combinations thereof (e.g., tobacco, cannabis, licorice (liquorice), hydrangea, eugenol, Japanese white bark magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, maple, matcha, menthol, Japanese mint, aniseed (anise), cinnamon, turmeric, Indian spices, Asian spices, herb, wintergreen, cherry, berry, redberry, cranberry, peach, apple, orange, mango, clementine, lemon, lime, tropical fruit, papaya, rhubarb, grape, durian, dragon fruit, cucumber, blueberry, mulberry, citrus fruits, Drambuie, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, gin, tequila, rum, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, aloe vera, cardamom, celery, cascarilla, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, khat, naswar, betel, shisha, pine, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, orange blossom, cherry blossom, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sage, fennel, wasabi, piment, ginger, coriander, coffee, hemp, a mint oil from any species of the genus Mentha, eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, lemongrass, rooibos, flax, Ginkgo biloba, hazel, hibiscus, laurel, mate, orange skin, rose, tea such as green tea or black tea, thyme, juniper, elderflower, basil, bay leaves, cumin, oregano, paprika, rosemary, saffron, lemon peel, mint, beefsteak plant, curcuma, cilantro, myrtle, cassis, valerian, pimento, mace, damien, marjoram, olive, lemon balm, lemon basil, chive, carvi, verbena, tarragon, limonene, thymol, camphene), flavor enhancers, bitterness receptor site blockers, sensorial receptor site activators or stimulators, sugars and / or sugar substitutes (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharine, cyclamates, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol), and other additives such as charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, botanicals, or breath freshening agents. Flavorants may be imitation, synthetic or natural ingredients or blends thereof. Flavorants may be in any suitable form, for example, in liquid form such as an oil, in solid form such as a powder, or in gas form.

[0142] In some example implementations, the flavorant 128 may include a sensate, which is intended to achieve a somatosensorial sensation which are usually chemically induced and perceived by the stimulation of the fifth cranial nerve (trigeminal nerve), in addition to or in place of aroma or taste nerves, and these may include agents providing heating, cooling, tingling, numbing effect. A suitable heat effect agent may be, but is not limited to, vanillyl ethyl ether and a suitable cooling agent may be, but not limited to, eucalyptol or WS-3.

[0143] The flavorant 128 can be included within the aerosol precursor composition in varying amounts, which can depend, for example, on the desired sensory characteristics to be associated with use of the aerosol precursor composition and the physical characteristics of the flavorant(s) (including, but not limited to, the volatility of the flavorant and the physical form of the flavorant). In some embodiments, the flavorant 128 (including a single flavorant or a combination of two or more flavorants) is included within the aerosol precursor composition in a total amount of about 40% by weight or less, about 35% by weight or less, or about 30% by weight or less, based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition. Example ranges of flavorant content are about 2% by weight to about 40% by weight, about 2% by weight to about 30% by weight, about 5% by weight to about 40% by weight, about 5% by weight to about 30% by weight, about 10% by weight to about 40% by weight, about 10% by weight to about 30% by weight, about 15% by weight to about 40% by weight, or about 15% by weight to about 30% by weight, based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition.

[0144] In some embodiments, these values are reported on the basis of “flavor packages,” i.e., flavors dissolved in a carrier liquid (which is a non-limiting manner by which the flavorants disclosed herein are incorporated within the final formulation). The carrier liquid can comprise, e.g., one or more aerosol-former materials. Typically, the amount of aerosol-former material in such flavor packages is greater on a weight / weight basis than the amount of flavorant. As such, relevant amounts of flavorants considered alone within various formulations (excluding any associated aerosol former material within the flavor package) can be, e.g., up to about 20% by weight, up to about 15% by weight, up to about 10% by weight, or up to about 8% by weight based on the final formulation (e.g., about 0.5% to about 20%, about 0.5% to about 15%, about 0.5% to about 10%, or about 0.5% to about 8% by weight).

[0145] The aerosol-former material 130 may include one or more constituents capable of forming an aerosol, i.e., aerosol formers. In some example implementations, the aerosol former may include one or more of glycerine (glycerin), glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, erythritol, meso-erythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, a diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, a diacetin mixture, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenyl acetate, tributyrin, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate. In some embodiments, aerosol-former material 130 comprises at least one polyhydric alcohol. Such polyhydric alcohols include, but are not limited to, glycerin, propylene glycol, and mixtures thereof.

[0146] The aerosol-former material 130 can be present in varying amounts. In some embodiments, the aerosol-former material is present in an amount of about 50% by weight or more, about 60% by weight or more, or about 70% by weight or more, based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition 124. In embodiments comprising glycerin and propylene glycol, these components can be present in such amounts (e.g., about 50% by weight or higher), and can be present in various ratio, with either component predominating depending upon the intended application. In some embodiments, the glycerin and propylene glycol are present such that the aerosol-former material 130 comprises a higher glycerin content than propylene glycol content. For example, glycerin can be present in an amount of about 40% by weight or higher (e.g., about 40% to about 70% or about 45% to about 70%) based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition 136, and propylene glycol can be present in an amount of about 5% by weight or higher (e.g., about 5% to about 40%, about 5% to about 35%, about 5% to about 30%, about 6% to about 26%, about 6% to about 30%, about 6% to about 35%, or about 6% to about 40%) based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition 136.

[0147] The one or more other functional materials 132 may include one or more of pH regulators, coloring agents, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers, and / or antioxidants. Suitable binders include, for example, pectin, guar gum, fruit pectin, citrus pectin, tobacco pectin, hydroxyethyl guar gum, hydroxypropyl guar gum, hydroxyethyl locust bean gum, hydroxypropyl locust bean gum, alginate, starch, modified starch, derivatized starch, methyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, ethylhydroxymethyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, tamarind gum, dextran, pullalon, konjac flour or xanthan gum.

[0148] In some embodiments, the aerosol precursor composition 124 further comprises water. The amount of water is typically limited such that the aerosol precursor composition comprises no more than about 10% by weight of water, no more than 8% by weight of water, no more than about 6% by weight water, no more than about 5% by weight water, no more than about 4% by weight water, or no more than about 3% by weight water. In certain embodiments, these values are indicative of the water intentionally added to the formulation (additional water may be unintentionally incorporated over time, depending, e.g., on the environment and packaging in which the formulations are stored).

[0149] The aerosol precursor composition can optionally comprise one or more organic acids 134. Organic acids particularly may be incorporated into the aerosol precursor to affect the flavor, sensation, or organoleptic properties of medicaments, such as nicotine, that may be combined with (or contained within) the liquid aerosol precursor composition. Certain examples of organic acids that can be included within the disclosed aerosol precursor compositions include, but are not limited to, acids such as levulinic acid, succinic acid, lactic acid, pyruvic acid, optionally substituted benzoic acid, fumaric acid, combinations thereof, and the like. Inclusion of an organic acid component 134 in aerosol precursor compositions including nicotine may provide a protonated liquid aerosol precursor composition, including nicotine in salt form.

[0150] The pH of the aerosol precursor composition 124 can vary and can be dependent, e.g., on the content and composition of the organic acid component 134. In some embodiments, the pH of the aerosol precursor composition is about 4 to about 7.5, e.g., about 5 to about 7.5, e.g., about 5.5 to about 7.5.

[0151] An aerosol delivery device according to the present disclosure may take on a variety of embodiments, as discussed in detail below. However, typically, the use of the aerosol delivery device by a consumer will be similar in scope. The foregoing description of the aerosol precursor composition is applicable to the various embodiments described through minor modifications, which are apparent to the person of skill in the art in light of the further disclosure provided herein. The description of use, however, is not intended to limit the use of the aerosol precursor composition 124 but is provided to comply with all necessary requirements of disclosure herein.

[0152] The aerosol precursor composition 124 described herein can be included within an article of a consumable 104, part or all of which is intended to be consumed during use by a user. An aerosol provision system 100 may include one or more consumables, and each consumable may include one or more liquid aerosol precursor compositions (which can be as described herein or which can be alternative types of compositions). In some examples in which the aerosol provision system is a hybrid product, the aerosol provision system may include a liquid aerosol precursor composition to generate an aerosol, which may then pass through a second, solid aerosol-generating material to pick up additional constituents before reaching the user. These aerosol-generating materials may be within a single consumable or respective consumables that may be separately removable.

[0153] The aerosol precursor composition 124 is capable of generating aerosol, for example when heated, irradiated or energized in any other way. The aerosol precursor composition may be, for example, in the form of a solid, semi-solid, liquid or gel. In certain preferred embodiments, the aerosol precursor composition 124 is a liquid aerosol precursor composition. The aerosol precursor composition may include an “amorphous solid,” which may be alternatively referred to as a “monolithic solid” (i.e., non-fibrous). In some examples, the amorphous solid may be a dried gel. The amorphous solid is a solid material that may retain some fluid, such as liquid, within it. In some examples, the aerosol precursor composition may include from about 50 wt. %, 60 wt. % or 70 wt. % of amorphous solid, to about 90 wt. %, 95 wt. % or 100 wt. % of amorphous solid.

[0154] Example implementations of the present disclosure are generally directed to delivery systems designed to deliver at least one substance to a user, such as to satisfy a particular “consumer moment.” The substance may include constituents that impart a physiological effect on the user, a sensorial effect on the user, or both.

[0155] As referenced above, by employing an organic acid component 136 comprising three different organic acids, the sensory characteristics of the aerosol formed from the aerosol precursor composition within the delivery system may be modified and, in some embodiments, surprising (e.g., positive) sensory / taste characteristics are associated with the inclusion of such an organic acid component.

[0156] Delivery systems for the disclosed aerosol precursor composition provided herein may take many forms. Examples of suitable delivery systems include aerosol provision systems such as powered aerosol provision systems designed to release one or more substances or compounds from an aerosol-generating material without combusting the aerosol precursor composition. These aerosol provision systems may at times be referred to as non-combustible aerosol provision systems, aerosol delivery devices or the like, and the aerosol-generating material / aerosol precursor composition may be, for example, in the form of a solid, semi-solid, liquid or gel and may or may not contain nicotine.

[0157] Examples of suitable aerosol provision systems include vapor products, heat-not-burn products, hybrid products and the like. Vapor products are commonly known as “electronic cigarettes,”“e-cigarettes” or electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), although the aerosol precursor composition need not include nicotine. Many vapor products are designed to heat a liquid material to generate an aerosol. Other vapor products are designed to break up an aerosol precursor composition into an aerosol without heating, or with only secondary heating. Heat-not-burn products include tobacco heating products (THPs) and carbon-tipped tobacco heating products (CTHPs), and many are designed to heat a solid material to generate an aerosol without combusting the material.

[0158] Hybrid products use a combination of aerosol precursor compositions, one or a plurality of which may be heated. Each of the aerosol precursor compositions may be, for example, in the form of a solid, semi-solid, liquid, or gel. Some hybrid products are similar to vapor products except that the aerosol generated from a liquid or gel aerosol precursor composition passes through a second material (such as tobacco) to pick up additional constituents before reaching the user. In some example implementations, the hybrid system includes a liquid or gel aerosol precursor composition, and a solid aerosol-generating material. A solid aerosol-generating material may include, for example, tobacco or a non-tobacco product.

[0159] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol provision system 100 according to some example implementations, incorporating the aerosol precursor composition provided herein. In various examples, the aerosol provision system may be a vapor product, heat-not-burn product or hybrid product. The aerosol provision system includes one or more of each of a number of components including, for example, an aerosol provision device 102, and a consumable 104 (sometimes referred to as an article) for use with the aerosol provision device. The aerosol provision system also includes an aerosol generator 106. In various implementations, the aerosol generator may be part of the aerosol provision device or the consumable. In other implementations, the aerosol generator may be separate from the aerosol provision device and the consumable, and removably engaged with the aerosol provision device and / or the consumable.

[0160] In various examples, the aerosol provision system 100 and its components including the aerosol provision device 102 and the consumable 104 may be reusable or single-use. In some examples, the aerosol provision system including both the aerosol provision device and the consumable may be single use. In some examples, the aerosol provision device may be reusable, and the consumable may be reusable (e.g., refillable) or single use (e.g., replaceable). In yet further examples, the consumable may be both refillable and also replaceable. In examples in which the aerosol generator 106 is part of the aerosol provision device or the consumable, the aerosol generator may be reusable or single-use in the same manner as the aerosol provision device or the consumable.

[0161] In some example implementations, the aerosol provision device 102 may include a housing 108 with a power source 110 and circuitry 112. The power source is configured to provide a source of power to the aerosol provision device and thereby the aerosol provision system 100. The power source may be or include, for example, an electric power source such as a non-rechargeable battery or a rechargeable battery, solid-state battery (SSB), lithium-ion battery, supercapacitor, or the like.

[0162] The circuitry 112 may be configured to enable one or more functionalities (at times referred to as services) of the aerosol provision device 102 and thereby the aerosol provision system 100. The circuitry includes electronic components, and in some examples one or more of the electronic components may be formed as a circuit board such as a printed circuit board (PCB).

[0163] In some examples, the circuitry 112 includes at least one switch 114 that may be directly or indirectly manipulated by a user to activate the aerosol provision device 102 and thereby the aerosol provision system 100. The switch may be or include a pushbutton, touch-sensitive surface or the like that may be operated manually by a user. Additionally or alternatively, the switch may be or include a sensor configured to sense one or more process variables that indicate use of the aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system. One example is a flow sensor, pressure sensor, pressure switch or the like that is configured to detect airflow or a change in pressure caused by airflow when a user draws on the consumable 104.

[0164] The switch 114 may provide user interface functionality. In some examples, the circuitry 112 may include a user interface (UI) 116 that is separate from or that is or includes the switch. The UI may include one or more input devices and / or output devices to enable interaction between the user and the aerosol provision device 102. As described above with respect to the switch, examples of suitable input devices include pushbuttons, touch-sensitive surfaces and the like. The one or more output devices generally include devices configured to provide information in a human-perceptible form that may be visual, audible or tactile / haptic. Examples of suitable output devices include light sources such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs), quantum dot-based LEDs and the like. Other examples of suitable output devices include display devices (e.g., electronic visual displays), touchscreens (integrated touch-sensitive surface and display device), loudspeakers, vibration motors and the like.

[0165] In some examples, the circuitry 112 includes processing circuitry 118 configured to perform data processing, application execution, or other processing, control or management services according to one or more example implementations. The processing circuitry may include a processor embodied in a variety of forms such as at least one processor core, microprocessor, coprocessor, controller, microcontroller or various other computing or processing devices including one or more integrated circuits such as, for example, an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), an FPGA (field programmable gate array), some combination thereof, or the like. In some examples, the processing circuitry may include memory coupled to or integrated with the processor, and which may store data, computer program instructions executable by the processor, some combination thereof, or the like.

[0166] As also shown, in some examples, the housing 108 and thereby the aerosol provision device 102 may also include a coupler 120 and / or a receptacle 122 structured to engage and hold the consumable 104, and thereby couple the aerosol provision device with the consumable. The coupler may be or include a connector, fastener or the like that is configured to connect with a corresponding coupler of the consumable, such as by a press fit (or interference fit) connection, threaded connection, magnetic connection or the like. The receptacle may be or include a reservoir, tank, container, cavity, receiving chamber or the like that is structured to receive and contain the consumable or at least a portion of the consumable.

[0167] In some example implementations, the aerosol precursor composition 124 may be present on or in a support to form a substrate 134. The support may be or include, for example, paper, card, paperboard, cardboard, reconstituted material (e.g., a material formed from reconstituted plant material, such as reconstituted tobacco, reconstituted hemp, etc.), a plastics material, a ceramic material, a composite material, glass, a metal, or a metal alloy. In some examples, the support includes a susceptor, which may be embedded within the aerosol precursor composition, or on one or either side of the aerosol precursor composition.

[0168] Although not separately shown, in some example implementations, the consumable 104 may further include receptacle structured to engage and hold the aerosol precursor composition 124, or substrate 134 with the aerosol precursor composition. The receptacle may be or include a reservoir, tank, container, cavity, receiving chamber or the like that is structured to receive and contain the aerosol precursor composition or the substrate. The consumable may include an aerosol precursor composition transfer component (also referred to as a liquid transport element) configured to transport aerosol precursor composition to the aerosol generator 106. The aerosol precursor composition transfer component may be adapted to wick or otherwise transport aerosol precursor composition via capillary action. In some examples, the aerosol precursor composition transfer component may include a microfluidic chip, a micro pump or other suitable component to transport aerosol precursor composition.

[0169] The aerosol generator 106 (also referred to as an atomizer, aerosolizer or aerosol production component) is configured to energize the aerosol precursor composition 124 to generate an aerosol, or otherwise cause generation of an aerosol from the aerosol-generating composition. More particularly, in some examples, the aerosol generator may be powered by the power source 110 under control of the circuitry 112 to energize the aerosol precursor composition to generate an aerosol.

[0170] In some example implementations, the aerosol generator 106 is an electric heater configured to perform electric heating in which electrical energy from the power source is converted to heat energy, which the aerosol-generating composition is subject to so as to release one or more volatiles from the aerosol-generating composition to form an aerosol. Examples of suitable forms of electric heating include resistance (Joule) heating, induction heating, dielectric and microwave heating, radiant heating, arc heating and the like. More particular examples of suitable electric heaters include resistive heating elements such as wire coils, flat plates, prongs, micro heaters or the like.

[0171] In some example implementations, the aerosol generator 106 is configured to cause an aerosol to be generated from the aerosol-generating composition without heating, or with only secondary heating. For example, the aerosol generator may be configured to subject the aerosol precursor composition 124 to one or more of increased pressure, vibration, or electrostatic energy. More particular examples of these aerosol generators include jet nebulizers, ultrasonic wave nebulizers, vibrating mesh technology (VMT) nebulizers, surface acoustic wave (SAW) nebulizers, and the like.

[0172] A jet nebulizer is configured to use compressed gas (e.g., air, oxygen) to break up aerosol precursor composition 124 into an aerosol, and an ultrasonic wave nebulizer is configured to use ultrasonic waves to break up the aerosol precursor composition into an aerosol. A VMT nebulizer includes a mesh, and a piezo material (e.g., piezoelectric material, piezomagnetic material) that may be driven to vibrate and cause the mesh to break up the aerosol precursor composition into an aerosol. A SAW nebulizer is configured to use surface acoustic waves or Rayleigh waves to break up the aerosol precursor composition into an aerosol.

[0173] In some examples, the aerosol generator 106 may include a susceptor, or the susceptor may be part of the substrate 134. The susceptor is a material that is heatable by penetration with a varying magnetic field generated by a magnetic field generator that may be separate from or part of the aerosol generator. The susceptor may be an electrically-conductive material, so that penetration thereof with a varying magnetic field causes induction heating of the heating material. The heating material may be magnetic material, so that penetration thereof with a varying magnetic field causes magnetic hysteresis heating of the heating material. The susceptor in some examples may be both electrically-conductive and magnetic, so that the susceptor of these examples is heatable by both heating mechanisms.

[0174] Although not separately shown, either or both the aerosol provision device 102 or the consumable 104 may include an aerosol-modifying agent. The aerosol-modifying agent is a substance configured to modify the aerosol generated from the aerosol precursor composition 124, such as by changing the taste, flavor, acidity or another characteristic of the aerosol. In various examples, the aerosol-modifying agent may be an additive or a sorbent. The aerosol-modifying agent may include, for example, one or more of a flavorant, colorant, water or carbon adsorbent. The aerosol-modifying agent may be a solid, semi-solid, liquid or gel. The aerosol-modifying agent may be in powder, thread or granule form. The aerosol-modifying agent may be free from filtration material. In some examples, the aerosol-modifying agent may be provided in an aerosol-modifying agent release component, that is operable to selectively release the aerosol-modifying agent.

[0175] The aerosol provision system 100 and its components including the aerosol provision device 102, consumable 104, and aerosol generator 106 may be manufactured with any of a number of different form factors, and with additional or alternative components relative to those described above.

[0176] FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate an aerosol provision system 200 in the form of a vapor product, and that in some example implementations may correspond to the aerosol provision system 100. As shown, the aerosol provision system 200 may include an aerosol provision device 202 (also referred to as a control body or power unit) and a consumable 204 (also referred to as a cartridge or tank), which may correspond to respectively the aerosol provision device 102 and the consumable 104. The aerosol provision system and in particular the consumable may also include an aerosol generator corresponding to the aerosol generator 106, and in the form of an electric heater 306 such as a heating element like a metal wire coil configured to convert electrical energy to heat energy through resistance (Joule) heating. The aerosol provision device and the consumable can be permanently or detachably aligned in a functioning relationship. FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate respectively a perspective view and a partially cut-away side view of the aerosol provision system in a coupled configuration.

[0177] As seen in FIG. 2 and the cut-away view illustrated in FIG. 3, the aerosol provision device 202 and consumable 204 each include a number of respective components. The components illustrated in FIG. 3 are representative of the components that may be present in an aerosol provision device and consumable and are not intended to limit the scope of components that are encompassed by the present disclosure.

[0178] The aerosol provision device 202 may include a housing 208 (sometimes referred to as an aerosol provision device shell) that may include a power source 310. The housing may also include circuitry 312 with a switch in the form of a sensor 314, a user interface including a light source 316 that may be illuminated with use of the aerosol provision system 200, and processing circuitry 318 (also referred to as a control component). The housing may also include a receptacle in the form of a consumable receiving chamber 322 structured to engage and hold the consumable 204. And the consumable may include an aerosol precursor composition 324 that may correspond to aerosol precursor composition 124 as described herein and that may include, in addition to the organic acid component, one or more of each of a number of constituents such as an active substance, flavorant, aerosol-former material or other functional material.

[0179] As also seen in FIG. 3, the aerosol provision device 202 may also include electrical connectors 336 positioned in the consumable receiving chamber 322 configured to electrically couple the circuitry and thereby the aerosol provision device with the consumable 204, and in particular electrical contacts 338 on the consumable. In this regard, the electrical connectors and electrical contacts may form a connection interface of the aerosol provision device and consumable. As also shown, the aerosol provision device may include an external electrical connector 340 to connect the aerosol provision device with one or more external devices. Examples of suitable external electrical connectors include USB connectors, proprietary connectors such as Apple's Lightning connector, and the like.

[0180] In various examples, the consumable 204 includes a tank portion and a mouthpiece portion. The tank portion and the mouthpiece portion may be integrated or permanently fixed together, or the tank portion may itself define the mouthpiece portion (or vice versa). In other examples, the tank portion and the mouthpiece portion may be separate and removably engaged with one another.

[0181] The consumable 204, tank portion and / or mouthpiece portion may be separately defined in relation to a longitudinal axis (L), a first transverse axis (T1) that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and a second transverse axis (T2) that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and is perpendicular to the first transverse axis. The consumable can be formed of a housing 342 (sometimes referred to as the consumable shell) enclosing a reservoir 344 (in the tank portion) configured to retain the aerosol precursor composition 324. In some examples, the consumable may include an aerosol generator, such as electric heater 306 in the illustrated example. In some examples, the electrical connectors 336 on the aerosol provision device 202 and electrical contacts 338 on the consumable may electrically connect the electric heater with the power source 310 and / or circuitry 312 of the aerosol provision device.

[0182] As shown, in some examples, the reservoir 344 may be in fluid communication with an aerosol precursor composition transfer component 346 adapted to wick or otherwise transport aerosol precursor composition 324 stored in the reservoir housing to the electric heater 306. At least a portion of the aerosol precursor composition transfer component may be positioned proximate (e.g., directly adjacent, adjacent, in close proximity to, or in relatively close proximity to) the electric heater. The aerosol precursor composition transfer component may extend between the electric heater and the aerosol precursor composition stored in the reservoir, and at least a portion of the electric heater may be located above a proximal end the reservoir. For the purposes of the present disclosure, it should be understood that the term “above” in this particular context should be interpreted as meaning toward a proximal end of the reservoir and / or the consumable 204 in direction substantially along the longitudinal axis (L). Other arrangements of the aerosol precursor composition transfer component are also contemplated within the scope of the disclosure. For example, in some example implementations, the aerosol precursor composition transfer component may be positioned proximate a distal end of the reservoir and / or arranged transverse to the longitudinal axis (L).

[0183] The electric heater 306 and aerosol precursor composition transfer component 346 may be configured as separate elements that are fluidly connected, or may be configured as a combined element. For example, in some implementations an electric heater may be integrated into an aerosol precursor composition transfer component. Moreover, the electric heater and the aerosol precursor composition transfer component may be formed of any construction as otherwise described herein. In some examples, a valve may be positioned between the reservoir 344 and electric heater, and configured to control an amount of aerosol precursor composition 324 passed or delivered from the reservoir to the electric heater.

[0184] An opening 348 may be present in the housing 342 (e.g., at the mouth end of the mouthpiece portion) to allow for egress of formed aerosol from the consumable 204.

[0185] As indicated above, the circuitry 312 of the aerosol provision device 202 may include a number of electronic components, and in some examples may be formed of a circuit board such as a PCB that supports and electrically connects the electronic components. The sensor 314 (switch) may be one of these electronic components positioned on the circuit board. In some examples, the sensor may comprise its own circuit board or other base element to which it can be attached. In some examples, a flexible circuit board may be utilized. A flexible circuit board may be configured into a variety of shapes. In some examples, a flexible circuit board may be combined with, layered onto, or form part or all of a heater substrate.

[0186] In some examples, the reservoir 344 may be a container for storing the aerosol precursor composition 324. In some examples, the reservoir may be or include a fibrous reservoir with a substrate with the aerosol precursor composition present on or in a support. For example, the reservoir can comprise one or more layers of nonwoven fibers substantially formed into the shape of a tube encircling the interior of the housing 342, in this example. The aerosol precursor composition may be retained in the reservoir. Liquid components, for example, may be sorptively retained by the reservoir. The reservoir may be in fluid connection with the aerosol precursor composition transfer component 346. The aerosol precursor composition transfer component may transport the aerosol precursor composition stored in the reservoir via capillary action—or via a micro pump—to the electric heater 306. As such, the electric heater is in a heating arrangement with the aerosol precursor composition transfer component.

[0187] In use, when a user draws on the aerosol provision system 200, airflow is detected by the sensor 314, and the electric heater 306 is activated to energize the aerosol precursor composition 324 to generate an aerosol. Drawing upon the mouth end of the aerosol provision system causes ambient air to enter and pass through the aerosol provision system. In the consumable 204, the drawn air combines with the aerosol that is whisked, aspirated or otherwise drawn away from the electric heater and out the opening 348 in the mouth end of the aerosol provision system.

[0188] Again, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the aerosol generator of the aerosol provision system 200 is an electric heater 306 designed to heat the aerosol precursor composition 324 to generate an aerosol. In other implementations, the aerosol generator is designed to break up the aerosol precursor composition without heating, or with only secondary heating. FIG. 4 illustrates a nebulizer 400 that may be used to implement the aerosol generator of an aerosol provision system, according to some these other example implementations.

[0189] As shown in FIG. 4, the nebulizer 400 includes a mesh plate 402 and a piezo material 404 that may be affixed to one another. The piezo material may be driven to vibrate and cause the mesh plate to break up the aerosol precursor composition into an aerosol. In some examples, the nebulizer may also include a supporting component located on a side of the mesh plate opposite the piezo material to increase the longevity of the mesh plate, and / or an auxiliary component between the mesh plate and the piezo material to facilitate interfacial contact between the mesh plate and the piezo material.

[0190] In various example implementations, the mesh plate 402 may have a variety of different configurations. The mesh plate may have a flat profile, a domed shape (concave or convex with respect to the aerosol precursor composition), or a flat portion and a domed portion. The mesh plate defines a plurality of perforations 406 that may be substantially uniform or vary in size across a perforated portion of the mesh plate. The perforations may be circular openings or non-circular openings (e.g., oval, rectangular, triangular, regular polygon, irregular polygon). In three-dimensions, the perforations may have a fixed cross section such as in the case of cylindrical perforations with a fixed circular cross section, or a variable cross section such as in the case of truncated cone perforations with a variable circular cross section. In other implementations, the perforations may be tetragonal or pyramidal.

[0191] The piezo material 404 may be or include a piezoelectric material or a piezomagnetic material. A piezoelectric material may be coupled to circuitry configured to produce an oscillating electric signal to drive the piezoelectric material to vibrate. For a piezomagnetic material, the circuitry may produce a pair of antiphase, oscillating electric signals to drive a pair of magnets to produce antiphase, oscillating magnetic fields that drives the piezomagnetic material to vibrate.

[0192] The piezo material 404 may be affixed to the mesh plate 402, and vibration of the piezo material may in turn cause the mesh plate to vibrate. The mesh plate may be in contact with or immersed in the aerosol precursor composition, in sufficient proximity of the aerosol precursor composition, or may otherwise receive aerosol precursor composition via an aerosol precursor composition transfer component. The vibration of the mesh plate, then, may cause the aerosol precursor composition to pass through the perforations 406 that break up the aerosol precursor composition into an aerosol. More particularly, in some examples, the aerosol precursor composition may be driven through the perforations 406 in the vibrating mesh plate 402 resulting in aerosol particles. In other examples in which the mesh plate is in contact with or immersed in aerosol precursor composition, the vibrating mesh plate may create ultrasonic waves within the aerosol precursor composition that cause formation of an aerosol at the surface of the aerosol precursor composition.

[0193] As described above, hybrid products use a combination of aerosol precursor compositions, and some hybrid products are similar to vapor products except that the aerosol generated from one aerosol precursor composition may pass through a second aerosol precursor composition to pick up additional constituents. Another similar aerosol provision system in the form of a hybrid product may therefore be constructed similar to the vapor product in FIGS. 2 and 3 (with an electric heater 306 or a nebulizer 400). The hybrid product may include a second aerosol precursor composition through which aerosol from the aerosol precursor composition 324 is passed to pick up additional constituents before passing through the opening 348 in the mouth end of the aerosol provision system.

[0194] FIGS. 5, 6 and 7 illustrate an aerosol provision system 500 in the form of a heat-not-burn product, and that in some example implementations may correspond to the aerosol provision system 100. As shown, the aerosol provision system may include an aerosol provision device 502 (also referred to as a control body or power unit) and a consumable 504 (also referred to as an aerosol source member), which may correspond to respectively the aerosol provision device 102 and the consumable 104. The aerosol provision system and in particular the aerosol provision device may also include an aerosol generator corresponding to the aerosol generator 106, and in the form of an electric heater 706. The aerosol provision device and the consumable can be permanently or detachably aligned in a functioning relationship. FIG. 5 illustrates the aerosol provision system in a coupled configuration, whereas FIG. 6 illustrates the aerosol provision system in a decoupled configuration. FIG. 7 illustrates a partially cut-away side view of the aerosol provision system in the coupled configuration.

[0195] As seen in FIGS. 5, 6 and 7, the aerosol provision device 502 and consumable 504 each include a number of respective components. The components illustrated in the figures are representative of the components that may be present in an aerosol provision device and consumable and are not intended to limit the scope of components that are encompassed by the present disclosure.

[0196] The aerosol provision device 502 may include a housing 708 (sometimes referred to as an aerosol provision device shell) that may include a power source 710. The housing may also include circuitry 712 with a switch in the form of a sensor 714, a user interface including a light source 716 that may be illuminated with use of the aerosol provision system 500, and processing circuitry 718 (also referred to as a control component). In some examples, at least some of the electronic components of the circuitry may be formed of a circuit board or a flexible circuit board that supports and electrically connects the electronic components.

[0197] The housing 708 may also include a receptacle in the form of a consumable receiving chamber 722 structured to engage and hold the consumable 504. The consumable may include an aerosol precursor composition 624 that may correspond to aerosol precursor composition 124, and that may include one or more of each of a number of constituents in addition to the organic acid component described above, such as an active substance, flavorant, aerosol-former material or other functional material. In some embodiments, the aerosol precursor composition may be present on or in a support to form a substrate 634.

[0198] In the coupled configuration of the aerosol provision system 500, the consumable 504 may be held in the receiving chamber 722 in varying degrees. In some examples, less than half or approximately half of the consumable may be held in the receiving chamber. In other examples, more than half of the consumable may be held in the receiving chamber. In yet other examples, substantially the entire consumable may be held in the receiving chamber.

[0199] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, in various implementations of the present disclosure, the consumable 504 may include a heated end 636 sized and shaped for insertion into the aerosol provision device 502, and a mouth end 638 upon which a user draws to create the aerosol. In various implementations, at least a portion of the heated end may include the aerosol precursor composition 624.

[0200] In some example implementations, the mouth end 608 of the consumable 504 may include a filter 640 made of a material such as cellulose acetate or polypropylene. The filter may additionally or alternatively contain strands of tobacco containing material. In some examples, at least a portion of the consumable may be wrapped in an exterior overwrap material, which may be formed of any material useful to provide additional structure, support and / or thermal resistance. In some examples, an excess length of the overwrap at the mouth end of the consumable may function to simply separate the aerosol precursor composition 624 from the mouth of a user or to provide space for positioning of a filter material, or to affect draw on the consumable or to affect flow characteristics of the aerosol leaving the consumable during draw.

[0201] The electric heater 706 may perform electric heating of the aerosol precursor composition 624 by resistance (Joule) heating, induction heating, dielectric and microwave heating, radiant heating, arc heating and the like. The electric heater may have a variety of different configurations. In some examples, at least a portion of the electric heater may surround or at least partially surround at least a portion of the consumable 504 including the aerosol precursor composition when inserted in the aerosol provision device 502. In other examples, at least a portion of the electric heater may penetrate the consumable when the consumable is inserted into the aerosol provision device. In some examples, the substrate 634 material may include a susceptor, which may be embedded within the aerosol precursor composition, or on one or either side of the aerosol precursor composition.

[0202] Although shown as a part of the aerosol provision device 502, the electric heater 706 may instead be a part of the consumable 504. In some examples, the electric heater or a part of the electric heater may be may be combined, packaged or integral with (e.g., embedded within) the aerosol precursor composition 624.

[0203] As shown, in some examples, the electric heater 706 may extend proximate an engagement end of the housing 708, and may be configured to substantially surround a portion of the heated end 636 of the consumable 504 that includes the aerosol precursor composition 624. The electric heater 706 may be or may include an outer cylinder 742, and one or more resistive heating elements 744 such as prongs surrounded by the outer cylinder to create the receiving chamber 722, which may extend from a receiving base 746 of the aerosol provision device to an opening 748 of the housing 708 of the aerosol provision device. In some examples, the outer cylinder may be a double-walled vacuum tube constructed of stainless steel so as to maintain heat generated by the resistive heating element(s) within the outer cylinder, and more particularly, maintain heat generated by the resistive heating element(s) within the aerosol precursor composition.

[0204] Like the electric heater 706, the resistive heating element(s) 744 may have a variety of different configurations, and vary in number from one resistive heating element to a plurality of resistive heating elements. As shown, the resistive heating element(s) may extend from a receiving base 746 of the aerosol provision device 502. In some examples, the resistive heating element(s) may be located at or around an approximate radial center of the heated end 636 of the consumable 504 when inserted into the aerosol provision device. In some examples, the resistive heating element(s) may penetrate into the heated end of the consumable and in direct contact with the aerosol precursor composition. In other examples, the resistive heating element(s) may be located inside (but out of direct contact with) a cavity defined by an inner surface of the heated end of the consumable.

[0205] In some examples, the resistive heating element(s) 744 of the electric heater 706 may be connected in an electrical circuit that includes the power source 710 such that electric current produced by the power source may pass through the resistive heating element(s). The passage of the electric current through the resistive heating element(s) may in turn cause the resistive heating element(s) to produce heat through resistance (Joule) heating.

[0206] In other examples, the electric heater 706 including the outer cylinder 742 and the resistive heating element(s) 744 may be configured to perform induction heating in which the outer cylinder may be connected in an electrical circuit that includes the power source 710, and the resistive heating element(s) may be connected in another electrical circuit. In this configuration, the outer cylinder and resistive heating element(s) may function as a transformer in which the outer cylinder is an induction transmitter, and the resistive heating element(s) is / are an induction receiver. In some of these examples, the outer cylinder and the resistive heating element(s) may parts of the aerosol provision device 502. In other of these examples, the outer cylinder may be a part of the aerosol provision device, and the resistive heating element(s) may be a part of the consumable 504.

[0207] The outer cylinder 730 may be provided an alternating current directly from the power source 710, or indirectly from the power source in which an inverter (as part of the circuitry 712) is configured to convert direct current from the power source to an alternating current. The alternating current drives the outer cylinder to generate an oscillating magnetic field, which induces eddy currents in the resistive heating element(s) 744. The eddy currents in turn cause the resistive heating element(s) to generate heat through resistance (Joule) heating. In these examples, the resistive heating element(s) may be wirelessly heated to form an aerosol from the aerosol precursor composition 624 positioned in proximity to the resistive heating element(s).

[0208] In various example implementations, the aerosol provision device 502 may include an air intake 750 (e.g., one or more openings or apertures) in the housing 708 (and perhaps also the receiving base 746) to enable airflow into the receiving chamber 722. When a user draws on the mouth end 638 of the consumable 504, the airflow may be drawn through the air intake into the receiving chamber, pass into the consumable, and drawn through the aerosol precursor composition 624. The airflow may be detected by the sensor 714, and the electric heater 706 may be activated to energize the aerosol precursor composition to generate an aerosol. The airflow may combine with the aerosol that is whisked, aspirated or otherwise drawn out an opening at the mouth end of the aerosol provision system. In examples including the filter 640, the airflow combined with the aerosol may be drawn out an opening of the filter at the mouth end.

[0209] The disclosure also provides a method for the preparation of an aerosol precursor composition, comprising combining an organic acid component 136 with one or more one or more of each of a number of constituents such as active substance 126, flavorant 128, aerosol-former material 130 or other functional material 132. The components of aerosol precursor composition 124 can be combined in various orders and two or more components can, in some embodiments, be pre-mixed and added to the composition together in pre-mix form. In other embodiments, the components can be independently added to the composition. In one embodiment, at least one of the organic acids of the organic acid component 136 is first combined with nicotine, e.g., in water, and subsequently combined with other components as described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0116863 to Dull et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0210] In addition, the disclosure provides kits that provide a variety of components as described herein. For example, a kit may comprise a control body with one or more aerosol generating components / cartridges (including at least one such component comprising a liquid aerosol precursor composition as provide herein). In further embodiments, a kit may comprise a plurality of aerosol generating components / cartridges. In the above embodiments, the aerosol generating components or the control bodies may be provided with a heating member inclusive thereto. A kit may further comprise one or more charging components and / or one or more batteries. The kits may further include a case (or other packaging, transporting, or storage component) that accommodates one or more of the further kit components. The case could be a reusable hard or soft container. Further, the case could be simply a box or other packaging structure.

[0211] It is noted that, although the present application focuses on use of stabilizing agents for use in aerosol precursor compositions, the principles and components outlined herein can, in some embodiments, be applicable in other contexts, e.g., in capsule technologies for smokable products, e.g., cigarettes and heated tobacco products. Such embodiments are intended to be encompassed within the disclosure as well.

[0212] Many modifications and other implementations of the disclosure will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated figures. Therefore, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not to be limited to the specific implementations disclosed herein and that modifications and other implementations are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.EXPERIMENTALSExample 1: Example Formulations and Preparation

[0213] Aerosol precursor compositions were prepared according to the following general components and amounts in the tables below. Percentages are reported in volume, based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition.

[0214] Experimental and control samples were stored in capped Nalgene bottles under ambient conditions (25° C., atmospheric pressure) for up to six months, with visual observation over time (looking e.g., for liquid layer separation and / or ingredient precipitation).TABLE 1Example formulationsAerosol formerStabilizingPropyleneSampleAgentGlycerinGlycolFlavorantWaterPolysorbate / sorbitan ester as stabilizing agentA 8-10%55-60%22-25%0.8-1.2%8-10%(menthol)Control A0%60-65%25-30%0.8-1.2%8-10%(menthol)Gum / hydrocolloid / binder as stabilizing agentB0.2-0.5%60-65%25-30%0.5-1.0%8-10%(menthol)Control B0%60-65%25-30%0.5-1.0%8-10%(menthol)Fatty Acids, Mono-, Di-, or Tri-Glycerides as stabilizing agentC0.2-0.5%60-65%25-30%0.5-1.0%8-10%(menthol)Control C0%60-65%25-30%0.5-1.0%8-10%(menthol)Polyol as stabilizing agentD1-5%60-65%25-30%0.5-1.0%8-10%(menthol)Control D0%60-65%25-30%0.5-1.0%8-10%(menthol)Preservative as stabilizing agentE0.2-0.8%60-65%25-30%0.5-1.0%8-10%(menthol)Control E0%60-65%25-30%0.5-1.0%8-10%(menthol)

[0215] Results were based on visual observations up to six months at ambient temperature (25-30° C.), and refrigeration (5-8° C.) storage temperatures. All of the control compositions with >6% water showed flavorant (menthol) separation and crystallization to the top of the storage vials when refrigerated for more than 1 week. Ambient temperature storage resulted in menthol separation after 2-3 weeks.

[0216] The most stable liquid compositions after 3-6 months (no menthol separation or recrystallization at 8-10% moisture) under ambient or refrigeration storage were observed as follows in a descending (best to worse) order: A (Polysorbates / sorbitan esters: polysorbate 60, sorbitan monooleate)>D1 (polyols: sorbitol, maltitol, xylitol)>B (gums / binders: guar gum, gum acacia, CMC, alginate)>D2 (non-sugar polyols: triethylene glycol, 1,3-propandiol), C1 (triglycerides: glycerol tristearate, triacetin)>>C2 (fatty acids: stearic acid, palmitic acid), E (preservatives: sorbate and benzoic acids).

Examples

example 1

Example Formulations and Preparation

[0213]Aerosol precursor compositions were prepared according to the following general components and amounts in the tables below. Percentages are reported in volume, based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition.

[0214]Experimental and control samples were stored in capped Nalgene bottles under ambient conditions (25° C., atmospheric pressure) for up to six months, with visual observation over time (looking e.g., for liquid layer separation and / or ingredient precipitation).

TABLE 1Example formulationsAerosol formerStabilizingPropyleneSampleAgentGlycerinGlycolFlavorantWaterPolysorbate / sorbitan ester as stabilizing agentA 8-10%55-60%22-25%0.8-1.2%8-10%(menthol)Control A0%60-65%25-30%0.8-1.2%8-10%(menthol)Gum / hydrocolloid / binder as stabilizing agentB0.2-0.5%60-65%25-30%0.5-1.0%8-10%(menthol)Control B0%60-65%25-30%0.5-1.0%8-10%(menthol)Fatty Acids, Mono-, Di-, or Tri-Glycerides as stabilizing agentC0.2-0.5%60-65%25-30%0.5-1.0%8-10%(ment...

TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to aerosol provision systems such as smoking articles designed to deliver at least one substance to a user, and to formulations for use therein.BACKGROUND

[0002] Many aerosol provision systems and in particular non-combustible aerosol provision systems have been proposed through the years as improvements upon, or alternatives to, smoking products that require combusting tobacco for use. These systems are generally designed to deliver at least one substance to a user, such as to satisfy a particular “consumer moment.” To this end, the substance may include constituents that impart a physiological effect on the user, a sensorial effect on the user, or both. The substance may be generally present in an aerosol precursor composition that may contain one or more constituents of a range of constituents, such as active substances, flavors, aerosol-former materials and other functional materials like fillers.

[0003] Aerosol provision systems include, for example, vapor products commonly known as “electronic cigarettes,”“e-cigarettes” or electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), as well as heat-not-burn products including tobacco heating products (THPs) and carbon-tipped tobacco heating products (CTHPs). Many of these products take the form of a system including a device and a consumable, and it is the consumable that includes the material from which the substance to be delivered originates. Typically, the device is reusable, and the consumable is single-use (although some consumables are refillable). Therefore, in many cases, the consumable is sold separately from the device, and often in a multipack. Moreover, subsystems and some individual components of devices or consumables may be sourced from specialist manufacturers.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0004] Example implementations of the present disclosure are directed to formulations (liquid aerosol precursor compositions) for use in an aerosol delivery device. Such formulations advantageously comprise, in addition to an active ingredient and at least one aerosol former, one or more stabilizing agents. In particular embodiments, the stabilizing agent is particularly useful in stabilizing a flavorant within the liquid aerosol precursor composition (e.g., avoiding precipitation of the flavorant or other component and / or avoiding liquid layer separation within the composition). The use of stabilizing agents, as demonstrated herein, may lead to longer shelf life for e-liquids.

[0005] In one aspect of the present disclosure is provided a method of enhancing the stability of a flavorant within a liquid aerosol precursor composition, comprising incorporating one or more stabilizing agents in a liquid aerosol precursor composition to give a stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition with enhanced shelf life as compared to the liquid aerosol precursor composition, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are selected from the group consisting of polysorbates, sorbitan esters, binders, monoglycerides, diglycerides, triglycerides, free fatty acids, waxes, preservatives, and combinations thereof, and wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are different than any components otherwise present in the liquid aerosol precursor composition.

[0006] In some embodiments, the one or more stabilizing agents are one or more polysorbates, one or more sorbitan esters, or a combination thereof. For example, in certain embodiments, the one or more stabilizing agents are selected from the group consisting of sorbitan monostearate (Span 60), sorbitan monolaurate (Span 20), sorbitan tristearate (Span 65), sorbitan monooleate (Span 80), sorbitan monopalmitate (Span 40), polysorbate 20 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate, TWEEN® 20), polysorbate 60 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monostearate, TWEEN® 60), polysorbate 80 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate, TWEEN® 80), polysorbate 65 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan tristearate, TWEEN® 65), and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the one or more stabilizing agents are incorporated in an amount about 2% to about 18% by volume, based on a total volume of the stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition, e.g., in an amount about 6% to about 12% by volume, based on a total volume of the stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition.

[0007] In some embodiments, the one or more stabilizing agents are selected from the group consisting of one or more binders, monoglycerides, diglycerides, triglycerides, free fatty acids, waxes, or any combination thereof.

[0008] For example, in certain embodiments, the one or more stabilizing agents are binders selected from the group consisting of gums, alginates, starches, carrageenans, agar, pectin, cellulose derivatives, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the one or more stabilizing agents are selected from the group consisting of xanthan gum, guar gum, gum arabic, ghatti gum, gum tragacanth, karaya gum, locust bean gum, gellan gum, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the gum comprises xanthan gum, guar gum, gum acacia, locust bean gum, gum tragacanth, or a combination thereof. Other suitable gums include modified gums, such as hydroxyethyl guar, hydroxypropyl guar, hydroxyethyl locust bean gum, hydroxypropyl locust bean gum, ammonium alginate, propylene glycol alginate, potassium alginate, sodium alginate, corn starch, rice starch, monostarch phosphate, distarch glycerol, distarch phosphate esterified with sodium trimetaphosphate, phosphate distarch phosphate, acetylated distarch phosphate, starch acetate esterified with acetic anhydride, starch acetate esterified with vinyl acetate, acetylated distarch adipate, acetylated distarch glycerol, hydroxypropyl starch, hydroxypropyl distarch glycerol, and starch sodium octenyl succinate, methylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose (“CMC”), hydroxypropylcellulose (“HPC”), hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (“HPMC”), hydroxyethyl cellulose, and combinations thereof.

[0009] In some embodiments, the one or more stabilizing agents are monoglycerides, diglycerides, triglycerides, free fatty acids, waxes, or any combination thereof, selected from the group consisting of palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, sapienic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, lauric acid, arachidic acid, behenic acid, lignoceric acid, cerotic acid, arachidonic acid, myristic acid, myristoleic acid, petroselinic acid, vaccenic acid, godoleic acid, gondoic acid, brassidic acid, elaidic acid, vaccenic acid, linoleic acid, linoelaidic acid, elcosapentaenoic acid, erucic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, nervonic acid, capric acid, caprylic acid, monolaurin, glycerol monostearate, glycerol hydroxystearate, diacetin, dibutyrin, dipalmitin, diolein, dicaprin, triolein, tributyrin, tripalmitin, tricaprin, tristearin, tricaproin, glycerol 1,3-distearate-2-octanoate; glycerol 2,3-diolate-1-palmitate, glycerol 2,3-dioleate-1-palmitate, glycerol-2-linoleate-3-oleate-1-palmitate, and glycerol 1,2-distearate-3-octanoate, bees wax, carnauba wax, candelila wax, paraffin wax, sugarcane wax, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the one or more stabilizing agents are monoglycerides, diglycerides, triglycerides, free fatty acids, waxes, or any combination thereof, selected from the group consisting of palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, sapienic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, arachidic acid, behenic acid, lignoceric acid, cerotic acid, arachidonic acid, myristoleic acid, petroselinic acid, vaccenic acid, godoleic acid, gondoic acid, brassidic acid, elaidic acid, vaccenic acid, linoleic acid, linoelaidic acid, elcosapentaenoic acid, erucic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, nervonic acid, capric acid, caprylic acid, monolaurin, glycerol monostearate, glycerol hydroxystearate, dibutyrin, dipalmitin, diolein, dicaprin, triolein, tripalmitin, tricaprin, tristearin, tricaproin, glycerol 1,3-distearate-2-octanoate; glycerol 2,3-diolate-1-palmitate, glycerol 2,3-dioleate-1-palmitate, glycerol-2-linoleate-3-oleate-1-palmitate, and glycerol 1,2-distearate-3-octanoate, bees wax, carnauba wax, candelila wax, paraffin wax, sugarcane wax, and combinations thereof.

[0010] In some embodiments, the one or more stabilizing agents are one or more preservatives selected from the group consisting of sodium sorbate, sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, sodium ascorbate, or any combination thereof. In some such embodiments, the method comprises combining the one or more stabilizing agents with an aerosol-former material to give a mixture and then combining the mixture with additional components to form the stabilized aerosol precursor composition.

[0011] In some embodiments, the one or more stabilizing agents are incorporated in an amount about 0.1% to about 3% by volume, based on a total volume of the stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition, e.g., in an amount about 0.1% to about 1% by volume, based on a total volume of the stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition.

[0012] In another aspect of the disclosure is provided a method of enhancing the stability of a flavorant within a liquid aerosol precursor composition, comprising incorporating one or more stabilizing agents in a liquid aerosol precursor composition to give a stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition with enhanced shelf life as compared to the liquid aerosol precursor composition, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents comprise a sugar alcohol in an amount greater than 10% by weight of the stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition, and wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are different than any components otherwise present in the liquid aerosol precursor composition.

[0013] In some embodiments, the sugar alcohol is selected from the group consisting of sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol, xylitol, erythritol, threitol, arabitol, ribitol, dulcitol, iditol, lactitol, polyglycitol, isomalt, hydrogenated starch hydrosylates, and combinations thereof. For example, in some embodiments, the sugar alcohol is selected from the group consisting of sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol (e.g., in the form of maltitol syrup), xylitol, erythritol, isomalt, and combinations thereof.

[0014] In a further aspect is provided a method of enhancing the stability of a flavorant within a liquid aerosol precursor composition, comprising incorporating one or more stabilizing agents in a liquid aerosol precursor composition to give a stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition with enhanced shelf life as compared to the liquid aerosol precursor composition, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents comprise a non-sugar based polyol, and wherein the non-sugar based polyol is different than any non-sugar based polyol otherwise present in the liquid aerosol precursor composition.

[0015] In some embodiments, the one or more stabilizing agents are selected from the group consisting of propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 1,3-propanediol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, glycerin, glycerol, trimetholpropane, 1,3-butylene glycol, pentaerythritol and combinations thereof. For example, the one or more stabilizing agents can be selected from the group consisting of ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 1,3-propanediol, trimetholpropane, pentaerythritol and combinations thereof.

[0016] As a still further aspect, the disclosure provides a liquid aerosol precursor composition adapted for use in an aerosol delivery device, comprising: at least one aerosol-former material, at least one active agent, at least one flavorant, and at least one stabilizing agent selected from the group consisting of sorbitan monostearate (Span 60), sorbitan monolaurate (Span 20), sorbitan tristearate (Span 65), sorbitan monooleate (Span 80), sorbitan monopalmitate (Span 40), polysorbate 20 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate, TWEEN® 20), polysorbate 60 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monostearate, TWEEN® 60), polysorbate 80 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate, TWEEN® 80), polysorbate 65 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan tristearate, TWEEN® 65), palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, sapienic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, arachidic acid, behenic acid, lignoceric acid, cerotic acid, arachidonic acid, myristoleic acid, petroselinic acid, vaccenic acid, godoleic acid, gondoic acid, brassidic acid, elaidic acid, vaccenic acid, linoleic acid, linoelaidic acid, elcosapentaenoic acid, erucic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, nervonic acid, capric acid, caprylic acid, monolaurin, glycerol monostearate, glycerol hydroxystearate, dibutyrin, dipalmitin, diolein, dicaprin, triolein, tripalmitin, tricaprin, tristearin, tricaproin, glycerol 1,3-distearate-2-octanoate; glycerol 2,3-diolate-1-palmitate, glycerol 2,3-dioleate-1-palmitate, glycerol-2-linoleate-3-oleate-1-palmitate, glycerol 1,2-distearate-3-octanoate, bees wax, camauba wax, candelila wax, paraffin wax, sugarcane wax, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 1,3-propanediol, trimetholpropane, pentaerythritol and combinations thereof.

[0017] In some such embodiments, the stabilizing agent can be selected from the group consisting of sorbitan monostearate (Span 60), sorbitan monolaurate (Span 20), sorbitan tristearate (Span 65), sorbitan monooleate (Span 80), sorbitan monopalmitate (Span 40), polysorbate 20 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate, TWEEN® 20), polysorbate 60 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monostearate, TWEEN® 60), polysorbate 80 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate, TWEEN® 80), polysorbate 65 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan tristearate, TWEEN® 65), and combinations thereof, and wherein the stabilizing agent is present in an amount of about 5% to about 15% by volume, based on a total volume of the aerosol precursor composition.

[0018] In some such embodiments, the stabilizing agent is selected from the group consisting of palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, sapienic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, arachidic acid, behenic acid, lignoceric acid, cerotic acid, arachidonic acid, myristoleic acid, petroselinic acid, vaccenic acid, godoleic acid, gondoic acid, brassidic acid, elaidic acid, vaccenic acid, linoleic acid, linoelaidic acid, elcosapentaenoic acid, erucic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, nervonic acid, capric acid, caprylic acid, monolaurin, glycerol monostearate, glycerol hydroxystearate, dibutyrin, dipalmitin, diolein, dicaprin, triolein, tripalmitin, tricaprin, tristearin, tricaproin, glycerol 1,3-distearate-2-octanoate; glycerol 2,3-diolate-1-palmitate, glycerol 2,3-dioleate-1-palmitate, glycerol-2-linoleate-3-oleate-1-palmitate, and glycerol 1,2-distearate-3-octanoate, bees wax, carnauba wax, candelila wax, paraffin wax, sugarcane wax, and combinations thereof, and wherein the stabilizing agent is present in an amount of about 0.1% to about 2% by volume, based on a total volume of the aerosol precursor composition.

[0019] In some such embodiments, the stabilizing agent is selected from the group consisting of ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 1,3-propanediol, trimetholpropane, pentaerythritol and combinations thereof, and wherein the stabilizing agent is present in an amount of about 0.5% to about 5% by volume, based on a total volume of the aerosol precursor composition.

[0020] In some embodiments, the liquid aerosol precursor composition comprises one or more aerosol-former materials and one or more active agents. In some embodiments, the flavorant comprises menthol. In some embodiments, the one or more aerosol-former materials comprise glycerin and propylene glycol. In some embodiments, the one or more active agents comprise nicotine. In some embodiments, the one or more active agents comprise a cannabinoid. In some embodiments, the pH of the liquid aerosol precursor composition is about 5 to about 7.5.

[0021] The disclosure also provides an aerosol delivery device, comprising: a housing enclosing a chamber containing a liquid aerosol precursor composition as disclosed herein, a heat source in fluid communication with the chamber and configured to heat the liquid aerosol precursor composition to form an aerosol; and an aerosol pathway positioned to carry the aerosol to a mouth-end of the aerosol delivery device.

[0022] In some embodiments, the heat source comprises an electrically powered heating element, and the aerosol delivery device further comprises a power source electronically connected to the heating element. In some embodiments, the device further comprises a controller configured to control the power transmitted by the power source to the heating element.

[0023] In an additional aspect of the disclosure is provided a kit, comprising: a control body; and one or more cartridges, each cartridge comprising a housing enclosing a chamber containing a liquid aerosol precursor composition as disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the kit further comprises one or more charging components or one or more batteries.

[0024] The present disclosure includes, without limitation, the following embodiments.

[0025] Embodiment 1: A method of enhancing the stability of a flavorant within a liquid aerosol precursor composition, comprising incorporating one or more stabilizing agents in a liquid aerosol precursor composition to give a stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition with enhanced shelf life as compared to the liquid aerosol precursor composition, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are selected from the group consisting of polysorbates, sorbitan esters, binders, monoglycerides, diglycerides, triglycerides, free fatty acids, waxes, preservatives, and combinations thereof, and wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are different than any components otherwise present in the liquid aerosol precursor composition.

[0026] Embodiment 2: The method of Embodiment 1, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are one or more polysorbates, one or more sorbitan esters, or a combination thereof.

[0027] Embodiment 3: The method of Embodiment 2, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are selected from the group consisting of sorbitan monostearate (Span 60), sorbitan monolaurate (Span 20), sorbitan tristearate (Span 65), sorbitan monooleate (Span 80), sorbitan monopalmitate (Span 40), polysorbate 20 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate, TWEEN® 20), polysorbate 60 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monostearate, TWEEN® 60), polysorbate 80 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate, TWEEN® 80), polysorbate 65 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan tristearate, TWEEN® 65), and combinations thereof.

[0028] Embodiment 4: The method of any of Embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are incorporated in an amount about 2% to about 18% by volume, based on a total volume of the stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition.

[0029] Embodiment 5: The method of Embodiment 4, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are incorporated in an amount about 6% to about 12% by volume, based on a total volume of the stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition.

[0030] Embodiment 6: The method of Embodiment 1, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are selected from the group consisting of one or more binders, monoglycerides, diglycerides, triglycerides, free fatty acids, waxes, or any combination thereof.

[0031] Embodiment 7: The method of Embodiment 6, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are binders selected from the group consisting of gums, alginates, starches, carrageenans, agar, pectin, cellulose derivatives, and combinations thereof.

[0032] Embodiment 8: The method of Embodiment 6 or 7, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are selected from the group consisting of xanthan gum, guar gum, gum arabic, ghatti gum, gum tragacanth, karaya gum, locust bean gum, gellan gum, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the gum comprises xanthan gum, guar gum, gum acacia, locust bean gum, gum tragacanth, or a combination thereof. Other suitable gums include modified gums, such as hydroxyethyl guar, hydroxypropyl guar, hydroxyethyl locust bean gum, hydroxypropyl locust bean gum, ammonium alginate, propylene glycol alginate, potassium alginate, sodium alginate, corn starch, rice starch, monostarch phosphate, distarch glycerol, distarch phosphate esterified with sodium trimetaphosphate, phosphate distarch phosphate, acetylated distarch phosphate, starch acetate esterified with acetic anhydride, starch acetate esterified with vinyl acetate, acetylated distarch adipate, acetylated distarch glycerol, hydroxypropyl starch, hydroxypropyl distarch glycerol, and starch sodium octenyl succinate, methylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose (“CMC”), hydroxypropylcellulose (“HPC”), hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (“HPMC”), hydroxyethyl cellulose, and combinations thereof.

[0033] Embodiment 9: The method of Embodiment 6 or 7, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are monoglycerides, diglycerides, triglycerides, free fatty acids, waxes, or any combination thereof, selected from the group consisting of palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, sapienic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, lauric acid, arachidic acid, behenic acid, lignoceric acid, cerotic acid, arachidonic acid, myristic acid, myristoleic acid, petroselinic acid, vaccenic acid, godoleic acid, gondoic acid, brassidic acid, elaidic acid, vaccenic acid, linoleic acid, linoelaidic acid, elcosapentaenoic acid, erucic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, nervonic acid, capric acid, caprylic acid, monolaurin, glycerol monostearate, glycerol hydroxystearate, diacetin, dibutyrin, dipalmitin, diolein, dicaprin, triolein, tributyrin, tripalmitin, tricaprin, tristearin, tricaproin, glycerol 1,3-distearate-2-octanoate; glycerol 2,3-diolate-1-palmitate, glycerol 2,3-dioleate-1-palmitate, glycerol-2-linoleate-3-oleate-1-palmitate, and glycerol 1,2-distearate-3-octanoate, bees wax, carnauba wax, candelila wax, paraffin wax, sugarcane wax, and combinations thereof.

[0034] Embodiment 10: The method of Embodiment 6 or 7, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are monoglycerides, diglycerides, triglycerides, free fatty acids, waxes, or any combination thereof, selected from the group consisting of palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, sapienic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, arachidic acid, behenic acid, lignoceric acid, cerotic acid, arachidonic acid, myristoleic acid, petroselinic acid, vaccenic acid, godoleic acid, gondoic acid, brassidic acid, elaidic acid, vaccenic acid, linoleic acid, linoelaidic acid, elcosapentaenoic acid, erucic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, nervonic acid, capric acid, caprylic acid, monolaurin, glycerol monostearate, glycerol hydroxystearate, dibutyrin, dipalmitin, diolein, dicaprin, triolein, tripalmitin, tricaprin, tristearin, tricaproin, glycerol 1,3-distearate-2-octanoate; glycerol 2,3-diolate-1-palmitate, glycerol 2,3-dioleate-1-palmitate, glycerol-2-linoleate-3-oleate-1-palmitate, and glycerol 1,2-distearate-3-octanoate, bees wax, carnauba wax, candelila wax, paraffin wax, sugarcane wax, and combinations thereof.

[0035] Embodiment 11: The method of Embodiment 1, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are one or more preservatives selected from the group consisting of sodium sorbate, sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, sodium ascorbate, or any combination thereof.

[0036] Embodiment 12: The method of Embodiment 11, comprising combining the one or more stabilizing agents with an aerosol-former material to give a mixture and then combining the mixture with additional components to form the stabilized aerosol precursor composition.

[0037] Embodiment 13: The method of any of Embodiments 6 to 12, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are incorporated in an amount about 0.1% to about 3% by volume, based on a total volume of the stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition.

[0038] Embodiment 14: The method of Embodiment 13, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are incorporated in an amount about 0.1% to about 1% by volume, based on a total volume of the stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition.

[0039] Embodiment 15: A method of enhancing the stability of a flavorant within a liquid aerosol precursor composition, comprising incorporating one or more stabilizing agents in a liquid aerosol precursor composition to give a stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition with enhanced shelf life as compared to the liquid aerosol precursor composition, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents comprise a sugar alcohol in an amount greater than 10% by weight of the stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition, and wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are different than any components otherwise present in the liquid aerosol precursor composition.

[0040] Embodiment 16: The method of Embodiment 15, wherein the sugar alcohol is selected from the group consisting of sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol (e.g., in the form of maltitol syrup), xylitol, erythritol, threitol, arabitol, ribitol, dulcitol, iditol, lactitol, polyglycitol, isomalt, hydrogenated starch hydrosylates, and combinations thereof.

[0041] Embodiment 17: The method of Embodiment 15, wherein the sugar alcohol is selected from the group consisting of sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol (e.g., in the form of maltitol syrup), xylitol, erythritol, isomalt, and combinations thereof.

[0042] Embodiment 18: A method of enhancing the stability of a flavorant within a liquid aerosol precursor composition, comprising incorporating one or more stabilizing agents in a liquid aerosol precursor composition to give a stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition with enhanced shelf life as compared to the liquid aerosol precursor composition, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents comprise a non-sugar based polyol, and wherein the non-sugar based polyol is different than any non-sugar based polyol otherwise present in the liquid aerosol precursor composition.

[0043] Embodiment 19: The method of Embodiment 18, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are selected from the group consisting of propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 1,3-propanediol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, glycerin, glycerol, trimetholpropane, 1,3-butylene glycol, pentaerythritol and combinations thereof.

[0044] Embodiment 20: The method of Embodiment 18 or 19, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are selected from the group consisting of ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 1,3-propanediol, trimetholpropane, pentaerythritol and combinations thereof).

[0045] Embodiment 21: The method of any of Embodiments 1-20, wherein the liquid aerosol precursor composition comprises one or more aerosol-former materials and one or more active agents.

[0046] Embodiment 22: The method of any of Embodiments 1-21, wherein the flavorant comprises menthol.

[0047] Embodiment 23: The method of Embodiment 21 or 22, wherein the one or more aerosol-former materials comprise glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0048] Embodiment 24: The method of any of Embodiments 21 to 23, wherein the one or more active agents comprise nicotine.

[0049] Embodiment 25: The method of any of Embodiments 21 to 24, wherein the one or more active agents comprise a cannabinoid.

[0050] Embodiment 26: A liquid aerosol precursor composition adapted for use in an aerosol delivery device, comprising: at least one aerosol-former material, at least one active agent, at least one flavorant, and at least one stabilizing agent selected from the group consisting of sorbitan monostearate (Span 60), sorbitan monolaurate (Span 20), sorbitan tristearate (Span 65), sorbitan monooleate (Span 80), sorbitan monopalmitate (Span 40), polysorbate 20 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate, TWEEN® 20), polysorbate 60 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monostearate, TWEEN® 60), polysorbate 80 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate, TWEEN® 80), polysorbate 65 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan tristearate, TWEEN® 65), palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, sapienic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, arachidic acid, behenic acid, lignoceric acid, cerotic acid, arachidonic acid, myristoleic acid, petroselinic acid, vaccenic acid, godoleic acid, gondoic acid, brassidic acid, elaidic acid, vaccenic acid, linoleic acid, linoelaidic acid, elcosapentaenoic acid, erucic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, nervonic acid, capric acid, caprylic acid, monolaurin, glycerol monostearate, glycerol hydroxystearate, dibutyrin, dipalmitin, diolein, dicaprin, triolein, tripalmitin, tricaprin, tristearin, tricaproin, glycerol 1,3-distearate-2-octanoate; glycerol 2,3-diolate-1-palmitate, glycerol 2,3-dioleate-1-palmitate, glycerol-2-linoleate-3-oleate-1-palmitate, glycerol 1,2-distearate-3-octanoate, bees wax, carnauba wax, candelila wax, paraffin wax, sugarcane wax, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 1,3-propanediol, trimetholpropane, pentaerythritol and combinations thereof.

[0051] Embodiment 27: The aerosol precursor composition of Embodiment 26, wherein the stabilizing agent is selected from the group consisting of sorbitan monostearate (Span 60), sorbitan monolaurate (Span 20), sorbitan tristearate (Span 65), sorbitan monooleate (Span 80), sorbitan monopalmitate (Span 40), polysorbate 20 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate, TWEEN® 20), polysorbate 60 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monostearate, TWEEN® 60), polysorbate 80 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate, TWEEN® 80), polysorbate 65 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan tristearate, TWEEN® 65), and combinations thereof, and wherein the stabilizing agent is present in an amount of about 5% to about 15% by volume, based on a total volume of the aerosol precursor composition.

[0052] Embodiment 28: The aerosol precursor composition of Embodiment 26, wherein the stabilizing agent is selected from the group consisting of palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, sapienic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, arachidic acid, behenic acid, lignoceric acid, cerotic acid, arachidonic acid, myristoleic acid, petroselinic acid, vaccenic acid, godoleic acid, gondoic acid, brassidic acid, elaidic acid, vaccenic acid, linoleic acid, linoelaidic acid, elcosapentaenoic acid, erucic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, nervonic acid, capric acid, caprylic acid, monolaurin, glycerol monostearate, glycerol hydroxystearate, dibutyrin, dipalmitin, diolein, dicaprin, triolein, tripalmitin, tricaprin, tristearin, tricaproin, glycerol 1,3-distearate-2-octanoate; glycerol 2,3-diolate-1-palmitate, glycerol 2,3-dioleate-1-palmitate, glycerol-2-linoleate-3-oleate-1-palmitate, and glycerol 1,2-distearate-3-octanoate, bees wax, carnauba wax, candelila wax, paraffin wax, sugarcane wax, and combinations thereof, and wherein the stabilizing agent is present in an amount of about 0.1% to about 2% by volume, based on a total volume of the aerosol precursor composition.

[0053] Embodiment 29: The aerosol precursor composition of Embodiment 26, wherein the stabilizing agent is selected from the group consisting of ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 1,3-propanediol, trimetholpropane, pentaerythritol and combinations thereof, and wherein the stabilizing agent is present in an amount of about 0.5% to about 5% by volume, based on a total volume of the aerosol precursor composition.

[0054] Embodiment 30: The liquid aerosol precursor composition of any of Embodiments 26 to 29, wherein the one or more flavorants comprise menthol.

[0055] Embodiment 31: The liquid aerosol precursor composition of any of Embodiments 26 to 30, wherein the one or more aerosol-former materials comprise glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0056] Embodiment 32: The liquid aerosol precursor composition of any of Embodiments 26 to 31, wherein the one or more active agents comprise nicotine.

[0057] Embodiment 33: The liquid aerosol precursor composition of any of Embodiments 26 to 32, wherein the one or more active agents comprise a cannabinoid.

[0058] Embodiment 34: The liquid aerosol precursor composition of any of Embodiments 26 to 33, wherein the pH of the liquid aerosol precursor composition is about 5 to about 7.5.

[0059] Embodiment 35: An aerosol delivery device, comprising: a housing enclosing a chamber containing the liquid aerosol precursor composition of any one of Embodiments 26 to 34, a heat source in fluid communication with the chamber and configured to heat the liquid aerosol precursor composition to form an aerosol; and an aerosol pathway positioned to carry the aerosol to a mouth-end of the aerosol delivery device.

[0060] Embodiment 36: The aerosol delivery device of Embodiment 35, wherein the heat source comprises an electrically powered heating element, and the aerosol delivery device further comprises a power source electronically connected to the heating element.

[0061] Embodiment 37: The aerosol delivery device of Embodiment 36, further comprising a controller configured to control the power transmitted by the power source to the heating element.

[0062] Embodiment 38: A kit, comprising: a control body; and one or more cartridges, each cartridge comprising a housing enclosing a chamber containing the liquid aerosol precursor composition of any one of Embodiments 26 to 34.

[0063] Embodiment 39: The kit of Embodiment 38, further comprising one or more charging components or one or more batteries.

[0064] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent from a reading of the following detailed description together with the accompanying figures, which are briefly described below. The present disclosure includes any combination of two, three, four or more features or elements set forth in this disclosure, regardless of whether such features or elements are expressly combined or otherwise recited in a specific example implementation described herein. This disclosure is intended to be read holistically such that any separable features or elements of the disclosure, in any of its aspects and example implementations, should be viewed as combinable, unless the context of the disclosure clearly dictates otherwise.

[0065] It will therefore be appreciated that this Brief Summary is provided merely for purposes of summarizing some example implementations so as to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosure. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the above described example implementations are merely examples and should not be construed to narrow the scope or spirit of the disclosure in any way. Other example implementations, aspects and advantages will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of some described example implementations.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0066] Having thus described aspects of the disclosure in the foregoing general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying figures, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

[0067] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol provision system according to some example implementations of the present disclosure;

[0068] FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate an aerosol provision system in the form of a vapor product, according to some example implementations;

[0069] FIG. 4 illustrates a nebulizer that may be used to implement an aerosol generator of an aerosol provision system, according to some example implementations; and

[0070] FIGS. 5, 6 and 7 illustrate an aerosol provision system in the form of a tobacco heating product (THP), according to some example implementations.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0071] Some implementations of the present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying figures, in which some, but not all implementations of the disclosure are shown. Indeed, various implementations of the disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the implementations set forth herein; rather, these example implementations are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout.

[0072] Unless specified otherwise or clear from context, references to first, second or the like should not be construed to imply a particular order. A feature described as being above another feature (unless specified otherwise or clear from context) may instead be below, and vice versa; and similarly, features described as being to the left of another feature else may instead be to the right, and vice versa. Also, while reference may be made herein to quantitative measures, values, geometric relationships or the like, unless otherwise stated, any one or more if not all of these may be absolute or approximate to account for acceptable variations that may occur, such as those due to engineering tolerances or the like. As used in the specification and claims, the singular forms “a,”“an,” and “the,” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0073] As used herein, unless specified otherwise or clear from context, the “of” of a set of operands is the “inclusive or” and thereby true if and only if one or more of the operands is true, as opposed to the “exclusive or” which is false when all of the operands are true. Thus, for example, “[A] or [B]” is true if [A] is true, or if [B] is true, or if both [A] and [B] are true. Further, the articles “a” and “an” mean “one or more,” unless specified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a singular form. Furthermore, it should be understood that unless otherwise specified, the terms “data,”“content,”“digital content,”“information,” and similar terms may be at times used interchangeably.

[0074] Aerosol precursor compositions commonly comprise one or more aerosol formers (often present as the majority component of the composition), an active ingredient, and optionally one or more flavorants. Often, the type and amount of aerosol former(s) affect whether a flavorant stays in solution within the composition. For example, flavorants can be polar or non-polar, and the polarity of the aerosol former(s) may affect the stability of the aerosol precursor composition (which is governed largely by surface tension as well as other physical properties (e.g., ionic and non-ionic species to keep all components in balance). The quality and stability of an aerosol precursor composition plays a large role in its shelf stability.

[0075] The disclosure provides, for example, an aerosol precursor composition 124 (also referred to herein as “aerosol-generating material”) adapted for use in an aerosol delivery device, wherein the aerosol precursor composition comprises an active substance 126, an aerosol-former material 130, a flavorant 128, and a stabilizing agent 136. A “stabilizing agent” as used herein is a compound that enhances shelf life of an aerosol precursor composition. Typically, within an aerosol precursor composition, the ratio of polar to non-polar components (e.g., aerosol-former material(s) 130 and / or water) and the polarity of the flavorant 128 dictates whether the flavorant stays in solution (as flavorants can be polar or non-polar in nature). The stabilizing agent 136 provided herein promotes the ability of the flavorant 128 (and, in some embodiments, one or more additional components) within the aerosol precursor composition 128 to stay in solution.

[0076] In some embodiments, the stabilizing agent serves to provide emulsification properties to the aerosol precursor composition. In some embodiments, the stabilizing agent affects the phase separation or layer separation within an aerosol precursor composition (e.g., decreasing or eliminating such separation over a given time period). In particular, the stabilizing agent can serve to stabilize the flavorant(s) present within the composition, reducing or eliminating precipitation and / or phase separation thereof over time. In some embodiments, the stabilizing agent affects (e.g., increases) the viscosity of the aerosol precursor composition. In some embodiments, the stabilizing agent can serve additional functions in addition to its stabilizing functions, e.g., improving palatability (serving as a flavor enhancer and / or improving mouthfeel) and / or reducing throat irritation / throat impact associated with an aerosol produced via the aerosol precursor composition.Sorbitan Esters and Polysorbates

[0077] Certain suitable classes of stabilizing agents 136 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure are sorbitan esters and / or polysorbates. These stabilizing agents can, in some embodiments, improve stability of an aerosol precursor composition 124, e.g., by decreasing layer separation between the aerosol-former material 130 and the flavorant(s) 128 within the composition. In some embodiments, sorbitan esters and polysorbates may have aerosol-forming potential, e.g., at temperatures of greater than 110° C. and thus, sorbitan esters and polysorbate stabilizing agents may be a component of an aerosol produced from such an aerosol precursor composition where incorporated within the composition.

[0078] Sorbitan esters and polysorbates can be incorporated within an aerosol precursor composition in varying amounts relative to the other components within the formulation. In some embodiments, an aerosol precursor composition is provided that comprises at least about 0.5%, at least about 1%, at least about 2%, at least about 3%, 4%, at least about 5%, at least about 6%, at least about 7%, or at least about 8% by volume, with an upper limit in some embodiments of about 20%, about 18%, about 16%, about 15%, about 14%, about 12%, or about 10% by volume. Certain examples of suitable ranges for sorbitan esters and polysorbates within an aerosol precursor composition include, but are not limited to, about 0.5% to about 20% by volume, about 2% to about 18% by volume, about 4% to about 15% by volume, or about 6% to about 12% by volume. In some embodiments, the aerosol precursor formulation comprises only one or more sorbitan esters; in some embodiments, the aerosol precursor formulation comprises only one or more polysorbates; in some embodiments, the aerosol precursor formulation comprises both one or more sorbitan esters and one or more polysorbates. Where the aerosol precursor formulation comprises one or more sorbitan esters and one or more polysorbates, the total content of sorbitan ester(s) and polysorbate(s) is generally within the amounts referenced above.

[0079] In some embodiments, such sorbitan esters and polysorbates are particularly useful as stabilizers for inclusion within aerosol precursor compositions comprising an aerosol-former material 130 with a higher percentage by volume of polar material (e.g., glycerin) than non-polar material (e.g., propylene glycol). In some embodiments, such sorbitan esters and polysorbates are particularly useful for inclusion within aerosol precursor compositions comprising a polar flavorant (e.g., menthol or mint), although their use is certainly not limited thereto. One specific, non-limiting aerosol precursor composition 124 comprises about 50 to about 60 percent by volume glycerin, about 20 to about 30 percent by volume propylene glycol, about 5 to about 15 percent by volume sorbitan ester or polysorbate, about 5 to about 15 percent by volume water, and about 0.5 to about 5 percent by volume of a flavorant (e.g., a polar flavorant).

[0080] Sorbitan esters (at least some of which are commonly referred to by the commercial tradename “SPAN®”) are partial esters of fatty acids and hexitol anhydrides derived from sorbitol. Sorbitan esters comprise hydrophobic / non-ionic groups. They are commonly used as nonionic surface active agents. Non-limiting examples of sorbitan esters include sorbitan monostearate (Span 60), sorbitan monolaurate (Span 20), sorbitan tristearate (Span 65), sorbitan monooleate (Span 20), and sorbitan monopalmitate (Span 40).

[0081] Polysorbates (some of which are commonly referred to by the commercial tradename “TWEEN®”) are compounds derived from ethoxylated sorbitan or isorbide (a derivative of sorbitol) esterified with fatty acids. Polysorbates can be synthesized, e.g., by the addition (via polymerization) of ethylene oxide to sorbitan fatty acid esters (as referenced above). They can be, e.g., mono-, di-, or tri-esters of fatty acids and sorbitan. Polysorbates are generally soluble or dispersible in water and certain high polarity organic liquids. Polysorbates comprise hydrophilic and hydrophobic groups and are generally non-ionic. Polysorbates are also referred to as sorbitan fatty acid esters, and are known to function as surfactants. Non-limiting examples of polysorbates include polysorbate 20 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate, with lauric acid as the primary fatty acid portion of the molecule, also referred to as TWEEN® 20), polysorbate 60 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monostearate, with stearate as the primary fatty acid portion of the molecule, also referred to as TWEEN® 60), polysorbate 80 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate, with oleate as the primary fatty acid portion of the molecule, also referred to as TWEEN® 80), and polysorbate 65 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan tristearate, also referred to as TWEEN® 65).Binders

[0082] Another suitable type of stabilizing agent 136 for use according to the present disclosure is a binder. In some embodiments, these types of stabilizing agents can lend emulsification and / or viscosity building properties to the aerosol precursor composition 124. The amount of binder stabilizing agents to be included within an aerosol precursor composition according to the present disclosure can vary; in various embodiments, an aerosol precursor composition can include at least about 0.1% or at least about 0.2% by volume of the stabilizing agent, e.g., about 0.1% to about 3% by volume of the stabilizing agent or about 0.1% to about 2% by volume of the stabilizing agent, or about 0.1% to about 1% by volume of the stabilizing agent, e.g., about 0.1%, about 0.2%, about 0.3%, about 0.4%, about 0.5%, about 0.6%, about 0.7%, about 0.8%, about 0.9%, or about 1.0% by volume of the stabilizing agent.

[0083] In some embodiments, such binders are particularly useful as stabilizers for inclusion within aerosol precursor compositions comprising an aerosol-former material 130 with a higher percentage by volume of polar material (e.g., glycerin) than non-polar material (e.g., propylene glycol). In some embodiments, such binders are particularly useful for inclusion within aerosol precursor compositions comprising a polar flavorant (e.g., menthol or mint), although their use is certainly not limited thereto. One specific, non-limiting aerosol precursor composition 124 comprises about 60 to about 70 percent by volume glycerin, about 20 to about 30 percent by volume propylene glycol, about 0.1 to about 2 percent by volume binder, about 5 to about 15 percent by volume water, and about 0.5 to about 5 percent by volume of a flavorant (e.g., a polar flavorant).

[0084] Certain suitable binders that can be used as stabilizing agents 136 according to the disclosure are hydrocolloids. Hydrocolloids are long-chain polymers (polysaccharides and proteins) characterized by their ability to form viscous dispersions and / or gels when dispersed in water. They generally comprise a large number of hydroxyl (OH) groups, giving them high affinity for binding water molecules (making them hydrophilic) and in water, they produce a dispersion (intermediate between a solution and suspension). Hydrocolloids can provide thickening functions and / or gelling functions within a liquid as described herein. Hydrocolloids include, e.g., gums (both natural gums (e.g., carbohydrate-based natural gums) and synthetic gums), alginates, starches, carrageenans, agar, pectin, and cellulose derivatives, and as described in further detail below.

[0085] As used herein, a natural gum refers to a polysaccharide material of natural origin that has binding properties, and which is also useful as a thickening or gelling agents. Representative natural gums derived from plants, which are typically water soluble to some degree, include xanthan gum, guar gum, gum arabic, ghatti gum, gum tragacanth, karaya gum, locust bean gum, gellan gum, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the gum comprises xanthan gum, guar gum, gum acacia, locust bean gum, gum tragacanth, or a combination thereof. Other suitable gums include modified gums, such as hydroxyethyl guar, hydroxypropyl guar, hydroxyethyl locust bean gum, or hydroxypropyl locust bean gum.

[0086] Alginates are linear unbranched anionic heteropolysaccharides as known in the art. Alginates consist of different amounts of linear copolymers of β-(1-4) linked D-mannuronic acid and β-(1-4) linked L-guluronic acid (often referred to, respectively, as “M” and “G” residues). Alginates are typically block copolymers, with blocks of consecutive residues (e.g., GGGGG and MVIMMMM) and regions of alternating residues GMGMGMGMG. The molecular weights of alginates can vary widely, e.g., between about 32,000 and 400,000, with higher molecular weight alginates typically providing a more viscous slurry and lower molecular weight alginates providing a less viscous slurry. Alginates are typically natural polymers and can, in some embodiments, be derived from seaweeds. Certain commercially available alginates are extracted from brown algae (Phaeophycae), including (but not limited to) Laminaria hyperborean, Laminaria digitate, Laminaria japonica, Ascophyllum nodosum, and Macrocystis pyrifera. Alginates from different sources differ in M and G residue content and block lengths. Alginates can also be in the form of a synthetic polymer (provided via bacterial biosynthesis, e.g., produced from Azotobacter or Pseudomonas). Alginates are typically in the form of a sodium, calcium, or manganese salt (but can also be in the form of other alginate salts). In some embodiments, alginate is employed in a water-soluble form. Certain examples of alginates include, but are not limited to, ammonium alginate, propylene glycol alginate, potassium alginate, or sodium alginate. Alginates, and particularly high viscosity alginates, may, in some embodiments, be employed in conjunction with controlled levels of free calcium ions.

[0087] “Starches” as used herein may refer to pure starches from any source, modified starches, or starch derivatives. Starch is present, typically in granular form, in almost all green plants and in various types of plant tissues and organs (e.g., seeds, leaves, rhizomes, roots, tubers, shoots, fruits, grains, and stems). Starch can vary in composition, as well as in granular shape and size. Often, starch from different sources has different chemical and physical characteristics. A specific starch can be selected for inclusion in the beads based on the ability of the starch material to impart a specific organoleptic property to the beads. Starches derived from various sources can be used. For example, major sources of starch include cereal grains (e.g., rice, wheat, and maize) and root vegetables (e.g., potatoes and cassava). Other examples of sources of starch include acorns, arrowroot, arracacha, bananas, barley, beans (e.g., favas, lentils, mung beans, peas, chickpeas), breadfruit, buckwheat, canna, chestnuts, colacasia, katakuri, kudzu, malanga, millet, oats, oca, Polynesian arrowroot, sago, sorghum, sweet potato, quinoa, rye, tapioca, taro, tobacco, water chestnuts, and yams. Suitable starches include, but are not limited to, corn starch, rice starch, and modified food starches. Certain starches are modified starches. A modified starch has undergone one or more structural modifications, often designed to alter its high heat properties. Some starches have been developed by genetic modifications, and are considered to be “modified” starches. Other starches are obtained and subsequently modified. For example, modified starches can be starches that have been subjected to chemical reactions, such as esterification, etherification, oxidation, depolymerization (thinning) by acid catalysis or oxidation in the presence of base, bleaching, transglycosylation and depolymerization (e.g., dextrinization in the presence of a catalyst), cross-linking, enzyme treatment, acetylation, hydroxypropylation, and / or partial hydrolysis. Other starches are modified by heat treatments, such as pregelatinization, dextrinization, and / or cold water swelling processes. Certain modified starches include monostarch phosphate, distarch glycerol, distarch phosphate esterified with sodium trimetaphosphate, phosphate distarch phosphate, acetylated distarch phosphate, starch acetate esterified with acetic anhydride, starch acetate esterified with vinyl acetate, acetylated distarch adipate, acetylated distarch glycerol, hydroxypropyl starch, hydroxypropyl distarch glycerol, and starch sodium octenyl succinate.

[0088] Carrageenans are sulfated polysaccharides extracted from a red seaweed that provide gelling, thickening, and / or stabilizing properties. Suitable carrageenans can be, e.g., kappa-carrageenan, iota-carrageenan, or lambda-carrageenan (with one, two, and three sulfate groups per disaccharide, correspondingly).

[0089] Agar (also sometimes referred to as “agar agar”) is a plant-based gelatinous substance that is derived from seaweed (red algae of the class Rhodophyceae). Agar is a heterogenous mixture of polysaccharides, comprising agarose (typically the primary component, made up of repeating units of agarobiose) and agaropectin (a charged sulfated polysaccharide) in various ratios.

[0090] Pectins are natural polymers related to carbohydrates and which are acidic heteropolysaccharides (polysaccharides comprising multiple monosaccharide units). As opposed to carbohydrates, the pectin C-6 position contains a carboxylic acid (or corresponding methyl ester or carboxamide) group instead of a hydroxymethyl group. The principal subunit is galacturonic acid; other sugars (e.g., galactose, rhamnose, arabinose, fucose, xylose, mannose, etc.) can be featured as side-chain substituents. Pectin can be isolated from sources such as apple pomace, citrus peels, sugarbeet waste from sugar manufacturing, sunflower heads discarded from seed harvesting, mango waste, and other fruits (e.g., apricot, blackberry, cherry, peach, pineapple). Pectin can, in some embodiments, be classified by its degree of esterification. In some embodiments, the binder comprises low methoxy pectin (with a degree of esterification less than 50%, typically 20%-40%). Suitable low methoxy pectins include, for example, “GENU® pectin type LM-104 AS”, available from CP Kelco, Atlanta, GA, USA. In some embodiments, the binder comprises high methoxy pectin (with a degree of esterification greater than 50%). In some embodiments, the binder comprises low methoxy amidated pectin, generally prepared via reaction of high methoxy pectin with ammonia. Pectins are generally known to act as hygroscopic agents, facilitating the retention of moisture.

[0091] In some embodiments, the binder comprises one or more cellulose derivatives (e.g., a single cellulose derivative or a combination of several cellulose derivatives, such as two or three, for example). In some embodiments, the cellulose derivative is a cellulose ether, meaning a cellulose polymer with the hydrogen of one or more hydroxyl groups in the cellulose structure replaced with an alkyl, hydroxyalkyl, or aryl group. In some embodiments, the cellulose derivative is a hydroxyalkyl cellulose ether. Non-limiting examples of such cellulose derivatives include methylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose (“CMC”), hydroxypropylcellulose (“HPC”), hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (“HPMC”), and hydroxyethyl cellulose. Suitable cellulose ethers include hydroxypropylcellulose, such as Klucel H from Aqualon Co.; hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, such as Methocel K4MS from DuPont; hydroxyethylcellulose, such as Natrosol 250 MRCS from Aqualon Co.; methylcellulose, such as Methocel A4M, K4M, and E15 from DuPont.; and sodium carboxymethylcellulose, such as CMC 7HF, CMC 7LF, and CMC 7H4F from Aqualon Company. The concentration, molecular weight, and degree of substitution can be selected so as to provide a cellulose derivative with a desired flow behavior. In some embodiments, the binder is selected from CMC and HPMC.Fatty Acids, Acyl Glycerides, Waxes

[0092] Another suitable type of stabilizing agent 136 for use according to the present disclosure includes fatty acids (e.g., free fatty acid), mono-, di-, or tri-acyl glycerides, and / or waxes. In some embodiments, such stabilizing agents are particularly useful not only to stabilize the aerosol precursor composition 124, but may also, in some embodiments, provide one or more of improved palatability and reduced throat irritation associated with aerosol produced from the composition.

[0093] The amount of such stabilizing agents to be included within an aerosol precursor composition according to the present disclosure can vary; in various embodiments, an aerosol precursor composition can include at least about 0.1% or at least about 0.2% of the stabilizing agent, e.g., about 0.1% to about 3% by weight of the stabilizing agent or about 0.1% to about 2% by weight of the stabilizing agent, or about 0.1% to about 1% by weight of the stabilizing agent, e.g., about 0.1%, about 0.2%, about 0.3%, about 0.4%, about 0.5%, about 0.6%, about 0.7%, about 0.8%, about 0.9%, or about 1.0% by weight of the stabilizing agent.

[0094] Free fatty acids (FFAs) are carboxylic acids with aliphatic chains (typically ranging in length from 4-28 carbon atoms). FFAs can be short-chain fatty acids (SCFA, typically with 5 or fewer carbons), medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA, typically with 6-12 carbons), long-chain fatty acids (LCFAs, with 13-21 carbons), or very long-chain fatty acids (VLCFA, with 22 or more carbons). Free fatty acids can be monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, or saturated. Examples of free fatty acids include, but are not limited to, lauric acid, palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, sapienic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, arachidic, behenic, lignoceric, cerotic, arachidonic acid, myristic acid, myristoleic acid, petroselinic acid, vaccenic acid, godoleic acid, gondoic acid, brassidic acid, elaidic acid, vaccenic acid, linoleic acid, linoelaidic acid, elcosapentaenoic acid, erucic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, nervonic acid, capric acid, and caprylic acid.

[0095] Monoglycerides, diglycerides, and triglycerides comprise a molecule of glycerol linked to one, two, or three fatty acids, respectively, via an ester bond. The fatty acids associated with monoglycerides, diglycerides, and triglycerides can be short-chain, medium-chain, long-chain, or very long-chain acids (or any combination thereof for diglycerides and triglycerides). Monoglycerides and diglycerides are typically synthetically prepared (although low amounts of monoglycerides and diglycerides are present in certain seed-based oils). Synthetically, monoglycerides and diglycerides can be prepared e.g., via heat treatment of a triglyceride-containing fat or oil in the presence of an alkaline catalyst. The resulting mixture contains a random mixture of mono-, di-, and tri-glycerides, which can then be separated, e.g., via distillation. In some embodiments, a monoglyceride, diglyceride, or triglyceride can be used as a stabilizer according to the present disclosure; in other embodiments, a combination of two (or three) is employed, e.g., a mixture of a monoglyceride and diglyceride.

[0096] Monoglycerides (also referred to as “acylglycerols” or “monoacylglycerols”) comprise glycerol functionalized with one fatty acid; monoglycerides can be characterized as 1-monoglycerides (where the fatty acid is attached to a primary alcohol on glycerol) or 2-monoglycerides (where the fatty acid is attached to the secondary alcohol on glycerol). The fatty acid can be e.g., one or more of the specific fatty acids disclosed above. Certain specific examples of monoglycerides include, but are not limited to, monolaurin, glycerol monostearate, and glycerol hydroxystearate.

[0097] Diglycerides (also referred to as “diacylglycerols”) comprise glycerol functionalized with two fatty acids. Diglycerides can be characterized as 1,2-diacylglycerides or 1,3-diacylglycerides, depending upon the position of the two fatty acid chains. The two fatty acids can be the same or different and can include any combination, e.g., of one or more of the specific fatty acids disclosed above. Certain non-limiting examples of diglycerides are diacetin, dibutyrin, dipalmitin, diolein, distearin, dicaprin, etc.

[0098] Triglycerides comprise glycerol functionalized with three fatty acids. The three fatty acids can be the same or different and can include any combination, e.g., of one or more of the specific fatty acids disclosed above. Specific triglycerides include, but are not limited to, triacetin, triolein (“glycerol trioleate”), tripalmitin (“glycerol tripaltmitate”), tricaprin (“glycerol tridecanoate”), tristearin (“glycerol tristearate”), tributyrin (“glycerol tributyrate”), tricaproin (“glycerol trihexanoate”), etc. (where all three fatty acids are the same). Further, non-limiting triglycerides are known which modify one or two of the fatty acid chains on one of these specific triglycerides, e.g., glycerol 1,3-distearate-2-octanoate; glycerol 2,3-diolate-1-palmitate, glycerol 2,3-dioleate-1-palmitate, glycerol-2-linoleate-3-oleate-1-palmitate, and glycerol 1,2-distearate-3-octanoate.

[0099] Waxes are lipophilic, malleable solids around ambient temperature, which melt to give low viscosity liquids. Waxes can comprise a combination of components; for example, paraffin wax comprises vegetable oils, palm oil derivatives, synthetic resins, and other materials. Certain specific waxes include bees wax, carnauba wax, candelilla wax, paraffin wax, and sugarcane wax. Waxes from various other plants are known, e.g., including, but not limited to, pumpkin, cucumber, plum, and cherry plants.Polyols

[0100] According to some embodiments, the disclosed formulations comprise a polyol (also referred to as a polyhydric alcohol or polyalcohol) as stabilizing agent 136. A polyol is generally an organic compound, containing multiple hydroxyl groups. Certain polyols have the general formula HOCH2(CHOH)nCH2OH and differ in length (based on the identity of “n” in the referenced general formula). Classes of polyols include sugar alcohols (relatively low molecular weight polyols) and larger, non-sugar polyols, including, e.g., polymeric polyols.

[0101] The amount of polyol suitable to serve as a stabilizing agent 136 can vary. In some embodiments, the amount of polyol is up to about 10%, e.g., about 1% to about 10% by volume based on the total volume of the aerosol precursor composition, e.g., about 1% to about 5%, about 3% to about 5%, about 5% to about 10%, or about 8% to about 10% by volume. In some embodiments, the amount of polyol is about 10% by volume based on the total volume of the aerosol precursor composition 124 or greater, e.g., about 10% to about 20% by volume, about 10% to about 18% by volume, about 10% to about 15% by volume, or about 10% to about 12% by volume. In some embodiments, the amount of polyol is greater than 10% by volume and in some embodiments, the amount of sugar alcohol is greater than 10% by weight.

[0102] Certain polyols are sugar alcohols. Sugar alcohols advantageously can, in some embodiments, serve as flavor enhancers to one or more flavorants (e.g., including, but not limited to, menthol and other volatile flavorants) contained within the aerosol precursor composition 124, and / or can improve mouthfeel, tactile, throat impact, and / or other sensory characteristics associated with an aerosol produced from aerosol precursor composition 124. In some embodiments, sugar alcohols can serve additional functions within such a composition (in addition to stabilizing the formulation), e.g., reducing carbonyl compounds formed in aerosols produced from the composition when heated to appropriate temperatures, e.g., when compared to the use of mono or disaccharide sugars for sensorial properties and / or reducing free radicals and metals such as disclosed, e.g., in U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2018 / 0103680A1 and 2018 / 0103681A1, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. Specific sugar alcohols include, but are not limited to, sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol (e.g., in the form of maltitol syrup), xylitol, erythritol, threitol, arabitol, ribitol, dulcitol, iditol, lactitol, polyglycitol, isomalt, and hydrogenated starch hydrosylates. In some embodiments, a sugar alcohol stabilizer is selected from the group consisting of sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol (e.g., in the form of maltitol syrup), xylitol, erythritol, and isomalt.

[0103] Further suitable stabilizing agents 136 include non-sugar-based polyols. Such polyols can be glycitols (“acyclic polyols”) or cyclitols (“cyclic polyols”). In some embodiments, such polyols are glycols. Specific examples of polyols include, but are not limited to, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 1,3-propanediol, 1,3-butylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, glycerin / glycerol, trimetholpropane, and pentaerythritol. In certain embodiments, a non-sugar-based polyol stabilizer is selected from 1,3-propane diol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, and ethylene glycol (as well as combinations thereof).Preservatives

[0104] In some embodiments, the stabilizing agent comprises one or more preservatives. Preservatives include, but are not limited to, sorbate and benzoate salts (e.g., sodium sorbate, sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate) and ascorbate salts (e.g., sodium ascorbate). Preservatives uniquely may serve not only as stabilizers but also, in some embodiments, as pH regulators. The amount of preservative included within an aerosol precursor composition according to the present disclosure can vary; in various embodiments, an aerosol precursor composition can include at least about 0.1% or at least about 0.2% of the stabilizing agent or combination of stabilizing agents, e.g., about 0.1% to about 3% by weight, about 0.1% to about 2% by weight, or about 0.1% to about 1% by weight, e.g., about 0.1%, about 0.2%, about 0.3%, about 0.4%, about 0.5%, about 0.6%, about 0.7%, about 0.8%, about 0.9%, or about 1.0% by weight of the stabilizing agent or stabilizing agents.

[0105] It is noted that the stabilizing agents described herein above can be included within an aerosol precursor composition singly or in any combination of two or more of the disclosed stabilizing agents. The selection of a particular stabilizing agent or combination of stabilizing agents may, in some embodiments, be made based on the properties of the other component(s) to be included within the composition. For example, as referenced above, the solubility of the flavorant(s) within the composition can impact the physical stability of the composition. By considering the polarity of the flavorant(s) relative to the aerosol former(s) within the composition, one of skill in the art can recognize suitable types of stabilizers and employ suitable amounts to provide greater stability to the composition (e.g., by helping to ensure greater solubility of the flavorant(s) within the aerosol precursor composition).

[0106] In certain embodiments, the stabilizing agent 136 is the same as one of the other components of the aerosol precursor composition. For example, in some embodiments, the stabilizing agent 136 is a polyol and the aerosol-former material 130 also comprises a polyol (e.g., glycerin, glycerol, propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, erythritol, or meso-erythritol); the stabilizing agent 136 is a fatty acid and the aerosol-former material also comprises a fatty acid (e.g., lauric acid or myristic acid), or the stabilizing agent 136 is a triglyceride and the aerosol-former material 130 also comprises a diglyceride or triglyceride (e.g., triacetin, butyrin, and / or diacetin). In such embodiments, the referenced amounts of stabilizing agent 136 in the disclosure above are provided in addition to the referenced amounts of aerosol-former material 130 present within the aerosol precursor composition 124 (such that a higher amount of that component is added, i.e., the sum of the referenced amounts of stabilizing agent 136 and aerosol-former material 130). In some embodiments, the selection of stabilizing agent 136 is made so as to exclude the compounds that may also serve as aerosol-former material, e.g., such that the selected stabilizing agent 136 can be a free fatty acid other than those listed as examples of aerosol-former material 130, e.g., a free fatty acid other than lauric acid or myristic acid. Similarly, in some embodiments, the selected stabilizing agent 136 can be a polyol other than those listed as examples of aerosol-former material 130, e.g., a polyol other than glycerin, glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, erythritol, and meso-erythritol. In some embodiments, the selected stabilizing agent 136 can be a diglyceride or triglyceride other than those listed as examples of aerosol-former material 130, e.g., a diglyceride or triglyceride other than triacetin, butyrin, and / or diacetin.

[0107] The other components of the aerosol precursor composition 124 (in addition to the stabilizing agent 136 provided herein) can vary. As noted above, an aerosol precursor composition commonly comprises one or more of each of a number of constituents such as an active ingredient / substance 126, flavorant 128, aerosol-former material 130 or other functional material 132. In some embodiments, the aerosol precursor composition further comprises one or more organic acids 134.Active Ingredients

[0108] As used herein, an “active ingredient” refers to one or more substances belonging to any of the following categories: API (active pharmaceutical ingredient), food additives, natural medicaments, and naturally occurring substances that can have an effect on humans. Example active ingredients that can be used in various embodiments include any ingredient known to impact one or more biological functions within the body, such as ingredients that furnish pharmacological activity or other direct effect in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, or which affect the structure or any function of the body of humans (e.g., provide a stimulating action on the central nervous system, have an energizing effect, an antipyretic or analgesic action, or an otherwise useful effect on the body). In some embodiments, the active ingredient may be of the type generally referred to as dietary supplements, nutraceuticals, “phytochemicals” or “functional foods.” These types of additives are sometimes defined in the art as encompassing substances typically available from naturally occurring sources (e.g., botanical materials) that provide one or more advantageous biological effects (e.g., health promotion, disease prevention, or other medicinal properties), but are not classified or regulated as drugs.

[0109] Non-limiting examples of active ingredients include those falling in the categories of botanical ingredients, stimulants, amino acids, and / or pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and medicinal ingredients (e.g., vitamins, such as A, B3, B6, B12, and C, and / or cannabinoids, such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD)). Each of these categories is further described herein below. The particular choice of active ingredients, where used, will vary depending upon the desired characteristics of the particular aerosol precursor composition 124 and / or the vapor / aerosol formed from such composition (e.g. during use).

[0110] In certain embodiments, the active ingredient is selected from the group consisting of caffeine, taurine, GABA, theanine, vitamin C, lemon balm extract, ginseng, citicoline, sunflower lecithin, and combinations thereof. For example, the active ingredient can include a combination of caffeine, theanine, and optionally ginseng. In another embodiment, the active ingredient includes a combination of theanine, gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA), and lemon balm extract. In a further embodiment, the active ingredient includes theanine, theanine and tryptophan, or theanine and one or more B vitamins (e.g., vitamin B6 or B12). In a still further embodiment, the active ingredient includes a combination of caffeine, taurine, and vitamin C.

[0111] The particular percentages of active ingredients present will vary depending upon the desired characteristics of the particular aerosol precursor composition 124. Typically, such additional active ingredient or combination thereof is included in a total concentration of at least about 0.001% by weight of the composition, such as in a range from about 0.001% to about 20%. In some embodiments, the optional additional active ingredient or combination of active ingredients, where present, is present in a concentration from about 0.1% w / w to about 10% by weight, such as, e.g., from about 0.5% w / w to about 10%, from about 1% to about 10%, from about 1% to about 5% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition. In some embodiments, the active ingredient or combination of active ingredients is included, where present, in a concentration of from about 0.001%, about 0.01%, about 0.1%, or about 1%, up to about 20% by weight, such as, e.g., from about 0.001%, about 0.002%, about 0.003%, about 0.004%, about 0.005%, about 0.006%, about 0.007%, about 0.008%, about 0.009%, about 0.01%, about 0.02%, about 0.03%, about 0.04%, about 0.05%, about 0.06%, about 0.07%, about 0.08%, about 0.09%, about 0.1%, about 0.2%, about 0.3%, about 0.4%, about 0.5% about 0.6%, about 0.7%, about 0.8%, or about 0.9%, to about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, about 10%, about 11%, about 12%, about 13%, about 14%, about 15%, about 16%, about 17%, about 18%, about 19%, or about 20% by weight, based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition 124. Further suitable ranges for specific active ingredients are provided herein below.Botanical

[0112] In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises a botanical ingredient. As used herein, the term “botanical ingredient” or “botanical” refers to any plant material or fungal-derived material, including plant material in its natural form and plant material derived from natural plant materials, such as extracts or isolates from plant materials or treated plant materials (e.g., plant materials subjected to heat treatment, fermentation, bleaching, or other treatment processes capable of altering the physical and / or chemical nature of the material). For the purposes of the present disclosure, a “botanical” includes, but is not limited to, “herbal materials,” which refer to seed-producing plants that do not develop persistent woody tissue and are often valued for their medicinal or sensory characteristics (e.g., teas or tisanes). Reference to botanical material as “non-tobacco” is intended to exclude tobacco materials (i.e., does not include any Nicotiana species). In some embodiments, the compositions as disclosed herein can be characterized as free of any tobacco material (e.g., any embodiment as disclosed herein may be completely or substantially free of any tobacco material). By “substantially free” is meant that no tobacco material has been intentionally added. For example, certain embodiments can be characterized as having less than 0.001% by weight of tobacco, or less than 0.0001%, or even 0% by weight of tobacco.

[0113] When present, a botanical is typically at a concentration of from about 0.01% w / w to about 10% by weight, such as, e.g., from about 0.01% w / w, about 0.05%, about 0.1%, or about 0.5%, to about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, or about 10%, about 11%, about 12%, about 13%, about 14%, or about 15% by weight, based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition 124.

[0114] The botanical materials useful in the present disclosure may comprise, without limitation, any of the compounds and sources set forth herein, including mixtures thereof. Certain botanical materials of this type are sometimes referred to as dietary supplements, nutraceuticals, “phytochemicals” or “functional foods.” Certain botanicals, as the plant material or an extract thereof, have found use in traditional herbal medicine, and are described further herein. Non-limiting examples of botanicals or botanical-derived materials include ashwagandha, Bacopa monniera, baobab, basil, Centella asiatica, Chai-hu, chamomile, cherry blossom, chlorophyll, cinnamon, citrus, cloves, cocoa, cordyceps, curcumin, damiana, Dorstenia arifolia, Dorstenia odorata, essential oils, eucalyptus, fennel, Galphimia glauca, ginger, Ginkgo biloba, ginseng (e.g., Panax ginseng), green tea, Griffonia simplicifolia, guarana, cannabis, hemp, hops, jasmine, Kaempferia parviflora (Thai ginseng), kava, lavender, lemon balm, lemongrass, licorice, lutein, maca, matcha, Nardostachys chinensis, oil-based extract of Viola odorata, peppermint, quercetin, resveratrol, Rhizoma gastrodiae, Rhodiola, rooibos, rose essential oil, rosemary, Sceletium tortuosum, Schisandra, Skullcap, spearmint extract, Spikenard, terpenes, tisanes, turmeric, Turnera aphrodisiaca, valerian, white mulberry, and Yerba mate.

[0115] In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises lemon balm. Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a mildly lemon-scented herb from the same family as mint (Lamiaceae). The herb is native to Europe, North Africa, and West Asia. The tea of lemon balm, as well as the essential oil and the extract, are used in traditional and alternative medicine. In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises lemon balm extract. In some embodiments, the lemon balm extract is present in an amount of from about 1 to about 4% by weight, based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition 124.

[0116] In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises ginseng. Ginseng is the root of plants of the genus Panax, which are characterized by the presence of unique steroid saponin phytochemicals (ginsenosides) and gintonin. Ginseng finds use as a dietary supplement in energy drinks or herbal teas, and in traditional medicine. Cultivated species include Korean ginseng (P. ginseng), South China ginseng (P. notoginseng), and American ginseng (P. quinquefolius). American ginseng and Korean ginseng vary in the type and quantity of various ginsenosides present. In some embodiments, the ginseng is American ginseng or Korean ginseng. In specific embodiments, the active ingredient comprises Korean ginseng. In some embodiments, ginseng is present in an amount of from about 0.4 to about 0.6% by weight, based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition 124.Stimulant

[0117] In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises one or more stimulants. As used herein, the term “stimulant” refers to a material that increases activity of the central nervous system and / or the body, for example, enhancing focus, cognition, vigor, mood, alertness, and the like. Non-limiting examples of stimulants include caffeine, theacrine, theobromine, and theophylline. Theacrine (1,3,7,9-tetramethyluric acid) is a purine alkaloid which is structurally related to caffeine, and possesses stimulant, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory effects. Present stimulants may be natural, naturally derived, or wholly synthetic. For example, certain botanical materials (guarana, tea, coffee, cocoa, and the like) may possess a stimulant effect by virtue of the presence of e.g., caffeine or related alkaloids, and accordingly are “natural” stimulants. By “naturally derived” is meant the stimulant (e.g., caffeine, theacrine) is in a purified form, outside its natural (e.g., botanical) matrix. For example, caffeine can be obtained by extraction and purification from botanical sources (e.g., tea). By “wholly synthetic”, it is meant that the stimulant has been obtained by chemical synthesis. In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises caffeine. In some embodiments, the caffeine is present in an encapsulated form. On example of an encapsulated caffeine is Vitashure®, available from Balchem Corp., 52 Sunrise Park Road, New Hampton, NY, 10958.

[0118] When present, a stimulant or combination of stimulants (e.g., caffeine, theacrine, and combinations thereof) is typically at a concentration of from about 0.1% w / w to about 15% by weight, such as, e.g., from about 0.1% w / w, about 0.2%, about 0.3%, about 0.4%, about 0.5% about 0.6%, about 0.7%, about 0.8%, or about 0.9%, to about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, about 10%, about 11%, about 12%, about 13%, about 14%, or about 15% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition. In some embodiments, the composition comprises caffeine in an amount of from about 1.5 to about 6% by weight, based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition 124.Amino Acid

[0119] In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises an amino acid. As used herein, the term “amino acid” refers to an organic compound that contains amine (—NH2) and carboxyl (—COOH) or sulfonic acid (SO3H) functional groups, along with a side chain (R group), which is specific to each amino acid. Amino acids may be proteinogenic or non-proteinogenic. By “proteinogenic” is meant that the amino acid is one of the twenty naturally occurring amino acids found in proteins. The proteinogenic amino acids include alanine, arginine, asparagine, aspartic acid, cysteine, glutamine, glutamic acid, glycine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, proline, serine, threonine, tryptophan, tyrosine, and valine. By “non-proteinogenic” is meant that either the amino acid is not found naturally in protein, or is not directly produced by cellular machinery (e.g., is the product of post-translational modification). Non-limiting examples of non-proteinogenic amino acids include gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), taurine (2-aminoethanesulfonic acid), theanine (L-γ-glutamylethylamide), hydroxyproline, and beta-alanine. In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises theanine. In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises GABA. In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises a combination of theanine and GABA. In some embodiments, the active ingredient is a combination of theanine, GABA, and lemon balm. In some embodiments, the active ingredient is a combination of caffeine, theanine, and ginseng. In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises taurine. In some embodiments, the active ingredient is a combination of caffeine and taurine.

[0120] When present, an amino acid or combination of amino acids (e.g., theanine, GABA, and combinations thereof) is typically at a concentration of from about 0.1% w / w to about 15% by weight, such as, e.g., from about 0.1% w / w, about 0.2%, about 0.3%, about 0.4%, about 0.5% about 0.6%, about 0.7%, about 0.8%, or about 0.9%, to about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, about 10%, about 11%, about 12%, about 13%, about 14%, or about 15% by weight, based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition 124.Vitamins

[0121] In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises a vitamin or combination of vitamins. As used herein, the term “vitamin” refers to an organic molecule (or related set of molecules) that is an essential micronutrient needed for the proper functioning of metabolism in a mammal. There are thirteen vitamins required by human metabolism, which are: vitamin A (as all-trans-retinol, all-trans-retinyl-esters, as well as all-trans-beta-carotene and other provitamin A carotenoids), vitamin B1 (thiamine), vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B3 (niacin), vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), vitamin B7 (biotin), vitamin B9 (folic acid or folate), vitamin B12 (cobalamins), vitamin C (ascorbic acid), vitamin D (calciferols), vitamin E (tocopherols and tocotrienols), and vitamin K (quinones). In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises vitamin C. In some embodiments, the active ingredient is a combination of vitamin C, caffeine, and taurine.

[0122] When present, a vitamin or combination of vitamins (e.g., vitamin B6, vitamin B12, vitamin E, vitamin C, or a combination thereof) is typically at a concentration of from about 0.01% w / w to about 6% by weight, such as, e.g., from about 0.01%, about 0.02%, about 0.03%, about 0.04%, about 0.05%, about 0.06%, about 0.07%, about 0.08%, about 0.09%, or about 0.1% w / w, to about 0.2%, about 0.3%, about 0.4%, about 0.5% about 0.6%, about 0.7%, about 0.8%, about 0.9%, about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, or about 6% by weight, based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition 124.Antioxidants

[0123] In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises one or more antioxidants. As used herein, the term “antioxidant” refers to a substance which prevents or suppresses oxidation by terminating free radical reactions and may delay or prevent some types of cellular damage. Antioxidants may be naturally occurring or synthetic. Naturally occurring antioxidants include those found in foods and botanical materials. Non-limiting examples of antioxidants include certain botanical materials, vitamins, polyphenols, and phenol derivatives.

[0124] Examples of botanical materials which are associated with antioxidant characteristics include without limitation acai berry, alfalfa, allspice, annatto seed, apricot oil, basil, bee balm, wild bergamot, black pepper, blueberries, borage seed oil, bugleweed, cacao, calamus root, catnip, catuaba, cayenne pepper, chaga mushroom, chervil, cinnamon, dark chocolate, potato peel, grape seed, ginseng, gingko biloba, Saint John's Wort, saw palmetto, green tea, black tea, black cohosh, cayenne, chamomile, cloves, cocoa powder, cranberry, dandelion, grapefruit, honeybush, echinacea, garlic, evening primrose, feverfew, ginger, goldenseal, hawthorn, hibiscus flower, jiaogulan, kava, lavender, licorice, marjoram, milk thistle, mints (menthe), oolong tea, beet root, orange, oregano, papaya, pennyroyal, peppermint, red clover, rooibos (red or green), rosehip, rosemary, sage, clary sage, savory, spearmint, spirulina, slippery elm bark, sorghum bran hi-tannin, sorghum grain hi-tannin, sumac bran, comfrey leaf and root, goji berries, gutu kola, thyme, turmeric, Uva ursi, valerian, wild yam root, wintergreen, yacon root, yellow dock, yerba mate, yerba santa, bacopa monniera, Withania somnifera, Lion's mane, and Silybum marianum. Such botanical materials may be provided in fresh or dry form, essential oils, or may be in the form of an extracts. The botanical materials (as well as their extracts) often include compounds from various classes known to provide antioxidant effects, such as minerals, vitamins, isoflavones, phytoesterols, allyl sulfides, dithiolthiones, isothiocyanates, indoles, lignans, flavonoids, polyphenols, and carotenoids. Examples of compounds found in botanical extracts or oils include ascorbic acid, peanut endocarb, resveratrol, sulforaphane, beta-carotene, lycopene, lutein, co-enzyme Q, carnitine, quercetin, kaempferol, and the like. See, e.g., Santhosh et al., Phytomedicine, 12(2005) 216-220, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0125] Non-limiting examples of other suitable antioxidants include citric acid, Vitamin E or a derivative thereof, a tocopherol, epicatechol, epigallocatechol, epigallocatechol gallate, erythorbic acid, sodium erythorbate, 4-hexylresorcinol, theaflavin, theaflavin monogallate A or B, theaflavin digallate, phenolic acids, glycosides, quercitrin, isoquercitrin, hyperoside, polyphenols, catechols, resveratrols, oleuropein, butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), tertiary butylhydroquinone (TBHQ), and combinations thereof.

[0126] When present, an antioxidant is typically at a concentration of from about 0.001% w / w to about 10% by weight, such as, e.g., from about 0.001%, about 0.005%, about 0.01% w / w, about 0.05%, about 0.1%, or about 0.5%, to about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, or about 10%, based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition 124.Cannabinoids

[0127] In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises one or more cannabinoids. As used herein, the term “cannabinoid” refers to a class of diverse chemical compounds that acts on cannabinoid receptors, also known as the endocannabinoid system, in cells that alter neurotransmitter release in the brain. Ligands for these receptor proteins include the endocannabinoids produced naturally in the body by animals; phytocannabinoids, found in cannabis; and synthetic cannabinoids, manufactured artificially. Cannabinoids found in cannabis include, without limitation: cannabigerol (CBG), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabidiol (CBD), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabinol (CBN), cannabinodiol (CBDL), cannabicyclol (CBL), cannabivarin (CBV), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), cannabidivarin (CBDV), cannabichromevarin (CBCV), cannabigerovarin (CBGV), cannabigerol monomethyl ether (CBGM), cannabinerolic acid, cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabinol propyl variant (CBNV), cannabitriol (CBO), tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), and tetrahydrocannabivarinic acid (THCV A). In certain embodiments, the cannabinoid is selected from tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, and cannabidiol (CBD) another major constituent of the plant, but which is devoid of psychoactivity. All of the above compounds can be used in the form of an isolate from plant material or synthetically derived.

[0128] Alternatively, the active ingredient can be a cannabimimetic, which is a class of compounds derived from plants other than cannabis that have biological effects on the endocannabinoid system similar to cannabinoids. Examples include yangonin, alpha-amyrin or beta-amyrin (also classified as terpenes), cyanidin, curcumin (tumeric), catechin, quercetin, salvinorin A, N-acylethanolamines, and N-alkylamide lipids.

[0129] When present, a cannabinoid (e.g., CBD) or cannabimimetic is typically in a concentration of at least about 0.1% by weight of the composition, such as in a range from about 0.1% to about 30%, such as, e.g., from about 0.1%, about 0.2%, about 0.3%, about 0.4%, about 0.5% about 0.6%, about 0.7%, about 0.8%, or about 0.9%, to about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, about 10%, about 15%, about 20%, or about 30% by weight, based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition 124.Terpenes

[0130] Active ingredients suitable for use in the present disclosure can also be classified as terpenes, many of which are associated with biological effects, such as calming effects. Terpenes are understood to have the general formula of (C5H8)n and include monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, and diterpenes. Terpenes can be acyclic, monocyclic or bicyclic in structure. Some terpenes provide an entourage effect when used in combination with cannabinoids or cannabimimetics. Examples include beta-caryophyllene, linalool, limonene, beta-citronellol, linalyl acetate, pinene (alpha or beta), geraniol, carvone, eucalyptol, menthone, iso-menthone, piperitone, myrcene, beta-bourbonene, and germacrene, which may be used singly or in combination.Pharmaceutical Ingredients

[0131] In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API). The API can be any known agent adapted for therapeutic, prophylactic, or diagnostic use. These can include, for example, synthetic organic compounds, proteins and peptides, polysaccharides and other sugars, lipids, phospholipids, inorganic compounds (e.g., magnesium, selenium, zinc, nitrate), neurotransmitters or precursors thereof (e.g., serotonin, 5-hydroxytryptophan, oxitriptan, acetylcholine, dopamine, melatonin), and nucleic acid sequences, having therapeutic, prophylactic, or diagnostic activity. Non-limiting examples of APIs include analgesics and antipyretics (e.g., acetylsalicylic acid, acetaminophen, 3-(4-isobutylphenyl)propanoic acid), phosphatidylserine, myoinositol, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, Omega-3), arachidonic acid (AA, Omega-6), S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate (HMB), citicoline (cytidine-5′-diphosphate-choline), and cotinine. In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises citicoline. In some embodiments, the active ingredient is a combination of citicoline, caffeine, theanine, and ginseng. In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises sunflower lecithin. In some embodiments, the active ingredient is a combination of sunflower lecithin, caffeine, theanine, and ginseng.

[0132] The amount of API may vary. For example, when present, an API is typically at a concentration of from about 0.001% w / w to about 10% by weight, such as, e.g., from about 0.01%, about 0.02%, about 0.03%, about 0.04%, about 0.05%, about 0.06%, about 0.07%, about 0.08%, about 0.09%, about 0.1% w / w, about 0.2%, about 0.3%, about 0.4%, about 0.5% about 0.6%, about 0.7%, about 0.8%, about 0.9%, or about 1%, to about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, or about 10% by weight, based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition 124.

[0133] In some embodiments, the aerosol precursor composition 124 is substantially free of any API. By “substantially free of any API” means that the composition does not contain, and specifically excludes, the presence of any API as defined herein, such as any Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved therapeutic agent intended to treat any medical condition.Tobacco Material

[0134] In some embodiments, the aerosol precursor composition 124 may include a tobacco material. The tobacco material can vary in species, type, and form. Generally, the tobacco material is obtained from for a harvested plant of the Nicotiana species. Example Nicotiana species include N. tabacum, N. rustica, N. alata, N. arentsii, N. excelsior, N. forgetiana, N. glauca, N. glutinosa, N. gossei, N. kawakamii, N. knightiana, N. langsdorffi, N. otophora, N. setchelli, N. sylvestris, N. tomentosa, N. tomentosiformis, N. undulata, N. x sanderae, N. africana, N. amplexicaulis, N. benavidesii, N. bonariensis, N. debneyi, N. longiflora, N. maritina, N. megalosiphon, N. occidentalis, N. paniculata, N. plumbaginifolia, N. raimondii, N. rosulata, N. simulans, N. stocktonii, N. suaveolens, N. umbratica, N. velutina, N. wigandioides, N. acaulis, N. acuminata, N. attenuata, N. benthamiana, N. cavicola, N. clevelandii, N. cordifolia, N. corymbosa, N. fragrans, N. goodspeedii, N. linearis, N. miersii, N. nudicaulis, N. obtusifolia, N. occidentalis subsp. Hersperis, N. pauciflora, N. petunioides, N. quadrivalvis, N. repanda, N. rotundifolia, N. solanifolia, and N. spegazzinii. Various representative other types of plants from the Nicotiana species are set forth in Goodspeed, The Genus Nicotiana, (Chonica Botanica) (1954); U.S. Pat. No. 4,660,577 to Sensabaugh, Jr. et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,387,416 to White et al., U.S. Pat. No. 7,025,066 to Lawson et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 7,798,153 to Lawrence, Jr. and U.S. Pat. No. 8,186,360 to Marshall et al.; each of which is incorporated herein by reference. Descriptions of various types of tobaccos, growing practices and harvesting practices are set forth in Tobacco Production, Chemistry and Technology, Davis et al. (Eds.) (1999), which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0135] Nicotiana species from which suitable tobacco materials can be obtained can be derived using genetic-modification or crossbreeding techniques (e.g., tobacco plants can be genetically engineered or crossbred to increase or decrease production of components, characteristics or attributes). See, for example, the types of genetic modifications of plants set forth in U.S. Pat. No. 5,539,093 to Fitzmaurice et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,668,295 to Wahab et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,705,624 to Fitzmaurice et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,844,119 to Weigl; U.S. Pat. No. 6,730,832 to Dominguez et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 7,173,170 to Liu et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 7,208,659 to Colliver et al. and U.S. Pat. No. 7,230,160 to Benning et al.; US Patent Appl. Pub. No. 2006 / 0236434 to Conkling et al.; and PCT WO2008 / 103935 to Nielsen et al. See, also, the types of tobaccos that are set forth in U.S. Pat. No. 4,660,577 to Sensabaugh, Jr. et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,387,416 to White et al.; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,730,832 to Dominguez et al., each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0136] Various parts or portions of the plant of the Nicotiana species can be included within an aerosol precursor composition 124 as disclosed herein. For example, virtually all of the plant (e.g., the whole plant) can be harvested, and employed as such. Alternatively, various parts or pieces of the plant can be harvested or separated for further use after harvest. For example, the flower, leaves, stem, stalk, roots, seeds, and various combinations thereof, can be isolated for further use or treatment. In some embodiments, the tobacco material comprises tobacco leaf (lamina). The aerosol precursor composition 124 disclosed herein can include processed tobacco parts or pieces, cured and aged tobacco in essentially natural lamina and / or stem form, a tobacco extract, extracted tobacco pulp (e.g., using water as a solvent), or a mixture of the foregoing (e.g., a mixture that combines extracted tobacco pulp with granulated cured and aged natural tobacco lamina).

[0137] For the preparation of various tobacco-containing products, it is typical for a harvested plant of the Nicotiana species to be subjected to a curing process. The tobacco materials incorporated within products as disclosed herein can be those that have been appropriately cured and / or aged. Descriptions of various types of curing processes for various types of tobaccos are set forth in Tobacco Production, Chemistry and Technology, Davis et al. (Eds.) (1999). Examples of techniques and conditions for curing flue-cured tobacco are set forth in Nestor et al., Beitrage Tabakforsch. Int., 20, 467-475 (2003) and U.S. Pat. No. 6,895,974 to Peele, which are incorporated herein by reference. Representative techniques and conditions for air curing tobacco are set forth in U.S. Pat. No. 7,650,892 to Groves et al.; Roton et al., Beitrage Tabakforsch. Int., 21, 305-320 (2005) and Staaf et al., Beitrage Tabakforsch. Int., 21, 321-330 (2005), which are incorporated herein by reference. Certain types of tobaccos can be subjected to alternative types of curing processes, such as fire curing or sun curing.

[0138] In certain embodiments, tobacco materials that can be employed include flue-cured or Virginia (e.g., K326), burley, sun-cured (e.g., Indian Kurnool and Oriental tobaccos, including Katerini, Prelip, Komotini, Xanthi and Yambol tobaccos), Maryland, dark, dark-fired, dark air cured (e.g., Madole, Passanda, Cubano, Jatin and Bezuki tobaccos), light air cured (e.g., North Wisconsin and Galpao tobaccos), Indian air cured, Red Russian and Rustica tobaccos, as well as various other rare or specialty tobaccos and various blends of any of the foregoing tobaccos.

[0139] Typical inclusion ranges for tobacco materials can vary depending on the nature and type of the tobacco material, and the intended effect on the final aerosol precursor composition 124, with an example range of up to about 30% by weight (or up to about 20% by weight or up to about 10% by weight or up to about 5% by weight), based on total weight of the mixture (e.g., about 0.1 to about 15% by weight). In some embodiments, a tobacco material is included in a relatively small amount (e.g., about 0.01% to about 0.1% by weight).

[0140] In some embodiments, the products of the disclosure can be characterized as completely free or substantially free of tobacco material (other than purified nicotine as an active ingredient, in some embodiments). For example, certain aerosol precursor compositions 124 can be characterized as having less than 1% by weight, or less than 0.5% by weight, or less than 0.1% by weight of tobacco material, or 0% by weight of tobacco material.

[0141] Typically, the aerosol precursor composition 124 includes a flavorant 128. As used herein, the terms “flavorant” and “flavor” refer to materials which, where local regulations permit, may be used to create a desired taste, aroma or other somatosensorial sensation in a product for adult consumers. Flavorants may include naturally occurring flavor materials, botanicals, extracts of botanicals, synthetically obtained materials, or combinations thereof (e.g., tobacco, cannabis, licorice (liquorice), hydrangea, eugenol, Japanese white bark magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, maple, matcha, menthol, Japanese mint, aniseed (anise), cinnamon, turmeric, Indian spices, Asian spices, herb, wintergreen, cherry, berry, redberry, cranberry, peach, apple, orange, mango, clementine, lemon, lime, tropical fruit, papaya, rhubarb, grape, durian, dragon fruit, cucumber, blueberry, mulberry, citrus fruits, Drambuie, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, gin, tequila, rum, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, aloe vera, cardamom, celery, cascarilla, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, khat, naswar, betel, shisha, pine, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, orange blossom, cherry blossom, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sage, fennel, wasabi, piment, ginger, coriander, coffee, hemp, a mint oil from any species of the genus Mentha, eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, lemongrass, rooibos, flax, Ginkgo biloba, hazel, hibiscus, laurel, mate, orange skin, rose, tea such as green tea or black tea, thyme, juniper, elderflower, basil, bay leaves, cumin, oregano, paprika, rosemary, saffron, lemon peel, mint, beefsteak plant, curcuma, cilantro, myrtle, cassis, valerian, pimento, mace, damien, marjoram, olive, lemon balm, lemon basil, chive, carvi, verbena, tarragon, limonene, thymol, camphene), flavor enhancers, bitterness receptor site blockers, sensorial receptor site activators or stimulators, sugars and / or sugar substitutes (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharine, cyclamates, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol), and other additives such as charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, botanicals, or breath freshening agents. Flavorants may be imitation, synthetic or natural ingredients or blends thereof. Flavorants may be in any suitable form, for example, in liquid form such as an oil, in solid form such as a powder, or in gas form.

[0142] In some example implementations, the flavorant 128 may include a sensate, which is intended to achieve a somatosensorial sensation which are usually chemically induced and perceived by the stimulation of the fifth cranial nerve (trigeminal nerve), in addition to or in place of aroma or taste nerves, and these may include agents providing heating, cooling, tingling, numbing effect. A suitable heat effect agent may be, but is not limited to, vanillyl ethyl ether and a suitable cooling agent may be, but not limited to, eucalyptol or WS-3.

[0143] The flavorant 128 can be included within the aerosol precursor composition in varying amounts, which can depend, for example, on the desired sensory characteristics to be associated with use of the aerosol precursor composition and the physical characteristics of the flavorant(s) (including, but not limited to, the volatility of the flavorant and the physical form of the flavorant). In some embodiments, the flavorant 128 (including a single flavorant or a combination of two or more flavorants) is included within the aerosol precursor composition in a total amount of about 40% by weight or less, about 35% by weight or less, or about 30% by weight or less, based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition. Example ranges of flavorant content are about 2% by weight to about 40% by weight, about 2% by weight to about 30% by weight, about 5% by weight to about 40% by weight, about 5% by weight to about 30% by weight, about 10% by weight to about 40% by weight, about 10% by weight to about 30% by weight, about 15% by weight to about 40% by weight, or about 15% by weight to about 30% by weight, based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition.

[0144] In some embodiments, these values are reported on the basis of “flavor packages,” i.e., flavors dissolved in a carrier liquid (which is a non-limiting manner by which the flavorants disclosed herein are incorporated within the final formulation). The carrier liquid can comprise, e.g., one or more aerosol-former materials. Typically, the amount of aerosol-former material in such flavor packages is greater on a weight / weight basis than the amount of flavorant. As such, relevant amounts of flavorants considered alone within various formulations (excluding any associated aerosol former material within the flavor package) can be, e.g., up to about 20% by weight, up to about 15% by weight, up to about 10% by weight, or up to about 8% by weight based on the final formulation (e.g., about 0.5% to about 20%, about 0.5% to about 15%, about 0.5% to about 10%, or about 0.5% to about 8% by weight).

[0145] The aerosol-former material 130 may include one or more constituents capable of forming an aerosol, i.e., aerosol formers. In some example implementations, the aerosol former may include one or more of glycerine (glycerin), glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, erythritol, meso-erythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, a diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, a diacetin mixture, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenyl acetate, tributyrin, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate. In some embodiments, aerosol-former material 130 comprises at least one polyhydric alcohol. Such polyhydric alcohols include, but are not limited to, glycerin, propylene glycol, and mixtures thereof.

[0146] The aerosol-former material 130 can be present in varying amounts. In some embodiments, the aerosol-former material is present in an amount of about 50% by weight or more, about 60% by weight or more, or about 70% by weight or more, based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition 124. In embodiments comprising glycerin and propylene glycol, these components can be present in such amounts (e.g., about 50% by weight or higher), and can be present in various ratio, with either component predominating depending upon the intended application. In some embodiments, the glycerin and propylene glycol are present such that the aerosol-former material 130 comprises a higher glycerin content than propylene glycol content. For example, glycerin can be present in an amount of about 40% by weight or higher (e.g., about 40% to about 70% or about 45% to about 70%) based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition 136, and propylene glycol can be present in an amount of about 5% by weight or higher (e.g., about 5% to about 40%, about 5% to about 35%, about 5% to about 30%, about 6% to about 26%, about 6% to about 30%, about 6% to about 35%, or about 6% to about 40%) based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition 136.

[0147] The one or more other functional materials 132 may include one or more of pH regulators, coloring agents, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers, and / or antioxidants. Suitable binders include, for example, pectin, guar gum, fruit pectin, citrus pectin, tobacco pectin, hydroxyethyl guar gum, hydroxypropyl guar gum, hydroxyethyl locust bean gum, hydroxypropyl locust bean gum, alginate, starch, modified starch, derivatized starch, methyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, ethylhydroxymethyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, tamarind gum, dextran, pullalon, konjac flour or xanthan gum.

[0148] In some embodiments, the aerosol precursor composition 124 further comprises water. The amount of water is typically limited such that the aerosol precursor composition comprises no more than about 10% by weight of water, no more than 8% by weight of water, no more than about 6% by weight water, no more than about 5% by weight water, no more than about 4% by weight water, or no more than about 3% by weight water. In certain embodiments, these values are indicative of the water intentionally added to the formulation (additional water may be unintentionally incorporated over time, depending, e.g., on the environment and packaging in which the formulations are stored).

[0149] The aerosol precursor composition can optionally comprise one or more organic acids 134. Organic acids particularly may be incorporated into the aerosol precursor to affect the flavor, sensation, or organoleptic properties of medicaments, such as nicotine, that may be combined with (or contained within) the liquid aerosol precursor composition. Certain examples of organic acids that can be included within the disclosed aerosol precursor compositions include, but are not limited to, acids such as levulinic acid, succinic acid, lactic acid, pyruvic acid, optionally substituted benzoic acid, fumaric acid, combinations thereof, and the like. Inclusion of an organic acid component 134 in aerosol precursor compositions including nicotine may provide a protonated liquid aerosol precursor composition, including nicotine in salt form.

[0150] The pH of the aerosol precursor composition 124 can vary and can be dependent, e.g., on the content and composition of the organic acid component 134. In some embodiments, the pH of the aerosol precursor composition is about 4 to about 7.5, e.g., about 5 to about 7.5, e.g., about 5.5 to about 7.5.

[0151] An aerosol delivery device according to the present disclosure may take on a variety of embodiments, as discussed in detail below. However, typically, the use of the aerosol delivery device by a consumer will be similar in scope. The foregoing description of the aerosol precursor composition is applicable to the various embodiments described through minor modifications, which are apparent to the person of skill in the art in light of the further disclosure provided herein. The description of use, however, is not intended to limit the use of the aerosol precursor composition 124 but is provided to comply with all necessary requirements of disclosure herein.

[0152] The aerosol precursor composition 124 described herein can be included within an article of a consumable 104, part or all of which is intended to be consumed during use by a user. An aerosol provision system 100 may include one or more consumables, and each consumable may include one or more liquid aerosol precursor compositions (which can be as described herein or which can be alternative types of compositions). In some examples in which the aerosol provision system is a hybrid product, the aerosol provision system may include a liquid aerosol precursor composition to generate an aerosol, which may then pass through a second, solid aerosol-generating material to pick up additional constituents before reaching the user. These aerosol-generating materials may be within a single consumable or respective consumables that may be separately removable.

[0153] The aerosol precursor composition 124 is capable of generating aerosol, for example when heated, irradiated or energized in any other way. The aerosol precursor composition may be, for example, in the form of a solid, semi-solid, liquid or gel. In certain preferred embodiments, the aerosol precursor composition 124 is a liquid aerosol precursor composition. The aerosol precursor composition may include an “amorphous solid,” which may be alternatively referred to as a “monolithic solid” (i.e., non-fibrous). In some examples, the amorphous solid may be a dried gel. The amorphous solid is a solid material that may retain some fluid, such as liquid, within it. In some examples, the aerosol precursor composition may include from about 50 wt. %, 60 wt. % or 70 wt. % of amorphous solid, to about 90 wt. %, 95 wt. % or 100 wt. % of amorphous solid.

[0154] Example implementations of the present disclosure are generally directed to delivery systems designed to deliver at least one substance to a user, such as to satisfy a particular “consumer moment.” The substance may include constituents that impart a physiological effect on the user, a sensorial effect on the user, or both.

[0155] As referenced above, by employing an organic acid component 136 comprising three different organic acids, the sensory characteristics of the aerosol formed from the aerosol precursor composition within the delivery system may be modified and, in some embodiments, surprising (e.g., positive) sensory / taste characteristics are associated with the inclusion of such an organic acid component.

[0156] Delivery systems for the disclosed aerosol precursor composition provided herein may take many forms. Examples of suitable delivery systems include aerosol provision systems such as powered aerosol provision systems designed to release one or more substances or compounds from an aerosol-generating material without combusting the aerosol precursor composition. These aerosol provision systems may at times be referred to as non-combustible aerosol provision systems, aerosol delivery devices or the like, and the aerosol-generating material / aerosol precursor composition may be, for example, in the form of a solid, semi-solid, liquid or gel and may or may not contain nicotine.

[0157] Examples of suitable aerosol provision systems include vapor products, heat-not-burn products, hybrid products and the like. Vapor products are commonly known as “electronic cigarettes,”“e-cigarettes” or electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), although the aerosol precursor composition need not include nicotine. Many vapor products are designed to heat a liquid material to generate an aerosol. Other vapor products are designed to break up an aerosol precursor composition into an aerosol without heating, or with only secondary heating. Heat-not-burn products include tobacco heating products (THPs) and carbon-tipped tobacco heating products (CTHPs), and many are designed to heat a solid material to generate an aerosol without combusting the material.

[0158] Hybrid products use a combination of aerosol precursor compositions, one or a plurality of which may be heated. Each of the aerosol precursor compositions may be, for example, in the form of a solid, semi-solid, liquid, or gel. Some hybrid products are similar to vapor products except that the aerosol generated from a liquid or gel aerosol precursor composition passes through a second material (such as tobacco) to pick up additional constituents before reaching the user. In some example implementations, the hybrid system includes a liquid or gel aerosol precursor composition, and a solid aerosol-generating material. A solid aerosol-generating material may include, for example, tobacco or a non-tobacco product.

[0159] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an aerosol provision system 100 according to some example implementations, incorporating the aerosol precursor composition provided herein. In various examples, the aerosol provision system may be a vapor product, heat-not-burn product or hybrid product. The aerosol provision system includes one or more of each of a number of components including, for example, an aerosol provision device 102, and a consumable 104 (sometimes referred to as an article) for use with the aerosol provision device. The aerosol provision system also includes an aerosol generator 106. In various implementations, the aerosol generator may be part of the aerosol provision device or the consumable. In other implementations, the aerosol generator may be separate from the aerosol provision device and the consumable, and removably engaged with the aerosol provision device and / or the consumable.

[0160] In various examples, the aerosol provision system 100 and its components including the aerosol provision device 102 and the consumable 104 may be reusable or single-use. In some examples, the aerosol provision system including both the aerosol provision device and the consumable may be single use. In some examples, the aerosol provision device may be reusable, and the consumable may be reusable (e.g., refillable) or single use (e.g., replaceable). In yet further examples, the consumable may be both refillable and also replaceable. In examples in which the aerosol generator 106 is part of the aerosol provision device or the consumable, the aerosol generator may be reusable or single-use in the same manner as the aerosol provision device or the consumable.

[0161] In some example implementations, the aerosol provision device 102 may include a housing 108 with a power source 110 and circuitry 112. The power source is configured to provide a source of power to the aerosol provision device and thereby the aerosol provision system 100. The power source may be or include, for example, an electric power source such as a non-rechargeable battery or a rechargeable battery, solid-state battery (SSB), lithium-ion battery, supercapacitor, or the like.

[0162] The circuitry 112 may be configured to enable one or more functionalities (at times referred to as services) of the aerosol provision device 102 and thereby the aerosol provision system 100. The circuitry includes electronic components, and in some examples one or more of the electronic components may be formed as a circuit board such as a printed circuit board (PCB).

[0163] In some examples, the circuitry 112 includes at least one switch 114 that may be directly or indirectly manipulated by a user to activate the aerosol provision device 102 and thereby the aerosol provision system 100. The switch may be or include a pushbutton, touch-sensitive surface or the like that may be operated manually by a user. Additionally or alternatively, the switch may be or include a sensor configured to sense one or more process variables that indicate use of the aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system. One example is a flow sensor, pressure sensor, pressure switch or the like that is configured to detect airflow or a change in pressure caused by airflow when a user draws on the consumable 104.

[0164] The switch 114 may provide user interface functionality. In some examples, the circuitry 112 may include a user interface (UI) 116 that is separate from or that is or includes the switch. The UI may include one or more input devices and / or output devices to enable interaction between the user and the aerosol provision device 102. As described above with respect to the switch, examples of suitable input devices include pushbuttons, touch-sensitive surfaces and the like. The one or more output devices generally include devices configured to provide information in a human-perceptible form that may be visual, audible or tactile / haptic. Examples of suitable output devices include light sources such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs), quantum dot-based LEDs and the like. Other examples of suitable output devices include display devices (e.g., electronic visual displays), touchscreens (integrated touch-sensitive surface and display device), loudspeakers, vibration motors and the like.

[0165] In some examples, the circuitry 112 includes processing circuitry 118 configured to perform data processing, application execution, or other processing, control or management services according to one or more example implementations. The processing circuitry may include a processor embodied in a variety of forms such as at least one processor core, microprocessor, coprocessor, controller, microcontroller or various other computing or processing devices including one or more integrated circuits such as, for example, an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), an FPGA (field programmable gate array), some combination thereof, or the like. In some examples, the processing circuitry may include memory coupled to or integrated with the processor, and which may store data, computer program instructions executable by the processor, some combination thereof, or the like.

[0166] As also shown, in some examples, the housing 108 and thereby the aerosol provision device 102 may also include a coupler 120 and / or a receptacle 122 structured to engage and hold the consumable 104, and thereby couple the aerosol provision device with the consumable. The coupler may be or include a connector, fastener or the like that is configured to connect with a corresponding coupler of the consumable, such as by a press fit (or interference fit) connection, threaded connection, magnetic connection or the like. The receptacle may be or include a reservoir, tank, container, cavity, receiving chamber or the like that is structured to receive and contain the consumable or at least a portion of the consumable.

[0167] In some example implementations, the aerosol precursor composition 124 may be present on or in a support to form a substrate 134. The support may be or include, for example, paper, card, paperboard, cardboard, reconstituted material (e.g., a material formed from reconstituted plant material, such as reconstituted tobacco, reconstituted hemp, etc.), a plastics material, a ceramic material, a composite material, glass, a metal, or a metal alloy. In some examples, the support includes a susceptor, which may be embedded within the aerosol precursor composition, or on one or either side of the aerosol precursor composition.

[0168] Although not separately shown, in some example implementations, the consumable 104 may further include receptacle structured to engage and hold the aerosol precursor composition 124, or substrate 134 with the aerosol precursor composition. The receptacle may be or include a reservoir, tank, container, cavity, receiving chamber or the like that is structured to receive and contain the aerosol precursor composition or the substrate. The consumable may include an aerosol precursor composition transfer component (also referred to as a liquid transport element) configured to transport aerosol precursor composition to the aerosol generator 106. The aerosol precursor composition transfer component may be adapted to wick or otherwise transport aerosol precursor composition via capillary action. In some examples, the aerosol precursor composition transfer component may include a microfluidic chip, a micro pump or other suitable component to transport aerosol precursor composition.

[0169] The aerosol generator 106 (also referred to as an atomizer, aerosolizer or aerosol production component) is configured to energize the aerosol precursor composition 124 to generate an aerosol, or otherwise cause generation of an aerosol from the aerosol-generating composition. More particularly, in some examples, the aerosol generator may be powered by the power source 110 under control of the circuitry 112 to energize the aerosol precursor composition to generate an aerosol.

[0170] In some example implementations, the aerosol generator 106 is an electric heater configured to perform electric heating in which electrical energy from the power source is converted to heat energy, which the aerosol-generating composition is subject to so as to release one or more volatiles from the aerosol-generating composition to form an aerosol. Examples of suitable forms of electric heating include resistance (Joule) heating, induction heating, dielectric and microwave heating, radiant heating, arc heating and the like. More particular examples of suitable electric heaters include resistive heating elements such as wire coils, flat plates, prongs, micro heaters or the like.

[0171] In some example implementations, the aerosol generator 106 is configured to cause an aerosol to be generated from the aerosol-generating composition without heating, or with only secondary heating. For example, the aerosol generator may be configured to subject the aerosol precursor composition 124 to one or more of increased pressure, vibration, or electrostatic energy. More particular examples of these aerosol generators include jet nebulizers, ultrasonic wave nebulizers, vibrating mesh technology (VMT) nebulizers, surface acoustic wave (SAW) nebulizers, and the like.

[0172] A jet nebulizer is configured to use compressed gas (e.g., air, oxygen) to break up aerosol precursor composition 124 into an aerosol, and an ultrasonic wave nebulizer is configured to use ultrasonic waves to break up the aerosol precursor composition into an aerosol. A VMT nebulizer includes a mesh, and a piezo material (e.g., piezoelectric material, piezomagnetic material) that may be driven to vibrate and cause the mesh to break up the aerosol precursor composition into an aerosol. A SAW nebulizer is configured to use surface acoustic waves or Rayleigh waves to break up the aerosol precursor composition into an aerosol.

[0173] In some examples, the aerosol generator 106 may include a susceptor, or the susceptor may be part of the substrate 134. The susceptor is a material that is heatable by penetration with a varying magnetic field generated by a magnetic field generator that may be separate from or part of the aerosol generator. The susceptor may be an electrically-conductive material, so that penetration thereof with a varying magnetic field causes induction heating of the heating material. The heating material may be magnetic material, so that penetration thereof with a varying magnetic field causes magnetic hysteresis heating of the heating material. The susceptor in some examples may be both electrically-conductive and magnetic, so that the susceptor of these examples is heatable by both heating mechanisms.

[0174] Although not separately shown, either or both the aerosol provision device 102 or the consumable 104 may include an aerosol-modifying agent. The aerosol-modifying agent is a substance configured to modify the aerosol generated from the aerosol precursor composition 124, such as by changing the taste, flavor, acidity or another characteristic of the aerosol. In various examples, the aerosol-modifying agent may be an additive or a sorbent. The aerosol-modifying agent may include, for example, one or more of a flavorant, colorant, water or carbon adsorbent. The aerosol-modifying agent may be a solid, semi-solid, liquid or gel. The aerosol-modifying agent may be in powder, thread or granule form. The aerosol-modifying agent may be free from filtration material. In some examples, the aerosol-modifying agent may be provided in an aerosol-modifying agent release component, that is operable to selectively release the aerosol-modifying agent.

[0175] The aerosol provision system 100 and its components including the aerosol provision device 102, consumable 104, and aerosol generator 106 may be manufactured with any of a number of different form factors, and with additional or alternative components relative to those described above.

[0176] FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate an aerosol provision system 200 in the form of a vapor product, and that in some example implementations may correspond to the aerosol provision system 100. As shown, the aerosol provision system 200 may include an aerosol provision device 202 (also referred to as a control body or power unit) and a consumable 204 (also referred to as a cartridge or tank), which may correspond to respectively the aerosol provision device 102 and the consumable 104. The aerosol provision system and in particular the consumable may also include an aerosol generator corresponding to the aerosol generator 106, and in the form of an electric heater 306 such as a heating element like a metal wire coil configured to convert electrical energy to heat energy through resistance (Joule) heating. The aerosol provision device and the consumable can be permanently or detachably aligned in a functioning relationship. FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate respectively a perspective view and a partially cut-away side view of the aerosol provision system in a coupled configuration.

[0177] As seen in FIG. 2 and the cut-away view illustrated in FIG. 3, the aerosol provision device 202 and consumable 204 each include a number of respective components. The components illustrated in FIG. 3 are representative of the components that may be present in an aerosol provision device and consumable and are not intended to limit the scope of components that are encompassed by the present disclosure.

[0178] The aerosol provision device 202 may include a housing 208 (sometimes referred to as an aerosol provision device shell) that may include a power source 310. The housing may also include circuitry 312 with a switch in the form of a sensor 314, a user interface including a light source 316 that may be illuminated with use of the aerosol provision system 200, and processing circuitry 318 (also referred to as a control component). The housing may also include a receptacle in the form of a consumable receiving chamber 322 structured to engage and hold the consumable 204. And the consumable may include an aerosol precursor composition 324 that may correspond to aerosol precursor composition 124 as described herein and that may include, in addition to the organic acid component, one or more of each of a number of constituents such as an active substance, flavorant, aerosol-former material or other functional material.

[0179] As also seen in FIG. 3, the aerosol provision device 202 may also include electrical connectors 336 positioned in the consumable receiving chamber 322 configured to electrically couple the circuitry and thereby the aerosol provision device with the consumable 204, and in particular electrical contacts 338 on the consumable. In this regard, the electrical connectors and electrical contacts may form a connection interface of the aerosol provision device and consumable. As also shown, the aerosol provision device may include an external electrical connector 340 to connect the aerosol provision device with one or more external devices. Examples of suitable external electrical connectors include USB connectors, proprietary connectors such as Apple's Lightning connector, and the like.

[0180] In various examples, the consumable 204 includes a tank portion and a mouthpiece portion. The tank portion and the mouthpiece portion may be integrated or permanently fixed together, or the tank portion may itself define the mouthpiece portion (or vice versa). In other examples, the tank portion and the mouthpiece portion may be separate and removably engaged with one another.

[0181] The consumable 204, tank portion and / or mouthpiece portion may be separately defined in relation to a longitudinal axis (L), a first transverse axis (T1) that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and a second transverse axis (T2) that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and is perpendicular to the first transverse axis. The consumable can be formed of a housing 342 (sometimes referred to as the consumable shell) enclosing a reservoir 344 (in the tank portion) configured to retain the aerosol precursor composition 324. In some examples, the consumable may include an aerosol generator, such as electric heater 306 in the illustrated example. In some examples, the electrical connectors 336 on the aerosol provision device 202 and electrical contacts 338 on the consumable may electrically connect the electric heater with the power source 310 and / or circuitry 312 of the aerosol provision device.

[0182] As shown, in some examples, the reservoir 344 may be in fluid communication with an aerosol precursor composition transfer component 346 adapted to wick or otherwise transport aerosol precursor composition 324 stored in the reservoir housing to the electric heater 306. At least a portion of the aerosol precursor composition transfer component may be positioned proximate (e.g., directly adjacent, adjacent, in close proximity to, or in relatively close proximity to) the electric heater. The aerosol precursor composition transfer component may extend between the electric heater and the aerosol precursor composition stored in the reservoir, and at least a portion of the electric heater may be located above a proximal end the reservoir. For the purposes of the present disclosure, it should be understood that the term “above” in this particular context should be interpreted as meaning toward a proximal end of the reservoir and / or the consumable 204 in direction substantially along the longitudinal axis (L). Other arrangements of the aerosol precursor composition transfer component are also contemplated within the scope of the disclosure. For example, in some example implementations, the aerosol precursor composition transfer component may be positioned proximate a distal end of the reservoir and / or arranged transverse to the longitudinal axis (L).

[0183] The electric heater 306 and aerosol precursor composition transfer component 346 may be configured as separate elements that are fluidly connected, or may be configured as a combined element. For example, in some implementations an electric heater may be integrated into an aerosol precursor composition transfer component. Moreover, the electric heater and the aerosol precursor composition transfer component may be formed of any construction as otherwise described herein. In some examples, a valve may be positioned between the reservoir 344 and electric heater, and configured to control an amount of aerosol precursor composition 324 passed or delivered from the reservoir to the electric heater.

[0184] An opening 348 may be present in the housing 342 (e.g., at the mouth end of the mouthpiece portion) to allow for egress of formed aerosol from the consumable 204.

[0185] As indicated above, the circuitry 312 of the aerosol provision device 202 may include a number of electronic components, and in some examples may be formed of a circuit board such as a PCB that supports and electrically connects the electronic components. The sensor 314 (switch) may be one of these electronic components positioned on the circuit board. In some examples, the sensor may comprise its own circuit board or other base element to which it can be attached. In some examples, a flexible circuit board may be utilized. A flexible circuit board may be configured into a variety of shapes. In some examples, a flexible circuit board may be combined with, layered onto, or form part or all of a heater substrate.

[0186] In some examples, the reservoir 344 may be a container for storing the aerosol precursor composition 324. In some examples, the reservoir may be or include a fibrous reservoir with a substrate with the aerosol precursor composition present on or in a support. For example, the reservoir can comprise one or more layers of nonwoven fibers substantially formed into the shape of a tube encircling the interior of the housing 342, in this example. The aerosol precursor composition may be retained in the reservoir. Liquid components, for example, may be sorptively retained by the reservoir. The reservoir may be in fluid connection with the aerosol precursor composition transfer component 346. The aerosol precursor composition transfer component may transport the aerosol precursor composition stored in the reservoir via capillary action—or via a micro pump—to the electric heater 306. As such, the electric heater is in a heating arrangement with the aerosol precursor composition transfer component.

[0187] In use, when a user draws on the aerosol provision system 200, airflow is detected by the sensor 314, and the electric heater 306 is activated to energize the aerosol precursor composition 324 to generate an aerosol. Drawing upon the mouth end of the aerosol provision system causes ambient air to enter and pass through the aerosol provision system. In the consumable 204, the drawn air combines with the aerosol that is whisked, aspirated or otherwise drawn away from the electric heater and out the opening 348 in the mouth end of the aerosol provision system.

[0188] Again, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the aerosol generator of the aerosol provision system 200 is an electric heater 306 designed to heat the aerosol precursor composition 324 to generate an aerosol. In other implementations, the aerosol generator is designed to break up the aerosol precursor composition without heating, or with only secondary heating. FIG. 4 illustrates a nebulizer 400 that may be used to implement the aerosol generator of an aerosol provision system, according to some these other example implementations.

[0189] As shown in FIG. 4, the nebulizer 400 includes a mesh plate 402 and a piezo material 404 that may be affixed to one another. The piezo material may be driven to vibrate and cause the mesh plate to break up the aerosol precursor composition into an aerosol. In some examples, the nebulizer may also include a supporting component located on a side of the mesh plate opposite the piezo material to increase the longevity of the mesh plate, and / or an auxiliary component between the mesh plate and the piezo material to facilitate interfacial contact between the mesh plate and the piezo material.

[0190] In various example implementations, the mesh plate 402 may have a variety of different configurations. The mesh plate may have a flat profile, a domed shape (concave or convex with respect to the aerosol precursor composition), or a flat portion and a domed portion. The mesh plate defines a plurality of perforations 406 that may be substantially uniform or vary in size across a perforated portion of the mesh plate. The perforations may be circular openings or non-circular openings (e.g., oval, rectangular, triangular, regular polygon, irregular polygon). In three-dimensions, the perforations may have a fixed cross section such as in the case of cylindrical perforations with a fixed circular cross section, or a variable cross section such as in the case of truncated cone perforations with a variable circular cross section. In other implementations, the perforations may be tetragonal or pyramidal.

[0191] The piezo material 404 may be or include a piezoelectric material or a piezomagnetic material. A piezoelectric material may be coupled to circuitry configured to produce an oscillating electric signal to drive the piezoelectric material to vibrate. For a piezomagnetic material, the circuitry may produce a pair of antiphase, oscillating electric signals to drive a pair of magnets to produce antiphase, oscillating magnetic fields that drives the piezomagnetic material to vibrate.

[0192] The piezo material 404 may be affixed to the mesh plate 402, and vibration of the piezo material may in turn cause the mesh plate to vibrate. The mesh plate may be in contact with or immersed in the aerosol precursor composition, in sufficient proximity of the aerosol precursor composition, or may otherwise receive aerosol precursor composition via an aerosol precursor composition transfer component. The vibration of the mesh plate, then, may cause the aerosol precursor composition to pass through the perforations 406 that break up the aerosol precursor composition into an aerosol. More particularly, in some examples, the aerosol precursor composition may be driven through the perforations 406 in the vibrating mesh plate 402 resulting in aerosol particles. In other examples in which the mesh plate is in contact with or immersed in aerosol precursor composition, the vibrating mesh plate may create ultrasonic waves within the aerosol precursor composition that cause formation of an aerosol at the surface of the aerosol precursor composition.

[0193] As described above, hybrid products use a combination of aerosol precursor compositions, and some hybrid products are similar to vapor products except that the aerosol generated from one aerosol precursor composition may pass through a second aerosol precursor composition to pick up additional constituents. Another similar aerosol provision system in the form of a hybrid product may therefore be constructed similar to the vapor product in FIGS. 2 and 3 (with an electric heater 306 or a nebulizer 400). The hybrid product may include a second aerosol precursor composition through which aerosol from the aerosol precursor composition 324 is passed to pick up additional constituents before passing through the opening 348 in the mouth end of the aerosol provision system.

[0194] FIGS. 5, 6 and 7 illustrate an aerosol provision system 500 in the form of a heat-not-burn product, and that in some example implementations may correspond to the aerosol provision system 100. As shown, the aerosol provision system may include an aerosol provision device 502 (also referred to as a control body or power unit) and a consumable 504 (also referred to as an aerosol source member), which may correspond to respectively the aerosol provision device 102 and the consumable 104. The aerosol provision system and in particular the aerosol provision device may also include an aerosol generator corresponding to the aerosol generator 106, and in the form of an electric heater 706. The aerosol provision device and the consumable can be permanently or detachably aligned in a functioning relationship. FIG. 5 illustrates the aerosol provision system in a coupled configuration, whereas FIG. 6 illustrates the aerosol provision system in a decoupled configuration. FIG. 7 illustrates a partially cut-away side view of the aerosol provision system in the coupled configuration.

[0195] As seen in FIGS. 5, 6 and 7, the aerosol provision device 502 and consumable 504 each include a number of respective components. The components illustrated in the figures are representative of the components that may be present in an aerosol provision device and consumable and are not intended to limit the scope of components that are encompassed by the present disclosure.

[0196] The aerosol provision device 502 may include a housing 708 (sometimes referred to as an aerosol provision device shell) that may include a power source 710. The housing may also include circuitry 712 with a switch in the form of a sensor 714, a user interface including a light source 716 that may be illuminated with use of the aerosol provision system 500, and processing circuitry 718 (also referred to as a control component). In some examples, at least some of the electronic components of the circuitry may be formed of a circuit board or a flexible circuit board that supports and electrically connects the electronic components.

[0197] The housing 708 may also include a receptacle in the form of a consumable receiving chamber 722 structured to engage and hold the consumable 504. The consumable may include an aerosol precursor composition 624 that may correspond to aerosol precursor composition 124, and that may include one or more of each of a number of constituents in addition to the organic acid component described above, such as an active substance, flavorant, aerosol-former material or other functional material. In some embodiments, the aerosol precursor composition may be present on or in a support to form a substrate 634.

[0198] In the coupled configuration of the aerosol provision system 500, the consumable 504 may be held in the receiving chamber 722 in varying degrees. In some examples, less than half or approximately half of the consumable may be held in the receiving chamber. In other examples, more than half of the consumable may be held in the receiving chamber. In yet other examples, substantially the entire consumable may be held in the receiving chamber.

[0199] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, in various implementations of the present disclosure, the consumable 504 may include a heated end 636 sized and shaped for insertion into the aerosol provision device 502, and a mouth end 638 upon which a user draws to create the aerosol. In various implementations, at least a portion of the heated end may include the aerosol precursor composition 624.

[0200] In some example implementations, the mouth end 608 of the consumable 504 may include a filter 640 made of a material such as cellulose acetate or polypropylene. The filter may additionally or alternatively contain strands of tobacco containing material. In some examples, at least a portion of the consumable may be wrapped in an exterior overwrap material, which may be formed of any material useful to provide additional structure, support and / or thermal resistance. In some examples, an excess length of the overwrap at the mouth end of the consumable may function to simply separate the aerosol precursor composition 624 from the mouth of a user or to provide space for positioning of a filter material, or to affect draw on the consumable or to affect flow characteristics of the aerosol leaving the consumable during draw.

[0201] The electric heater 706 may perform electric heating of the aerosol precursor composition 624 by resistance (Joule) heating, induction heating, dielectric and microwave heating, radiant heating, arc heating and the like. The electric heater may have a variety of different configurations. In some examples, at least a portion of the electric heater may surround or at least partially surround at least a portion of the consumable 504 including the aerosol precursor composition when inserted in the aerosol provision device 502. In other examples, at least a portion of the electric heater may penetrate the consumable when the consumable is inserted into the aerosol provision device. In some examples, the substrate 634 material may include a susceptor, which may be embedded within the aerosol precursor composition, or on one or either side of the aerosol precursor composition.

[0202] Although shown as a part of the aerosol provision device 502, the electric heater 706 may instead be a part of the consumable 504. In some examples, the electric heater or a part of the electric heater may be may be combined, packaged or integral with (e.g., embedded within) the aerosol precursor composition 624.

[0203] As shown, in some examples, the electric heater 706 may extend proximate an engagement end of the housing 708, and may be configured to substantially surround a portion of the heated end 636 of the consumable 504 that includes the aerosol precursor composition 624. The electric heater 706 may be or may include an outer cylinder 742, and one or more resistive heating elements 744 such as prongs surrounded by the outer cylinder to create the receiving chamber 722, which may extend from a receiving base 746 of the aerosol provision device to an opening 748 of the housing 708 of the aerosol provision device. In some examples, the outer cylinder may be a double-walled vacuum tube constructed of stainless steel so as to maintain heat generated by the resistive heating element(s) within the outer cylinder, and more particularly, maintain heat generated by the resistive heating element(s) within the aerosol precursor composition.

[0204] Like the electric heater 706, the resistive heating element(s) 744 may have a variety of different configurations, and vary in number from one resistive heating element to a plurality of resistive heating elements. As shown, the resistive heating element(s) may extend from a receiving base 746 of the aerosol provision device 502. In some examples, the resistive heating element(s) may be located at or around an approximate radial center of the heated end 636 of the consumable 504 when inserted into the aerosol provision device. In some examples, the resistive heating element(s) may penetrate into the heated end of the consumable and in direct contact with the aerosol precursor composition. In other examples, the resistive heating element(s) may be located inside (but out of direct contact with) a cavity defined by an inner surface of the heated end of the consumable.

[0205] In some examples, the resistive heating element(s) 744 of the electric heater 706 may be connected in an electrical circuit that includes the power source 710 such that electric current produced by the power source may pass through the resistive heating element(s). The passage of the electric current through the resistive heating element(s) may in turn cause the resistive heating element(s) to produce heat through resistance (Joule) heating.

[0206] In other examples, the electric heater 706 including the outer cylinder 742 and the resistive heating element(s) 744 may be configured to perform induction heating in which the outer cylinder may be connected in an electrical circuit that includes the power source 710, and the resistive heating element(s) may be connected in another electrical circuit. In this configuration, the outer cylinder and resistive heating element(s) may function as a transformer in which the outer cylinder is an induction transmitter, and the resistive heating element(s) is / are an induction receiver. In some of these examples, the outer cylinder and the resistive heating element(s) may parts of the aerosol provision device 502. In other of these examples, the outer cylinder may be a part of the aerosol provision device, and the resistive heating element(s) may be a part of the consumable 504.

[0207] The outer cylinder 730 may be provided an alternating current directly from the power source 710, or indirectly from the power source in which an inverter (as part of the circuitry 712) is configured to convert direct current from the power source to an alternating current. The alternating current drives the outer cylinder to generate an oscillating magnetic field, which induces eddy currents in the resistive heating element(s) 744. The eddy currents in turn cause the resistive heating element(s) to generate heat through resistance (Joule) heating. In these examples, the resistive heating element(s) may be wirelessly heated to form an aerosol from the aerosol precursor composition 624 positioned in proximity to the resistive heating element(s).

[0208] In various example implementations, the aerosol provision device 502 may include an air intake 750 (e.g., one or more openings or apertures) in the housing 708 (and perhaps also the receiving base 746) to enable airflow into the receiving chamber 722. When a user draws on the mouth end 638 of the consumable 504, the airflow may be drawn through the air intake into the receiving chamber, pass into the consumable, and drawn through the aerosol precursor composition 624. The airflow may be detected by the sensor 714, and the electric heater 706 may be activated to energize the aerosol precursor composition to generate an aerosol. The airflow may combine with the aerosol that is whisked, aspirated or otherwise drawn out an opening at the mouth end of the aerosol provision system. In examples including the filter 640, the airflow combined with the aerosol may be drawn out an opening of the filter at the mouth end.

[0209] The disclosure also provides a method for the preparation of an aerosol precursor composition, comprising combining an organic acid component 136 with one or more one or more of each of a number of constituents such as active substance 126, flavorant 128, aerosol-former material 130 or other functional material 132. The components of aerosol precursor composition 124 can be combined in various orders and two or more components can, in some embodiments, be pre-mixed and added to the composition together in pre-mix form. In other embodiments, the components can be independently added to the composition. In one embodiment, at least one of the organic acids of the organic acid component 136 is first combined with nicotine, e.g., in water, and subsequently combined with other components as described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0116863 to Dull et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0210] In addition, the disclosure provides kits that provide a variety of components as described herein. For example, a kit may comprise a control body with one or more aerosol generating components / cartridges (including at least one such component comprising a liquid aerosol precursor composition as provide herein). In further embodiments, a kit may comprise a plurality of aerosol generating components / cartridges. In the above embodiments, the aerosol generating components or the control bodies may be provided with a heating member inclusive thereto. A kit may further comprise one or more charging components and / or one or more batteries. The kits may further include a case (or other packaging, transporting, or storage component) that accommodates one or more of the further kit components. The case could be a reusable hard or soft container. Further, the case could be simply a box or other packaging structure.

[0211] It is noted that, although the present application focuses on use of stabilizing agents for use in aerosol precursor compositions, the principles and components outlined herein can, in some embodiments, be applicable in other contexts, e.g., in capsule technologies for smokable products, e.g., cigarettes and heated tobacco products. Such embodiments are intended to be encompassed within the disclosure as well.

[0212] Many modifications and other implementations of the disclosure will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated figures. Therefore, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not to be limited to the specific implementations disclosed herein and that modifications and other implementations are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.EXPERIMENTALSExample 1: Example Formulations and Preparation

[0213] Aerosol precursor compositions were prepared according to the following general components and amounts in the tables below. Percentages are reported in volume, based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition.

[0214] Experimental and control samples were stored in capped Nalgene bottles under ambient conditions (25° C., atmospheric pressure) for up to six months, with visual observation over time (looking e.g., for liquid layer separation and / or ingredient precipitation).TABLE 1Example formulationsAerosol formerStabilizingPropyleneSampleAgentGlycerinGlycolFlavorantWaterPolysorbate / sorbitan ester as stabilizing agentA 8-10%55-60%22-25%0.8-1.2%8-10%(menthol)Control A0%60-65%25-30%0.8-1.2%8-10%(menthol)Gum / hydrocolloid / binder as stabilizing agentB0.2-0.5%60-65%25-30%0.5-1.0%8-10%(menthol)Control B0%60-65%25-30%0.5-1.0%8-10%(menthol)Fatty Acids, Mono-, Di-, or Tri-Glycerides as stabilizing agentC0.2-0.5%60-65%25-30%0.5-1.0%8-10%(menthol)Control C0%60-65%25-30%0.5-1.0%8-10%(menthol)Polyol as stabilizing agentD1-5%60-65%25-30%0.5-1.0%8-10%(menthol)Control D0%60-65%25-30%0.5-1.0%8-10%(menthol)Preservative as stabilizing agentE0.2-0.8%60-65%25-30%0.5-1.0%8-10%(menthol)Control E0%60-65%25-30%0.5-1.0%8-10%(menthol)

[0215] Results were based on visual observations up to six months at ambient temperature (25-30° C.), and refrigeration (5-8° C.) storage temperatures. All of the control compositions with >6% water showed flavorant (menthol) separation and crystallization to the top of the storage vials when refrigerated for more than 1 week. Ambient temperature storage resulted in menthol separation after 2-3 weeks.

[0216] The most stable liquid compositions after 3-6 months (no menthol separation or recrystallization at 8-10% moisture) under ambient or refrigeration storage were observed as follows in a descending (best to worse) order: A (Polysorbates / sorbitan esters: polysorbate 60, sorbitan monooleate)>D1 (polyols: sorbitol, maltitol, xylitol)>B (gums / binders: guar gum, gum acacia, CMC, alginate)>D2 (non-sugar polyols: triethylene glycol, 1,3-propandiol), C1 (triglycerides: glycerol tristearate, triacetin)>>C2 (fatty acids: stearic acid, palmitic acid), E (preservatives: sorbate and benzoic acids).

Examples

example 1

Example Formulations and Preparation

[0213]Aerosol precursor compositions were prepared according to the following general components and amounts in the tables below. Percentages are reported in volume, based on the total weight of the aerosol precursor composition.

[0214]Experimental and control samples were stored in capped Nalgene bottles under ambient conditions (25° C., atmospheric pressure) for up to six months, with visual observation over time (looking e.g., for liquid layer separation and / or ingredient precipitation).

TABLE 1Example formulationsAerosol formerStabilizingPropyleneSampleAgentGlycerinGlycolFlavorantWaterPolysorbate / sorbitan ester as stabilizing agentA 8-10%55-60%22-25%0.8-1.2%8-10%(menthol)Control A0%60-65%25-30%0.8-1.2%8-10%(menthol)Gum / hydrocolloid / binder as stabilizing agentB0.2-0.5%60-65%25-30%0.5-1.0%8-10%(menthol)Control B0%60-65%25-30%0.5-1.0%8-10%(menthol)Fatty Acids, Mono-, Di-, or Tri-Glycerides as stabilizing agentC0.2-0.5%60-65%25-30%0.5-1.0%8-10%(ment...

Claims

1. A method of enhancing the stability of a flavorant within a liquid aerosol precursor composition, comprising incorporating one or more stabilizing agents in a liquid aerosol precursor composition to give a stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition with enhanced shelf life as compared to the liquid aerosol precursor composition,wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are selected from the group consisting of polysorbates, sorbitan esters, binders, monoglycerides, diglycerides, triglycerides, free fatty acids, waxes, preservatives, and combinations thereof, andwherein the one or more stabilizing agents are different than any components otherwise present in the liquid aerosol precursor composition.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are one or more polysorbates, one or more sorbitan esters, or a combination thereof.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are selected from the group consisting of sorbitan monostearate (Span 60), sorbitan monolaurate (Span 20), sorbitan tristearate (Span 65), sorbitan monooleate (Span 80), sorbitan monopalmitate (Span 40), polysorbate 20 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate, TWEEN® 20), polysorbate 60 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monostearate, TWEEN® 60), polysorbate 80 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate, TWEEN® 80), polysorbate 65 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan tristearate, TWEEN® 65), and combinations thereof.

4. The method of claim 2, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are incorporated in an amount about 2% to about 18% by volume, based on a total volume of the stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are incorporated in an amount about 6% to about 12% by volume, based on a total volume of the stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are selected from the group consisting of one or more binders, monoglycerides, diglycerides, triglycerides, free fatty acids, waxes, or any combination thereof.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are binders selected from the group consisting of gums, alginates, starches, carrageenans, agar, pectin, cellulose derivatives, and combinations thereof.

8. The method of claim 6, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are selected from the group consisting of xanthan gum, guar gum, gum arabic, ghatti gum, gum tragacanth, karaya gum, locust bean gum, gellan gum, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the gum comprises xanthan gum, guar gum, gum acacia, locust bean gum, gum tragacanth, or a combination thereof. Other suitable gums include modified gums, such as hydroxyethyl guar, hydroxypropyl guar, hydroxyethyl locust bean gum, hydroxypropyl locust bean gum, ammonium alginate, propylene glycol alginate, potassium alginate, sodium alginate, corn starch, rice starch, monostarch phosphate, distarch glycerol, distarch phosphate esterified with sodium trimetaphosphate, phosphate distarch phosphate, acetylated distarch phosphate, starch acetate esterified with acetic anhydride, starch acetate esterified with vinyl acetate, acetylated distarch adipate, acetylated distarch glycerol, hydroxypropyl starch, hydroxypropyl distarch glycerol, and starch sodium octenyl succinate, methylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose (“CMC”), hydroxypropylcellulose (“HPC”), hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (“HPMC”), hydroxyethyl cellulose, and combinations thereof.

9. The method of claim 6, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are monoglycerides, diglycerides, triglycerides, free fatty acids, waxes, or any combination thereof, selected from the group consisting of palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, sapienic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, lauric acid, arachidic acid, behenic acid, lignoceric acid, cerotic acid, arachidonic acid, myristic acid, myristoleic acid, petroselinic acid, vaccenic acid, godoleic acid, gondoic acid, brassidic acid, elaidic acid, vaccenic acid, linoleic acid, linoelaidic acid, elcosapentaenoic acid, erucic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, nervonic acid, capric acid, caprylic acid, monolaurin, glycerol monostearate, glycerol hydroxystearate, diacetin, dibutyrin, dipalmitin, diolein, dicaprin, triolein, tributyrin, tripalmitin, tricaprin, tristearin, tricaproin, glycerol 1,3-distearate-2-octanoate; glycerol 2,3-diolate-1-palmitate, glycerol 2,3-dioleate-1-palmitate, glycerol-2-linoleate-3-oleate-1-palmitate, and glycerol 1,2-distearate-3-octanoate, bees wax, carnauba wax, candelila wax, paraffin wax, sugarcane wax, and combinations thereof.

10. The method of claim 6, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are monoglycerides, diglycerides, triglycerides, free fatty acids, waxes, or any combination thereof, selected from the group consisting of palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, sapienic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, arachidic acid, behenic acid, lignoceric acid, cerotic acid, arachidonic acid, myristoleic acid, petroselinic acid, vaccenic acid, godoleic acid, gondoic acid, brassidic acid, elaidic acid, vaccenic acid, linoleic acid, linoelaidic acid, elcosapentaenoic acid, erucic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, nervonic acid, capric acid, caprylic acid, monolaurin, glycerol monostearate, glycerol hydroxystearate, dibutyrin, dipalmitin, diolein, dicaprin, triolein, tripalmitin, tricaprin, tristearin, tricaproin, glycerol 1,3-distearate-2-octanoate; glycerol 2,3-diolate-1-palmitate, glycerol 2,3-dioleate-1-palmitate, glycerol-2-linoleate-3-oleate-1-palmitate, and glycerol 1,2-distearate-3-octanoate, bees wax, carnauba wax, candelilla wax, paraffin wax, sugarcane wax, and combinations thereof.

11. The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are one or more preservatives selected from the group consisting of sodium sorbate, sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, sodium ascorbate, or any combination thereof.

12. The method of claim 11, comprising combining the one or more stabilizing agents with an aerosol-former material to give a mixture and then combining the mixture with additional components to form the stabilized aerosol precursor composition.

13. The method of claim 6, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are incorporated in an amount about 0.1% to about 3% by volume, based on a total volume of the stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are incorporated in an amount about 0.1% to about 1% by volume, based on a total volume of the stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition.

15. A method of enhancing the stability of a flavorant within a liquid aerosol precursor composition, comprising incorporating one or more stabilizing agents in a liquid aerosol precursor composition to give a stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition with enhanced shelf life as compared to the liquid aerosol precursor composition,wherein the one or more stabilizing agents comprise a sugar alcohol in an amount greater than 10% by weight of the stabilized liquid aerosol precursor composition, orwherein the one or more stabilizing agents comprise a non-sugar based polyol, andwherein the one or more stabilizing agents are different than any components otherwise present in the liquid aerosol precursor composition.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the sugar alcohol is selected from the group consisting of sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol, xylitol, erythritol, threitol, arabitol, ribitol, dulcitol, iditol, lactitol, polyglycitol, isomalt, hydrogenated starch hydrosylates, and combinations thereof.

17. The method of claim 15, wherein the sugar alcohol is selected from the group consisting of sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol, xylitol, erythritol, isomalt, and combinations thereof.

18. (canceled)19. The method of claim 15, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are selected from the group consisting of propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 1,3-propanediol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, glycerin, glycerol, trimetholpropane, 1,3-butylene glycol, pentaerythritol and combinations thereof.

20. The method of claim 15, wherein the one or more stabilizing agents are selected from the group consisting of ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 1,3-propanediol, trimetholpropane, pentaerythritol and combinations thereof.21.-25. (canceled)26. A liquid aerosol precursor composition adapted for use in an aerosol delivery device, comprising: at least one aerosol-former material, at least one active agent, at least one flavorant, and at least one stabilizing agent selected from the group consisting of sorbitan monostearate (Span 60), sorbitan monolaurate (Span 20), sorbitan tristearate (Span 65), sorbitan monooleate (Span 80), sorbitan monopalmitate (Span 40), polysorbate 20 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate, TWEEN® 20), polysorbate 60 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monostearate, TWEEN® 60), polysorbate 80 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monooleate, TWEEN® 80), polysorbate 65 (polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan tristearate, TWEEN® 65), palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, sapienic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, arachidic acid, behenic acid, lignoceric acid, cerotic acid, arachidonic acid, myristoleic acid, petroselinic acid, vaccenic acid, godoleic acid, gondoic acid, brassidic acid, elaidic acid, vaccenic acid, linoleic acid, linoelaidic acid, elcosapentaenoic acid, erucic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, nervonic acid, capric acid, caprylic acid, monolaurin, glycerol monostearate, glycerol hydroxystearate, dibutyrin, dipalmitin, diolein, dicaprin, triolein, tripalmitin, tricaprin, tristearin, tricaproin, glycerol 1,3-distearate-2-octanoate; glycerol 2,3-diolate-1-palmitate, glycerol 2,3-dioleate-1-palmitate, glycerol-2-linoleate-3-oleate-1-palmitate, glycerol 1,2-distearate-3-octanoate, bees wax, carnauba wax, candelilla wax, paraffin wax, sugarcane wax, ethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 1,3-propanediol, trimetholpropane, pentaerythritol and combinations thereof.27.-34. (canceled)35. An aerosol delivery device, comprising:a housing enclosing a chamber containing the liquid aerosol precursor composition of claim 26,a heat source in fluid communication with the chamber and configured to heat the liquid aerosol precursor composition to form an aerosol; andan aerosol pathway positioned to carry the aerosol to a mouth-end of the aerosol delivery device.36.-37. (canceled)38. A kit, comprising:a control body; andone or more cartridges, each cartridge comprising a housing enclosing a chamber containing the liquid aerosol precursor composition of claim 26.

39. (canceled)

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