JP2022554341A - Aerosol-generating element for use in an aerosol-generating article or system - Google Patents

Abstract

An aerosol-generating element is provided for use in an aerosol-generating article or system. The aerosol-generating element comprises a solid continuous matrix structure and an aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the solid continuous matrix structure. The aerosol-generating formulation is entrapped within the solid continuous matrix structure and is releasable from the solid continuous matrix structure upon heating of the aerosol-generating element. The solid continuous matrix structure is a polymeric matrix comprising one or more matrix-forming polymers, and the aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the solid continuous matrix structure comprises at least one alkaloid or cannabinoid compound and at least 30 weight percent polyvalent Contains alcohol. [Selection figure] None

Description

The present invention relates to aerosol-generating elements that find particular use in aerosol-generating articles or systems. The invention further relates to aerosol-generating articles or systems comprising such aerosol-generating elements.

Aerosol-generating articles in which an aerosol-generating substrate, such as a tobacco-containing substrate, is heated rather than combusted are known in the art. Typically, the aerosol in such articles is generated by transferring heat from a heat source to a physically separated aerosol-generating substrate or material, which is in contact with the heat source or It may be located in, around, or downstream of the heat source. During use of the aerosol-generating article, the volatile compounds are released from the aerosol-generating substrate by heat transfer from the heat source and entrained in air drawn through the aerosol-generating article. As the released compound cools, it condenses to form an aerosol.

Numerous prior art documents disclose aerosol-generating devices for consuming aerosol-generating articles. Such devices include, for example, electrically heated aerosol generating devices in which the aerosol is generated by heat transfer from one or more electrical heater elements of the aerosol generating device to the aerosol generating substrate of the heated aerosol generating article.

Substrates for heated aerosol-generating articles have often been produced using randomly oriented pieces, strands, or strips of tobacco material. Alternatively, a rod for a heated aerosol-generating article formed from an assembly of sheets of tobacco material is disclosed, by way of example, in WO2012/164009.

WO2011/101164 discloses an alternative rod for a heated aerosol-generating article formed from strands of homogenized tobacco material, which comprises: It may be formed by casting, rolling, calendering, or extruding a mixture comprising tobacco particulate and at least one aerosol former. In an alternative embodiment, the rod of WO2011/101164 extrudes a mixture comprising particulate tobacco and at least one aerosol former to form a continuous length of homogenized tobacco material. may be formed from a homogenized strand of tobacco material obtained by

Substrates for heated aerosol-generating articles are typically aerosol formers, i.e. compounds that facilitate the formation of aerosols during use, and are preferably substantially resistant to thermal decomposition at the temperature of use of the aerosol-generating article. or further comprising mixtures of compounds. Examples of suitable aerosol formers include polyhydric alcohols such as propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, glycerin, esters of polyhydric alcohols such as glycerol monoacetate, diacetate or triacetate, and They include, but are not limited to, aliphatic esters of monocarboxylic, dicarboxylic, or polycarboxylic acids such as dimethyl dodecanedioate, dimethyl tetradecanedioate, and the like.

Alternative forms of nicotine-containing substrates have also been disclosed. As an example, liquid nicotine compositions, often referred to as e-liquids, have been proposed. These liquid compositions can be heated, for example, by a coiled, electrically resistive filament of an aerosol generator.

Substrates of this type may require special care in manufacturing the container holding the liquid composition to prevent unwanted leakage.

It has previously been proposed to provide encapsulated nicotine formulations for use as aerosol-generating substrates. However, encapsulation of nicotine formulations has proven difficult. One reason for this is the preference for hydrophilic aerosol-forming agents such as glycerin and propylene glycol in nicotine formulations, which precludes the use of many commonly used encapsulating materials that are also hydrophilic. make it difficult It is commonly found that existing encapsulation technologies require such high levels of hydrophilic encapsulating material to produce stable products with insufficient nicotine formulation payloads. It is

While hydrophobic encapsulating materials are available, such materials often need to be processed at relatively high temperatures, which risks degrading the nicotine formulation during manufacture. In use, the temperatures required to generate an aerosol from the nicotine formulation may be sufficiently high to cause degradation of the hydrophobic encapsulating material. This can result in the release of undesirable compounds into the resulting aerosol and can adversely affect the sensory profile of the aerosol.

It has also been proposed to provide a gel composition comprising nicotine adapted to generate a nicotine-containing aerosol upon heating. As an example, WO2018/019543 discloses a thermoreversible gel composition, ie a gel that becomes fluid when heated to its melting temperature and solidifies into a gel again at its gelling temperature. WO2018/019543 discloses providing such a gel within the housing of the cartridge. The cartridge may be discarded and replaced when the gel is consumed. In order for the gel composition to generate a satisfactory amount of aerosol during use, it is desirable that the gel composition contain a substantial amount of an aerosol former (such as glycerol). However, due to the plasticizing properties of glycerol, a gel composition that can provide good aerosol delivery during use and at the same time be geometrically stable, i.e. the gel composition solidifies, It can be difficult to provide a gel composition that does not undergo significant volume loss as it settles into film form.

Accordingly, it is desirable to provide alternative novel encapsulated aerosol-generating formulations, such as, for example, aerosol-generating elements that encapsulate nicotine-containing formulations, which provide improved stability of aerosol-generating formulations and minimal To provide an improved encapsulated substrate having a leakage of

It is also desirable to provide such aerosol-generating elements that are easy to handle, such as to facilitate manufacturing and packaging of aerosol-generating articles containing one or more of the aerosol-generating elements. Also, such encapsulated aerosols having minimal encapsulation structure to provide efficient aerosol delivery, particularly when heated to temperatures in the range of about 150 degrees Celsius to about 350 degrees Celsius. It would be desirable to provide an aerosol-generating formulation.

The present disclosure relates to aerosol-generating elements for use in aerosol-generating articles or systems. The aerosol-generating element can comprise a solid continuous matrix structure and an aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the solid continuous matrix structure. The aerosol-generating formulation may be entrapped within a solid continuous matrix structure and releasable from the solid continuous matrix structure upon heating of the aerosol-generating element. A solid continuous matrix structure can be a polymer matrix comprising one or more matrix-forming polymers. An aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within a solid continuous matrix structure may comprise at least one alkaloid or cannabinoid compound. An aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within a solid continuous matrix structure may include a polyhydric alcohol. The polyhydric alcohol may comprise at least 30 weight percent based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element.

Additionally, the present disclosure relates to aerosol-generating articles that include one or more aerosol-generating elements as described above. Further, the present disclosure provides an aerosol-generating system comprising one or more aerosol-generating elements or articles as described above, and a heating element and an aerosol-generating element such that the aerosol-generating element is heated in a heating chamber by the heating element. An electrically operated aerosol generating device comprising a heating chamber configured to receive a generating element or article.

According to the present invention there is provided an aerosol-generating element for use in an aerosol-generating article or system, the aerosol-generating element comprising a solid continuous matrix structure and an aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the solid continuous matrix structure. The aerosol-generating formulation is entrapped within a solid continuous matrix structure and is releasable from the solid continuous matrix structure upon heating of the aerosol-generating element, wherein the solid continuous matrix structure is a polymeric matrix comprising one or more matrix-forming polymers. , the aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the solid continuous matrix structure comprises at least one alkaloid or cannabinoid compound and a polyhydric alcohol, the polyhydric alcohol comprising at least about 30 weight percent based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element.

The term "aerosol-generating article" is used herein with respect to the present invention to describe an article in which an aerosol-generating substrate is heated to produce an aerosol for delivery to a consumer. As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating substrate" means a substrate capable of releasing a volatile compound upon heating to generate an aerosol.

The term "aerosol-generating element" is used herein with respect to the present invention to describe a discrete, self-supporting aerosol-generating substrate element capable of releasing volatile compounds when heated to generate an aerosol. used in

The aerosol generated from the aerosol-generating formulations of the aerosol-generating elements described herein is a dispersion of solid particles or droplets (or a combination of solid particles and droplets) in gas. Aerosols may be visible or invisible and may include vapors of substances that are normally liquid or solid at room temperature, as well as solid particles or droplets or a combination of solid particles and droplets.

Aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention may find use as aerosol-generating substrates in aerosol-generating articles.

A conventional cigarette is ignited when a user applies an ignition source to one end of the cigarette and draws air through the other end. The localized heat provided by the flame and the oxygen in the air inhaled through the cigarette ignites the ends of the cigarette and the resulting combustion produces inhalable smoke. In contrast, in heated aerosol-generating articles, the aerosol is generated by heating a flavor-generating substrate, such as, for example, a tobacco-derived substrate or a substrate containing an aerosol former and a flavorant. Known heated aerosol-generating articles include, for example, electrically heated aerosol-generating articles and aerosol-generating articles in which aerosol is generated by heat transfer from a combustible fuel element or heat source to a physically separate aerosol-forming material. included.

For example, aerosol-generating articles according to the present invention find particular use in aerosol-generating systems comprising an electrically heated aerosol-generating device having an internal heater adapted to provide heat to one or more discrete aerosol-generating substrate elements. can be used. The term "aerosol-generating device" as used herein with respect to the present invention is used to describe a device comprising a heater element that interacts with one or more aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention to generate an aerosol. be. During use, the volatile compounds are released from the aerosol-generating element by heat transfer and are entrained in air drawn through the aerosol-generating article. As the released compound cools, it condenses to form an aerosol, which is inhaled by the consumer.

Substrates for heated aerosol-generating articles are typically "aerosol formers," i.e., that facilitate the formation of aerosols during use, and are preferably substantially resistant to thermal decomposition at the temperature of use of the aerosol-generating article. Including compounds or mixtures of compounds. Examples of suitable aerosol formers include polyhydric alcohols such as propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, glycerin, esters of polyhydric alcohols such as glycerol monoacetate, diacetate or triacetate, and Included are aliphatic esters of monocarboxylic, dicarboxylic, or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyl dodecanedioate, dimethyl tetradecanedioate, and the like. Polyhydric alcohols in the aerosol-generating articles of the present invention are also aerosol formers within the meaning given above.

As used herein in connection with the present invention, the term "aerosol-generating formulation" is a formulation comprising a plurality of aerosol-generating formulation components that volatilize to form an aerosol upon heating of the aerosol-generating element. It refers to formulations that are efficacious.

As used herein in connection with the present invention, the term "matrix-forming polymer" produces a three-dimensional polymer matrix as a result of cross-linking when the matrix-forming polymer is contacted with a cross-linking solution of polyvalent cations. It refers to an encapsulating material in the form of a polymer that can be The resulting polymer matrix can entrap and retain the aerosol-generating formulation within its crosslinked structure. The properties of the crosslinked polymer matrix are discussed in more detail below.

As briefly described above, in contrast to existing aerosol-generating elements, the aerosol-generating element according to the present invention comprises a solid continuous matrix structure and an aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the solid continuous matrix structure. More specifically, the aerosol-generating formulation can be entrapped within a solid continuous matrix structure and released from the solid continuous matrix structure upon heating the aerosol-generating element to a predetermined temperature.

While not intending to be bound by theory, it is understood that in aerosol-generating elements according to the invention, a three-dimensional polymeric matrix structure is formed by cross-linking, and the aerosol-generating formulation is retained within the polymeric matrix structure. . This is in particular contrast to existing core/shell structures, where the contents of the core are released when the shell is broken.

In the aerosol-generating element according to the invention, the solid continuous matrix structure is a polymer matrix comprising one or more matrix-forming polymers. Additionally, the aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the solid continuous matrix structure comprises at least one alkaloid or cannabinoid compound and at least 30 weight percent polyhydric alcohol.

Advantageously, the present invention provides an encapsulation material with a significantly lower content of encapsulating material (corresponding to one or more matrix-forming polymers in a solid continuous matrix structure) compared to previously available substrates. It enables the provision of an aerosol-generating formulation in a packaged form. In this way, the levels of aerosol-generating formulation components such as alkaloids or cannabinoids and polyhydric alcohols can be advantageously maximized within the aerosol-generating element. Furthermore, the reduction in the proportion of encapsulant required results in more efficient generation of the aerosol upon heating, as less heat supplied to the aerosol-generating element is used to increase the temperature of the encapsulant. enable

The polymer-derived solid continuous matrix of the aerosol-generating article according to the invention provides an inert encapsulating structure for holding and securing the aerosol-generating formulation that is stable upon heating of the aerosol-generating element during use. The inventors have discovered that when heated to temperatures between 150 degrees Celsius and 350 degrees Celsius, aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention release an aerosol upon undergoing significant weight loss. However, this weight loss is not accompanied by a significant volume loss as well. While not intending to be bound by theory, upon heating, the components of the aerosol-generating formulation originally dispersed and entrapped within the solid continuous matrix structure are substantially vaporized and released. On the other hand, the components of the solid continuous matrix are substantially unaffected, and the solid continuous matrix shrinks only partially while essentially retaining its 3D structure. Thus, encapsulation of an aerosol-generating formulation within a polymer-derived matrix advantageously has minimal or no adverse effect on the sensory profile of the aerosol generated upon heating.

It has been found that the aerosol-generating elements of the present invention advantageously provide controlled delivery of aerosols. Additionally, the aerosol delivery profile can be readily adjusted by adjusting the parameters of the aerosol-generating element, such as the size, shape, structure, and formulation of the aerosol-generating element.

The present invention advantageously provides aerosol-generating elements in the form of discrete, self-supporting solid objects that are sufficiently stable and robust to be easily processed and incorporated into aerosol-generating articles using existing methods and techniques. I will provide a.

Moreover, the aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention can be prepared by cost-effective methods that can be implemented on existing equipment, as will become apparent from the description below. Additionally, the aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention can be prepared by methods that can be easily incorporated into existing manufacturing lines for the manufacture of aerosol-generating articles.

An aerosol-generating element according to the present invention can be prepared from a matrix precursor solution and components of an aerosol-generating formulation. As an example, in a method of manufacturing an aerosol-generating element according to the present invention, a matrix precursor solution comprising matrix-forming polymer in water can be provided. Preferably, the matrix polymer solution contains at least about 35 weight percent water, more preferably at least about 40 weight percent water. This level of water ensures that the matrix-forming polymer is fully dissolved, thereby providing a homogeneous solution.

The matrix-forming polymer may be a single polymer or a combination of two or more polymers, wherein one or more polymers form a crosslinked matrix via an iontropic gelation mechanism in a crosslink solution of polyvalent cations. can be formed. Cross-linking of the matrix-forming polymer is accomplished by reacting the polymer with polyvalent cations in a cross-linking solution, which form salt bridges to cross-link the polymer molecules. Suitable matrix-forming polymers are known to those skilled in the art and include, but are not limited to, alginate, pectin, hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), N-(2-hydroxypropyl) methacrylate (HPMA), N-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone ( NVP), N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAMM), vinyl acetate (VAc), acrylic acid (AA), methacrylic acid (MAA), polyethylene glycol acrylate/methacrylate (PEGA/PEGMA), and polyethylene glycol diacrylate/dimethacrylate, ( PEGDA/PEGDMA).

Preferably, the matrix-forming polymer comprises one or more polysaccharides such as alginate or pectin, or combinations thereof. It is particularly preferred that the matrix-forming polymer is alginate. Polysaccharides are particularly suitable for use in the present invention because they can be crosslinked to make them water insoluble and heat stable and are tasteless. Therefore, there is no detrimental effect on the sensory properties of the aerosol generated from the aerosol-generating element. Alternative matrix-forming polymers suitable for use in methods according to the invention include, but are not limited to, chitosan, fibrin, collagen, gelatin, hyaluronic acid, dextran, and combinations thereof.

In preferred embodiments, the matrix-forming polymer is a single polysaccharide. Even more preferably, the matrix-forming polymer is an alginate. In other words, in such particularly preferred embodiments, the solid continuous matrix structure is an alginate polymer matrix.

In a first step, a plurality of aerosol-generating formulation components may be added to the matrix precursor solution to form an aerosol-generating solution, wherein the aerosol-generating formulation components comprise at least one alkaloid or cannabinoid compound and Contains polyhydric alcohols. As used herein in describing the method of preparing an aerosol-generating element according to the present invention, the term "aerosol-generating solution" refers to a solution of aerosol-generating formulation components and matrix precursors in a suitable solvent. .

Polyhydric alcohols suitable for use in the aerosol-generating element include, but are not limited to, propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and glycerin. Preferably, in the aerosol-generating elements produced by the present invention, the polyhydric alcohol is selected from the group consisting of glycerin, propylene glycol, and combinations thereof. In a particularly preferred embodiment the polyhydric alcohol is glycerin. Preferably, the alkaloid is selected from the group consisting of nicotine, anatabine, and combinations thereof.

It may be desirable to control the viscosity of the aerosol-generating solution. This may include controlling the viscosity of the matrix polymer solution as the aerosol-generating formulation components are added. For example, depending on the technique used to generate the discrete portions of the aerosol-generating solution in subsequent steps of the method, it may be preferable to provide the aerosol-generating solution with a viscosity within a particular range. Different techniques are likely to be facilitated by different viscosity solutions, so the appropriate viscosity should be determined according to the technique used. As an example, if the discrete portions of the aerosol-generating solution are produced by a gravity drip process, the viscosity of the solution is preferably about 5000 mPa.s. s. (milliPascal seconds). This causes droplets of the aerosol-generating solution to form under gravity and allows the beads to reach a stable shape in the cross-linking solution before the cross-linking hardens the solution and fixes the final shape of the aerosol-generating element. be possible.

In certain instances, it may be preferable to control the pH of the matrix polymer solution while the aerosol-generating formulation components are being added in order to control the viscosity of the aerosol-generating solution. This is because pH can affect the viscosity of some matrix polymer solutions. For example, in embodiments of the invention in which the matrix-forming polymer comprises alginate, it is preferred to maintain the pH of the solution above pH4. This is intended to avoid gelling of the alginate, which can occur at pH levels below pH 4, for example due to hydrogen bonding. Such gelation at low pH causes an undesirable increase in the viscosity of the aerosol-generating solution, making it difficult to use certain techniques such as gravity dripping to form the aerosol-generating element. .

Alternatively, or additionally, the viscosity of the aerosol-generating solution can be controlled by adjusting the concentration of the solution. For example, the proportion of water in the aerosol-generating solution can be adjusted to adjust viscosity. The aerosol-generating solution preferably contains at least about 35 weight percent water to maintain adequate viscosity. It is particularly preferred that the aerosol-generating solution contains from about 35 weight percent to about 65 weight percent water. A suitable test method for measuring viscosity is described in ASTM D2983-19, "Standard Test Method for Low Temperature Viscoity of Automatic Transmission Fluids, Hydraulic Fluids, and Lubricants using a rotor."

In a second step, discrete portions of the aerosol-generating solution can be formed. In a third step, the formed discrete portions of the aerosol-generating solution are added to a cross-linking solution of polyvalent cations to cross-link the matrix-forming polymer, thereby forming an aerosol-generating element having a continuous polymer matrix structure and a continuous Aerosol-generating formulations can be formed that include an aerosol-generating component dispersed within a polymer matrix. Preferred polyvalent cations include calcium, iron, aluminum, manganese, copper, zinc or lanthanum. A particularly preferred salt is calcium chloride.

In certain preferred embodiments of the invention in which the aerosol-generating solution comprises an acid, the calcium salts provided in the cross-linking solution can advantageously be salts of the same acid. For example, in embodiments where the aerosol-generating solution comprises lactic acid, the cross-linking solution may advantageously comprise calcium lactate.

When the aerosol-generating solution contains nicotine, the acid in the aerosol-generating solution forms a nicotine salt with the nicotine. Therefore, the use of the calcium salt corresponding to the acid in the aerosol-generating solution provides the cross-linking solution with the same salt as the salt in the aerosol-generating solution. This in turn advantageously limits diffusion of the nicotine salt from the aerosol-generating solution to the cross-linking solution during the cross-linking process. Thus, higher concentrations of nicotine salts can be retained within the aerosol-generating element. Additionally, any potential waste of nicotine and acid during production of the aerosol-generating element can be reduced.

Preferably, the cross-linking solution further comprises the same polyhydric alcohol selected as the aerosol-generating formulation component. It has been found that the inclusion of a polyhydric alcohol in the cross-linking solution limits diffusion of the polyhydric alcohol from the aerosol-generating solution to the cross-linking solution during the cross-linking process. This advantageously allows higher concentrations of polyhydric alcohol to be retained within the aerosol-generating element than previously possible.

In a fourth step, the aerosol-generating element may be removed from the cross-linking solution and dried.

As briefly described above, in aerosol-generating elements according to the invention, the solid continuous matrix structure is a polymer matrix, comprising one or more matrix-forming polymers. Suitable matrix-forming polymers will be known to those skilled in the art.

The one or more matrix-forming polymers preferably comprise one or more polysaccharides. More preferably, the one or more matrix-forming polymers comprise at least one of alginate and pectin.

Polysaccharides are particularly suitable for use in the present invention because they can be crosslinked to make them water insoluble and heat stable and are tasteless. Therefore, there is no detrimental effect on the sensory properties of the aerosol generated from the aerosol-generating element.

In preferred embodiments, the matrix-forming polymer is a single polysaccharide. Even more preferably, the matrix-forming polymer is an alginate. In other words, in such particularly preferred embodiments, the solid continuous matrix structure is an alginate polymer matrix.

Alginate is preferably used as the sole matrix-forming polymer because of its ability to promote rapid formation of an insoluble solid aerosol-generating element. More specifically, the inventors have found that the use of alginate as the sole matrix-forming polymer, particularly in the amounts described below, is stable and self-supporting, with high concentrations of polyhydric alcohols within the polymer matrix. It has been found to advantageously provide an aerosol-generating element that can be retained. Furthermore, the use of alginate as the sole matrix-forming polymer compared to other formulations, particularly in the amounts described below, results in larger aerosol-generating elements, e.g., spherical or quasi-spherical beads with larger diameters. It has been found that it is possible to form in the form of

In aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention, the solid continuous matrix structure is an alginate polymer matrix, and the aerosol-generating element preferably comprises at least about 1 weight percent alginate. More preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises at least about 1.5 weight percent alginate. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating component comprises at least about 2 weight percent alginate.

In particularly preferred embodiments, the aerosol-generating element comprises at least about 3 weight percent alginate.

In aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention, the solid continuous matrix structure is an alginate polymer matrix, and the aerosol-generating element preferably comprises no more than about 10 weight percent alginate. More preferably, the aerosol-generating component comprises no more than about 8 weight percent alginate. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating component comprises no more than about 6 weight percent alginate.

In particularly preferred embodiments, the aerosol-generating component comprises no more than about 5 weight percent alginate.

In some embodiments, the solid continuous matrix structure is an alginate polymer matrix and the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 1 weight percent to about 10 weight percent alginate. The aerosol-generating component preferably comprises from about 1.5 weight percent to about 10 weight percent alginate, more preferably from about 2 weight percent to about 10 weight percent alginate, even more preferably from about 3 weight percent to about 10 weight percent alginate. Contains weight percent alginate.

In other embodiments, the solid continuous matrix structure is an alginate polymer matrix and the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 1 weight percent to about 8 weight percent alginate. The aerosol-generating component preferably comprises from about 1.5 weight percent to about 8 weight percent alginate, more preferably from about 2 weight percent to about 18 weight percent alginate, even more preferably from about 3 weight percent to about 8 weight percent alginate. Contains weight percent alginate.

In a further embodiment, the solid continuous matrix structure is an alginate polymer matrix and the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 1 weight percent to about 6 weight percent alginate. The aerosol-generating component is preferably from about 1.5 weight percent to about 6 weight percent alginate, more preferably from about 2 weight percent to about 6 weight percent alginate, still more preferably from about 3 weight percent to about 6 weight percent alginate. Contains weight percent alginate.

Alternative matrix-forming polymers suitable for use in aerosol-generating elements according to the invention include, but are not limited to, chitosan, fibrin, collagen, gelatin, hyaluronic acid, dextran, and combinations thereof.

Further alternative matrix-forming polymers suitable for use in aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention include the following monomers and polymers, hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), N-(2-hydroxypropyl) methacrylate (HPMA), N-vinyl- 2-pyrrolidone (NVP), N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAMM), vinyl acetate (VAc), acrylic acid (AA), methacrylic acid (MAA), polyethylene glycol acrylate/methacrylate (PEGA/PEGMA), and polyethylene glycol diacrylate/ dimethacrylates, (PEGDA/PEGDMA).

As defined above, the aerosol-generating element according to the invention comprises a polyhydric alcohol as a component of the aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within a solid continuous matrix structure. More particularly, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation accounts for at least 30 weight percent based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element.

Polyhydric alcohols act as aerosol formers for the aerosol-generating element. Polyhydric alcohols suitable for use in the aerosol-generating element include, but are not limited to, propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and glycerin. In aerosol-generating elements according to the invention, the polyhydric alcohol is preferably selected from the group consisting of glycerin, propylene glycol, and combinations thereof. In a particularly preferred embodiment the polyhydric alcohol is glycerin.

More preferably, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation comprises at least about 35 weight percent based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. Thus, an aerosol-generating element according to the present invention comprises at least about 35 weight percent polyhydric alcohol.

Even more preferably, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation accounts for at least 40 weight percent based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. Thus, an aerosol-generating element according to the present invention comprises at least about 40 weight percent polyhydric alcohol.

In particularly preferred embodiments, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation comprises at least about 45 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. More preferably, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation comprises at least about 50 weight percent based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. Even more preferably, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation comprises at least about 55 weight percent based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. Most preferably, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation comprises at least about 60 weight percent, or at least about 65 weight percent, or at least about 70 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element.

Typically, in aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation comprises no more than about 95 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element.

In aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation preferably accounts for no more than about 90 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. More preferably, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation comprises no more than about 85 weight percent based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating component. Even more preferably, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation comprises no more than about 80 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating component.

In some embodiments, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation comprises from about 30 weight percent to about 95 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. Preferably, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation comprises from about 35 weight percent to about 95 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating component. More preferably, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation comprises from about 40 weight percent to about 95 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating component. Even more preferably, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation comprises from about 45 weight percent to about 95 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. In particularly preferred embodiments, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation is from about 50 weight percent to about 95 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element, more preferably based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. from about 55 weight percent to about 95 weight percent, and even more preferably from about 60 weight percent to about 95 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. In a most preferred embodiment, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation is from about 65 weight percent to about 95 weight percent, or even from about 70 weight percent to about 95 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. occupy

In these embodiments, the aerosol-generating component may comprise from about 30 weight percent to about 95 weight percent polyhydric alcohol, preferably from about 35 weight percent to about 95 weight percent polyhydric alcohol. More preferably, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 40 weight percent to about 95 weight percent polyhydric alcohol. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 45 weight percent to about 95 weight percent polyhydric alcohol. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 50 weight percent to about 95 weight percent polyhydric alcohol, preferably from about 55 weight percent to about 95 weight percent polyhydric alcohol, more preferably about 60 weight percent. from about 95 weight percent polyhydric alcohol, even more preferably from about 65 weight percent to about 95 weight percent polyhydric alcohol, and most preferably from about 70 weight percent to about 95 weight percent polyhydric alcohol.

In other embodiments, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation comprises from about 30 weight percent to about 90 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. Preferably, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation comprises from about 35 weight percent to about 90 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating component. More preferably, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation comprises from about 40 weight percent to about 90 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating component. Even more preferably, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation comprises from about 45 weight percent to about 90 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. In particularly preferred embodiments, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation is from about 50 weight percent to about 90 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element, more preferably based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. from about 55 weight percent to about 90 weight percent, and even more preferably from about 60 weight percent to about 90 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. In a most preferred embodiment, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation is from about 65 weight percent to about 90 weight percent, or even from about 70 weight percent to about 90 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. occupy

In these embodiments, aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention may comprise from about 30 weight percent to about 90 weight percent polyhydric alcohol. Preferably, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 35 weight percent to about 90 weight percent polyhydric alcohol. More preferably, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 40 weight percent to about 90 weight percent polyhydric alcohol. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 45 weight percent to about 90 weight percent polyhydric alcohol. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 50 weight percent to about 90 weight percent polyhydric alcohol, preferably from about 55 weight percent to about 90 weight percent polyhydric alcohol, more preferably about 60 weight percent. from about 90 weight percent polyhydric alcohol, even more preferably from about 65 weight percent to about 90 weight percent polyhydric alcohol, and most preferably from about 70 weight percent to about 90 weight percent polyhydric alcohol.

In a further embodiment, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation comprises from about 30 weight percent to about 85 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. Preferably, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation comprises from about 35 weight percent to about 85 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating component. More preferably, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation comprises from about 40 weight percent to about 85 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. Even more preferably, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation comprises from about 45 weight percent to about 85 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. In particularly preferred embodiments, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation is from about 50 weight percent to about 85 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element, more preferably based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. from about 55 weight percent to about 85 weight percent, and even more preferably from about 60 weight percent to about 85 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. In a most preferred embodiment, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation is from about 65 weight percent to about 85 weight percent, or even from about 70 weight percent to about 85 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. occupy

In these embodiments, aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention may comprise from about 30 weight percent to about 85 weight percent polyhydric alcohol. Preferably, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 35 weight percent to about 85 weight percent polyhydric alcohol. More preferably, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 40 weight percent to about 85 weight percent polyhydric alcohol. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 45 weight percent to about 85 weight percent polyhydric alcohol. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 50 weight percent to about 85 weight percent polyhydric alcohol, preferably from about 55 weight percent to about 85 weight percent polyhydric alcohol, more preferably about 60 weight percent. from about 85 weight percent polyhydric alcohol, even more preferably from about 65 weight percent to about 85 weight percent polyhydric alcohol, and most preferably from about 70 weight percent to about 85 weight percent polyhydric alcohol.

In still further embodiments, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation comprises from about 30 weight percent to about 80 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. Preferably, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation comprises from about 35 weight percent to about 80 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating component. More preferably, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation comprises from about 40 weight percent to about 80 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating component. Even more preferably, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation comprises from about 45 weight percent to about 80 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. In particularly preferred embodiments, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation is from about 50 weight percent to about 80 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element, more preferably based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. from about 55 weight percent to about 80 weight percent, and even more preferably from about 60 weight percent to about 80 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. In a most preferred embodiment, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation is from about 65 weight percent to about 80 weight percent, or even from about 70 weight percent to about 80 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. occupy

In such embodiments, an aerosol-generating element according to the present invention may comprise from about 30 weight percent to about 80 weight percent polyhydric alcohol. Preferably, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 35 weight percent to about 80 weight percent polyhydric alcohol. More preferably, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 40 weight percent to about 80 weight percent polyhydric alcohol. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 45 weight percent to about 80 weight percent polyhydric alcohol.

In particularly preferred embodiments, the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation is from about 50 weight percent to about 80 weight percent, preferably from about 55 weight percent to about 80 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. , more preferably from about 60 weight percent to about 80 weight percent, even more preferably from about 65 weight percent to about 80 weight percent, and most preferably from about 70 weight percent to about 80 weight percent.

The aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the solid continuous matrix structure comprises at least about 70 weight percent of the total weight of the aerosol-generating element, even or at least about 75 weight percent of the total weight of the aerosol-generating element, or of the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. It preferably comprises at least about 80 weight percent.

More preferably, the aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the solid continuous matrix structure comprises at least about 82 weight percent of the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the solid continuous matrix structure comprises at least about 84 weight percent of the total weight of the aerosol-generating element.

In particularly preferred embodiments, the aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the solid continuous matrix structure comprises at least about 86 weight percent of the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. More preferably, the aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the solid continuous matrix structure comprises at least about 88 weight percent of the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the solid continuous matrix structure comprises at least about 90 weight percent of the total weight of the aerosol-generating element.

The aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the solid continuous matrix structure comprises at least about 92 weight percent of the total weight of the aerosol-generating elements, or at least about 93 weight percent of the total weight of the aerosol-generating elements, or at least about 93 weight percent of the total weight of the aerosol-generating elements. Most preferably, it comprises about 94 weight percent, or at least about 95 weight percent of the total weight of the aerosol-generating element.

In the aerosol-generating element, when the aerosol-generating formulation constitutes a percentage of the total weight of the aerosol-generating element within the range described above, advantageously the in-use aerosol-generating is consumed to raise the temperature of the encapsulating material. It is possible to minimize some of the heat supplied to the elements. In this way, more efficient use of the heat supplied to the aerosol-generating element is possible, so that most of that heat is used to release the aerosol-forming components from the solid continuous matrix structure to generate the aerosol. effectively used for

As briefly mentioned above, in the aerosol-generating element according to the invention, the aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the solid continuous matrix structure comprises at least one alkaloid or cannabinoid compound. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the solid continuous matrix structure comprises both alkaloid and cannabinoid compounds.

As used herein in connection with the present invention, the term "alkaloid compound" is used to describe any one of a class of naturally occurring organic compounds containing one or more basic nitrogen atoms. used. Generally, alkaloids contain at least one nitrogen atom in an amine-type structure. This nitrogen atom or another nitrogen atom within the molecule of the alkaloid compound can be active as a base in acid-base reactions. Most alkaloid compounds have one or more of their nitrogen atoms as part of a cyclic system such as a heterocycle. In nature, alkaloid compounds are found primarily in plants, and are particularly common in certain families of flowering plants. However, some alkaloid compounds are found in animal species and fungi. In the context of the present invention, the term "alkaloid compound" is used to describe both naturally occurring and synthetically produced alkaloid compounds. Suitable alkaloid compounds for use in aerosol-generating elements according to the invention include, but are not limited to, nicotine and anatabine.

As used herein in connection with the present invention, the term "cannabinoid compound" refers to the cannabis plant namely Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis. Used to describe any one of a class of naturally occurring compounds found in some. Cannabinoid compounds are particularly concentrated in female flower heads. Natural cannabinoid compounds in cannabis plants include tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). In the context of the present invention, the term "cannabinoid compound" is used to describe both naturally occurring and synthetically produced cannabinoid compounds.

Suitable cannabinoid compounds for use in the aerosol-generating element according to the present invention include tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabinol ( CBN), cannabigerol (CBG), cannabigerol monomethyl ether (CBGM), cannabivarin (CBV), cannabidivarin (CBDV), tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabicyclol (CBL) ), cannabichromevarin (CBCV), cannabigerovarin (CBGV), cannabinersoin (CBE), cannabicitran (CBT).

Generally, the aerosol-generating component can contain up to about 10 weight percent alkaloid compounds, or cannabinoid compounds, or both. Considering the application of the aerosol-generating element of the present invention as a substrate in an aerosol-generating article, the content of alkaloid compound, or cannabinoid compound, or both in the element is This is advantageous because it can be augmented and adjusted with a view to optimizing the delivery of the cannabinoid compound, or the cannabinoid compound, or both. Compared to existing aerosol-generating substrates based on the use of plant materials, this advantageously provides: It may allow a higher content of alkaloid compounds or cannabinoid compounds, or both, which may be desirable from a manufacturing standpoint.

The content of the at least one alkaloid or cannabinoid compound in the aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the solid continuous matrix structure preferably constitutes at least 0.5 weight percent of the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. Accordingly, the aerosol-generating component can comprise at least about 0.5 weight percent alkaloid compound, or at least 0.5 weight percent cannabinoid compound, or at least about 0.5 weight percent of a combination of alkaloid and cannabinoid compounds. preferable.

More preferably, the aerosol-generating component comprises at least about 1 weight percent alkaloid compound, or cannabinoid compound, or both. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating component comprises at least about 2 weight percent alkaloid compound, or cannabinoid compound, or both.

Preferably, the aerosol-generating component contains less than about 8 weight percent alkaloid compounds, or cannabinoid compounds, or both. More preferably, the aerosol-generating component contains less than about 6 weight percent alkaloid compounds, or cannabinoid compounds, or both. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating component comprises less than about 5 weight percent alkaloid compounds, or cannabinoid compounds, or both. Most preferably, the aerosol-generating component contains less than about 4 weight percent alkaloid compounds, or cannabinoid compounds, or both.

In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 0.5 weight percent to about 10 weight percent alkaloid compound, or cannabinoid compound, or both, more preferably from about 1 weight percent to about 10 weight percent alkaloid. compound, or cannabinoid compound, or both, even more preferably from about 2 weight percent to about 10 weight percent alkaloid compound, or cannabinoid compound, or both.

In other embodiments, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 0.5 weight percent to about 8 weight percent alkaloid compound or cannabinoid compound, or both, more preferably from about 1 weight percent to about 8 weight percent alkaloid compound or Cannabinoid compounds, or both, even more preferably from about 2 weight percent to about 8 weight percent alkaloid compounds or cannabinoid compounds, or both.

In further embodiments, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 0.5 weight percent to about 6 weight percent alkaloid compound or cannabinoid compound, or both, more preferably from about 1 weight percent to about 6 weight percent alkaloid compound or cannabinoid compound, or both, and even more preferably from about 2 weight percent to about 6 weight percent alkaloid or cannabinoid compound, or both.

In still further embodiments, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 0.5 weight percent to about 5 weight percent alkaloid compound or cannabinoid compound, or both, more preferably from about 1 weight percent to about 5 weight percent alkaloid compound. or cannabinoid compounds, or both, even more preferably from about 2 weight percent to about 5 weight percent alkaloid compounds or cannabinoid compounds, or both.

In particularly preferred embodiments, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 0.5 weight percent to about 4 weight percent alkaloid compound or cannabinoid compound, or both, more preferably from about 1 weight percent to about 4 weight percent alkaloid compound or Cannabinoid compounds, or both, even more preferably from about 2 weight percent to about 4 weight percent alkaloid compounds and/or cannabinoid compounds.

In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating component comprises one or more of cannabinoids and alkaloid compounds, including nicotine or anatabine. In some preferred embodiments, the aerosol-generating element comprises nicotine.

The term "nicotine" as used herein in connection with the present invention is used to describe nicotine, nicotine base, or nicotine salt. In embodiments in which the aerosol-generating element comprises a nicotine base or nicotine salt, amounts of nicotine recited herein are amounts of free base nicotine or amounts of protonated nicotine, respectively.

The aerosol-generating component can include natural nicotine or synthetic nicotine.

The aerosol-generating component can include one or more monobasic nicotine salts.

As used herein with respect to the present invention, the term "monobasic nicotine salt" is used to describe the nicotine salt of a monobasic acid.

Generally, the aerosol-generating element can contain up to about 10 weight percent nicotine. Considering the application of the aerosol-generating element of the present invention as a substrate in an aerosol-generating article, the nicotine content in the element is increased and adjusted to optimize the delivery of nicotine in aerosol form to the consumer. This is advantageous because it can be Compared to existing aerosol-generating substrates based on the use of tobacco plants, this advantageously allows a higher content of nicotine per volume of substrate (element) or per weight of substrate (element), This may be desirable from a manufacturing point of view.

Preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises at least about 0.5 weight percent nicotine. More preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises at least about 1 weight percent nicotine. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises at least about 2 weight percent nicotine.

Preferably, the aerosol-generating component contains no more than about 8 weight percent nicotine. More preferably, the aerosol-generating component comprises no more than about 6 weight percent nicotine. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating component comprises no more than about 5 weight percent nicotine. Most preferably, the aerosol-generating component contains no more than about 4 weight percent nicotine.

In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating component contains about 0.5 weight percent to about 10 weight percent nicotine, more preferably about 1 weight percent to about 10 weight percent nicotine, even more preferably about 2 weight percent nicotine. % to about 10% nicotine by weight.

In other embodiments, the aerosol-generating component is about 0.5 weight percent to about 8 weight percent nicotine, more preferably about 1 weight percent to about 8 weight percent nicotine, even more preferably about 2 weight percent. Contains - about 8 weight percent nicotine.

In further embodiments, the aerosol-generating component contains from about 0.5 weight percent to about 6 weight percent nicotine, more preferably from about 1 weight percent to about 6 weight percent nicotine, even more preferably from about 2 weight percent to about 6 weight percent nicotine. Contains about 6 weight percent nicotine.

In still further embodiments, the aerosol-generating component contains about 0.5 weight percent to about 5 weight percent nicotine, more preferably about 1 weight percent to about 5 weight percent nicotine, even more preferably about 2 weight percent nicotine. % to about 5% nicotine by weight.

In particularly preferred embodiments, the aerosol-generating component contains about 0.5 weight percent to about 4 weight percent nicotine, more preferably about 1 weight percent to about 4 weight percent nicotine, even more preferably about 2 weight percent Contains - about 4 weight percent nicotine.

Preferably, the aerosol-generating element contains at least about 0.5 milligrams of nicotine. More preferably, the aerosol-generating element contains at least about 1 milligram of nicotine. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises at least about 1.5 milligrams of nicotine. In particularly preferred embodiments, the aerosol generating component comprises at least about 2 milligrams of nicotine, most preferably at least about 2.5 milligrams of nicotine.

The aerosol-generating element can contain up to about 6 milligrams of nicotine. Preferably, the aerosol-generating element contains about 5 milligrams or less of nicotine. More preferably, the aerosol-generating element contains no more than about 4.5 milligrams of nicotine. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating component comprises about 4 milligrams or less of nicotine. In particularly preferred embodiments, the aerosol-generating component comprises no more than about 3.5 milligrams of nicotine, and most preferably no more than about 3 milligrams of nicotine. In some preferred embodiments, the aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the solid continuous matrix structure of the aerosol-generating element comprises a cannabinoid compound. Preferably, the cannabinoid compound is selected from CBD and THC. More preferably, the cannabinoid compound is CBD.

The aerosol-generating element may contain up to about 10 weight percent CBD. Preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises at least about 0.5 weight percent CBD. More preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises at least about 1 weight percent CBD. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises at least about 2 weight percent CBD.

Preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises no more than about 6 weight percent CBD. More preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises no more than about 5 weight percent CBD. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises no more than about 4 weight percent CBD.

In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating element comprises from about 0.5 weight percent to about 10 weight percent CBD, more preferably from about 1 weight percent to about 10 weight percent CBD, even more preferably about 2 weight percent % to about 10% by weight of CBD.

In other embodiments, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 0.5 weight percent to about 8 weight percent CBD, more preferably from about 1 weight percent to about 8 weight percent CBD, even more preferably about 2 weight percent Contains ~8 weight percent CBD.

In further embodiments, the aerosol-generating component contains from about 0.5 weight percent to about 6 weight percent CBD, more preferably from about 1 weight percent to about 6 weight percent CBD, even more preferably from about 2 weight percent to about 6 weight percent CBD. Contains about 6 weight percent CBD.

In still further embodiments, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 0.5 weight percent to about 5 weight percent CBD, more preferably from about 1 weight percent to about 5 weight percent CBD, even more preferably from about 2 weight percent % to about 5% by weight of CBD.

In particularly preferred embodiments, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 0.5 weight percent to about 4 weight percent CBD, more preferably from about 1 weight percent to about 4 weight percent CBD, even more preferably about 2 weight percent Contains - about 4 weight percent nicotine.

An aerosol-generating element according to the present invention may be a substantially tobacco-free aerosol-generating element.

The term "substantially tobacco-free aerosol-generating element" as used herein in connection with the present invention describes an aerosol-generating element having a tobacco content of less than 1 weight percent. For example, the aerosol-generating element can have a tobacco content of less than about 0.75 weight percent, less than about 0.5 weight percent, or less than about 0.25 weight percent.

The aerosol-generating element may be a tobacco-free aerosol-generating element.

As used herein in connection with the present invention, the term "tobacco-free aerosol-generating element" describes an aerosol-generating element having a tobacco content of 0 weight percent.

In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating component comprises tobacco material or non-tobacco plant material or plant extract. By way of example, aerosol-generating elements may include tobacco particles, such as tobacco lamina particles, and other plant-based particles such as cloves and eucalyptus.

In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the continuous solid matrix structure further comprises an acid. More preferably, the aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the continuous solid matrix structure comprises one or more organic acids. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the continuous solid matrix structure comprises one or more carboxylic acids.

Carboxylic acids suitable for use in aerosol-generating formulations of aerosol-generating elements according to the invention include, but are not limited to: 2-ethylbutyric acid, acetic acid, adipic acid, benzoic acid, butyric acid, cinnamic acid, cycloheptane-carboxylic acid, fumaric acid, glycolic acid, hexanoic acid, lactic acid, levulinic acid, malic acid, myristic acid, octanoic acid, oxalic acid, propanoic acid, pyruvic acid, succinic acid, and undecanoic acid.

In particularly preferred embodiments, the acid is lactic acid or levulinic acid or benzoic acid or fumaric acid or acetic acid. Most preferably the acid is lactic acid.

The inclusion of an acid is particularly preferred in embodiments of the aerosol-generating element in which the aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the continuous solid matrix structure comprises nicotine, which is preferred for aerosols where the presence of acid has nicotine and other botanical extracts and the like. It has been observed that it may stabilize dissolved species in the development formulation. Without intending to be bound by theory, it is understood that the acid may interact with the nicotine molecule such that the protonated nicotine is stabilized. Because protonated nicotine is non-volatile, it is more readily found in the liquid or particulate phase rather than the vapor phase of the aerosol obtained by heating the aerosol-generating element. As such, nicotine loss during manufacture of the aerosol-generating element can be minimized, and advantageously higher and better controlled nicotine delivery to the consumer can be ensured.

The aerosol-generating component can contain up to about 10 weight percent acid.

Preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises at least about 0.5 weight percent acid. More preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises at least about 1 weight percent acid. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises at least about 2 weight percent acid.

Preferably, the aerosol-generating component contains no more than about 8 weight percent acid. More preferably, the aerosol-generating component contains no more than about 6 weight percent acid. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating component comprises no more than about 5 weight percent acid. Most preferably, the aerosol-generating component contains no more than about 4 weight percent acid.

In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating component contains about 0.5 weight percent to about 10 weight percent acid, more preferably about 1 weight percent to about 10 weight percent acid, even more preferably about 2 weight percent. % to about 10 weight percent acid.

In other embodiments, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 0.5 weight percent to about 8 weight percent acid, more preferably from about 1 weight percent to about 8 weight percent acid, even more preferably from about 2 weight percent. Contains to about 8 weight percent acid.

In further embodiments, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 0.5 weight percent to about 6 weight percent acid, more preferably from about 1 weight percent to about 6 weight percent acid, even more preferably from about 2 weight percent to about 6 weight percent acid. Contains about 6 weight percent acid.

In still further embodiments, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 0.5 weight percent to about 5 weight percent acid, more preferably from about 1 weight percent to about 5 weight percent acid, even more preferably about 2 weight percent. % to about 5 weight percent acid.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol-generating component contains from about 0.5 weight percent to about 4 weight percent acid, more preferably from about 1 weight percent to about 4 weight percent acid, even more preferably about 2 weight percent. Contains to about 4 weight percent acid.

When the aerosol-generating solution contains nicotine, the molar ratio of acid to nicotine is preferably from about 0.5:1 to about 2:1, preferably from about 0.75:1 to about 1.5:1. is more preferred, and about 1:1 is most preferred.

When polyacids such as polycarboxylic acids are used, about 0.5:1 to about 2:1, more preferably about 0.75:1 to about 1.5:1, most preferably about It may be preferred to provide a 1:1 molar ratio of acid groups to nicotine. Therefore, the use of polyacids allows the use of less weight of acid while still providing the same level of protonation of nicotine.

In preferred embodiments, the aerosol-generating component comprises at least about 0.5 weight percent levulinic acid. More preferably, the aerosol-generating component comprises at least about 1 weight percent levulinic acid. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating component comprises at least about 2 weight percent levulinic acid.

Preferably, the aerosol-generating component contains no more than about 8 weight percent levulinic acid. More preferably, the aerosol-generating component comprises no more than about 6 weight percent levulinic acid. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating component comprises no more than about 5 weight percent levulinic acid. Most preferably, the aerosol-generating component contains no more than about 4 weight percent levulinic acid.

In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 0.5 weight percent to about 10 weight percent levulinic acid, more preferably from about 1 weight percent to about 10 weight percent levulinic acid, even more preferably from about 2 weight percent to about 10 weight percent levulinic acid.

In other embodiments, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 0.5 weight percent to about 8 weight percent levulinic acid, more preferably from about 1 weight percent to about 8 weight percent levulinic acid, even more preferably from about 2 weight percent to about 8 weight percent levulinic acid. weight percent to about 8 weight percent levulinic acid.

In further embodiments, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 0.5 weight percent to about 6 weight percent levulinic acid, more preferably from about 1 weight percent to about 6 weight percent levulinic acid, even more preferably from about 2 weight percent percent to about 6 percent by weight levulinic acid.

In still further embodiments, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 0.5 weight percent to about 5 weight percent levulinic acid, more preferably from about 1 weight percent to about 5 weight percent levulinic acid, even more preferably from about 2 weight percent to about 5 weight percent levulinic acid.

In particularly preferred embodiments, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 0.5 weight percent to about 4 weight percent levulinic acid, more preferably from about 1 weight percent to about 4 weight percent levulinic acid, even more preferably from about 2 weight percent levulinic acid. weight percent to about 4 weight percent levulinic acid.

In other preferred embodiments, the aerosol-generating element comprises at least about 0.5 weight percent lactic acid. More preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises at least about 1 weight percent lactic acid. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises at least about 2 weight percent lactic acid.

Preferably, the aerosol-generating component comprises no more than about 8 weight percent lactic acid. More preferably, the aerosol-generating component comprises no more than about 6 weight percent lactic acid. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating component comprises no more than about 5 weight percent lactic acid. Most preferably, the aerosol-generating component contains no more than about 4 weight percent lactic acid.

In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating component comprises about 0.5 weight percent to about 10 weight percent lactic acid, more preferably about 1 weight percent to about 10 weight percent lactic acid, even more preferably about 2 weight percent. percent to about 10 percent by weight of lactic acid.

In other embodiments, the aerosol-generating component is about 0.5 weight percent to about 8 weight percent lactic acid, more preferably about 1 weight percent to about 8 weight percent lactic acid, even more preferably about 2 weight percent. Contains to about 8 weight percent lactic acid.

In further embodiments, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 0.5 weight percent to about 6 weight percent lactic acid, more preferably from about 1 weight percent to about 6 weight percent lactic acid, even more preferably from about 2 weight percent to about 6 weight percent. Contains about 6 weight percent lactic acid.

In still further embodiments, the aerosol-generating component comprises about 0.5 weight percent to about 5 weight percent lactic acid, more preferably about 1 weight percent to about 5 weight percent lactic acid, even more preferably about 2 weight percent. percent to about 5 percent by weight of lactic acid.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol-generating component comprises about 0.5 weight percent to about 4 weight percent lactic acid, more preferably about 1 weight percent to about 4 weight percent lactic acid, even more preferably about 2 weight percent. Contains to about 4 weight percent lactic acid.

Aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention preferably contain no more than about 25 weight percent water.

More preferably, the aerosol-generating element contains no more than about 20 weight percent water. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating element contains no more than about 15 percent water.

Aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention preferably contain at least about 2.5 weight percent water. More preferably, aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention contain at least about 5 weight percent water. Even more preferably, aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention comprise at least about 7.5 weight percent water. Most preferably, aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention preferably contain at least about 10 weight percent water.

Generally, the presence of some water has been observed to contribute to imparting desirable stability to the aerosol-generating element. At the same time, a residual moisture content of 25 weight percent or less is desirable, as it may result in an aerosol generating element that is substantially non-sticky. Additionally, if the aerosol-generating element is heated with a low moisture content, the consumer can be provided with an aerosol enriched with polyhydric alcohols and alkaloid or cannabinoid compounds such as nicotine.

In some embodiments, aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention comprise from about 2.5 weight percent to about 25 weight percent water. Aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention preferably contain from about 5 weight percent to about 25 weight percent water. More preferably, aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention contain water from about 7.5 weight percent to about 25 weight percent. Most preferably, aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention contain from about 10 weight percent to about 25 weight percent water.

In other embodiments, aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention comprise from about 2.5 weight percent to about 20 weight percent water. Aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention preferably contain from about 5 weight percent to about 20 weight percent water. More preferably, aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention contain water from about 7.5 weight percent to about 20 weight percent. Most preferably, aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention contain from about 10 weight percent to about 20 weight percent water.

In further embodiments, aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention comprise from about 2.5 weight percent to about 15 weight percent water. Aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention preferably contain from about 5 weight percent to about 15 weight percent water. More preferably, aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention contain from about 7.5 weight percent to about 15 weight percent water. Most preferably, aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention contain from about 10 weight percent to about 15 weight percent water.

In still further embodiments, aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention comprise from about 2.5 weight percent to about 10 weight percent water. Aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention preferably contain from about 5 weight percent to about 10 weight percent water. More preferably, the aerosol-generating element according to the present invention comprises from about 7.5 weight percent to about 10 weight percent water. Most preferably, aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention contain from about 10 weight percent to about 10 weight percent water.

Aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention preferably have a water activity of about 0.7 or less.

The term "water activity" is used herein with reference to the present invention to indicate the ratio of the partial water vapor pressure at equilibrium with an aerosol-generating element to the water vapor saturation pressure at equilibrium with pure water at the same temperature. used in the book. Thus, water activity is a dimensionless quantity between 0, which corresponds to a completely anhydrous substance, and 1, which corresponds to pure water without salt. A method for measuring the water activity of an aerosol-generating element according to the present invention is described in the 2017 publication of ISO 18787 (Foodstuffs-Determination of water activity-dew point measurement).

Aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention may optionally further comprise flavorants. Flavors can be in liquid or solid form. Optionally, the flavoring agent may be provided in microencapsulated form, where the flavoring agent is released upon heating.

The aerosol-generating element preferably comprises at least about 0.05 weight percent flavorant, more preferably at least about 0.1 weight percent flavorant, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. The aerosol-generating element preferably contains no more than about 1 weight percent flavorant, more preferably no more than about 0.5 weight percent flavorant, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element.

In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating element contains from about 0.05 weight percent to about 1 weight percent flavorant, preferably from about 0.05 weight percent to about 0.05 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. Contains 5 weight percent flavors. In other embodiments, the aerosol-generating element contains from about 0.1 weight percent to about 1 weight percent flavorant, preferably from about 0.1 weight percent to about 0.5 weight percent, based on the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. Contains weight percent flavors.

Suitable flavoring agents for use in the aerosol-generating element according to the invention include tobacco, menthol, mints such as peppermint or spearmint, cocoa, liquorice, fruits (such as citrus), gamma octalactone, vanillin, spices (such as cinnamon). ), methyl salicylate, linalool, eugenol, eucalyptol, bergamot oil, eugenol oil, geranium oil, lemon oil, ginger oil, and tobacco flavor.

An aerosol-generating element according to the invention may optionally further comprise a plurality of susceptor particles. Susceptor particles are electrically conductive particles that have the ability to convert electromagnetic energy and convert it to heat. Eddy currents are induced in the susceptor particles when placed in an alternating electromagnetic field, and hysteresis losses occur, causing heating of the susceptor. As the susceptor particles are in thermal contact or proximity with the aerosol-generating formulation of the aerosol-generating element, the aerosol-generating formulation is heated by the susceptor particles such that an aerosol is formed.

Thus, including susceptor particles in an aerosol-generating solution provides an aerosol-generating element that is inductively heatable. When an aerosol-generating element is used in a device with an induction heater, changes in the electromagnetic field produced by one or several induction coils of the induction heating device heat the susceptor particles, which in turn heat mainly by heat conduction. , which transfers heat to the aerosol-generating formulation around the aerosol-generating element.

Susceptor particles may be formed from any material that can be inductively heated to a temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating formulation. Preferred susceptor particles comprise metal or carbon. Preferred susceptor particles may comprise or consist of a ferromagnetic material such as a ferromagnetic alloy, ferritic iron, or ferromagnetic steel, or stainless steel. Suitable susceptor particles may be or include aluminum. Preferred susceptor particles may be heated to temperatures above 250 degrees Celsius. Suitable susceptor particles may comprise metal tracks formed on the surface of a non-metallic core, for example a ceramic core, having a metal layer disposed on the non-metallic core. The susceptor particles may have a protective outer layer, for example a protective ceramic layer or a protective glass layer encapsulating the susceptor particles. Susceptor particles may include a protective coating formed of glass, ceramic, or an inert metal formed over a core of susceptor material.

Susceptor particles may have an average particle size of up to about 60 microns. For example, the susceptor particles can have an average particle size of about 50 micrometers or less, or about 40 micrometers or less, or about 35 micrometers or less.

Typically, in the aerosol-generating solution used in the method according to the invention, the susceptor particles have an average particle size of at least about 1 micrometer, or at least about 2 micrometers, or at least about 5 micrometers, or at least about 10 micrometers. have a size.

For example, the susceptor particles in the aerosol-generating solution can range from about 1 micrometer to about 60 micrometers, or from about 2 millimeters to about 50 micrometers, or from about 5 micrometers to about 40 micrometers, or from about 10 micrometers to about 35 micrometers. It can have an average particle size of micrometers.

Optionally, the aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the solid continuous matrix structure of the aerosol-generating element according to the invention may further comprise a solid filler. The inclusion of solid fillers can advantageously improve the physical properties of the aerosol-generating element. While not intending to be bound by theory, the inclusion of solid filler during manufacture of the aerosol-generating element facilitates control of the properties of the aerosol-generating solution during the process of forming the discrete portions of the aerosol-generating solution. It is understood that the Suitable solid fillers are known to those skilled in the art.

For example, an aerosol-generating element according to the invention may optionally further comprise particles of plant material obtained by crushing, crushing or comminuting the plant material. By way of example, the aerosol-generating element may further comprise tea particles, coffee particles, hemp particles, clove particles, eucalyptus particles, eucalyptus particles, ginger particles. Additionally or alternatively, the aerosol-generating element according to the present invention may optionally further comprise particles obtained by crushing, crushing or comminuting one or more of tobacco leaf blades and tobacco petioles. . The inventors of the present invention have found that by incorporating such plant particles into an aerosol-generating element, an aerosol can be generated that advantageously provides a novel sensory experience. Such aerosols can provide a unique flavor and provide an increased level of kokumi.

In embodiments where the aerosol-generating element comprises plant particles, the amount of plant particles in the aerosol-generating solution is adjusted to provide a desired level of plant particles in the aerosol-generating element and a desired level of flavor in the generated aerosol. adjusted to The aerosol-generating element may comprise up to about 40 weight percent plant particles. Preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises no more than about 35 weight percent plant particles. More preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises no more than about 30 weight percent plant particles. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises no more than about 25 weight percent plant particles.

In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating element comprises at least about 1 weight percent plant particles. Preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises at least about 2 weight percent plant particles. More preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises at least about 5 weight percent plant particles. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises at least about 10 weight percent plant particles.

In some preferred embodiments, the aerosol-generating element comprises from about 1 weight percent to about 40 weight percent plant particles. Preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises from about 2 weight percent to about 40 weight percent plant particles. More preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises from about 5 weight percent to about 40 weight percent plant particles. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises from about 10 weight percent to about 40 weight percent plant particles.

In other embodiments, the aerosol-generating element comprises from about 1 weight percent to about 35 weight percent plant particles. Preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises from about 2 weight percent to about 35 weight percent plant particles. More preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises from about 5 weight percent to about 35 weight percent plant particles. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises from about 10 weight percent to about 35 weight percent plant particles.

In a further embodiment, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 1 weight percent to about 30 weight percent plant particles. Preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises from about 2 weight percent to about 30 weight percent plant particles. More preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises from about 5 weight percent to about 30 weight percent plant particles. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises from about 10 weight percent to about 30 weight percent plant particles.

In still further embodiments, the aerosol-generating component comprises from about 1 weight percent to about 25 weight percent plant particles. Preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises from about 2 weight percent to about 25 weight percent plant particles. More preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises from about 5 weight percent to about 25 weight percent plant particles. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises from about 10 weight percent to about 25 weight percent plant particles.

Providing an amount of plant particles within this range provides sufficient flavor without affecting the consistency of the aerosol-generating solution such that processing of the aerosol-generating solution to form the aerosol-generating element is adversely affected. It becomes certain that it can be achieved from plant particles.

In embodiments in which the aerosol-generating element comprises plant particles, the plant particles may have an average particle size of up to about 60 microns. In aerosol-generating elements according to the invention, the plant particles preferably have an average particle size of about 50 microns or less. More preferably, in aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention, the plant particles have an average particle size of about 40 microns or less. Even more preferably, in aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention, the plant particles have an average particle size of about 30 microns or less.

Typically, in aerosol-generating elements according to the invention, the plant particles have an average particle size of at least about 1 micrometer. In aerosol-generating elements according to the invention, the plant particles preferably have an average particle size of at least about 2 microns. More preferably, in aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention, the plant particles have an average particle size of at least about 5 microns. Even more preferably, in aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention, the plant particles have an average particle size of at least about 10 micrometers.

In some preferred embodiments, in aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention, the plant particles have an average particle size of about 1 millimeter to about 60 microns. In aerosol-generating elements according to the invention, the plant particles preferably have an average particle size of about 2 millimeters to about 60 microns. More preferably, in aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention, the plant particles have an average particle size of about 5 millimeters to about 60 microns. Even more preferably, in aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention, the plant particles have an average particle size of about 10 millimeters to about 60 microns.

In other embodiments, in aerosol-generating elements according to the invention, the plant particles have an average particle size of about 1 millimeter to about 50 microns. In aerosol-generating elements according to the invention, the plant particles preferably have an average particle size of about 2 millimeters to about 50 microns. More preferably, in aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention, the plant particles have an average particle size of about 5 millimeters to about 50 microns. Even more preferably, in aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention, the plant particles have an average particle size of about 10 millimeters to about 50 microns.

In further embodiments, in aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention, the plant particles have an average particle size of about 1 millimeter to about 40 microns. In aerosol-generating elements according to the invention, the plant particles preferably have an average particle size of about 2 millimeters to about 40 microns. More preferably, in aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention, the plant particles have an average particle size of about 5 millimeters to about 40 microns. Even more preferably, in aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention, the plant particles have an average particle size of about 10 millimeters to about 40 microns.

In still further embodiments, in aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention, the plant particles have an average particle size of about 1 millimeter to about 30 microns. In aerosol-generating elements according to the invention, the plant particles preferably have an average particle size of about 2 millimeters to about 30 microns. More preferably, in aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention, the plant particles have an average particle size of about 5 millimeters to about 30 microns. Even more preferably, in aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention, the plant particles have an average particle size of about 10 millimeters to about 30 microns. An n-aerosol-generating element according to the present invention may have an equivalent diameter of at least about 0.5 millimeters.

The term "equivalent diameter of the aerosol-generating element" is used herein to mean the diameter of a sphere having the same volume as the aerosol-generating element. Generally, the aerosol-generating element may have any shape, although a spherical or quasi-spherical shape, such as an oval or elliptical shape, is preferred. For aerosol-generating elements having a spherical shape and circular transverse cross-section, the equivalent diameter is the cross-sectional diameter of the aerosol-generating element.

The aerosol-generating element preferably has an equivalent diameter of at least about 1 millimeter. More preferably, the aerosol-generating element has an equivalent diameter of at least about 2 millimeters. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating element has an equivalent diameter of at least about 3 millimeters.

Aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention preferably have an equivalent diameter of about 8 millimeters or less. More preferably, the aerosol-generating element has an equivalent diameter of about 6 millimeters or less. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating element has an equivalent diameter of about 5 millimeters or less.

In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating element is about 0.5 millimeters to about 8 millimeters, preferably about 1 millimeter to about 8 millimeters, more preferably about 2 millimeters to about 8 millimeters, even more preferably It has an equivalent diameter of about 3 to 8 millimeters.

In other embodiments, the aerosol-generating element is about 0.5 millimeters to about 6 millimeters, preferably about 1 millimeter to about 6 millimeters, more preferably about 2 millimeters to about 6 millimeters, even more preferably about It has an equivalent diameter of 3 to 6 millimeters.

In further embodiments, the aerosol-generating element is about 0.5 millimeters to about 5 millimeters, preferably about 1 millimeter to about 5 millimeters, more preferably about 2 millimeters to about 5 millimeters, even more preferably about 3 millimeters. It has an equivalent diameter of millimeters to 5 millimeters.

In particularly preferred embodiments, the aerosol-generating element has an equivalent diameter of about 4 millimeters or about 4.5 millimeters.

Aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention may have an ellipticity of up to about 35 percent.

The term "ellipticity" as used herein in connection with the present invention indicates the degree of deviation from a perfect circle. Ellipticity is expressed as a percentage and the mathematical definition is as follows.

To determine the ellipticity of an object, such as an aerosol-generating element, the object can be viewed along a direction substantially perpendicular to the cross-section of the aerosol-generating element. As an example, the aerosol-generating element may be positioned on a transparent stage such that an image of the aerosol-generating element is recorded by a suitable imaging device located below the stage. Dimension "a" is taken as the largest outer diameter of the image of the aerosol-generating element and dimension "b" is taken as the smallest outer diameter of the image of the aerosol-generating element. The process is repeated for a total of ten aerosol-generating elements having the same composition and prepared by the same process under the same operating conditions. The number average of ten ellipticity measurements is recorded as the ellipticity of the aerosol-generating element.

Aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention preferably have an ellipticity of about 30 percent or less. More preferably, aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention have an ellipticity of about 25 percent or less. Even more preferably, aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention have an ellipticity of about 20 percent or less.

Aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention typically have an ellipticity of at least about 1 percent. The aerosol-generating element preferably has an ellipticity of at least 2 percent. More preferably, the aerosol-generating element has an ellipticity of at least 3 percent. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating element has an ellipticity of at least 4 percent.

In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating component is about 1 percent to about 30 percent, more preferably about 2 percent to about 30 percent, more preferably about 3 percent to about 30 percent, even more preferably about It has an ellipticity of 4 percent to about 30 percent.

In other embodiments, the aerosol-generating component is about 1 percent to about 25 percent, more preferably about 2 percent to about 25 percent, more preferably about 3 percent to about 25 percent, even more preferably about 4 percent. percent to about 25 percent ellipticity.

In further embodiments, the aerosol-generating component is about 1 percent to about 20 percent, more preferably about 2 percent to about 30 percent, more preferably about 3 percent to about 20 percent, even more preferably about 4 percent. It has an ellipticity of ~20 percent.

Aerosol-generating articles according to the present invention may have an exposed surface area to volume ratio of up to 25 cm ⁻¹ .

As used herein with reference to the present invention, the expression “exposed surface area to volume ratio” refers to the total external surface area of the aerosol-generating element that is exposed and available for heat and mass exchange and the aerosol-generating Indicates the ratio to the total volume of the element.

Since the aerosol-generating element according to the invention has a low ellipticity and can be assimilated into a spherical object, the volume of the aerosol-generating element according to the invention can be expressed by the formula:

The exposed surface area of an aerosol-generating element according to the invention can be estimated by the following formula.

The dimension R _eq indicates the equivalent radius of the aerosol-generating element.

Aerosol-generating articles preferably have an exposed surface area to volume ratio of at least about 0.083 cm ⁻¹ . More preferably, the aerosol-generating article has an exposed surface area to volume ratio of at least about 0.166 cm ⁻¹ . Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating article has an exposed surface area to volume ratio of at least about 0.249 cm ⁻¹ .

Preferably, the aerosol-generating article has an exposed surface area to volume ratio of about 24 cm ⁻¹ or less. More preferably, the aerosol-generating article has an exposed surface area to volume ratio of about 20 cm ⁻¹ or less. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating article has an exposed surface area to volume ratio of about 16 cm ⁻¹ or less.

In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating article is between about 0.083 cm ^-1 and about 24 cm ^-1 , more preferably between about 0.166 cm ^-1 and about 24 cm ^-1 , even more preferably between about 0.249 cm ^-1 . It has an exposed surface area to volume ratio of ¹ to about 24 cm ⁻¹ .

In other embodiments, the aerosol-generating article has a wavelength of from about 0.083 cm -1 to about 20 cm ^-1 , more preferably from about 0.166 cm ^-1 to about 20 cm ^-1 , even more preferably from about ^0.249 cm ^-1 . It has an exposed surface area to volume ratio of ˜20 cm ⁻¹ .

In a further embodiment, the aerosol-generating article has a wavelength of from about 0.083 cm -1 to about 16 cm ^-1 , more preferably from about 0.166 cm ^-1 to about 16 cm ^-1 , even more preferably from about ^0.249 cm ^-1 It has an exposed surface area to volume ratio of about 16 cm ⁻¹ .

In some embodiments, aerosol-generating elements according to the present invention may be coated. In fact, an outer coating layer may optionally be provided on the aerosol-generating element as described above. This can be achieved by a coating step, which can be done before the drying step or after the drying step. An optional drying step can be incorporated after the coating step.

Providing a coating layer on the aerosol-generating element may be desirable for many different reasons. For example, the coating layer can advantageously limit oxygen or water vapor transmission to the aerosol-generating element, which can help extend the shelf life of the aerosol-generating element. Alternatively, or additionally, a coating layer can help protect the structural integrity of the aerosol-generating element or provide improved lubricity of the aerosol-generating element. In certain embodiments, a relatively frangible coating layer may be applied to an aerosol-generating element that is adapted to be destroyed by a consumer prior to use. Thus, this type of coating layer can provide a tactile and audible indication to the consumer that the aerosol-generating element has been activated. Alternatively, or additionally, the provision of a coating layer on the aerosol-generating element may change the color of the aerosol-generating element to provide a visual indication of a property of the aerosol-generating element such as, for example, flavor or nicotine content. may be used to adjust the

Suitable types of coating materials are known to those skilled in the art. For example, a coating layer of a water-soluble film former such as HPMC or shellac may be applied to the aerosol-generating element. Such film formers can adhere strongly to the surface of the aerosol-generating element. In a further example, a coating layer of sodium alginate may be applied, which cross-links with any residual calcium ions on the surface of the aerosol-generating element to form a thin film of calcium alginate.

The coating layer may be applied to the outer surface of the aerosol-generating element using various coating techniques. Suitable equipment and techniques will be known to those skilled in the art.

Aerosol-generating elements such as those described above are used as aerosol-generating substrates for aerosol-generating articles of the type in which the substrate is heated to release an inhalable aerosol, as opposed to articles in which the substrate is combusted to produce smoke. can be found.

Because the aerosol-generating element according to the invention is easy to manufacture and predetermined, discrete amounts of the aerosol-generating formulation may therefore be provided in encapsulated form, particularly polyhydric alcohols, and Since the composition of the aerosol-generating formulation can be finely tuned and controlled with respect to the alkaloid or cannabinoid compound content, the aerosol-generating element according to the invention is versatile and can be used as a substrate in numerous arrangements.

As an example, a plurality of aerosol-generating elements according to the invention may be provided within a cavity defined by a tubular element, such that the outer surfaces of the aerosol-generating elements are longitudinal airflow channels defined by the cavity. exposed inside the Upon heating, an aerosol may be generated from the aerosol-generating element such that the aerosol is released into the airflow channel and drawn through the tubular element into the mouth of the consumer.

Accordingly, aerosol-generating elements as described above may find use in an aerosol-generating system comprising one or more aerosol-generating elements or articles as described above and an electrically operated aerosol-generating device. A suitable aerosol-generating device comprises a heating element and a heater configured to receive one or more aerosol-generating elements or articles such that the one or more aerosol-generating elements are heated within a heating chamber by the heating element. a chamber.

Upon heating, the aerosol-generating element according to the invention releases an aerosol containing aerosol-generating formulation constituents, including, among others, polyhydric alcohols and alkaloid or cannabinoid compounds. It has been found that when an aerosol-generating element according to the present invention is heated to a temperature in the range of about 150 degrees Celsius to about 350 degrees Celsius, the aerosol-generating element loses weight without undergoing significant volumetric shrinkage. . Further, when an aerosol-generating element according to the present invention is heated to a temperature in the range of about 150 degrees Celsius to about 350 degrees Celsius and heat is applied until no further weight loss is detected, the residual weight of the aerosol-generating element is: Typically less than 120 percent by weight of the solid continuous matrix structure component, preferably less than 115 percent by weight of the solid continuous matrix structure component, more preferably less than 115 percent by weight of the solid continuous matrix structure component. It has been found to be less than 115 percent, and even more preferably less than 105 percent by weight of the components of the solid continuous matrix structure.

When an aerosol-generating element according to the present invention is heated to a temperature in the range of about 150 degrees Celsius to about 350 degrees Celsius and heat is applied until no further weight loss is detected, the residual weight of the aerosol-generating element is solid continuous. Most preferably, it substantially corresponds to the total weight of the components of the matrix structure.

One embodiment of the invention will now be further described, by way of example only.

An aerosol-generating solution is formed from a mixture of the following components.

In the first step, alginate is added to water to form a matrix polymer solution. Nicotine is then added, followed by glycerin and finally levulinic acid.

The resulting aerosol-generating solution was extruded through a 5 millimeter nozzle to form multiple droplets and then dropped at room temperature from a height of 30 centimeters into the crosslinking solution having the following composition: Let:

Leave the droplets in the cross-linking solution for 25 minutes before removing and dry in a tray dryer at 25 degrees Celsius for 12 hours. The resulting dried aerosol-generating elements are in the form of solid spherical beads having a diameter of approximately 4.6 mm. Each bead has a weight of approximately 65 mg, a water activity of 0.4, and the following composition:

Claims (13)

An aerosol-generating element for use in an aerosol-generating article or system, said aerosol-generating element comprising:
a solid continuous matrix structure;
An aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within said solid continuous matrix structure, said aerosol-generating formulation being entrapped within said solid continuous matrix structure and releasable from said solid continuous matrix structure upon heating of said aerosol-generating element. , an aerosol-generating formulation, and
The solid continuous matrix structure is a polymeric matrix comprising one or more matrix-forming polymers, and the aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the solid continuous matrix structure comprises at least one alkaloid or cannabinoid compound and a polyhydric alcohol. wherein said polyhydric alcohol content in said aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within said solid continuous matrix structure constitutes at least 30 weight percent, based on the total weight of said aerosol-generating element;
An aerosol-generating element, wherein said aerosol-generating element has an equivalent diameter of at least about 0.5 millimeters and an ellipticity of about 2 percent to about 30 percent. 2. The aerosol-generating element of claim 1, wherein said one or more matrix-forming polymers comprises at least one of alginate and pectin. 3. The aerosol-generating element of claim 1 or 2, wherein the polyhydric alcohol is glycerin, propylene glycol, or a combination of glycerin and propylene glycol. 4. Any one of claims 1-3, wherein the polyhydric alcohol content in the aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the solid continuous matrix structure comprises at least 60 percent by weight of the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. An aerosol-generating element as described. The aerosol-generating element of any one of claims 1-4, wherein the aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the solid continuous matrix structure comprises at least 80 weight percent of the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. Claims 1-1, wherein the content of said at least one alkaloid or cannabinoid compound in said aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within said solid continuous matrix structure comprises at least 0.5 percent by weight of the total weight of said aerosol-generating element. 6. The aerosol-generating element according to any one of clauses 5 to 9. An aerosol-generating element according to any preceding claim, wherein said at least one alkaloid or cannabinoid compound is selected from nicotine, anatabine, cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The aerosol-generating element of any one of claims 1-7, wherein the aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the continuous solid matrix structure further comprises an acid. 9. The aerosol-generating element of claim 8, wherein said acid is lactic acid or levulinic acid. 10. The aerosol generator of claim 8 or 9, wherein the acid content in the aerosol-generating formulation dispersed within the solid continuous matrix structure comprises at least about 0.5 weight percent of the total weight of the aerosol-generating element. element. The aerosol-generating element of any one of claims 1-10, further comprising less than about 20 weight percent water. The aerosol-generating element of any one of claims 1-11, having an equivalent diameter of about 6 millimeters or less. The aerosol-generating element of any one of claims 1-12, having an exposed surface area to volume ratio of from about 0.083 cm ^-1 to about 24 cm ^-1 .