CN115915975A - Aerosol-generating articles with improved construction - Google Patents

Abstract

There is provided an aerosol-generating article (10) for generating an inhalable aerosol upon heating, the aerosol-generating article (10) comprising: an aerosol-generating substrate rod (12); a mouthpiece element (42) having a length (L1) and comprising a mouthpiece filter segment formed from fibrous filter material; and an intermediate hollow section (50) between the aerosol-generating substrate rod (12) and the mouthpiece element (42), the intermediate hollow section (50) having a length (L2). The intermediate hollow section (50) comprises: an aerosol-cooling element (24) downstream of the aerosol-generating substrate rod (12), the aerosol-cooling element (24) comprising a hollow tubular segment (34) defining a longitudinal cavity (36) providing a non-restrictive flow passage; and a support element (22) between the aerosol-cooling element (24) and the rod (12) of aerosol-generating substrate. The upstream end of the aerosol-cooling element abuts the downstream end of the support element. The length (L1) of the mouthpiece element (42) is at least 0.4 times the length (L2) of the intermediate hollow section (50).

Description

Aerosol-generating articles with improved construction

technical field

The present invention relates to an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-generating substrate and adapted to generate an inhalable aerosol when heated.

Background technique

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, in such heated smoking articles, the aerosol is generated by transferring heat from the heat source to a physically separate aerosol-generating substrate or material that can be positioned in contact with the heat source, within the heat source in, around or downstream of. During use of the aerosol-generating article, volatile compounds are released from the aerosol-generating substrate by heat transfer from the heat source and become entrained in the air drawn through the aerosol-generating article. When the released compound cools, the compound condenses to form an aerosol.

A number of prior art documents disclose aerosol-generating devices for consumable aerosol-generating articles. Such devices include, for example, electrically heated aerosol-generating devices in which an aerosol is generated by transferring heat from one or more electric heater elements of the aerosol-generating device to an aerosol-generating substrate of a heated aerosol-generating article. For example, electrically heated aerosol-generating devices comprising internal heating patches adapted for insertion into an aerosol-generating substrate have been proposed. Alternatively, an inductively heatable aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-generating substrate and a susceptor element arranged within the aerosol-generating substrate is proposed by WO2015/176898.

Aerosol-generating articles in which the tobacco-containing substrate is heated without burning present many challenges not encountered with conventional smoking articles. First, the tobacco-containing substrate is typically heated to significantly lower temperatures than the temperature reached by the combustion front in conventional cigarettes. This may affect the release of nicotine from the tobacco-containing matrix and the delivery of nicotine to the consumer. At the same time, if the heating temperature is increased in an attempt to enhance nicotine delivery, the resulting aerosol typically needs to be cooled to a greater extent and more quickly before it reaches the consumer. However, technical solutions commonly used to cool mainstream smoke in conventional smoking articles (such as providing a high filtration efficiency segment at the mouth end of the cigarette) may not be possible in aerosol-generating articles in which the tobacco-containing substrate is heated without combustion. have undesired effects because they reduce nicotine delivery. Second, there is a generally recognized need for aerosol-generating articles that are easy to use and have improved utility.

Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide new and improved aerosol-generating articles adapted to achieve at least one of the desired results described above. Furthermore, it would be desirable to provide an aerosol-generating article that can be manufactured efficiently and at high speed, preferably with a satisfactory RTD and low RTD variability from one article to another.

Contents of the invention

The present disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating article comprising a strip of aerosol-generating substrate. The aerosol-generating article may further comprise a mouthpiece element having a length L1 and comprising at least one mouthpiece filter segment formed of fibrous filter material. The aerosol-generating article may comprise an intermediate hollow section between the strip of aerosol-generating substrate and the mouthpiece element, the intermediate hollow section having a length L2. The intermediate hollow section may comprise an aerosol cooling element downstream of the aerosol generating substrate strip. The aerosol cooling element may comprise a hollow tubular segment defining a longitudinal cavity providing a non-restrictive flow path. The intermediate hollow section may further comprise a support element between the aerosol cooling element and the strip of aerosol generating substrate. The length (L1) of the mouthpiece element may be at least 0.4 times the length (L2) of the middle hollow section.

According to the present invention there is provided an aerosol-generating article for generating an inhalable aerosol when heated, the aerosol-generating article comprising: a strip of aerosol-generating substrate; having a length L1 and comprising at least one mouthpiece formed of a fibrous filter material a mouthpiece element of the filter segment; and an intermediate hollow section between the strip of aerosol-generating substrate and the mouthpiece element, the intermediate hollow section having a length L2. The intermediate hollow section comprises: an aerosol cooling element downstream of the aerosol generating substrate strip, the aerosol cooling element comprising a hollow tubular section defining a longitudinal cavity providing a non-restrictive flow path; The support element between the cooling element and the strip of aerosol-generating substrate. According to the invention, the length (L1) of the mouthpiece element is at least 0.4 times the length (L2) of the middle hollow section.

The term "aerosol-generating article" is used herein to mean an article in which an aerosol-generating substrate is heated to generate and deliver an inhalable aerosol 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.

Conventional cigarettes are ignited when the user applies a flame to one end of the cigarette and draws air through the other end. The localized heat provided by the flame and oxygen in the air drawn by the cigarette causes the tip of the cigarette to ignite 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 tobacco. Known heated aerosol-generating articles include, for example, electrically heated aerosol-generating articles and aerosol-generating articles in which an aerosol is generated by heat transfer from a combustible fuel element or heat source to a physically separate aerosol-forming material. For example, an aerosol-generating article according to the invention finds particular application in an aerosol-generating system comprising an electrically heated aerosol-generating device having a device adapted to be inserted into an aerosol-generating substrate strip. internal heater blades. Aerosol-generating articles of this type are described in the prior art (eg in European Patent Application EP0822670).

As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating device" refers to a device comprising a heater element that interacts with an aerosol-generating substrate of an aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol.

As used herein with reference to the present invention, the term "bar" is intended to denote a generally cylindrical element of substantially circular, oval or elliptical cross-section.

As used herein, the term "longitudinal" refers to the direction corresponding to the main longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article, which direction extends between the upstream and downstream ends of the aerosol-generating article. As used herein, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" describe the relative position of an element or part of an element of an aerosol-generating article with respect to the direction in which aerosol is transported through the aerosol-generating article during use.

During use, air is drawn through the aerosol-generating article in the longitudinal direction. The term "transverse" refers to a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Unless stated otherwise, any reference to a "cross-section" of an aerosol-generating article or part of an aerosol-generating article refers to a transverse cross-section.

The term "length" refers to the dimension of a component of the aerosol-generating article in the longitudinal direction. For example, it may be used to indicate the dimension of a strip or elongated tubular element in the longitudinal direction.

The aerosol-generating article according to the invention provides an improved configuration of the element downstream of the aerosol-generating substrate strip as defined by having a ratio of the length of the mouthpiece element to the length of the intermediate hollow section of at least 0.4. This ratio reflects a configuration in which a relatively long mouthpiece element is provided in combination with a shorter intermediate hollow section than previously provided. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the improved configuration provides a relatively long mouthpiece element combined with a shorter aerosol cooling element than previously provided.

Providing the intermediate hollow section with a reduced length reduces the distance between the strip of aerosol-generating substrate and the mouthpiece element. In an aerosol-generating article according to the invention, the reduced length of the intermediate hollow section is typically achieved by providing a relatively short aerosol-cooling element. Due to the configuration of the aerosol cooling element in the form of a hollow tubular segment, such a reduction in the length of the aerosol cooling element compared to known aerosol cooling elements is possible. The hollow tubular segment provides an inner cavity with a relatively high volume that enables efficient cooling and nucleation of the aerosol during use. Thus, sufficient aerosol cooling and nucleation can be provided over a relatively short distance such that the length of the aerosol cooling element can be shorter than is typically possible with other configurations of the aerosol cooling element.

By reducing the distance between the strip of aerosol-generating substrate and the mouthpiece element, while increasing the length of the mouthpiece element, it has been found possible to provide a more rigid mouthpiece in an aerosol-generating article according to the invention. Accordingly, the aerosol-generating article is able to provide greater resistance to radial compression at a location towards the downstream end of the article. Advantageously, this benefit can be provided without affecting the overall length of the article such that an overall length consistent with existing aerosol-generating articles can be maintained.

It has been found that providing a more rigid mouthpiece facilitates a more efficient puffing action by the consumer so that the delivery of the aerosol can be optimized. Additionally, by providing a more rigid mouthpiece close to the aerosol cooling element, the risk of deformation of the aerosol cooling element during use can be significantly reduced. This is important because deformation of the aerosol cooling element (due to the detrimental effect that such deformation may have on aerosol formation) is undesirable.

The mouthpiece element is generally more resilient to deformation than other elements disposed downstream of the aerosol-generating substrate strip. Accordingly, it has been found that increasing the length of the mouthpiece element relative to the length of the intermediate hollow section provides an improved consumer grip. It also facilitates insertion of the aerosol-generating article into the heating device.

The increased length of the mouthpiece element relative to the length of the intermediate hollow section provides several other technical benefits. Longer mouthpiece elements can be used to provide higher filtration and removal of undesired aerosol components, such as phenol, so that higher quality aerosols can be delivered. In addition, the use of longer mouthpiece elements enables the provision of more complex mouthpieces as there is more space for incorporating mouthpiece components such as capsules, threads and restrictors.

As described in more detail below, the reduction of the length of the hollow middle section relative to the mouthpiece element may advantageously be provided by reducing the length of the aerosol cooling element. Aerosol cooling elements generally have a lower resistance to deformation than mouthpieces. The reduced length of the aerosol-cooling element thus further reduces the risk of the aerosol-generating article being deformed due to compression during use. Furthermore, reducing the length of the aerosol cooling element can provide a cost benefit to the manufacturer, as the cost per unit length of the hollow tubular segment is generally higher than the cost of the mouthpiece element.

According to the present invention there is provided an aerosol-generating article for generating an inhalable aerosol upon heating. Aerosol-generating articles include aerosol-generating substrate strips. The aerosol-generating article further includes a downstream section at a location downstream of the aerosol-generating substrate strip. The downstream section may include one or more downstream elements.

In an aerosol-generating article according to the invention, the downstream section comprises a mouthpiece element. The mouthpiece element may extend up to the mouth end of the aerosol-generating article. The downstream section further comprises an intermediate hollow section between the mouthpiece element and the strip of aerosol-generating substrate. The middle hollow section includes support elements and aerosol cooling elements. The aerosol cooling element includes a hollow tubular segment. The support element may also comprise a hollow tubular segment.

As used herein, the term "hollow tubular segment" means a generally elongated element defining a lumen or airflow passage along its longitudinal axis. In particular, the term "tubular" will be used hereinafter to refer to a tubular element having a substantially cylindrical cross-section and defining at least one air flow conduit establishing an uninterrupted flow between the upstream end of the tubular element and the downstream end of the tubular element. of fluid communication. However, it should be understood that alternative geometries (eg, alternative cross-sectional shapes) of the tubular segment may be possible. A hollow tubular segment is a single discrete element of an aerosol-generating article of defined length and thickness.

As used herein, the term "elongated" means that an element has a length dimension that is greater than its width dimension or its diameter dimension, eg two or more times its width dimension or its diameter dimension.

In the context of the present invention, a hollow tubular segment provides a non-restrictive flow channel. This means that the hollow tubular segment provides a negligible level of resistance to draw (RTD). Therefore, the flow channel should be free of any parts that would hinder the flow of air in the longitudinal direction. Preferably, the flow channel is substantially empty.

In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating article may include a ventilation zone at a location along the downstream section. In more detail, the aerosol-generating article may comprise a ventilation zone at a location along the aerosol cooling element. In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol cooling element comprises or is in the form of a hollow tubular segment, the ventilation zone being provided at a position along the hollow tubular segment of the aerosol cooling element.

The aerosol-generating substrate may further comprise an upstream section at a location upstream of the aerosol-generating substrate strip. The upstream section may include one or more upstream elements. In some embodiments, the upstream section may include an upstream element disposed immediately upstream of the aerosol-generating substrate strip.

The aerosol-generating article may further comprise a sensor element within the aerosol-generating article. In some embodiments, the susceptor element can be an elongated susceptor element. In preferred embodiments, the susceptor element extends longitudinally within the aerosol-generating substrate.

These elements of an aerosol-generating article are described in more detail below.

As defined above, the downstream section of the aerosol-generating article of the present invention comprises a mouthpiece element. The mouthpiece element may preferably be located at the downstream or mouth end of the aerosol-generating article. The mouthpiece element comprises at least one mouthpiece filter segment of fibrous filter material for filtering aerosols generated by the aerosol-generating substrate. Suitable fibrous filter materials will be known to the skilled person. Particularly preferably, at least one mouthpiece filter segment comprises a cellulose acetate filter segment formed from cellulose acetate tow.

In certain preferred embodiments, the mouthpiece element is formed from a single mouthpiece filter segment. In an alternative embodiment, the mouthpiece element comprises two or more mouthpiece filter segments axially aligned with each other in abutting end-to-end relationship.

Preferably, the mouthpiece element comprises a mouthpiece filter segment having a length at least about 0.4 times the length of the middle hollow section, more preferably at least about 0.5 times the length of the middle hollow section, more preferably Preferably at least about 0.6 times the length of the central hollow section, and more preferably at least about 0.75 times the length of the central hollow section.

In certain embodiments of the invention, the downstream section may comprise the mouth end cavity at the downstream end downstream of the mouthpiece element as described above. The mouth end cavity may be defined by a hollow tubular element provided at the downstream end of the mouthpiece. Alternatively, the mouth-port cavity may be defined by an overwrap of the mouthpiece element, wherein the overwrap extends from the mouthpiece element in a downstream direction.

The mouthpiece element may optionally include flavorants, which may be provided in any suitable form. For example, the mouthpiece element may comprise one or more capsules, beads or granules of flavoring agent, or one or more flavor-loaded threads or filaments.

According to the invention, the downstream section of the aerosol-generating article further comprises a support element located immediately downstream of the strip of aerosol-generating substrate. The mouthpiece element is preferably located downstream of the support element. The downstream section further includes an aerosol cooling element located immediately downstream of the support element. The mouthpiece element is preferably located downstream of both the support element and the aerosol cooling element. Particularly preferably, the mouthpiece element is located immediately downstream of the aerosol cooling element. For example, the mouthpiece element may adjoin the downstream end of the aerosol cooling element.

Preferably, the mouthpiece element has a low particle filtration efficiency.

Preferably, the mouthpiece element is defined by a filter segment wrapper. Preferably, the mouthpiece element is not vented such that air does not enter the aerosol-generating article along the mouthpiece element.

The mouthpiece element is preferably connected to one or more of the adjacent upstream components of the aerosol-generating article by means of a tip wrap.

Preferably, the mouthpiece element has an RTD of less than about 25 mm _H2O . More preferably, the mouthpiece element has an RTD of less than about 20 mm _H2O . Even more preferably, the mouthpiece element has an RTD of less than about 15 mm _H2O .

RTD values from about 10 mm H ₂ O to about 15 mm H ₂ O are particularly preferred, because a mouthpiece element with one such RTD is expected to contribute minimally to the overall RTD of the aerosol-generating article, essentially no contribution to the delivery to the consumer. The aerosol of the person exerts a filtering effect.

Preferably, the mouthpiece element has an outer diameter substantially equal to the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article. The mouthpiece element may have an outer diameter of between about 5 millimeters and about 10 millimeters, or between about 6 millimeters and about 8 millimeters. In a preferred embodiment, the mouthpiece element has an outer diameter of approximately 7.2 millimeters.

The mouthpiece element preferably has a length of at least about 5 mm, more preferably at least about 8 mm, even more preferably at least about 10 mm. Alternatively or additionally, the mouthpiece element preferably has a length of less than about 25 millimeters, more preferably less than about 20 millimeters, more preferably less than about 15 millimeters.

In some embodiments, the mouthpiece element preferably has a length of from about 5 mm to about 25 mm, more preferably from about 8 mm to about 25 mm, even more preferably from about 10 mm to about 25 mm. In other embodiments, the mouthpiece element preferably has a length of from about 5 mm to about 10 mm, more preferably from about 8 mm to about 20 mm, even more preferably from about 10 mm to about 20 mm. In further embodiments, the mouthpiece element preferably has a length of from about 5 mm to about 15 mm, more preferably from about 8 mm to about 15 mm, even more preferably from about 10 mm to about 15 mm.

For example, the mouthpiece element may have a length of between about 5 mm and about 25 mm, or between about 8 mm and about 20 mm, or between about 10 mm and about 15 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the mouthpiece element has a length of approximately 12 mm.

In certain preferred embodiments of the invention, the mouthpiece element has a length of at least 10 mm. Thus, in such embodiments the mouthpiece element is relatively long compared to that provided in prior art articles. The provision of relatively long mouthpiece elements in the aerosol-generating articles of the present invention may provide several benefits to the consumer. The mouthpiece element is generally more resilient to deformation or better adapted to return to its original shape after deformation than other elements that may be provided downstream of the aerosol-generating substrate strip, such as aerosol cooling elements or support elements. Accordingly, it was found that increasing the length of the mouthpiece element provided an improved grip by the consumer and facilitated insertion of the aerosol-generating article into the heating device. Longer mouthpieces can additionally be used to provide higher levels of filtration and removal of undesired aerosol components, such as phenol, so that higher quality aerosols can be delivered. In addition, the use of longer mouthpiece elements enables the provision of more complex mouthpieces as there is more space for incorporating mouthpiece components such as capsules, threads and restrictors.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, a mouthpiece element having a length of at least 10 mm is combined with a relatively short aerosol cooling element, for example having a length of less than 10 mm. This combination has been found to provide a more rigid mouthpiece which reduces the risk of deformation of the aerosol cooling element during use and facilitates a more efficient puffing action by the consumer.

According to the invention, the length of the mouthpiece element is at least 0.4 times the total length of the middle hollow section, preferably at least 0.5 times the length of the middle hollow section, more preferably at least 0.6 times the length of the middle hollow section, more preferably is at least 0.75 times the length of the middle hollow section. Accordingly, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece element and the total length of the intermediate hollow section is at least about 0.4, preferably at least about 0.5, more preferably at least about 0.6, and most preferably at least about 0.75.

The ratio between the length of the mouthpiece element and the length of the aerosol-generating substrate strip may be from about 0.5 to about 1.5.

Preferably, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece element and the length of the aerosol-generating substrate strip is at least about 0.6, more preferably at least about 0.7, even more preferably at least about 0.8. In preferred embodiments, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece element and the length of the aerosol-generating substrate strip is less than about 1.4, more preferably less than about 1.3, even more preferably less than about 1.2.

In some embodiments, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece element and the length of the aerosol-generating substrate strip is from about 0.6 to about 1.4, preferably from about 0.7 to about 1.4, more preferably from about 0.8 to about 1.4. In other embodiments, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece element and the length of the aerosol-generating substrate strip is from about 0.6 to about 1.3, preferably from about 0.7 to about 1.3, more preferably from about 0.8 to about 1.3. In further embodiments, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece element and the length of the aerosol-generating substrate strip is from about 0.6 to about 1.2, preferably from about 0.7 to about 1.2, more preferably from about 0.8 to about 1.2.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece element and the length of the aerosol-generating substrate strip is about 1.

The ratio between the length of the mouthpiece element and the overall length of the aerosol-generating article substrate may be from about 0.2 to about 0.35.

Preferably, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece element and the overall length of the aerosol-generating article substrate is at least about 0.22, more preferably at least about 0.24, even more preferably at least about 0.26. The ratio between the length of the mouthpiece element and the overall length of the aerosol-generating article substrate is preferably less than about 0.34, more preferably less than about 0.32, even more preferably less than about 0.3.

In some embodiments, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece element and the overall length of the aerosol-generating article substrate is preferably from about 0.22 to about 0.34, more preferably from about 0.24 to about 0.34, even more preferably from about 0.26 to About 0.34. In other embodiments, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece element and the overall length of the aerosol-generating article substrate is preferably from about 0.22 to about 0.32, more preferably from about 0.24 to about 0.32, even more preferably from about 0.26 to About 0.32. In further embodiments, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece element and the overall length of the aerosol-generating article substrate is preferably from about 0.22 to about 0.3, more preferably from about 0.24 to about 0.3, even more preferably from about 0.26 to about 0.3.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the mouthpiece element and the overall length of the substrate of the aerosol-generating article is about 0.27.

As mentioned above, the downstream section of the aerosol-generating article according to the present invention further comprises an intermediate hollow section comprising an aerosol cooling element aligned with and arranged downstream of the aerosol-generating substrate strip. The upstream end of the aerosol cooling element may adjoin the downstream end of the support element.

The aerosol cooling element is substantially arranged in alignment with the strip. This means that the length dimension of the aerosol cooling element is arranged substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the strip and article, eg within +/- 10 degrees parallel to the longitudinal direction of the strip. In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol cooling element extends along the longitudinal axis of the strip.

In an aerosol-generating article according to the invention, the aerosol-cooling element is in the form of a hollow tubular segment defining a cavity extending from an upstream end of the aerosol-cooling element to a downstream end of the aerosol-cooling element. Preferably, the ventilation zone is provided at a position along the hollow tubular section.

The present inventors have found that satisfactory aerosol flow generated upon heating of the aerosol-generating substrate and drawn through one such aerosol-cooling element is achieved by providing ventilation zones at locations along the hollow tubular segment. cool down. Furthermore, the inventors have found that, as will be described in more detail below, by arranging the ventilation zones at precisely defined positions along the length of the aerosol cooling element, and by preferably utilizing a A hollow tubular segment, potentially counteracting the effect of increased aerosol dilution caused by allowing ventilation air into the article.

Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is hypothesized that due to the rapid reduction in temperature of the aerosol stream by the introduction of ventilation air as the aerosol travels towards the mouthpiece segment, the ventilation air is relatively close to the upstream end of the aerosol cooling element (i.e. sufficient Access to the aerosol stream at a location close to the susceptor element extending within the strip of aerosol-generating substrate, which is a source of heat during use) achieves significant cooling of the aerosol stream, which has the effect of condensation and nucleation of the aerosol particles beneficial impact. Thus, the overall ratio of the aerosol particle phase to the aerosol gas phase can be increased compared to prior non-ventilated aerosol-generating articles.

At the same time, keeping the thickness of the peripheral wall of the hollow tubular segment relatively low ensures the total internal volume of the hollow tubular segment (which allows the aerosol to start the nucleation process once the aerosol components leave the aerosol-generating substrate strip), And the cross-sectional surface area of the hollow tubular segment is effectively maximized, while ensuring that the hollow tubular segment has the necessary structural strength to prevent the collapse of the aerosol-generating article and provide some support for the aerosol-generating matrix strip, and the hollow tubular segment The RTD of the segment is minimized. A greater value of the cross-sectional surface area of the lumen of the hollow tubular segment is understood to correlate with a reduced velocity of the aerosol flow traveling along the aerosol-generating article, which is also expected to favor aerosol nucleation. Furthermore, it appears that by using hollow tubular segments of relatively low thickness, it is possible to substantially prevent the diffusion of ventilation air before it contacts and mixes with the aerosol flow, which is also understood to further favor the nucleation phenomenon. In practice, the effect of cooling on the formation of new aerosol particles can be enhanced by providing more controlled local cooling of the volatile species stream.

The aerosol cooling element preferably has an outer diameter approximately equal to the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating substrate strip and the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article.

The aerosol cooling element may have an outer diameter of between 5 mm and 12 mm, eg between 5 mm and 10 mm or between 6 mm and 8 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol cooling element has an outer diameter of 7.2 mm +/- 10%.

Preferably, the hollow tubular segment of the aerosol cooling element has an inner diameter of at least about 2 millimeters. More preferably, the hollow tubular segment of the aerosol cooling element has an inner diameter of at least about 2.5 millimeters. Even more preferably, the hollow tubular segment of the aerosol cooling element has an inner diameter of at least about 3 millimeters.

The peripheral wall of the aerosol cooling element may have a thickness of less than about 2.5 millimeters, preferably less than about 1.5 millimeters, more preferably less than about 1250 microns, even more preferably less than about 1000 microns. In particularly preferred embodiments, the peripheral wall of the aerosol cooling element has a thickness of less than about 900 microns, preferably less than about 800 microns.

In an embodiment, the peripheral wall of the aerosol cooling element has a thickness of about 2 millimeters.

The aerosol cooling element may have a length between 5 mm and 15 mm.

Preferably, the aerosol cooling element has a length of at least about 6 millimeters, more preferably at least about 7 millimeters.

In preferred embodiments, the aerosol cooling element has a length of less than about 12 millimeters, more preferably less than about 10 millimeters.

In some embodiments, the aerosol cooling element has a length of from about 5 mm to about 15 mm, preferably from about 6 mm to about 15 mm, more preferably from about 7 mm to about 15 mm. In other embodiments, the aerosol cooling element has a length of from about 5 mm to about 12 mm, preferably from about 6 mm to about 12 mm, more preferably from about 7 mm to about 12 mm. In further embodiments, the aerosol cooling element has a length of from about 5 mm to about 10 mm, preferably from about 6 mm to about 10 mm, more preferably from about 7 mm to about 10 mm.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the aerosol cooling element has a length of less than 10 mm. For example, in a particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol cooling element has a length of 8 mm. In such embodiments, the aerosol-cooling element thus has a relatively short length compared to the aerosol-cooling elements of prior art aerosol-generating articles. A reduction in the length of the aerosol cooling element is possible due to the optimized effectiveness of the hollow tubular segment forming the aerosol cooling element in the cooling and nucleation of the aerosol. The reduced length of the aerosol-cooling element advantageously reduces the risk of deforming the aerosol-generating article due to compression during use, since an aerosol-cooling element generally has a lower resistance to deformation than a mouthpiece. Furthermore, reducing the length of the aerosol cooling element can provide cost benefits to the manufacturer, as the cost per unit length of the hollow tubular segment is generally higher than the cost of other elements such as mouthpiece elements.

The ratio between the length of the aerosol-cooling element and the length of the aerosol-generating substrate strip may be from about 0.25 to about 1.

Preferably, the ratio between the length of the aerosol-cooling element and the length of the aerosol-generating substrate strip is at least about 0.3, more preferably at least about 0.4, even more preferably at least about 0.5. In preferred embodiments, the ratio between the length of the aerosol-cooling element and the length of the aerosol-generating substrate strip is less than about 0.9, more preferably less than about 0.8, even more preferably less than about 0.7.

In some embodiments, the ratio between the length of the aerosol cooling element and the length of the aerosol generating substrate strip is from about 0.3 to about 0.9, preferably from about 0.4 to about 0.9, more preferably from about 0.5 to about 0.9 . In other embodiments, the ratio between the length of the aerosol cooling element and the length of the aerosol generating substrate strip is from about 0.3 to about 0.8, preferably from about 0.4 to about 0.8, more preferably from about 0.5 to about 0.8 . In further embodiments, the ratio between the length of the aerosol cooling element and the length of the aerosol generating substrate strip is from about 0.3 to about 0.7, preferably from about 0.4 to about 0.7, more preferably from about 0.5 to about 0.7.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the aerosol-cooling element and the length of the aerosol-generating substrate strip is about 0.66.

Preferably, the ratio between the length of the aerosol-cooling element and the overall length of the substrate of the aerosol-generating article is at least about 0.13, more preferably at least about 0.14, even more preferably at least about 0.15. The ratio between the length of the aerosol-cooling element and the overall length of the substrate of the aerosol-generating article is preferably less than about 0.3, more preferably less than about 0.25, even more preferably less than about 0.20.

In some embodiments, the ratio between the length of the aerosol-cooling element and the overall length of the aerosol-generating article substrate is preferably from about 0.13 to about 0.3, more preferably from about 0.14 to about 0.3, even more preferably from about 0.15 to about 0.3. In other embodiments, the ratio between the length of the aerosol-cooling element and the overall length of the aerosol-generating article substrate is preferably from about 0.13 to about 0.25, more preferably from about 0.14 to about 0.25, even more preferably from about 0.15 to about 0.25. In further embodiments, the ratio between the length of the aerosol-cooling element and the overall length of the aerosol-generating article substrate is preferably from about 0.13 to about 0.2, more preferably from about 0.14 to about 0.2, even more preferably from about 0.15 to about 0.2.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the aerosol-cooling element and the overall length of the substrate of the aerosol-generating article is about 0.18.

Preferably, the length of the mouthpiece element is at least 1 mm greater than the length of the aerosol cooling element, more preferably at least 2 mm greater than the length of the aerosol cooling element, more preferably at least 3 mm greater than the length of the aerosol cooling element. As noted above, a reduction in the length of the aerosol cooling element may advantageously allow for an increase in the length of other elements of the aerosol-generating article, such as the mouthpiece element. Potential technical benefits of providing a relatively long mouthpiece element are described above.

The ratio between the length of the aerosol-cooling element and the length of the aerosol-generating substrate strip may be from about 0.25 to about 1.

Preferably, the ratio between the length of the aerosol-cooling element and the length of the aerosol-generating substrate strip is at least about 0.3, more preferably at least about 0.4, even more preferably at least about 0.5. In preferred embodiments, the ratio between the length of the aerosol-cooling element and the length of the aerosol-generating substrate strip is less than about 0.9, more preferably less than about 0.8, even more preferably less than about 0.7.

In some embodiments, the ratio between the length of the aerosol cooling element and the length of the aerosol generating substrate strip is from about 0.3 to about 0.9, preferably from about 0.4 to about 0.9, more preferably from about 0.5 to about 0.9 . In other embodiments, the ratio between the length of the aerosol cooling element and the length of the aerosol generating substrate strip is from about 0.3 to about 0.8, preferably from about 0.4 to about 0.8, more preferably from about 0.5 to about 0.8 . In further embodiments, the ratio between the length of the aerosol cooling element and the length of the aerosol generating substrate strip is from about 0.3 to about 0.7, preferably from about 0.4 to about 0.7, more preferably from about 0.5 to about 0.7.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the aerosol-cooling element and the length of the aerosol-generating substrate strip is about 0.66.

The ratio between the length of the aerosol-cooling element and the overall length of the substrate of the aerosol-generating article may be from about 0.125 to about 0.375.

Preferably, the ratio between the length of the aerosol-cooling element and the overall length of the substrate of the aerosol-generating article is at least about 0.13, more preferably at least about 0.14, even more preferably at least about 0.15. The ratio between the length of the aerosol-cooling element and the overall length of the substrate of the aerosol-generating article is preferably less than about 0.3, more preferably less than about 0.25, even more preferably less than about 0.20.

In some embodiments, the ratio between the length of the aerosol-cooling element and the overall length of the aerosol-generating article substrate is preferably from about 0.13 to about 0.3, more preferably from about 0.14 to about 0.3, even more preferably from about 0.15 to about 0.3. In other embodiments, the ratio between the length of the aerosol-cooling element and the overall length of the aerosol-generating article substrate is preferably from about 0.13 to about 0.25, more preferably from about 0.14 to about 0.25, even more preferably from about 0.15 to about 0.25. In further embodiments, the ratio between the length of the aerosol-cooling element and the overall length of the aerosol-generating article substrate is preferably from about 0.13 to about 0.2, more preferably from about 0.14 to about 0.2, even more preferably from about 0.15 to about 0.2.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the aerosol-cooling element and the overall length of the substrate of the aerosol-generating article is about 0.18.

Preferably, the length of the mouthpiece element is at least 1 mm greater than the length of the aerosol cooling element, more preferably at least 2 mm greater than the length of the aerosol cooling element, more preferably at least 3 mm greater than the length of the aerosol cooling element. As noted above, a reduction in the length of the aerosol cooling element may advantageously allow for an increase in the length of other elements of the aerosol-generating article, such as the mouthpiece element. Potential technical benefits of providing a relatively long mouthpiece element are described above.

Preferably, in an aerosol-generating article according to the invention, the aerosol-cooling element has an average radial stiffness of at least about 80%, more preferably at least about 85%, even more preferably at least about 90%. Thus, the aerosol-cooling element is able to provide a desired level of stiffness to the aerosol-generating article.

If desired, the radial stiffness of the aerosol-cooling element of an aerosol-generating article according to the present invention can be further increased by defining the aerosol-cooling element with a rigid rod wrap, for example having at least about 80 grams per square meter (gsm), or a stick wrapper of a basis weight of at least about 100 gsm, or at least about 110 gsm.

As used herein, the term "radial stiffness" refers to the resistance to compression in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of the element. The radial stiffness of an aerosol-generating article around a given element can be determined by applying a load across the article at the location of the element, transverse to the longitudinal axis of the article, and measuring the mean (mean) dimple diameter of the article. The radial stiffness is given by:

where _DS is the original (un-dimpled) diameter and _Dd is the dimpled diameter after application of a set load for a set duration. The harder the material, the closer the hardness is to 100%.

In order to determine the hardness of a part of an aerosol-generating article, such as a support element provided in the form of a hollow tubular segment or an aerosol-cooling element, the aerosol-generating articles should be aligned parallel in a plane, and each aerosol-generating article to be tested The same part of the load should be subjected to the set load for the set duration. This test was performed using a known DD60A densitometer device (manufactured and commercially available by Heinr. Borgwaldt GmbH, Germany) equipped with an aerosol-generating article (such as a cigarette) and fitted with a container for an aerosol-generating product.

The load is applied using two load-applying cylindrical bars that extend across the diameter of all of the aerosol-generating article simultaneously. According to the standard test method for this apparatus, the test should be performed such that twenty points of contact occur between the aerosol-generating article and the load-applying cylindrical bar. In some cases, the hollow tube segments to be tested may be long enough that only ten aerosol-generating articles are required to form twenty contact points, with each smoking article contacting two load-applying bars (because they are sufficiently long to extend between these bars). In other cases, if the support element is too short for this to be realized, twenty aerosol-generating articles should be used to form twenty contact points, wherein each aerosol-generating article contacts only one of the load-applying strips, As discussed further below.

Two additional fixed cylindrical strips are located below the aerosol-generating article to support the aerosol-generating article and counteract the load applied by each of these load-applying cylindrical strips.

For standard operating procedure for such equipment, a total load of 2 kg is applied for a duration of 20 seconds. After 20 seconds had elapsed (and while a load was still being applied to the smoking article), the indentation in the loaded cylindrical strip was determined and then used to calculate stiffness according to the above formula. The temperature is kept in the zone of 22 degrees Celsius ± 2 degrees. The above test is called the DD60A test. The standard way of measuring filter hardness is when the aerosol generating article has not been consumed. Additional information on the measurement of average radial stiffness can be found, for example, in US Published Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0128378.

The aerosol cooling element may be formed from any suitable material or combination of materials. For example, the aerosol cooling element may be formed from one or more materials selected from the group consisting of cellulose acetate, cardboard, crimped paper such as crimped heat-resistant paper or crimped parchment, and polymeric materials such as low density Polyethylene (LDPE). Other suitable materials include polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) fibers.

In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol cooling element is formed from cellulose acetate.

Preferably, the hollow tubular segment of the aerosol cooling element is adapted to generate between about 0 mm H ₂ O (about 0 Pa) and about 20 mm H ₂ O (about 100 Pa), more preferably about 0 mm H ₂ O (about ) and an RTD between about 10 mm H ₂ O (about 100 Pa).

In an aerosol-generating article according to the invention, the overall RTD of the article depends substantially on the RTD of the rod, and optionally depends on the RTD of the mouthpiece and/or the upstream rod. This is because the hollow tubular section of the aerosol-cooling element and the hollow tubular section of the support element are substantially hollow and thus substantially only contribute insignificantly to the overall RTD of the aerosol-generating article.

The ventilation zone includes a plurality of perforations through the peripheral wall of the aerosol cooling element. Preferably, the ventilation zone comprises at least one row of circumferential perforations. In some embodiments, the ventilation zone may include two rows of circumferential perforations. For example, perforations may be formed on a production line during manufacture of the aerosol-generating article. Preferably, each row of circumferential perforations comprises 8 to 30 perforations.

Aerosol-generating articles according to the present invention may have a ventilation level of at least about 5%.

Throughout this specification, the term "ventilation level" is used to denote the volumetric ratio of the airflow into the aerosol-generating article via the ventilation zone (ventilation airflow) to the sum of the aerosol airflow and the ventilation airflow. The greater the ventilation level, the higher the dilution of the aerosol stream delivered to the consumer.

Aerosol-generating articles generally can have a ventilation level of at least about 10%, preferably at least about 15%, more preferably at least about 20%.

In preferred embodiments, the aerosol-generating article has a ventilation level of at least about 25%. Aerosol-generating articles preferably have a ventilation level of less than about 60%. Aerosol-generating articles according to the present invention preferably have a ventilation level of less than or equal to about 45%. More preferably, aerosol-generating articles according to the present invention have a ventilation level of less than or equal to about 40%, even more preferably less than or equal to about 35%.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol-generating article has a ventilation level of about 30%. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating article has a ventilation level of from about 20% to about 60%, preferably from about 20% to about 45%, more preferably from about 20% to about 40%. In other embodiments, the aerosol-generating article has a ventilation level of from about 25% to about 60%, preferably from about 25% to about 45%, more preferably from about 25% to about 40%. In further embodiments, the aerosol-generating article has a ventilation level of from about 30% to about 60%, preferably from about 30% to about 45%, more preferably from about 30% to about 40%.

In particularly preferred embodiments, the aerosol-generating article has a ventilation level of from about 28% to about 42%. In some particularly preferred embodiments, the aerosol-generating article has a ventilation level of about 30%.

Without wishing to be bound by theory, the inventors have discovered that the temperature drop caused by cooler outside air entering the hollow tubular segment via the ventilation zone can have a beneficial effect on the nucleation and growth of aerosol particles.

The formation of aerosols from gas mixtures containing various chemical species depends on the delicate interplay between nucleation, evaporation and condensation, and coalescence, taking into account changes in vapor concentration, temperature, and velocity field. The so-called classical nucleation theory is based on the assumption that a fraction of the molecules in the gas phase is large enough to remain coherent for a long time with sufficient probability (eg, half the probability). These molecules represent some sort of critical, threshold molecular cluster in a transient molecular aggregate, meaning that, on average, smaller molecular clusters are likely to disintegrate into the gas phase very quickly, while larger clusters are likely to grow, on average. Such critical clusters are considered to be key nucleation cores from which droplets are expected to grow due to the condensation of molecules in the vapor. Assuming that the newly nucleated primary droplet emerges with a certain original diameter, it may then grow by several orders of magnitude. This process is facilitated and enhanced by rapid cooling of the surrounding vapor causing condensation. In this regard, it should be remembered that evaporation and condensation are two sides of the same mechanism, gas-liquid mass transfer. While evaporation involves a net mass transfer from the liquid droplet to the gas phase, condensation is a net mass transfer from the gas phase to the droplet phase. Evaporation (or condensation) will cause the droplets to shrink (or grow), but not change the number of droplets.

In this scenario, which can be further complicated by the phenomenon of coalescence, the temperature and rate of cooling play a key role in determining how the system responds. In general, different cooling rates can lead to significantly different temporal behaviors related to liquid phase (droplet) formation, since the nucleation process is usually nonlinear. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is hypothesized that cooling can lead to a rapid increase in the number concentration of droplets, followed by a strong, brief increase in this growth (burst of nucleation). This nucleation burst appears to be more pronounced at lower temperatures. Furthermore, it seems that a higher cooling rate may favor an earlier onset of nucleation. In contrast, a reduction in the cooling rate appears to have a favorable effect on the final size that the aerosol droplets ultimately achieve.

Therefore, the rapid cooling caused by the entry of external air into the hollow tubular segment via the ventilation zone can be advantageously used to promote the nucleation and growth of aerosol droplets. At the same time, however, the entry of outside air into the hollow tubular segment has the immediate disadvantage of diluting the flow of aerosol delivered to the consumer.

The inventors have surprisingly discovered how the beneficial effect of enhanced nucleation facilitated by the rapid cooling induced by the introduction of ventilation air into the article can significantly offset the less desirable dilution effect. Thus, satisfactory aerosol delivery values are consistently achieved with aerosol-generating articles according to the invention.

The inventors have also surprisingly found that when the ventilation level is within the above range, the dilution effect on the aerosol (which can be measured in particular by the effect on the delivery of an aerosol-forming agent (such as glycerol) included in the aerosol-generating matrix to evaluate) is advantageously minimized. In particular, it has been found that ventilation levels between 25% and 50% and even more preferably between 28% and 42% produce particularly satisfactory glycerol delivery values. At the same time, the degree of nucleation and thus the delivery of nicotine and aerosol formers (eg glycerol) is increased.

This is especially advantageous for "short" aerosol-generating articles, such as wherein the length of the aerosol-generating substrate strip is less than about 40 mm, preferably less than 25 mm, even more preferably less than 20 mm, or wherein the overall length of the aerosol-generating article is less than about 70 mm. mm, preferably less than about 60 mm, even more preferably less than 50 mm. As will be appreciated, in such aerosol-generating articles, there is little time and space for the formation of the aerosol and the particulate phase of the aerosol becomes available for delivery to the consumer.

In addition, because the ventilated hollow tubular segment does not substantially contribute to the overall RTD of the aerosol-generating article, in the aerosol-generating article according to the present invention, by adjusting the length and density of the aerosol-generating substrate strip, and forming part of the mouthpiece The length and optional length and density of the filter material segment, or the length and density of the filter material segment located upstream of the aerosol-generating substrate and susceptor element, can advantageously fine-tune the overall RTD of the article. Accordingly, an aerosol-generating article with a predetermined RTD can be manufactured consistently and with high precision such that satisfactory RTD levels can be provided to consumers even in the presence of ventilation.

In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating article may further comprise an additional cooling element defining a plurality of longitudinally extending channels so as to make high surface area available for heat exchange. In other words, one such additional cooling element is adapted to act essentially as a heat exchanger. The plurality of longitudinally extending channels may be defined by sheet material that has been pleated, gathered or folded to form the channels. The plurality of longitudinally extending channels may be defined by a single sheet of material that has been pleated, gathered and folded to form the plurality of channels. The sheet may have been crimped prior to pleating, gathering or folding. Alternatively, the plurality of longitudinally extending channels may be defined by a plurality of sheets of material that have been crimped, pleated, gathered and folded to form the plurality of channels. In some embodiments, a plurality of longitudinally extending channels may be defined by a plurality of sheets that have been rolled, pleated, gathered or folded together, i. Two or more sheets define. As used herein, the term "sheet" means a layered element having a width and a length substantially greater than its thickness.

As used herein, the term "longitudinal direction" refers to a direction extending along or parallel to the cylindrical axis of the strip. As used herein, the term "crimped" means that the sheet has a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or corrugations. Preferably, the substantially parallel ridges or corrugations extend in the longitudinal direction relative to the strip when the aerosol-generating article has been assembled. As used herein, the terms "gathering," "pleating," or "folding" mean that sheets of material are wrapped, folded, or otherwise compressed or shrunk substantially transverse to the cylindrical axis of the strip. Sheets can be crimped before being gathered, pleated or folded. Sheets can be gathered, pleated or folded without prior crimping.

One such additional cooling element may have a total surface area of between about 300 square millimeters per millimeter of length and about 1000 square millimeters per millimeter of length.

The additional cooling element preferably provides low resistance to air passing through the additional cooling element. Preferably, the additional cooling element does not substantially affect the resistance to draw of the aerosol-generating article. In order to achieve this, it is preferred that the porosity in the longitudinal direction is greater than 50% and that the airflow path through the additional cooling element is relatively unrestricted. The longitudinal porosity of the additional cooling element may be defined by the ratio of the cross-sectional area of the material forming the additional cooling element to the internal cross-sectional area of the aerosol-generating article at the portion containing the additional cooling element.

The additional cooling element preferably comprises a sheet material selected from metal foil, polymer sheet and substantially non-porous paper or cardboard. In some embodiments, the aerosol cooling element may comprise a sheet material selected from the group consisting of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate Glycol ester (PET), polylactic acid (PLA), cellulose acetate (CA) and aluminum foil. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the additional cooling element comprises PLA sheets.

As mentioned above, the intermediate hollow section of the aerosol-generating article according to the invention further comprises a support element arranged in alignment with and downstream of the strip of aerosol-generating substrate. In particular, the support element may be located immediately downstream of the aerosol-generating substrate strip, and the upstream end of the support element may be adjacent to the downstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate strip.

The support element may be formed from any suitable material or combination of materials. For example, the support element may be formed from one or more materials selected from the group consisting of cellulose acetate, cardboard, crimped paper, such as crimped heat-resistant paper or crimped parchment, and polymeric materials, such as low-density polyethylene (LDPE). In a preferred embodiment, the support element is formed from cellulose acetate. Other suitable materials include polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) fibers.

The support element may comprise a hollow tubular segment. In a preferred embodiment, the support element comprises a hollow cellulose acetate tube.

The support elements are substantially arranged in alignment with the strips. This means that the length dimension of the support element is arranged substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the strip and the article, eg within +/- 10 degrees parallel to the longitudinal direction of the strip. In a preferred embodiment, the support element extends along the longitudinal axis of the strip.

The support element preferably has an outer diameter substantially equal to the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating substrate strip and the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article.

The support element may have an outer diameter between 5 mm and 12 mm, for example between 5 mm and 10 mm or between 6 mm and 8 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the support element has an outer diameter of 7.2 mm +/- 10%.

The peripheral wall of the support element may have a thickness of at least 1 mm, preferably at least about 1.5 mm, more preferably at least about 2 mm.

The support element may have a length of between about 5 millimeters and about 15 millimeters.

Preferably, the support element has a length of at least about 6 millimeters, more preferably at least about 7 millimeters.

In preferred embodiments, the support element has a length of less than about 12 millimeters, more preferably less than about 10 millimeters.

In some embodiments, the support element has a length of from about 5 mm to about 15 mm, preferably from about 6 mm to about 15 mm, more preferably from about 7 mm to about 15 mm. In other embodiments, the support element has a length of from about 5 mm to about 12 mm, preferably from about 6 mm to about 12 mm, more preferably from about 7 mm to about 12 mm. In further embodiments, the support element has a length of from about 5 mm to about 10 mm, preferably from about 6 mm to about 10 mm, more preferably from about 7 mm to about 10 mm.

In a preferred embodiment, the support element has a length of about 8 mm.

Preferably, the overall length of the central hollow section is no more than about 18 mm, more preferably no more than about 17 mm, more preferably no more than 16 mm.

The ratio of the length of the support element to the length of the aerosol-generating substrate strip may be from about 0.25 to about 1.

Preferably, the ratio between the length of the support element and the length of the aerosol-generating substrate strip is at least about 0.3, more preferably at least about 0.4, even more preferably at least about 0.5. In preferred embodiments, the ratio between the length of the support element and the length of the aerosol-generating substrate strip is less than about 0.9, more preferably less than about 0.8, even more preferably less than about 0.7.

In some embodiments, the ratio between the length of the support element and the length of the aerosol-generating substrate strip is from about 0.3 to about 0.9, preferably from about 0.4 to about 0.9, more preferably from about 0.5 to about 0.9. In other embodiments, the ratio between the length of the support element and the length of the aerosol-generating substrate strip is from about 0.3 to about 0.8, preferably from about 0.4 to about 0.8, more preferably from about 0.5 to about 0.8. In further embodiments, the ratio between the length of the support element and the length of the aerosol-generating substrate strip is from about 0.3 to about 0.7, preferably from about 0.4 to about 0.7, more preferably from about 0.5 to about 0.7.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the support element and the length of the aerosol-generating substrate strip is about 0.66.

The ratio between the length of the support element and the overall length of the substrate of the aerosol-generating article can be from about 0.125 to about 0.375.

Preferably, the ratio between the length of the support element and the overall length of the substrate of the aerosol-generating article is at least about 0.13, more preferably at least about 0.14, even more preferably at least about 0.15. The ratio between the length of the support element and the overall length of the aerosol-generating article substrate is preferably less than about 0.3, more preferably less than about 0.25, even more preferably less than about 0.20.

In some embodiments, the ratio between the length of the support element and the overall length of the aerosol-generating article substrate is preferably from about 0.13 to about 0.3, more preferably from about 0.14 to about 0.3, more preferably from about 0.15 to about 0.3. In other embodiments, the ratio between the length of the support element and the overall length of the aerosol-generating article substrate is preferably from about 0.13 to about 0.25, more preferably from about 0.14 to about 0.25, even more preferably from about 0.15 to About 0.25. In further embodiments, the ratio between the length of the support element and the overall length of the aerosol-generating article substrate is preferably from about 0.13 to about 0.2, more preferably from about 0.14 to about 0.2, even more preferably from about 0.15 to about 0.2.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the support element and the overall length of the substrate of the aerosol-generating article is about 0.18.

Preferably, in an aerosol-generating article according to the invention, the support element has an average radial stiffness of at least about 80%, more preferably at least about 85%, even more preferably at least about 90%. Thus, the support element is able to provide the aerosol-generating article with a desired level of stiffness.

If desired, the radial stiffness of the support element of an aerosol-generating article according to the present invention can be further increased by defining the support element with a rigid stick wrap, for example having at least about 80 grams per square meter (gsm), or at least about 100 gsm , or a stick wrapper of a basis weight of at least about 110 gsm.

During insertion of an aerosol-generating article according to the invention into an aerosol-generating device to heat the aerosol-generating substrate, the user may need to apply some force in order to overcome the resistance of the aerosol-generating substrate of the aerosol-generating article to insertion. This can damage one or both of the aerosol-generating article and the aerosol-generating device. Additionally, forces applied during insertion of the aerosol-generating article into the aerosol-generating device may displace the aerosol-generating substrate within the aerosol-generating article. This may result in improper alignment of the heating element of the aerosol-generating device with the susceptor element disposed within the aerosol-generating substrate, which may result in uneven and inefficient heating of the aerosol-generating substrate of the aerosol-generating article. The support element is advantageously configured to resist downstream movement of the aerosol-generating substrate during insertion of the article into the aerosol-generating device.

Preferably, the hollow tubular section of the support element is adapted to generate between about 0 mm H ₂ O (about OPa) and about 20 mm H ₂ O (about 100 Pa), more preferably about 0 mm H ₂ O (about OPa) and RTD between about 10 mm H ₂ O (about 100 Pa). Thus, the support element preferably does not contribute to the overall RTD of the aerosol-generating article.

In some embodiments where the intermediate hollow section includes: both a support element comprising a first hollow tubular section and an aerosol cooling element comprising a second hollow tubular section, the inner diameter (D _STS ) of the second hollow tubular section Preferably larger than the inner diameter (D _FTS ) of the first hollow tubular segment.

In more detail, the ratio between the inner diameter (D _STS ) of the second hollow tubular section and the inner diameter (D _FTS ) of the first hollow tubular section is preferably at least about 1.25. More preferably, the ratio between the inner diameter (D _STS ) of the second hollow tubular segment and the inner diameter (D _FTS ) of the first hollow tubular segment is preferably at least about 1.3. Even more preferably, the ratio between the inner diameter (D _STS ) of the second hollow tubular segment and the inner diameter (D _FTS ) of the first hollow tubular segment is preferably at least about 1.4. In particularly preferred embodiments, the ratio between the inner diameter (D _STS ) of the second hollow tubular segment and the inner diameter (D _FTS ) of the first hollow tubular segment is at least about 1.5, more preferably at least about 1.6.

The ratio between the inner diameter (D _STS ) of the second hollow tubular segment and the inner diameter (D _FTS ) of the first hollow tubular segment is preferably less than or equal to about 2.5. More preferably, the ratio between the inner diameter (D _STS ) of the second hollow tubular segment and the inner diameter (D _FTS ) of the first hollow tubular segment is preferably less than or equal to about 2.25. Even more preferably, the ratio between the inner diameter (D _STS ) of the second hollow tubular segment and the inner diameter (D _FTS ) of the first hollow tubular segment is preferably less than or equal to about 2.

In some embodiments, the ratio between the inner diameter (D _STS ) of the second hollow tubular segment and the inner diameter (D _FTS ) of the first hollow tubular segment is from about 1.25 to about 2.5. Preferably, the ratio between the inner diameter (D _STS ) of the second hollow tubular segment and the inner diameter (D _FTS ) of the first hollow tubular segment is from about 1.3 to about 2.5. More preferably, the ratio between the inner diameter (D _STS ) of the second hollow tubular segment and the inner diameter (D _FTS ) of the first hollow tubular segment is from about 1.4 to about 2.5. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the ratio between the inner diameter (D _STS ) of the second hollow tubular segment and the inner diameter (D _FTS ) of the first hollow tubular segment is from about 1.5 to about 2.5.

In other embodiments, the ratio between the inner diameter (D _STS ) of the second hollow tubular segment and the inner diameter (D _FTS ) of the first hollow tubular segment is from about 1.25 to about 2.25. Preferably, the ratio between the inner diameter (D _STS ) of the second hollow tubular segment and the inner diameter (D _FTS ) of the first hollow tubular segment is from about 1.3 to about 2.25. More preferably, the ratio between the inner diameter (D _STS ) of the second hollow tubular segment and the inner diameter (D _FTS ) of the first hollow tubular segment is from about 1.4 to about 2.25. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the ratio between the inner diameter (D _STS ) of the second hollow tubular segment and the inner diameter (D _FTS ) of the first hollow tubular segment is from about 1.5 to about 2.25.

In further embodiments, the ratio between the inner diameter (D _STS ) of the second hollow tubular segment and the inner diameter (D _FTS ) of the first hollow tubular segment is from about 1.25 to about 2. Preferably, the ratio between the inner diameter (D _STS ) of the second hollow tubular segment and the inner diameter (D _FTS ) of the first hollow tubular segment is from about 1.3 to about 2. More preferably, the ratio between the inner diameter (D _STS ) of the second hollow tubular segment and the inner diameter (D _FTS ) of the first hollow tubular segment is from about 1.4 to about 2. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the ratio between the inner diameter (D _STS ) of the second hollow tubular segment and the inner diameter (D _FTS ) of the first hollow tubular segment is from about 1.5 to about 2.

In those embodiments wherein the article further comprises an elongated susceptor element disposed longitudinally within the aerosol-generating substrate, as described below, the distance between the inner diameter (D _FTS ) of the first hollow tubular segment and the width of the susceptor element The ratio is preferably at least about 0.2. More preferably, the ratio between the inner diameter (D _FTS ) of the first hollow tubular segment and the width of the susceptor element is at least about 0.3. Even more preferably, the ratio between the inner diameter (D _FTS ) of the first hollow tubular segment and the width of the susceptor element is at least about 0.4.

Additionally or alternatively, the ratio between the inner diameter (D _STS ) of the second hollow tubular segment and the width of the susceptor element is preferably at least about 0.2. More preferably, the ratio between the inner diameter (D _STS ) of the second hollow tubular segment and the width of the susceptor element is at least about 0.5. Even more preferably, the ratio between the inner diameter (D _STS ) of the second hollow tubular segment and the width of the susceptor element is at least about 0.8.

Preferably, the ratio between the volume of the lumen of the first hollow tubular section and the volume of the lumen of the second hollow tubular section is at least about 0.1. More preferably, the ratio between the volume of the lumen of the first hollow tubular section and the volume of the lumen of the second hollow tubular section is at least about 0.2. Even more preferably, the ratio between the volume of the lumen of the first hollow tubular segment and the volume of the lumen of the second hollow tubular segment is at least about 0.3.

The ratio between the volume of the lumen of the first hollow tubular section and the volume of the lumen of the second hollow tubular section is preferably less than or equal to about 0.9. More preferably, the ratio between the volume of the lumen of the first hollow tubular section and the volume of the lumen of the second hollow tubular section is preferably less than or equal to about 0.7. Even more preferably, the ratio between the volume of the lumen of the first hollow tubular section and the volume of the lumen of the second hollow tubular section is preferably less than or equal to about 0.5.

As defined above, the aerosol-generating article of the present invention comprises an aerosol-generating substrate strip. The aerosol-generating substrate may be a solid aerosol-generating substrate.

In certain preferred embodiments, the aerosol-generating substrate comprises homogenized plant material, preferably homogenized tobacco material.

As used herein, the term "homogenized plant material" encompasses any plant material formed from the agglomeration of plant particles. For example, sheets or webs of homogenized tobacco material for use in the aerosol-generating substrates of the present invention may be formed by agglomerating particles of tobacco material by pulverizing, grinding or milling plant material And one or more of the optional tobacco leaf body and tobacco leaf stem can be obtained. Homogenized plant material may be produced by casting, extrusion, papermaking processes or any other suitable process known in the art.

The homogenized plant material may be provided in any suitable form. For example, the homogenized plant material may be in the form of one or more sheets. As used herein with reference to the present invention, the term "sheet" describes a layered element having a width and length substantially greater than its thickness.

Alternatively or additionally, the homogenized plant material may be in the form of a plurality of pellets or granules.

Alternatively or additionally, the homogenized plant material may be in the form of a plurality of strands, strips or pieces. As used herein, the term "strip" describes an elongated element of material, the length of which is substantially greater than its width and thickness. The term "strips" shall be taken to include strips, chips and any other homogenized plant material having a similar form. The strands of homogenized plant material may be formed from sheets of homogenized plant material, for example by cutting or chopping, or by other methods, for example by extrusion methods.

In some embodiments, the strands may form in situ within the aerosol-generating substrate due to splitting or splitting of the homogenized plant material sheet during formation of the aerosol-generating substrate, for example due to crimping. The thin strips of homogenized plant material within the aerosol-generating matrix can be separated from each other. Alternatively, each strand of homogenized plant material within the aerosol-generating substrate may be at least partially connected to an adjacent strand or strands along the length of said strand. For example, adjacent strands may be connected by one or more fibers. This may occur, for example, in the case of fine lines being formed due to splitting of the sheet of homogenized plant material during production of the aerosol-generating substrate, as described above.

Preferably, the aerosol-generating substrate is in the form of one or more sheets of homogenized plant material. In various embodiments of the invention, one or more sheets of homogenized plant material may be produced by a casting process. In various embodiments of the invention, one or more sheets of homogenized plant material may be produced by a papermaking process. One or more sheets as described herein may each individually have a thickness between 100 microns and 600 microns, preferably between 150 microns and 300 microns, and most preferably between 200 microns and 250 microns between thicknesses. Individual thickness refers to the thickness of individual sheets, while combined thickness refers to the total thickness of all sheets making up the aerosol-generating substrate. For example, if the aerosol-generating substrate is formed from two separate sheets, the combined thickness is the thickness of the two separate sheets or the measured thickness of the two sheets where the two sheets are stacked in the aerosol-generating substrate. sum.

The one or more sheets as described herein may each individually have a grammage per square meter of from about 100 g/m ² to about 300 g/m ² .

The one or more sheets as described herein may each individually have a density of from about 0.3 g/cm ³ to about 1.3 g/cm ³ , preferably from about 0.7 g/cm ³ to about 1.0 g/cm ³ .

In embodiments of the invention wherein the aerosol-generating substrate comprises one or more sheets of homogenized plant material, said sheets are preferably in the form of one or more aggregated sheets. As used herein, the term "gathered" means that a sheet of homogenized plant material is rolled, folded or otherwise compressed or shrunk substantially transverse to the cylindrical axis of the rod or strip.

One or more sheets of homogenized plant material may be gathered transversely with respect to their longitudinal axis and wrapped with a wrapper to form a continuous strip or stick.

The one or more sheets of homogenized plant material may advantageously be crimped or similarly treated. As used herein, the term "curl" means that the sheet has a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or corrugations. Alternatively or in addition to crimping, one or more sheets of homogenized plant material may be embossed, debossed, perforated, or otherwise deformed to provide texture on one or both sides of the sheet .

Preferably, each sheet of homogenized plant material may be crimped such that it has a plurality of ridges or corrugations substantially parallel to the cylindrical axis of the stick. This treatment advantageously facilitates the gathering of curled sheets of homogenized plant material to form sticks. Preferably, one or more sheets of homogenized plant material may be assembled. It will be appreciated that the curled sheet of homogenized plant material may alternatively or additionally have a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or corrugations disposed at acute or obtuse angles to the cylindrical axis of the rod. The sheet may curl to such an extent that the integrity of the sheet is broken at multiple parallel ridges or corrugations, causing the material to separate and resulting in the formation of chips, strands or bands of homogenized plant material.

Alternatively, one or more sheets of homogenized plant material may be cut into thin strips as described above. In such embodiments, the aerosol-generating substrate comprises a plurality of thin strips of homogenized plant material. Thin strips can be used to form rods. Typically, the width of these thin strips is about 5 mm, or about 4 mm, or about 3 mm, or about 2 mm or less. The length of the thin strip can be greater than about 5 mm, between about 5 mm and about 15 mm, about 8 mm to about 12 mm, or about 12 mm. Preferably, the thin strips have substantially the same length as each other. The length of the strips can be determined by the manufacturing process whereby the strips are cut into shorter rods and the length of the strips corresponds to the length of the rods. Thin strips can be brittle, which can lead to breakage, especially during shipping. In this case, the length of some of the thin strips may be less than the length of the rod.

The plurality of thin strips preferably extend substantially longitudinally in alignment with the longitudinal axis along the length of the aerosol-generating substrate. Preferably, the plurality of thin strips are thus aligned substantially parallel to each other.

The homogenized plant material may comprise up to about 95% by weight plant particles on a dry weight basis. Preferably, the homogenized plant material comprises up to about 90% by weight plant particles, more preferably up to about 80% by weight plant particles, more preferably up to about 70% by weight plant particles, more preferably up to about 60% by weight on a dry basis % plant particles, more preferably up to about 50% by weight plant particles.

For example, the homogenized plant material may comprise between about 2.5% and about 95% by weight of plant particles, or between about 5% and about 90% by weight of plant particles, or between about 10% and Between about 80% by weight of plant particles, or between about 15% by weight and about 70% by weight of plant particles, or between about 20% by weight and about 60% by weight of plant particles, or between about 30% by weight and about 50% by weight Vegetable particles between wt%.

In certain embodiments of the invention, the homogenized plant material is homogenized tobacco material comprising tobacco particles. Sheets of homogenized tobacco material used in such embodiments of the invention may have a dry weight of at least about 40%, more preferably at least about 50% by dry weight, more preferably dry weight Tobacco content of at least about 70% by weight and most preferably at least about 90% by weight on a dry weight basis.

With reference to the present invention, the term "tobacco particles" describes particles of any plant member of the Nicotiana genus. The term "tobacco particles" includes ground or shredded tobacco leaves, ground or shredded tobacco stems, tobacco dust, tobacco fines, and other particulate tobacco by-products formed during the handling, handling, and transportation of tobacco . In preferred embodiments, the tobacco particles are substantially entirely derived from tobacco blades. In contrast, isolated nicotine and nicotine salts are compounds derived from tobacco but are not considered tobacco particles for the purposes of this invention and are not included in the percentage of particulate plant material.

Tobacco particles can be prepared from one or more tobacco plants. Any type of tobacco can be used in the blend. Examples of tobacco types that may be used include, but are not limited to, sun-cured, flue-cured, burley, Maryland, Oriental, Virginia, and other specialty tobaccos.

Flue-cured is a method of curing tobacco, especially with Virginia tobaccos. During the curing process, heated air is circulated through the densely packed tobacco. During the first stage, the tobacco leaves turn yellow and wither. During the second stage, the leaves of the leaves are completely dried. In the third stage, the leaf stems are completely dried.

Burley plays an important role in many tobacco blends. Burley tobacco has a distinctive flavor and aroma, and also has the ability to absorb large amounts of casing.

Oriental tobacco is a tobacco with small leaves and high aromatic qualities. However, the flavor of oriental tobacco is milder than that of, for example, burley tobacco. Therefore, relatively small proportions of oriental tobaccos are typically used in tobacco blends.

Kasturi, Madura, and Jatim are all subtypes of sun-cured tobacco that may be used. Preferably, Kasturi tobacco and flue-cured tobacco may be used in the blend to produce tobacco particles. Thus, the tobacco particles in the particulate plant material may comprise a mixture of Kasturi tobacco and flue-cured tobacco.

The tobacco particles may have a nicotine content of at least about 2.5% by weight on a dry weight basis. More preferably, the tobacco particles may have a nicotine content on a dry weight basis of at least about 3%, even more preferably at least about 3.2%, even more preferably at least about 3.5%, most preferably at least about 4%.

In certain other embodiments of the invention, the homogenized plant material includes tobacco particles in combination with non-tobacco plant flavor particles. Preferably, the non-tobacco plant flavor particles are selected from one or more of the following: ginger particles, rosemary particles, eucalyptus particles, clove particles and star anise particles. Preferably, in such embodiments, the homogenized plant material comprises at least about 2.5% by weight dry weight non-tobacco plant flavor particles, with the remainder of the plant particles being tobacco particles. Preferably, the homogenized plant material comprises at least about 4% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles, more preferably at least about 6% by weight of non-tobacco plant flavor particles, more preferably at least about 8% by weight of non-tobacco Tobacco plant flavor particles, and more preferably at least about 10% by weight non-tobacco plant flavor particles. Preferably, the homogenized plant material comprises at most about 20% by weight non-tobacco plant flavor particles, more preferably at most about 18% by weight non-tobacco plant flavor particles, more preferably at most about 16% by weight non-tobacco plant flavor particles particles.

The weight ratio of non-tobacco plant flavor particles and tobacco particles in the particulate plant material forming the homogenized plant material may vary depending on the desired flavor profile and composition of the aerosol produced by the aerosol-generating substrate during use. Preferably, the homogenized plant material comprises, on a dry weight basis, at least a 1:30 weight ratio of non-tobacco plant flavor particles to tobacco particles, more preferably at least a 1:20 weight ratio of non-tobacco plant flavor particles to tobacco particles, More preferably at least a 1:10 weight ratio of non-tobacco plant flavor particles to tobacco particles, and most preferably at least a 1:5 weight ratio of non-tobacco plant flavor particles to tobacco particles.

The homogenized plant material preferably comprises no more than 95% by weight of particulate plant material on a dry basis. Accordingly, granular plant material is typically combined with one or more other components to form homogenized plant material.

The homogenized plant material may also include a binder to modify the mechanical properties of the granular plant material, wherein the binder is included in the homogenized plant material during manufacture as described herein. Suitable exogenous binders are known to those skilled in the art and include, but are not limited to: gums such as guar, xanthan, acacia and locust bean; cellulosic binders such as hydroxypropyl Cellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, methylcellulose, and ethylcellulose; polysaccharides, such as starch; organic acids, such as alginic acid; conjugate base salts of organic acids, such as sodium alginate, Agar and pectin; and combinations thereof. Preferably, the binder comprises guar gum.

The binder may be present in an amount of from about 1% to about 10% by weight based on the dry weight of the homogenized plant material, preferably from about 2% to about 5% by weight based on the dry weight of the homogenized plant material amount exists.

Alternatively or additionally, the homogenized plant material may further comprise one or more lipids to facilitate the diffusion of volatile components (e.g., aerosol formers, gingerol and nicotine), wherein the lipids are as described herein Included in the homogenization of plant material during manufacture as described in . Suitable lipids to include in the homogenized plant material include, but are not limited to: medium chain triglycerides, cocoa butter, palm oil, palm kernel oil, mango oil, shea butter, soybean oil, cottonseed oil, coconut oil, hydrogenated Coconut Oil, Candelilla Wax, Carnauba Wax, Shellac, Sunflower Wax, Sunflower Oil, Rice Bran, and RevelA; and combinations thereof.

Alternatively or additionally, the homogenized plant material may further comprise a pH adjusting agent.

Alternatively or additionally, the homogenized plant material may further comprise fibers to alter the mechanical properties of said homogenized plant material, wherein said fibers are included in said homogenized plant material during manufacture as described herein in the material. Suitable exogenous fibers for inclusion in the homogenized plant material are known in the art and include fibers formed from non-tobacco and non-ginger materials, including but not limited to: cellulose fibers; softwood fibers; hardwood fibers; jute fibers and combinations thereof. Exogenous fibers derived from tobacco and/or ginger may also be added. Any fibers added to the homogenized plant material are not considered to form part of "granular plant material" as defined above. Prior to inclusion in the homogenized plant material, the fibers may be treated by suitable methods known in the art, including but not limited to: mechanical pulping; refining; chemical pulping; bleaching; kraft pulping; and combinations thereof . Fibers generally have a length greater than their width.

Suitable fibers generally have a length greater than 400 microns and less than or equal to 4 mm, preferably in the range of 0.7 mm to 4 mm. Preferably, the fibers are present in an amount from about 2% to about 15% by weight, most preferably about 4% by weight, based on the dry weight of the substrate.

Alternatively or additionally, the homogenized plant material may further comprise one or more aerosol-forming agents. When volatilized, the aerosol-forming agent can deliver in the aerosol other vaporized compounds, such as nicotine and flavorings, that are released from the aerosol-generating substrate upon heating. Suitable aerosol-forming agents for inclusion in the homogenized plant material are known in the art and include, but are not limited to: polyols such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol and glycerol; esters of polyols, such as glycerol mono-, di- or triacetate; and fatty acid esters of mono-, di- or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyldodecanedioate and dimethyltetradecanedioate.

The homogenized plant material may have between about 5% by weight and about 30% by weight on a dry basis, such as between about 10% by weight and about 25% by weight on a dry basis, or between about 15% by weight and about 15% by weight on a dry basis. The aerosol former content is between about 20% by weight.

For example, if the substrate is intended for use in an aerosol-generating article of an electrically operated aerosol-generating system having a heating element, it may preferably comprise between about 5% and about 30% by weight of aerosol-forming agent content. If the substrate is intended for use in an aerosol-generating article of an electrically operated aerosol-generating system with a heating element, the aerosol-forming agent is preferably glycerol.

In other embodiments, the homogenized plant material may have an aerosol former content of from about 1% to about 5% by weight on a dry weight basis. For example, if the substrate is intended for use in an aerosol-generating article in which the aerosol-forming agent is held in a separate reservoir from the substrate, the substrate may have an aerosol-forming agent content of greater than 1% and less than about 5%. In such embodiments, the aerosol-forming agent is volatilized upon heating and the stream of aerosol-forming agent contacts the aerosol-generating substrate to entrain flavor from the aerosol-generating substrate in the aerosol.

In other embodiments, the homogenized plant material may have an aerosol former content of about 30% to about 45% by weight. This relatively high level of aerosol-forming agent is particularly suitable for aerosol-generating substrates that are expected to be heated at temperatures below 275 degrees Celsius. In such embodiments, the homogenized plant material preferably further comprises between about 2% and about 10% by weight of cellulose ether on a dry weight basis and between about 5% and about 50% by weight on a dry weight basis. additional cellulose. The use of a combination of cellulose ether and additional cellulose has been found to provide particularly effective aerosol delivery when used in aerosol-generating substrates having an aerosol-forming agent content of between 30% and 45% by weight.

Suitable cellulose ethers include, but are not limited to, methylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, ethylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, ethylhydroxyethylcellulose, and carboxymethylcellulose Cellulose (CMC). In a particularly preferred embodiment, the cellulose ether is carboxymethylcellulose.

As used herein, the term "additional cellulose" encompasses any cellulosic material incorporated into the homogenized plant material that does not originate from non-tobacco plant particles or tobacco particles provided in the homogenized plant material. Thus, in addition to the non-tobacco plant material or tobacco material, additional cellulose is incorporated into the homogenized plant material as a separate and distinct source of cellulose from any cellulose inherently provided within the non-tobacco plant particles or tobacco particles. The additional cellulose typically originates from a different plant than the non-tobacco plant particles or tobacco particles. Preferably, the additional cellulose is in the form of an inert cellulose material which is sensory inert and thus does not substantially affect the organoleptic properties of the aerosol generated by the aerosol-generating substrate. For example, additional cellulose is preferably a tasteless and odorless material.

Additional cellulose may include cellulose powder, cellulose fibers, or combinations thereof.

The aerosol-forming agent may act as a wetting agent in the aerosol-generating matrix.

The wrapper defining the strip of homogenized plant material may be a paper wrapper or a non-paper wrapper. Suitable paper wrappers for use in particular embodiments of the invention are known in the art and include, but are not limited to: cigarette paper; and filter tip wrappers. Suitable non-paper wrappers for use in particular embodiments of the invention are known in the art and include, but are not limited to, sheets of homogenized tobacco material. In certain preferred embodiments, the wrapper may be formed from a laminate comprising a plurality of layers. Preferably, the wrapper is formed from aluminum co-laminated sheets. The use of a co-laminated sheet comprising aluminum advantageously prevents combustion of the aerosol-generating substrate in situations where the aerosol-generating substrate should be ignited but not heated in the intended manner.

In other preferred embodiments of the invention, the aerosol-generating substrate comprises a gel composition comprising an alkaloid compound. In particularly preferred embodiments, the aerosol-generating substrate comprises a gel composition comprising nicotine.

Preferably, the gel composition includes an alkaloid compound; an aerosol forming agent; and at least one gelling agent. Preferably, at least one gelling agent forms a solid medium, and the glycerol is dispersed in the solid medium, wherein the alkaloid is dispersed in the glycerol. Preferably, the gel composition is a stable gel phase.

Advantageously, the stable gel composition including nicotine provides a predictable composition form when stored or shipped from the manufacturer to the consumer. The stable gel composition including nicotine substantially retains its shape. A stable gel composition comprising nicotine does not substantially release a liquid phase upon storage or shipment from the manufacturer to the consumer. A stable gel composition including nicotine allows for a simple consumable design. The consumable may not necessarily be designed to hold liquid, so a wider variety of materials and container configurations are contemplated.

The gel compositions described herein can be combined with an aerosol-generating device to deliver a nicotine aerosol to the lungs at inhalation rates or airflow rates in the range of inhalation rates or airflow rates in conventional smoking regimes. The aerosol generating device can continuously heat the gel composition. The consumer takes multiple inhalations, or "puffs," where each "puff" delivers a certain amount of nicotine aerosol. When heated, preferably in a continuous manner, the gel composition is capable of delivering a high nicotine/low total particulate matter (TPM) aerosol to the consumer.

The phrase "stable gel phase" or "stable gel" refers to a gel that substantially retains its shape and mass when exposed to various environmental conditions. A stable gel may not substantially release (sweat) or absorb moisture when exposed to standard temperature and pressure while varying relative humidity from about 10% to about 60%. For example, a stable gel can substantially retain its shape and mass when exposed to standard temperature and pressure while varying relative humidity from about 10% to about 60%.

The gel composition includes an alkaloid compound. The gel composition may include one or more alkaloids.

The term "alkaloid compound" refers to any member of a class of naturally occurring organic compounds that contain one or more basic nitrogen atoms. Typically, alkaloids contain at least one nitrogen atom in an amine-type structure. This or the other nitrogen atom in the molecule of an alkaloid compound can act as a base in an acid-base reaction. One or more of the nitrogen atoms of most alkaloid compounds are part of a ring system, such as a heterocycle. In nature, alkaloid compounds are mainly found in plants and are especially common in certain flowering plant families. However, some alkaloid compounds are present in animal species and fungi. In the present disclosure, the term "alkaloid compound" refers to alkaloid compounds of natural origin and synthetically produced alkaloid compounds.

The gel composition may preferably include an alkaloid compound selected from nicotine, anatabine, and combinations thereof.

Preferably, the gel composition includes nicotine.

The term "nicotine" refers to nicotine and nicotine derivatives, such as free base nicotine, nicotine salts, and the like.

The gel composition preferably includes from about 0.5% to about 10% by weight of the alkaloid compound. The gel composition may include from about 0.5% to about 5% by weight of the alkaloid compound. Preferably, the gel composition includes from about 1% to about 3% by weight of the alkaloid compound. The gel composition may preferably include from about 1.5% to about 2.5% by weight of the alkaloid compound. The gel composition may preferably include about 2% by weight of the alkaloid compound. The alkaloid compound component of the gel formulation may be the most volatile component of the gel formulation. In some aspects, water can be the most volatile component of the gel formulation, and the alkaloid compound component of the gel formulation can be the second volatile component of the gel formulation. In some aspects, water can be the most volatile component of the gel formulation, and the alkaloid compound component of the gel formulation can be the second volatile component of the gel formulation.

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

Preferably, the gel composition includes an aerosol forming agent. Ideally, the aerosol-forming agent is substantially resistant to thermal degradation at the operating temperature of the associated aerosol-generating device. Suitable aerosol-forming agents include, but are not limited to: polyols, such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and glycerol; esters of polyols, such as glycerol mono-, di-, or triacetate; and Aliphatic esters of mono-, di- or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyl dodecanedioate and dimethyl tetradecanedioate. The polyol or its mixture can be one or more of triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, glycerol (glycerin or propane-1,2,3-triol) or polyethylene glycol. The aerosol forming agent is preferably glycerin.

The gel composition may include a majority of the aerosol-forming agent. The gel composition may comprise a mixture of water and an aerosol-forming agent, wherein the aerosol-forming agent forms the majority (by weight) of the gel composition. The aerosol forming agent may form at least about 50% by weight of the gel composition. The aerosol forming agent may form at least about 60%, or at least about 65%, or at least about 70% by weight of the gel composition. The aerosol forming agent may form about 70% to about 80% by weight of the gel composition. The aerosol forming agent may form about 70% to about 75% by weight of the gel composition.

The gel composition may include a majority of glycerin. The gel composition may comprise a mixture of water and glycerin, wherein the glycerin forms the majority (by weight) of the gel composition. Glycerin may form at least about 50% by weight of the gel composition. Glycerin may form at least about 60%, or at least about 65%, or at least about 70% by weight of the gel composition. Glycerin may form about 70% to about 80% by weight of the gel composition. Glycerin may form about 70% to about 75% by weight of the gel composition.

The gel composition preferably includes at least one gelling agent. Preferably, the gel composition includes a total amount of gelling agent in the range from about 0.4% to about 10% by weight. More preferably, the composition includes the gelling agent in the range of from about 0.5% to about 8% by weight. More preferably, the composition includes the gelling agent in the range of from about 1% to about 6% by weight. More preferably, the composition includes the gelling agent in the range of from about 2% to about 4% by weight. More preferably, the composition includes the gelling agent in the range of from about 2% to about 3% by weight.

The term "gelling agent" refers to a compound which, when added in an amount of about 0.3% by weight to a mixture of 50% by weight water/50% by weight glycerol, homogeneously forms a solid medium or support matrix leading to a gel. Gelling agents include, but are not limited to, hydrogen bond crosslinking gelling agents and ionically crosslinking gelling agents.

Gelling agents may include one or more biopolymers. Biopolymers can be formed from polysaccharides.

Biopolymers include, for example, gellan gum (natural, low acyl gellan gum, high acyl gellan gum, preferably low acyl gellan gum), xanthan gum, alginate (alginic acid), agar, guar gum, and the like. The composition may preferably include xanthan gum. Compositions may include two biopolymers. A composition may include three biopolymers. The composition may include substantially equal weights of the two biopolymers. The composition may include substantially equal weights of the three biopolymers.

Preferably, the gel composition includes at least about 0.2% by weight of a hydrogen bonded crosslinking gelling agent. Alternatively or additionally, the gel composition preferably includes at least about 0.2% by weight ionically cross-linking gelling agent. Most preferably, the gel composition includes at least about 0.2% by weight hydrogen-bonding crosslinking gelling agent and at least about 0.2% by weight ionically crosslinking gelling agent. The gel composition may comprise from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight of a hydrogen bonded crosslinking gelling agent and from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight of an ionically crosslinking gelling agent, or from about 1% to about 2% by weight Hydrogen-bonding cross-linking gelling agent and about 1% by weight to about 2% by weight of ionic cross-linking gelling agent. The hydrogen-bonding crosslinking gelling agent and the ionically crosslinking gelling agent may be present in the gel composition in substantially equal amounts by weight.

The term "hydrogen bonded crosslinking gelling agent" refers to a gelling agent that forms non-covalent crosslinks or physical crosslinks via hydrogen bonding. Hydrogen bonding is a type of electrostatic dipole-dipole attraction between molecules rather than a covalent bond to a hydrogen atom. It results from the attractive force between a hydrogen atom covalently bonded to an extremely electronegative atom (such as a N, O or F atom) and another extremely electronegative atom.

The hydrogen bond cross-linking gelling agent may comprise one or more of galactomannan, gelatin, agarose or konjac gum or agar. The hydrogen bond cross-linked gelling agent may preferably comprise agar.

The gel composition preferably includes a hydrogen-bonding cross-linking gelling agent in the range of from about 0.3% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the composition includes a hydrogen bonding cross-linking gelling agent in the range of from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the composition includes a hydrogen bonding cross-linking gelling agent in the range of from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include galactomannan in a range from about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the galactomannans may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the galactomannans may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the galactomannans may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include gelatin in a range from about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, gelatin may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, gelatin may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, gelatin may be in the range of about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include agarose in the range from about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the agarose may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the agarose may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the agarose may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include konjac gum in a range from about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, konjac gum may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, konjac gum may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, konjac gum may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include agar in a range from about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the agar may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the agar may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the agar may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The term "ionically crosslinked gelling agent" refers to a gelling agent that forms non-covalent crosslinks or physical crosslinks through ionic bonds. Ionic crosslinking involves the association of polymer chains through non-covalent interactions. Crosslinked networks form when oppositely charged multivalent molecules attract each other electrostatically to form a crosslinked polymer network.

Ionically crosslinked gelling agents may include low acyl gellan gum, pectin, kappa-carrageenan, iota-carrageenan, or alginates. The ionically crosslinked gelling agent may preferably include low acyl gellan gum.

The gel composition may include an ionically crosslinked gelling agent in a range from about 0.3% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the composition includes the ionically crosslinking gelling agent in the range of from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the composition includes the ionically crosslinking gelling agent in the range of from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include low acyl gellan gum in a range from about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the low acyl gellan gum may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the low acyl gellan gum may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the low acyl gellan gum may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include pectin in a range from about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, pectin may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, pectin may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, pectin may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include kappa-carrageenan in a range from about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, kappa-carrageenan may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, kappa-carrageenan may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, kappa-carrageenan may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include iota-carrageenan in a range from about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, iota-carrageenan may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, iota-carrageenan may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, iota-carrageenan may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include alginate in a range from about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the alginate may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the alginate may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the alginate may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include the hydrogen-bonding crosslinking gelling agent and the ionically crosslinking gelling agent in a ratio of about 3:1 to about 1:3. Preferably, the gel composition may include the hydrogen-bonding crosslinking gelling agent and the ionically crosslinking gelling agent in a ratio of about 2:1 to about 1:2. Preferably, the gel composition may include a hydrogen-bonding crosslinking gelling agent and an ionically crosslinking gelling agent in a ratio of about 1:1.

The gel composition may also include a tackifier. Viscosifiers combined with hydrogen-bonding cross-linking gelling agents and ionically cross-linking gelling agents appear to surprisingly support solid media and maintain gel compositions even when the gel compositions include high levels of glycerin.

The term "viscosity enhancer" means, when added homogeneously in an amount of 0.3% by weight to a 25°C, 50% by weight water/50% by weight glycerol mixture, increases viscosity without causing gel formation, retention or retention of the mixture Fluid compounds. Preferably, a tackifier is one which, when added homogeneously in an amount of 0.3% by weight to a mixture of 50% by weight water/50% by weight glycerol at 25°C, increases the viscosity to at least 50 cPs at a shear rate of ^{0.1 s} , preferably at least 200 cPs, preferably at least 500 cPs, preferably at least 1000 cPs, without causing gel formation, the mixture remains or remains fluid. Preferably, the tackifier means that when 0.3% by weight is homogeneously added to a mixture of 50% by weight water/50% by weight glycerin at 25°C, the viscosity is increased at a shear rate of ^0.1s At least 2-fold, or at least 5-fold, or at least 10-fold, or at least 100-fold, without causing gel formation, the compound remains or remains fluid.

Viscosity values described herein can be measured using a Brookfield RVT Viscometer rotating a disc RV #2 spindle at 6 revolutions per minute (rpm) at 25°C.

The gel composition preferably includes a tackifier in the range of from about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the composition includes a tackifier in the range of from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the composition includes a tackifier in the range of from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the composition includes a tackifier in the range of from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

Viscosifiers may include one or more of xanthan gum, carboxymethyl cellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, methyl cellulose, acacia, guar gum, lambda carrageenan, or starch. The tackifier may preferably include xanthan gum.

The gel composition may include xanthan gum in a range from about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, xanthan gum may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, xanthan gum may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, xanthan gum may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include carboxymethylcellulose in a range from about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, carboxymethylcellulose may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, carboxymethylcellulose may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, carboxymethylcellulose may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include microcrystalline cellulose in a range from about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, microcrystalline cellulose may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, microcrystalline cellulose may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, microcrystalline cellulose may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include methylcellulose in a range from about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, methylcellulose may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, methylcellulose may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, methylcellulose may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include gum arabic in a range from about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the gum arabic may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the gum arabic may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the gum arabic may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include guar gum in a range from about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the guar gum may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the guar gum may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the guar gum may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include lambda-carrageenan in a range from about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, lambda-carrageenan may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, lambda-carrageenan may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, lambda-carrageenan may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include starch in a range from about 0.2% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the starch may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the starch may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the starch may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may also include divalent cations. Preferably, the divalent cations include calcium ions, such as calcium lactate in solution. For example, divalent cations, such as calcium ions, can help form gels of compositions that include gelling agents such as ionically cross-linked gelling agents. Ionic effects can aid in gel formation. Divalent cations may be present in the gel composition in the range of about 0.1% to about 1% by weight, or about 0.5% by weight.

The gel composition may also include an acid. Acids may include carboxylic acids. Carboxylic acids may include ketone groups. Preferably, the carboxylic acid may include a keto group having less than about 10 carbon atoms, or less than about 6 carbon atoms, or less than about 4 carbon atoms, such as levulinic acid or lactic acid. Preferably, the carboxylic acid has three carbon atoms (such as lactic acid). Lactic acid surprisingly improves the stability of gel compositions even compared to similar carboxylic acids. Carboxylic acids aid in gel formation. The carboxylic acid reduces the variation in the concentration of the alkaloid compound in the gel composition during storage. The carboxylic acid reduces the change in nicotine concentration in the gel composition during storage.

The gel composition may include carboxylic acid in a range from about 0.1% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, the carboxylic acid may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, the carboxylic acid may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, the carboxylic acid may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include lactic acid in a range from about 0.1% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, lactic acid may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, lactic acid may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, lactic acid may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition may include levulinic acid in a range from about 0.1% to about 5% by weight. Preferably, levulinic acid may range from about 0.5% to about 3% by weight. Preferably, levulinic acid may range from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight. Preferably, levulinic acid may range from about 1% to about 2% by weight.

The gel composition preferably includes some water. When the gel composition includes some water, the gel composition is more stable. Preferably, the gel composition includes at least about 1%, or at least about 2%, or at least about 5% by weight water. Preferably, the gel composition includes at least about 10% or at least about 15% by weight water.

Preferably, the gel composition comprises between about 8% and 32% by weight water. Preferably, the gel composition includes from about 15% to about 25% by weight water. Preferably, the gel composition includes from about 18% to about 22% by weight water. Preferably, the gel composition includes about 20% by weight water.

Preferably, the aerosol-generating matrix comprises between about 150 mg and about 350 mg of the gel composition.

Preferably, in embodiments comprising a gel composition, the aerosol-generating substrate comprises a porous medium loaded with a gel composition. An advantage of a porous medium loaded with a gel composition is that the gel composition remains within the porous medium, and this can facilitate the manufacture, storage or transport of the gel composition. It can help maintain the desired shape of the gel composition, especially during manufacture, transport or use.

The term "porous" is used herein to refer to a material that provides a plurality of pores or openings that allow air to pass through the material.

The porous medium can be any suitable porous material capable of holding or retaining the gel composition. Ideally, the porous medium will allow the movement of the gel composition within it. In particular embodiments, the porous media includes natural materials, synthetic or semi-synthetic materials, or combinations thereof. In particular embodiments, the porous media comprises sheet material, foam, or fibers, such as loose fibers; or combinations thereof. In particular embodiments, the porous media includes woven, nonwoven, or extruded materials, or combinations thereof. Preferably, the porous media comprises cotton, paper, viscose, PLA or cellulose acetate, or combinations thereof. Preferably, the porous media comprises a sheet material such as cotton or cellulose acetate. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the porous medium comprises a sheet made of cotton fibres.

The porous media used in the present invention may be curled or chopped. In preferred embodiments, the porous media is coiled. In alternative embodiments, the porous media comprises chopped porous media. The crimping or shredding process can be before or after loading the gel composition.

Curling the sheet has the benefit of improving the structure to allow access through the structure. Channels through the curled sheet material facilitate gel loading, gel retention, and also facilitate fluid passage through the curled sheet material. Therefore, there are advantages to using crimped sheet material as the porous medium.

Mincing enables a high surface area to medium volume ratio to allow easy absorption of the gel.

In particular embodiments, the sheet is a composite material. Preferably, the sheet is porous. Sheets can aid in the manufacture of tubular elements including gels. The sheet can help introduce the active agent into the tubular member including the gel. The sheet can help to stabilize the structure of the tubular member comprising the gel. Sheets can aid in transport or storage of gels. The use of sheets may enable or facilitate adding structure to porous media, for example by crimping the sheets.

The porous medium can be a wire. The thread may comprise, for example, cotton, paper or acetate thread. The threads can also be loaded with gel, like any other porous media. An advantage of using a thread as a porous medium is that it can aid in ease of fabrication.

The threads can be gel-loaded by any known means. The thread can simply be coated with the gel, or the thread can be impregnated with the gel. In manufacture, the thread can be impregnated with gel and stored ready for inclusion in the assembly of the tubular element.

The porous medium loaded with the gel composition is preferably provided within a tubular element forming part of the aerosol-generating article. Ideally, the tubular element may have a longitudinal length longer than its width, but this need not be, as it may be part of a multi-component article desirably having a longitudinal length longer than its width. Typically, the tubular element is cylindrical, but this need not be the case. For example, the tubular element may have an elliptical, triangular- or rectangular-like polygonal or random cross-section.

The tubular element preferably includes a first longitudinal passage. The tubular element is preferably formed by a wrapper defining the first longitudinal passage. The packaging is preferably a waterproof packaging. Such water-resistant properties of the packaging can be achieved by using water-resistant materials or by treating the material of the packaging. This can be done by treating one or both sides of the package. Waterproofing will help without losing structure, hardness or rigidity. This can also help prevent gel or liquid leakage, especially when using gels with a fluid structure.

Preferably, in embodiments wherein the aerosol-generating substrate strip comprises a gel composition as described above, the downstream section of the aerosol-generating article comprises an aerosol-cooling element having a length of less than 10 mm. It has been found that the use of a relatively short aerosol cooling element in combination with the gel composition optimizes the delivery of the aerosol to the consumer.

Embodiments of the invention wherein the aerosol-generating substrate strip comprises a gel composition as described above preferably comprise an upstream element upstream of the aerosol-generating substrate strip. In this case, the upstream element advantageously prevents physical contact with the gel composition. The upstream element may also advantageously compensate for any potential reduction in RTD, for example due to evaporation of the gel composition as the aerosol-generating substrate strip heats up during use.

In certain preferred embodiments of the invention, the elongate susceptor element is arranged substantially longitudinally within the aerosol-generating substrate strip and in thermal contact with the aerosol-generating substrate.

As used herein with reference to the present invention, the term "susceptor element" refers to a material that can convert electromagnetic energy into heat. Eddy currents induced in the susceptor element cause heating of the susceptor element when located within the fluctuating electromagnetic field. The aerosol-generating substrate is heated by the susceptor element when the elongated susceptor element is positioned in thermal contact with the aerosol-generating substrate.

When used to describe a susceptor element, the term "elongated" means that the susceptor element has a length dimension that is greater than its width dimension or its thickness dimension, for example greater than twice its width dimension or its thickness dimension.

The susceptor element is arranged substantially longitudinally within the rod. This means that the length dimension of the elongate susceptor element is arranged approximately parallel to the longitudinal direction of the rod, for example within plus or minus 10 degrees of parallel to the longitudinal direction of the rod. In a preferred embodiment, the elongate susceptor element may be located radially centrally within the strip and extend along the longitudinal axis of the strip.

Preferably, the susceptor element extends all the way to the downstream end of the strip of the aerosol-generating article. In some embodiments, the susceptor element may extend all the way to the upstream end of the strip of the aerosol-generating article. In particularly preferred embodiments, the susceptor element has substantially the same length as the aerosol-generating substrate strip and extends from the upstream end of the strip to the downstream end of the strip.

The susceptor elements are preferably in the form of needles, strips, strips or blades.

The susceptor element preferably has a length of from about 5 mm to about 15 mm, such as from about 6 mm to about 12 mm, or from about 8 mm to about 10 mm.

The ratio between the length of the susceptor element and the overall length of the substrate of the aerosol-generating article may be from about 0.2 to about 0.35.

Preferably, the ratio between the length of the susceptor element and the overall length of the substrate of the aerosol-generating article is at least about 0.22, more preferably at least about 0.24, even more preferably at least about 0.26. The ratio between the length of the susceptor element and the overall length of the substrate of the aerosol-generating article is preferably less than about 0.34, more preferably less than about 0.32, even more preferably less than about 0.3.

In some embodiments, the ratio between the length of the susceptor element and the overall length of the aerosol-generating article substrate is preferably from about 0.22 to about 0.34, more preferably from about 0.24 to about 0.34, even more preferably from about 0.26 to About 0.34. In other embodiments, the ratio between the length of the susceptor element and the overall length of the aerosol-generating article substrate is preferably from about 0.22 to about 0.32, more preferably from about 0.24 to about 0.32, even more preferably from about 0.26 to About 0.32. In further embodiments, the ratio between the length of the susceptor element and the overall length of the aerosol-generating article substrate is preferably from about 0.22 to about 0.3, more preferably from about 0.24 to about 0.3, even more preferably from about 0.26 to about 0.3.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the ratio between the length of the susceptor element and the overall length of the substrate of the aerosol-generating article is about 0.27.

The susceptor element preferably has a width of from about 1 millimeter to about 5 millimeters.

The susceptor element may generally have a thickness of from about 0.01 mm to about 2 mm, such as from about 0.5 mm to about 2 mm. In some embodiments, the susceptor element preferably has a thickness of from about 10 microns to about 500 microns, more preferably from about 10 microns to about 100 microns.

If the susceptor element has a constant cross-section, such as a circular cross-section, its preferred width or diameter is from about 1 millimeter to about 5 millimeters.

If the susceptor elements are in the form of strips or blades, the strips or blades preferably have a rectangular shape with a width of preferably from about 2 mm to about 8 mm, more preferably from about 3 mm to about 5 mm. mm width. For example, a susceptor element in the form of a strip or blade may have a width of about 4 millimeters.

If the susceptor element is in the form of a strip or blade, the strip or blade preferably has a rectangular shape and a thickness of from about 0.03 mm to about 0.15 mm, more preferably from about 0.05 mm to about 0.09 mm. For example, a susceptor element in the form of a strip or blade may have a thickness of about 0.07 mm.

In preferred embodiments, the elongated susceptor elements are in the form of strips or blades, preferably having a rectangular shape, and having a thickness of from about 55 microns to about 65 microns.

More preferably, the elongated susceptor element has a thickness of from about 57 microns to about 63 microns. Even more preferably, the elongated susceptor element has a thickness of from about 58 microns to about 62 microns. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the elongate susceptor element has a thickness of about 60 microns.

Preferably, the elongated susceptor element has a length equal to or shorter than that of the aerosol-generating substrate. Preferably, the elongated susceptor element has the same length as the aerosol-generating substrate.

The susceptor element may be formed from any material capable of being inductively heated to a temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating substrate. Preferably the susceptor element comprises metal or carbon.

Preferred susceptor elements may comprise or consist of ferromagnetic materials, such as ferromagnetic alloys, ferritic iron, or ferromagnetic steel or stainless steel. A suitable susceptor element may be or comprise aluminium. Preferred susceptor elements may be formed from 400 series stainless steel, such as grade 410 or 420 or 430 stainless steel. Different materials will dissipate different amounts of energy when positioned within an electromagnetic field of similar frequency and field strength values.

Thus, parameters such as material type, length, width and thickness of the susceptor element can all be altered to achieve a desired power dissipation within a known electromagnetic field. Preferably the susceptor element can be heated to a temperature in excess of 250 degrees Celsius.

A suitable susceptor element may include a non-metallic core with a metal layer disposed on the non-metallic core, such as metal traces formed on the surface of a ceramic core. The susceptor element may have an outer protective layer, such as a ceramic protective layer or a glass protective layer that encapsulates the susceptor element. The susceptor element may include a protective coating formed of glass, ceramic, or inert metal formed on a core of susceptor element material.

The susceptor element is arranged in thermal contact with the aerosol-generating substrate. Thus, when the susceptor element heats up, the aerosol-generating substrate is heated and an aerosol is formed. Preferably, the susceptor element is arranged in direct physical contact with the aerosol-generating substrate, eg within the aerosol-generating substrate.

The susceptor element may be a multi-material susceptor element, and may include a first susceptor element material and a second susceptor element material. The first susceptor element material is disposed in intimate physical contact with the second susceptor element material. The second susceptor element material preferably has a Curie temperature below 500 degrees Celsius. The first susceptor element material is preferably used primarily to heat the susceptor element when placed in a fluctuating electromagnetic field. Any suitable material can be used. For example, the first susceptor element material may be aluminum, or may be a ferrous material such as stainless steel. The second susceptor element material is preferably primarily used to indicate when the susceptor element has reached a certain temperature, which temperature is the Curie temperature of the second susceptor element material. The Curie temperature of the second susceptor element material can be used to regulate the temperature of the entire susceptor element during operation. Therefore, the Curie temperature of the second susceptor element material should be below the ignition point of the aerosol-generating substrate. Suitable materials for the second susceptor element material may include nickel and certain nickel alloys.

By providing a susceptor element having at least a first and a second susceptor element material, wherein the second susceptor element material has a Curie temperature and the first susceptor element material does not have a Curie temperature, or the first and second susceptor element materials have a different The first and second Curie temperatures, the heating of the aerosol-generating substrate and the temperature control of the heating can be separated. The first susceptor element material is preferably a magnetic material having a Curie temperature above 500 degrees Celsius. From a heating efficiency standpoint, it is desirable that the Curie temperature of the first susceptor element material be above any maximum temperature to which the susceptor element should be able to heat. The second Curie temperature may preferably be chosen to be lower than 400 degrees Celsius, preferably lower than 380 degrees Celsius, or lower than 360 degrees Celsius. Preferably, the second susceptor element material is a magnetic material selected to have a second Curie temperature substantially the same as the desired maximum heating temperature. That is, it is preferred that the second Curie temperature is approximately the same temperature to which the susceptor element should be heated in order to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating substrate. The second Curie temperature may, for example, be in the range of 200°C to 400°C, or between 250°C and 360°C. The second Curie temperature of the second susceptor element material may for example be selected such that the overall average temperature of the aerosol-generating substrate does not exceed 240 degrees Celsius after heating by the susceptor element at a temperature equal to the second Curie temperature.

The aerosol-generating articles of the present invention may further comprise an upstream element located upstream of and adjacent to the aerosol-generating substrate, wherein the upstream section comprises at least one upstream element. The upstream element advantageously prevents direct physical contact with the upstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate. In particular, where the aerosol-generating substrate comprises a susceptor element, the upstream element may prevent direct physical contact with the upstream end of the susceptor element. This helps prevent displacement or deformation of the susceptor element during handling or shipping of the aerosol-generating article. This in turn helps to fix the form and position of the susceptor element. Furthermore, the presence of upstream elements helps to prevent any loss of substrate, which may be advantageous, for example, if the substrate contains granular plant material.

The upstream element may also provide an improved appearance to the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article. Furthermore, if desired, the upstream element may be used to provide information about the aerosol-generating article, such as information about the brand, flavor, contents or details of the aerosol-generating device with which the article is intended to be used.

The upstream element may be a porous rod element. Preferably, the porous rod element does not alter the resistance to draw of the aerosol-generating article. Preferably, the upstream element has a porosity of at least about 50% in the longitudinal direction of the aerosol-generating article. More preferably, the upstream element has a porosity in the longitudinal direction of between about 50% and about 90%. The porosity of the upstream element in the longitudinal direction is defined by the ratio of the cross-sectional area of the material forming the upstream element to the internal cross-sectional area of the aerosol-generating article at the location of the upstream element.

The upstream element may be made of porous material or may comprise a plurality of openings. For example, this can be achieved by laser perforation. Preferably, the plurality of openings is evenly distributed over the cross-section of the upstream element.

The porosity or permeability of the upstream element may advantageously be varied in order to provide a desired overall resistance to draw of the aerosol-generating article.

Preferably, the RTD of the upstream element is at least about 5 mm _H2O . More preferably, the RTD of the upstream element is at least about 10 mm _H2O . Even more preferably, the RTD of the upstream element is at least about 15 mm _H2O . In particularly preferred embodiments, the RTD of the upstream element is at least about 20 mm _H2O .

Preferably, the RTD of the upstream element is less than or equal to about 80 mm _H2O . More preferably, the RTD of the upstream element is less than or equal to about 60 mm _H2O . Even more preferably, the RTD of the upstream element is less than or equal to about 40 mm _H2O .

In some embodiments, the RTD of the upstream element is from about 5 mm _H2O to about 80 mm _H2O , preferably from about 10 mm _H2O to about 80 mm _H2O , more preferably from about 15 mm H2O _H2O to about 80 mm _H2O , even more preferably from about 20 mm _H2O to about 80 mm _H2O . In other embodiments, the RTD of the upstream element is from about 5 mm _H2O to about 60 mm _H2O , preferably from about 10 mm _H2O to about 60 mm _H2O , more preferably from about 15 mm H2O _H2O to about 60 mm _H2O , even more preferably from about 20 mm _H2O to about 60 mm _H2O . In further embodiments, the RTD of the upstream element is from about 5 mm _H2O to about 40 mm _H2O , preferably from about 10 mm _H2O to about 40 mm _H2O , more preferably from about 15 mm _H2O to about 40 mm _H2O , even more preferably from about 20 mm _H2O to about 40 mm _H2O .

In alternative embodiments, the upstream element may be formed from an air impermeable material. In such embodiments, the aerosol-generating article may be configured such that air flows into the strip of aerosol-generating substrate through suitable ventilation means provided in the packaging.

The upstream element may be made of any material suitable for use in an aerosol-generating article. The upstream element may for example be made of the same material as one of the other components used for the aerosol-generating article, such as the mouthpiece, cooling element or support element. Suitable materials for forming the upstream element include filter materials, ceramics, polymeric materials, cellulose acetate, cardboard, zeolites or aerosol generating matrices. Preferably, the upstream element is formed from a cellulose acetate rod.

Preferably, the upstream element is formed from a heat resistant material. For example, preferably the upstream element is formed from a material resistant to temperatures up to 350 degrees Celsius. This ensures that upstream elements are not adversely affected by the heating means used to heat the aerosol-generating substrate.

Preferably, the diameter of the upstream element is substantially equal to the diameter of the aerosol-generating article.

Preferably, the upstream element has a length between about 1 mm and about 10 mm, preferably between about 3 mm and about 8 mm, more preferably between about 4 mm and about 6 mm. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the upstream element has a length of about 5 mm. The length of the upstream element may advantageously be varied in order to provide a desired overall length of the aerosol-generating article. For example, where it is desired to reduce the length of one of the other components of the aerosol-generating article, the length of the upstream element may be increased in order to maintain the same overall length of the article.

The upstream element preferably has a substantially homogeneous structure. For example, the upstream element can be substantially homogeneous in texture and appearance. The upstream element may for example have a continuous regular surface over its entire cross-section. For example, upstream elements may have no discernible symmetry.

The upstream element is preferably defined by a wrapper. The wrapper defining the upstream element is preferably a rigid stick wrapper, eg, a stick wrapper having a basis weight of at least about 80 grams per square meter (gsm), or at least about 100 gsm, or at least about 110 gsm. This provides structural rigidity to the upstream elements.

Aerosol-generating articles according to the invention may have a length of from about 35 millimeters to about 100 millimeters.

Preferably, an aerosol-generating article according to the invention has an overall length of at least about 38 mm. More preferably, an aerosol-generating article according to the invention has an overall length of at least about 40 mm. Even more preferably, an aerosol-generating article according to the invention has an overall length of at least about 42 millimeters.

The overall length of the aerosol-generating article according to the invention is preferably less than or equal to 70 mm. More preferably, the overall length of the aerosol-generating article according to the invention is preferably less than or equal to 60 mm. Even more preferably, the overall length of the aerosol-generating article according to the invention is preferably less than or equal to 50 mm.

In some embodiments, the overall length of the aerosol-generating article is preferably from about 38 mm to about 70 mm, more preferably from about 40 mm to about 70 mm, even more preferably from about 42 mm to about 70 mm. In other embodiments, the overall length of the aerosol-generating article is preferably from about 38 mm to about 60 mm, more preferably from about 40 mm to about 60 mm, even more preferably from about 42 mm to about 60 mm. In further embodiments, the overall length of the aerosol-generating article is preferably from about 38 mm to about 50 mm, more preferably from about 40 mm to about 50 mm, even more preferably from about 42 mm to about 50 mm. In an exemplary embodiment, the aerosol-generating article has an overall length of about 45 millimeters.

The aerosol-generating article preferably has an outer diameter of at least 5 mm. Preferably, the aerosol-generating article has an outer diameter of at least 6 mm. More preferably, the aerosol-generating article has an outer diameter of at least 7 mm.

Preferably, the aerosol-generating article has an outer diameter of less than or equal to about 12 millimeters. More preferably, the aerosol-generating article has an outer diameter of less than or equal to about 10 millimeters. Even more preferably, the aerosol-generating article has an outer diameter of less than or equal to about 8 millimeters.

In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating article has an outer diameter of from about 5 mm to about 12 mm, preferably from about 6 mm to about 12 mm, more preferably from about 7 mm to about 12 mm. In other embodiments, the aerosol-generating article has an outer diameter of from about 5 mm to about 10 mm, preferably from about 6 mm to about 10 mm, more preferably from about 7 mm to about 10 mm. In further embodiments, the aerosol-generating article has an outer diameter of from about 5 mm to about 8 mm, preferably from about 6 mm to about 8 mm, more preferably from about 7 mm to about 8 mm.

In certain preferred embodiments of the invention, the diameter (D _ME ) of the aerosol-generating article at the mouth end is (preferably) larger than the diameter (D _DE ) of the aerosol-generating article at the distal end. In more detail, the ratio (D _ME /D _DE ) between the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the mouth end and the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the distal end is (preferably) at least about 1.005.

Preferably, the ratio (D _ME /D _DE ) between the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the mouth end and the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the distal end is (preferably) at least about 1.01. More preferably, the ratio (D _ME /D _DE ) between the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the mouth end and the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the distal end is at least about 1.02. Even more preferably, the ratio (D _ME /D _DE ) between the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the mouth end and the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the distal end is at least about 1.05.

The ratio (D _ME /D _DE ) between the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the mouth end and the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the distal end is preferably less than or equal to about 1.30. More preferably, the ratio (D _ME /D _DE ) between the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the mouth end and the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the distal end is less than or equal to about 1.25. Even more preferably, the ratio (D _ME /D _DE ) between the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the mouth end and the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the distal end is less than or equal to about 1.20. In particularly preferred embodiments, the ratio between the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the mouth end and the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the distal end (D _ME /D _DE ) is less than or equal to 1.15 or 1.10.

In some preferred embodiments, the ratio between the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the mouth end and the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the distal end (D _ME /D _DE ) is from about 1.01 to 1.30, more preferably From 1.02 to 1.30, even more preferably from 1.05 to 1.30.

In other embodiments, the ratio between the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the mouth end and the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the distal end (D _ME /D _DE ) is from about 1.01 to 1.25, more preferably from 1.02 to 1.25, even more preferably from 1.05 to 1.25. In further embodiments, the ratio between the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the mouth end and the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the distal end (D _ME /D _DE ) is from about 1.01 to 1.20, more preferably from 1.02 to 1.20, even more preferably from 1.05 to 1.20. In other further embodiments, the ratio between the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the mouth end and the diameter of the aerosol-generating article at the distal end (D _ME /D _DE ) is from about 1.01 to 1.15, more preferably From 1.02 to 1.15, even more preferably from 1.05 to 1.15.

For example, the outer diameter of the article can be substantially constant over the distal portion of the article extending at least about 5 millimeters or at least about 10 millimeters from the distal end of the aerosol-generating article. Alternatively, the outer diameter of the article may taper over a distal portion of the article extending at least about 5 millimeters or at least about 10 millimeters from the distal end.

In certain preferred embodiments of the invention, the elements of the aerosol-generating article as described above are arranged such that the center of mass of the aerosol-generating article is at least about 60% along the length of the aerosol-generating article from the downstream end. More preferably, the elements of the aerosol-generating article are arranged such that the center of mass of the aerosol-generating article is at least about 62% along the length of the aerosol-generating article from the downstream end, more preferably along the length of the aerosol-generating article from the downstream end of at least about 65%.

Preferably, the center of mass does not exceed about 70% of the length of the aerosol-generating article from the downstream end.

Providing an element arrangement with a center of mass closer to the upstream end than the downstream end results in an aerosol-generating article with a weight imbalance having a heavier upstream end. This weight imbalance may advantageously provide tactile feedback to the consumer to enable them to distinguish between the upstream and downstream ends so that the correct end can be inserted into the aerosol generating device. This may be particularly beneficial where the upstream element is provided such that the upstream and downstream ends of the aerosol-generating article are visually similar to each other.

In embodiments of the aerosol-generating article according to the invention, wherein both the aerosol-cooling element and the support element are present, these are preferably packaged together in a combined pack. The combination pack defines an aerosol cooling element and a support element, but not another downstream (eg mouthpiece) element.

In these embodiments, the aerosol cooling element and the support element are combined prior to being defined by the combination pack, after which they are further combined with the mouthpiece segment.

This is advantageous from a manufacturing point of view as it enables shorter aerosol-generating articles to be assembled.

In general, handling individual elements whose length is smaller than their diameter can be difficult. For example, for an element with a diameter of 7 mm, a length of about 7 mm represents a threshold, preferably not approaching this threshold. However, a 10 mm aerosol cooling element could be combined with a pair of support elements 7 mm on each side (and potentially with other elements such as strips of aerosol-generating substrate, etc.) to provide a 24 mm hollow section, which would then Cut into two middle hollow sections of 12mm.

In particularly preferred embodiments, the other components of the aerosol-generating article are individually defined by their own packaging. In other words, the upstream element, the strip of aerosol-generating substrate, the support element and the aerosol-cooling element are all individually packaged. The support element and the aerosol cooling element combine to form an intermediate hollow section. This is achieved by packaging the support element and the aerosol cooling element by means of a combined packaging. The upstream element, strip of aerosol-generating substrate and intermediate hollow section are then combined with the outer wrapper. They are then combined with the mouthpiece element with its own wrapper by means of tipping paper.

Preferably, at least one component of the aerosol-generating article is packaged in a hydrophobic wrapper.

The term "hydrophobic" means that the surface exhibits water repellent properties. A useful way to determine this is to measure the water contact angle. "Water contact angle" is the angle conventionally measured through a liquid when a liquid/vapor interface meets a solid surface. It quantifies the wettability of a solid surface by a liquid via Young's equation. Hydrophobicity, or water contact angle, can be determined by utilizing the TAPPIT 558 test method, and the results are presented as interfacial contact angles and are reported in "degrees" and can range from approximately zero degrees to approximately 180 degrees.

In a preferred embodiment, the hydrophobic wrapper comprises paper having a water contact angle of about 30 degrees or greater, and preferably about 35 degrees or greater, or about 40 degrees or greater, or about 45 degrees or greater. layer wrapper.

For example, the paper layer may comprise PVOH (polyvinyl alcohol) or silicon. PVOH may be applied to the paper layer as a surface coating, or the paper layer may include a surface treatment comprising PVOH or silicon.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, an aerosol-generating article according to the invention comprises arranged in a linear sequence: an upstream element, an aerosol-generating substrate strip located immediately downstream of the upstream element, a support located immediately downstream of the aerosol-generating substrate strip The element, the aerosol cooling element located immediately downstream of the support element, the mouthpiece element located immediately downstream of the aerosol cooling element, and an overwrap defining the upstream element, the support element, the aerosol cooling element, and the mouthpiece element.

In more detail, the strip of aerosol-generating substrate may adjoin the upstream element. The support element may adjoin the strip of aerosol-generating substrate. The aerosol cooling element may adjoin the support element. The mouthpiece element may adjoin the aerosol cooling element.

The aerosol-generating article had a generally cylindrical shape and an outer diameter of about 7.25 millimeters.

The upstream element has a length of about 5 mm, the strip of aerosol-generating article has a length of about 12 mm, the support element has a length of about 8 mm, and the mouthpiece element has a length of about 12 mm. Thus, the overall length of the aerosol-generating article is about 45 mm.

The upstream element is in the form of a cellulose acetate stick packed in a rigid stick wrap.

The aerosol-generating article includes an elongated susceptor element disposed substantially longitudinally within the strip of aerosol-generating substrate and in thermal contact with the aerosol-generating substrate. The susceptor element is in the form of a strip or blade having a length substantially equal to the length of the aerosol-generating substrate strip and a thickness of about 60 microns.

The support element was in the form of a hollow cellulose acetate tube and had an inner diameter of about 1.9 mm. Thus, the thickness of the peripheral wall of the support element is about 2.675 mm.

The aerosol cooling element was in the form of a thinner hollow cellulose acetate tube and had an inner diameter of about 3.25 millimeters. Thus, the thickness of the peripheral wall of the aerosol cooling element is about 2 mm.

The mouthpiece is in the form of a low density cellulose acetate filter segment.

The aerosol-generating substrate strips comprise at least one of the types of aerosol-generating substrates described above, such as homogenized tobacco, gel formulations or homogenized plant material comprising particles of plants.

Description of drawings

In the following, the invention will be further described with reference to the drawing of accompanying drawing 1 , which shows a schematic side cross-sectional view of an aerosol-generating article according to the invention.

Detailed ways

The aerosol-generating article 10 shown in FIG. 1 includes a strip 12 of aerosol-generating substrate 12 and a downstream section 14 at a location downstream of the strip 12 of aerosol-generating substrate. Additionally, the aerosol-generating article 10 includes an upstream section 16 at a location upstream of the aerosol-generating substrate strip 12 . Thus, the aerosol-generating article 10 extends from an upstream or distal end 18 to a downstream or mouth end 20 .

The aerosol-generating article has an overall length of about 45 mm.

The downstream section 14 includes a support element 22 positioned immediately downstream of the aerosol-generating substrate strip 12 , the support element 22 being longitudinally aligned with the strip 12 . In the embodiment of FIG. 1 , the upstream end of the support element 18 abuts the downstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate strip 12 . In addition, the downstream section 14 includes an aerosol cooling element 24 located immediately downstream of the support element 22 , the aerosol cooling element 24 being longitudinally aligned with the strip 12 and the support element 22 . In the embodiment of FIG. 1 , the upstream end of the aerosol cooling element 24 abuts the downstream end of the support element 22 .

As will be apparent from the description below, the support element 22 and the aerosol cooling element 24 together define a central hollow section 50 of the aerosol-generating article 10 . Overall, the central hollow section 50 does not substantially contribute to the overall RTD of the aerosol-generating article. The RTD of the middle hollow section 26 is substantially 0 mm _H2O overall.

The support element 22 includes a first hollow tubular segment 26 . The first hollow tubular segment 26 is provided in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube made of cellulose acetate. The first hollow tubular segment 26 defines a lumen 28 extending from an upstream end 30 of the first hollow tubular segment to a downstream end 32 of the first hollow tubular segment 20 . The lumen 28 is substantially empty and thus enables substantially unrestricted airflow along the lumen 28 . First hollow tubular segment 26 and thus support element 22 substantially do not contribute to the overall RTD of aerosol-generating article 10 . In more detail, the RTD of the first hollow tubular section 26 , which is substantially the RTD of the support element 22 , is substantially 0 mm H ₂ O.

The first hollow tubular segment 26 has a length of about 8 millimeters, an outer diameter of about 7.25 millimeters, and an inner diameter (D _FTS ) of about 1.9 millimeters. Accordingly, the thickness of the peripheral wall of the first hollow tubular section 26 is about 2.67 millimeters.

The aerosol cooling element 24 includes a second hollow tubular segment 34 . The second hollow tubular segment 34 is provided in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube made of cellulose acetate. The second hollow tubular segment 34 defines a lumen 36 extending from an upstream end 38 of the second hollow tubular segment to a downstream end 40 of the second hollow tubular segment 34 . The lumen 36 is substantially empty and thus enables substantially unrestricted airflow along the lumen 36 . Second hollow tubular segment 28 and thus aerosol cooling element 24 substantially do not contribute to the overall RTD of aerosol-generating article 10 . In more detail, the RTD of the second hollow tubular section 34 (which is substantially the RTD of the aerosol cooling element 24) is substantially 0 mm _H2O .

The second hollow tubular segment 34 has a length of about 8 millimeters, an outer diameter of about 7.25 millimeters, and an inner diameter (D _FTS ) of about 3.25 millimeters. Accordingly, the thickness of the peripheral wall of the second hollow tubular section 34 is about 2 millimeters. Accordingly, the ratio between the inner diameter (D _FTS ) of the first hollow tubular segment 26 and the inner diameter (D _STS ) of the second hollow tubular segment 34 is about 0.75.

The aerosol-generating article 10 includes a ventilation zone 60 disposed at a location along the second hollow tubular section 34 . In more detail, the ventilation zone is provided at about 2 millimeters from the upstream end of the second hollow tubular section 34 . The ventilation level of the aerosol-generating article 10 is about 25%.

In the embodiment of FIG. 1 , the downstream section 14 further includes a mouthpiece element 42 at a location downstream of the intermediate hollow section 50 . In more detail, the mouthpiece element 42 is positioned immediately downstream of the aerosol cooling element 24 . As shown in the diagram of FIG. 1 , the upstream end of the mouthpiece element 42 abuts the downstream end 40 of the aerosol cooling element 18 .

Mouthpiece element 42 is provided in the form of a cylindrical rod of low density cellulose acetate.

Mouthpiece element 42 has a length of about 12 millimeters and an outer diameter of about 7.25 millimeters. The RTD of the mouthpiece element 42 is about 12 mm _H2O . The ratio of the length of the mouthpiece element 42 to the length of the intermediate hollow section 50 is about 0.6.

Strip 12 comprises an aerosol-generating substrate of one of the types described above.

The aerosol-generating substrate strip 12 has an outer diameter of about 7.25 millimeters, and a length of about 12 millimeters.

The aerosol-generating article 10 further includes an elongated susceptor element 44 within the aerosol-generating substrate strip 12 . In more detail, the susceptor elements 44 are arranged substantially longitudinally within the aerosol-generating substrate so as to be substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the strip 12 . As shown in the diagram of FIG. 1 , susceptor element 44 is positioned in a radially central location within the strip and effectively extends along the longitudinal axis of strip 12 .

The susceptor element 44 extends from the upstream end of the strip 12 to the downstream end. In practice, susceptor element 44 has substantially the same length as aerosol-generating substrate strip 12 .

In the embodiment of FIG. 1 , susceptor elements 44 are provided in strip form and have a length of about 12 millimeters, a thickness of about 60 microns, and a width of about 4 millimeters. The upstream section 16 includes an upstream element 46 located immediately upstream of the aerosol-generating substrate strip 12 , the upstream element 46 being longitudinally aligned with the strip 12 . In the embodiment of FIG. 1 , the downstream end of the upstream element 46 abuts the upstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate strip 12 . This advantageously prevents the susceptor element 44 from being removed. Furthermore, this ensures that the consumer cannot accidentally touch the heated susceptor element 44 after use.

The upstream element 46 is provided in the form of a cylindrical cellulose acetate rod defined by a rigid wrapper. The upstream element 46 has a length of about 5 millimeters. The RTD of the upstream element 46 is about 30 mm _H2O .

Claims (15)

1. An aerosol-generating article for generating an inhalable aerosol when heated, said aerosol-generating article comprising: Aerosol-generating matrix strips; a mouthpiece element having a length L1 and comprising at least one mouthpiece filter segment formed of fibrous filter material; and an intermediate hollow section between the strip of aerosol-generating substrate and the mouthpiece element, the intermediate hollow section having a length L2 and comprising: an aerosol-cooling element downstream of the aerosol-generating substrate strip, the aerosol-cooling element comprising a hollow tubular segment defining a longitudinal cavity providing a non-restrictive flow path ;as well as a support element between the aerosol-cooling element and the aerosol-generating substrate strip, wherein the upstream end of the aerosol cooling element is adjacent to the downstream end of the support element, and Wherein the length (L1) of the mouthpiece element is at least 0.4 times the length (L2) of the middle hollow section. 2. An aerosol-generating article according to claim 1, wherein the length (L1) of the mouthpiece element is at least 0.6 times the length (L2) of the intermediate hollow section. 3. An aerosol-generating article according to claim 1, wherein the length (L1) of the mouthpiece element is at least 0.75 times the length (L2) of the intermediate hollow section. 4. An aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the length (L1) of the mouthpiece element is at least 2 mm greater than the length of the aerosol-cooling element. 5. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding claim, wherein the aerosol-cooling element has a length of less than 10 mm. 6. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding claim, wherein the length of the mouthpiece element is greater than 10 mm. 7. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding claim, wherein the mouthpiece element comprises a mouthpiece filter segment having a length (L2) of at least 0.4 times the length. 8. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding claim, further comprising an upstream element located upstream of the aerosol-generating substrate strip. 9. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding claim, wherein the mouthpiece element has a resistance to draw (RTD) of less than 15 mm _H2O . 10. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding claim, wherein the hollow tubular section of the aerosol-cooling element has a wall thickness of less than 2.5 mm. 11. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding claim, wherein the aerosol-cooling element further comprises a ventilation zone at a location along the hollow tubular segment. 12. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding claim, wherein the aerosol-generating substrate strip comprises a gel composition. 13. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding claim, wherein the support element comprises a hollow tubular segment defining a longitudinal lumen providing a non-restrictive flow passage. 14. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding claim, wherein the length of the intermediate hollow section does not exceed 18 mm. 15. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding claim, having an overall length of about 45 mm.

Images