RU2791615C2 - Cartridge for aerosol generating system, containing nicotine source containing liquid nicotine composition - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: tobacco industry.

SUBSTANCE: invention relates to a cartridge for use in an aerosol generating system. Cartridge (2) contains a nicotine source containing a liquid nicotine composition, while the liquid nicotine composition contains glycerin in amount of at least 10 percent by weight and nicotine, while the weight ratio of nicotine to glycerin in the liquid nicotine composition is from 3:2 to 9:1.

EFFECT: invention allows for improvement of perceptible tartness of aerosol generated with an aerosol generating system containing a cartridge without negative impact on aerosol delivery to a user, when inhaling, as well as allows for delivery of greater amount of nicotine in one puff from set amount of nicotine in a liquid nicotine composition.

15 cl, 5 dwg

Description

The present invention relates to a liquid nicotine formulation for use in an aerosol generating system and to an aerosol generating system containing such a liquid nicotine formulation. In particular, the present invention relates to a liquid nicotine formulation for use in an aerosol generating system for in situ generation of an aerosol from nicotine salt particles, and to an aerosol generating system comprising such a liquid nicotine formulation.

Devices are known for delivering nicotine to a user, containing a source of nicotine and a source of a volatile compound that accelerates delivery. For example, WO 2008/121610 A1 discloses devices in which nicotine and an acid such as pyruvic acid are reacted with each other in the gas phase to form an aerosol of nicotine salt particles that is inhaled by the user.

In devices of this type, the aerosol generated by the reaction of nicotine with acid can sometimes be experienced by the user as having a perceived astringency when inhaled, which can adversely affect the user's experience.

It would be desirable to provide a liquid nicotine formulation for use in an aerosol generating system for in situ generation of an aerosol which, when used, can provide an aerosol that is improved in terms of perceived astringency present.

It would be particularly desirable to provide a liquid nicotine formulation for use in an aerosol generating system for in situ generation of an aerosol which, when used, can provide an aerosol that is improved in terms of perceived astringency present without adversely affecting other properties of the aerosol such as particle size. or drops and delivery of nicotine.

The present invention provides a liquid nicotine formulation for use in an aerosol generating system, wherein the liquid nicotine formulation comprises at least 10 percent by weight glycerol and nicotine, wherein the liquid nicotine formulation has a weight ratio of nicotine to glycerol of about 3: 2 to about 9:1.

The present invention also provides a cartridge for use in an aerosol generating system, wherein the cartridge contains a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine composition of the present invention.

The present invention also provides an aerosol generating system comprising: a cartridge according to the present invention; and an aerosol generating device comprising: a housing defining a device cavity configured to accommodate at least a portion of the cartridge; and a heating element for heating the cartridge.

When used in an aerosol generating system, the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention advantageously allows the generation of an aerosol with an optimal particle or droplet size for inhalation, which provides superior nicotine delivery with improved perceived astringency present.

As further described below, it has been found that incorporating at least 10 percent by weight glycerol and nicotine into a liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention, wherein the weight ratio of nicotine to glycerol in the liquid nicotine formulation is from about 9:1 to about 3 :2 advantageously reduces the perceived astringency of an aerosol produced by an aerosol generating system that contains such a liquid nicotine formulation compared to an aerosol produced by an aerosol generating system that contains a liquid nicotine formulation containing nicotine and not containing glycerol. Without being limited by theory, it is believed that this improvement in perceived astringency present is due to coating or enveloping the nicotine with glycerol.

Furthermore, it has nevertheless been found that incorporating at least 10 percent glycerol by weight and nicotine into the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention, wherein the weight ratio of nicotine to glycerol in the liquid nicotine formulation is from about 9:1 to about 3 :2 does not significantly affect the particle or droplet size of the aerosol produced by the aerosol generating system that contains the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention. This is particularly important as it allows the present perceived astringency of the aerosol produced by the aerosol generating system containing the cartridge to be improved by incorporating glycerol without adversely affecting delivery of the aerosol to the user upon inhalation.

However, it has also been found that incorporating at least 10 percent glycerol by weight and nicotine into the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention, wherein the weight ratio of nicotine to glycerol in the liquid nicotine formulation is from about 9:1 to about 3:2 , can advantageously improve the delivery of nicotine to a user by an aerosol generating system containing a liquid nicotine formulation according to the present invention. In particular, the inclusion of at least 10 percent by weight of glycerol and nicotine in the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention, wherein the weight ratio of nicotine to glycerol in the liquid nicotine formulation is from about 9:1 to about 3:2, may allow delivery of more nicotine in a single puff from a given amount of nicotine in a liquid nicotine formulation.

In the context of this document regarding the present invention, the term "liquid nicotine composition" means a liquid composition containing nicotine, or a gel-like composition containing nicotine.

In the context of this document regarding the present invention, the term "gelled composition" can mean a generally dilute crosslinked system that does not flow at steady state.

In the context of this document regarding the present invention, the term "nicotine" means nicotine, nicotine base or salt of nicotine. In embodiments where the liquid nicotine formulation contains nicotine base or nicotine salt, the amounts of nicotine given herein are the amount of nicotine free base or the amount of protonated nicotine, respectively.

Unless otherwise noted, the percentages by weight of glycerol and nicotine in liquid nicotine formulation given in this document are based on the total weight of the liquid nicotine formulation.

The weight ratio of nicotine to glycerol in the liquid nicotine formulation is from about 3:2 to about 9:1.

Preferably, the weight ratio of nicotine to glycerol in the liquid nicotine formulation is at least about 9:5. More preferably, the weight ratio of nicotine to glycerol in the liquid nicotine formulation is at least about 2:1.

That is, the weight percentage of nicotine in the liquid nicotine formulation is preferably at least about 1.8 times the weight percentage of glycerol in the liquid nicotine formulation. More preferably, the weight percentage of nicotine in the liquid nicotine formulation is at least about 2 times the weight percentage of glycerol in the liquid nicotine formulation.

Preferably, the weight ratio of nicotine to glycerol in the liquid nicotine formulation is less than or equal to about 8:1. More preferably, the weight ratio of nicotine to glycerol in the liquid nicotine formulation is less than or equal to about 7:1, or less than or equal to about 6:1. Most preferably, the weight ratio of nicotine to glycerol in the liquid nicotine formulation is less than or equal to about 4:1.

That is, it is preferable that the weight percent nicotine content of the liquid nicotine formulation is less than or equal to about 8 times the weight percent glycerol of the liquid nicotine formulation. More preferably, the weight percent nicotine content of the liquid nicotine formulation is less than or equal to about 7 times the weight percent glycerol of the liquid nicotine formulation, or less than or equal to about 6 times the weight percent glycerol of the liquid nicotine formulation. Most preferably, the weight percentage of nicotine in the liquid nicotine formulation is less than or equal to about 4 times the weight percentage of glycerol in the liquid nicotine formulation.

The weight ratio of nicotine to glycerol in the liquid nicotine formulation may be from about 3:2 to about 8:1. For example, the weight ratio of nicotine to glycerol in a liquid nicotine formulation may be from about 3:2 to about 7:1, or from about 3:2 to about 6:1.

The weight ratio of nicotine to glycerol in the liquid nicotine formulation may be from about 9:5 to about 9:1. For example, the weight ratio of nicotine to glycerol in a liquid nicotine formulation may be from about 9:5 to about 8:1, from about 9:5 to about 7:1, or from about 9:5 to about 6:1.

The weight ratio of nicotine to glycerol in the liquid nicotine formulation may be from about 2:1 to about 9:1. For example, the weight ratio of nicotine to glycerol in a liquid nicotine formulation may be from about 2:1 to about 8:1, from about 2:1 to about 7:1, or from about 2:1 to about 6:1.

Preferably, the weight ratio of nicotine to glycerol in the liquid nicotine formulation is from about 3:2 to about 4:1. More preferably, the weight ratio of nicotine to glycerol in the liquid nicotine formulation is from about 9:5 to about 4:1. Most preferably, the weight ratio of nicotine to glycerol in the liquid nicotine formulation is from about 2:1 to about 4:1.

The liquid nicotine formulation may contain natural nicotine or synthetic nicotine.

The liquid nicotine formulation is characterized by a nicotine content of at least about 15 percent by weight.

Preferably, the nicotine content of the liquid nicotine formulation is at least about 60 percent by weight. More preferably, the nicotine content of the liquid nicotine formulation is at least about 65 percent by weight, or at least about 70 percent by weight.

Preferably, the nicotine content of the liquid nicotine formulation is less than or equal to about 85 percent by weight. More preferably, the nicotine content of the liquid nicotine formulation is less than or equal to about 80 percent by weight, or less than or equal to about 75 percent by weight.

Preferably, the nicotine content of the liquid nicotine formulation is from about 60 percent by weight to about 90 percent by weight. For example, the nicotine content of a liquid nicotine formulation may be from about 60 weight percent to about 85 weight percent, from about 60 weight percent to about 80 weight percent, or from about 60 weight percent to about 75 weight percent.

More preferably, the nicotine content of the liquid nicotine formulation is from about 65 percent by weight to about 90 percent by weight, or from about 70 percent by weight to about 90 percent by weight. For example, the nicotine content of a liquid nicotine formulation may be from about 65 weight percent to about 85 weight percent, from about 65 weight percent to about 80 weight percent, or from about 65 weight percent to about 75 weight percent. For example, the nicotine content of a liquid nicotine formulation may be from about 70 weight percent to about 85 weight percent, from about 70 weight percent to about 80 weight percent, or from about 70 weight percent to about 75 weight percent.

Preferably, the liquid nicotine formulation contains vegetable glycerin.

The liquid nicotine formulation is characterized by a glycerol content of at least about 10 percent by weight.

Preferably, the glycerol content of the liquid nicotine formulation is at least about 15 percent by weight.

More preferably, the glycerol content of the liquid nicotine formulation is at least about 20 percent by weight.

Preferably, the glycerol content of the liquid nicotine formulation is less than or equal to about 40 percent by weight.

More preferably, the glycerol content of the liquid nicotine formulation is less than or equal to about 35 percent by weight, or less than or equal to about 30 percent by weight.

This may advantageously ensure that the incorporation of glycerol into the liquid nicotine formulation does not adversely affect the in situ reaction of nicotine with other reactants during use of the aerosol generating system containing the liquid nicotine formulation.

Preferably, the glycerol content of the liquid nicotine formulation is from about 10 percent by weight to about 40 percent by weight. For example, the glycerol content of a liquid nicotine formulation may be from about 15 percent by weight to about 40 percent by weight, or from about 20 percent by weight to about 40 percent by weight.

More preferably, the glycerol content of the liquid nicotine formulation is from about 10 percent by weight to about 35 percent by weight, or from about 10 percent by weight to about 30 percent by weight. For example, the glycerol content of a liquid nicotine formulation may be from about 15 percent by weight to about 35 percent by weight, or from about 20 percent by weight to about 35 percent by weight. For example, the glycerol content of a liquid nicotine formulation may be from about 15 percent by weight to about 30 percent by weight, or from about 20 percent by weight to about 30 percent by weight.

Preferably, in a liquid nicotine formulation, the glycerol content and the nicotine content together are at least about 95 percent by weight. More preferably, the liquid nicotine formulation has a glycerol content and a nicotine content together of at least about 97 percent by weight. Most preferably, the liquid nicotine formulation has a glycerol content and a nicotine content together of at least about 99 percent by weight.

The liquid nicotine composition may contain one or more flavors. Suitable flavors include, but are not limited to, menthol.

Preferably, the liquid nicotine formulation has a flavor content that is less than or equal to about 1 percent by weight.

However, it has proven to be particularly advantageous to incorporate the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention into a nicotine source of an aerosol generating system comprising a nicotine source and an acid source to generate in situ an aerosol of nicotine salt particles.

The present invention also provides a cartridge for use in an aerosol generating system, wherein the cartridge contains a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine composition of the present invention.

The present invention also provides an aerosol generating system comprising: a cartridge according to the present invention; and an aerosol generating device comprising: a housing defining a device cavity configured to accommodate at least a portion of the cartridge; and a heating element for heating the cartridge.

In the context of this document regarding the present invention, the words and phrases "near", "far", "upstream", and "downstream" describe the relative positions of the components, or parts of the components, of the cartridge and the aerosol generating system according to the present invention.

The aerosol generating system of the present invention includes a proximal end through which, in use, the aerosol leaves the aerosol generating system for delivery to a user. The proximal end may also be referred to as the mouth end. In use, the user puffs through the proximal end of the aerosol generating system to inhale the aerosol produced by the aerosol generating system. The aerosol generating system comprises a distal end opposite the proximal end.

When a user puffs through the proximal end of the aerosol generating system, air is drawn into the aerosol generating system, passes through the cartridge, and exits the aerosol generating system through its proximal end. Components or portions of components of an aerosol generating system can be described as upstream or downstream of each other based on their relative positions between the proximal end and distal end of the aerosol generating system.

In the context of this document regarding the present invention, the word "longitudinal" is used to describe the direction between the proximal end and the opposite distal end of the cartridge or aerosol generating system, and the word "transverse" is used to describe the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

In the context of this document regarding the present invention, the term "length" is used to describe the maximum longitudinal dimension of the components or parts of the components of the cartridge or aerosol generating system, parallel to the longitudinal axis between the proximal end and the opposite distal end of the cartridge or aerosol generating system.

In the context of this document regarding the present invention, the terms "height" and "width" are used to describe the maximum transverse dimensions of the components or parts of the components of the cartridge or aerosol generating system, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge or aerosol generating system. Where the height and width of the components or parts of the components of the cartridge or aerosol generating system are not the same, the term "width" is used to mean the larger of two transverse dimensions perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge or aerosol generating system.

The cartridge may include a first compartment containing a source of nicotine.

Advantageously, the nicotine source comprises a first carrier material impregnated with a liquid nicotine formulation.

The first carrier material serves as a reservoir for the liquid nicotine composition.

Advantageously, the first carrier material is chemically inert with respect to the liquid nicotine composition.

The first carrier material may be of any suitable shape and size. For example, the first carrier material may be in the form of a sheet or a plug.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing a liquid nicotine composition according to the present invention, advantageously the shape and dimensions of the first carrier material are similar to the shape and dimensions of the first compartment of the cartridge.

The shape, size, density and porosity of the first carrier material can be chosen such that the first carrier material can be impregnated with the required amount of liquid nicotine composition.

Preferably, the nicotine source comprises a first carrier material impregnated with a liquid nicotine formulation in an amount greater than or equal to about 10 microliters. For example, the nicotine source may comprise a first carrier material impregnated with a liquid nicotine formulation in an amount greater than or equal to about 15 microliters.

For example, the nicotine source may comprise a first carrier material impregnated with an amount of liquid nicotine formulation from about 10 microliters to about 25 microliters, or an amount of liquid nicotine formulation from about 15 microliters to about 25 microliters.

Preferably, the nicotine source comprises a first carrier material impregnated with an amount of liquid nicotine formulation that is less than or equal to about 25 microliters. For example, the nicotine source may comprise a first carrier material impregnated with an amount of liquid nicotine formulation that is less than or equal to about 20 microliters.

For example, the nicotine source may comprise a first carrier material impregnated with an amount of liquid nicotine formulation from about 10 microliters to about 20 microliters, or an amount of liquid nicotine formulation from about 15 microliters to about 20 microliters.

The nicotine source may comprise a liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention containing from about 1 milligram to about 40 milligrams of nicotine. For example, a nicotine source may comprise a liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention containing from about 3 milligrams to about 30 milligrams of nicotine, from about 6 milligrams to about 20 milligrams of nicotine, or from about 8 milligrams to about 18 milligrams of nicotine.

The cartridge may contain: a nicotine source containing a liquid nicotine composition according to the present invention; and a source of acid.

The cartridge may include: a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing a liquid nicotine composition according to the present invention; and a second compartment containing the acid source.

However, the incorporation of the liquid nicotine composition of the present invention into the nicotine source of the two-compartment cartridge as defined above has proven to be particularly advantageous.

The acid source may contain an organic acid or an inorganic acid.

Preferably the acid source contains an organic acid, more preferably a carboxylic acid, most preferably an alpha-keto acid or 2-oxo acid or lactic acid.

Advantageously, the acid source contains an acid selected from the group consisting of 3-methyl-2-oxo-pentanoic acid, pyruvic acid, 2-oxo-pentanoic acid, 4-methyl-2-oxo-pentanoic acid, 3-methyl-2-oxo-butanoic acid, 2-oxooctanoic acid acid, lactic acid, and combinations thereof. Advantageously, the acid source contains pyruvic acid or lactic acid. More preferably, the acid source contains lactic acid.

Advantageously, the acid source comprises a second support material impregnated with the acid.

The second carrier material serves as a reservoir for the acid.

Advantageously, the second carrier material is chemically inert with respect to the acid.

The second carrier material may be of any suitable shape and size. For example, the second carrier material may be in the form of a sheet or a plug.

In embodiments in which the cartridge contains a second compartment containing an acid source, advantageously the shape and dimensions of the second carrier material are similar to the shape and dimensions of the second compartment of the cartridge.

The shape, size, density and porosity of the second carrier material can be chosen such that the second carrier material can be impregnated with the required amount of acid.

Advantageously, the acid source comprises a second carrier material impregnated with acid in an amount greater than or equal to about 10 microliters. For example, the acid source may comprise a second carrier material impregnated with an amount of acid greater than or equal to about 15 microliters.

For example, the acid source may comprise a second carrier material impregnated with an amount of acid ranging from about 10 microliters to about 25 microliters, or an amount of acid ranging from about 15 microliters to about 25 microliters.

Advantageously, the acid source comprises a second carrier material impregnated with an amount of acid that is less than or equal to about 25 microliters. For example, the acid source may comprise a second carrier material impregnated with an amount of acid less than or equal to about 20 microliters.

For example, the source of acid may comprise a second carrier material impregnated with an amount of acid from about 10 microliters to about 20 microliters, or an amount of acid from about 15 microliters to about 20 microliters.

In embodiments in which the cartridge contains an acid source containing lactic acid, advantageously the acid source comprises a second carrier material impregnated with lactic acid in an amount of from about 2 milligrams to about 60 milligrams.

For example, the acid source may comprise a second carrier material impregnated with about 5 milligrams to about 50 milligrams lactic acid, about 8 milligrams to about 40 milligrams lactic acid, or about 10 milligrams to about 30 milligrams lactic acid.

In embodiments where the cartridge comprises a nicotine source comprising a first carrier material impregnated with the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention and an acid source comprising a second carrier material impregnated with acid, the first carrier material and the second carrier material may be the same or different.

The first carrier material and the second carrier material may comprise one or more of the following: glass, cellulose, ceramic, stainless steel, aluminum, polyethylene (PE), polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), poly(cyclohexanedimethylene terephthalate) (PCT), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) , polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) and BAREX ^® .

Advantageously, the first carrier material and the second carrier material have a density of from about 0.1 gram/cubic centimeter to about 0.3 gram/cubic centimeter.

Advantageously, the first carrier material and the second carrier material have a porosity of from about 15 percent to about 55 percent.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing a liquid nicotine formulation according to the present invention and a second compartment containing an acid source, the shape and dimensions of the first compartment of the cartridge may be chosen such that the cartridge can accommodate a desired amount of liquid nicotine. composition.

In embodiments where the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention and a second compartment containing an acid source, the shape and dimensions of the second compartment of the cartridge may be chosen such that the required amount of acid can be accommodated in the cartridge.

The shape and dimensions of the first compartment and the second compartment of the cartridge may be the same or different.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention, the first compartment of the cartridge may have a length L ₁ of about 8 millimeters to about 40 millimeters, such as about 10 millimeters to about 20 millimeters. The first compartment of the cartridge may have a width W ₁ from about 4 millimeters to about 6 millimeters. The first compartment of the cartridge may have a height H ₁ of about 0.5 millimeters to about 2.5 millimeters.

The first compartment of the cartridge may have any suitable cross-sectional shape. For example, the cross-sectional shape of the first compartment may be round, semicircular, elliptical, triangular, square, rectangular, or trapezoidal.

In embodiments in which the cartridge includes a second compartment containing an acid source, the second compartment of the cartridge may have a length L ₂ from about 8 millimeters to about 40 millimeters, such as from about 10 millimeters to about 20 millimeters. The second cartridge compartment may have a width W ₂ of about 4 millimeters to about 6 millimeters. The second compartment of the cartridge may have a height H ₂ of about 0.5 millimeters to about 2.5 millimeters.

The second compartment of the cartridge may have any suitable cross-sectional shape. For example, the cross-sectional shape of the second compartment may be round, semicircular, elliptical, triangular, square, rectangular, or trapezoidal.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention and a second compartment containing an acid source, the ratio of nicotine to acid required to provide the appropriate reaction stoichiometry can be controlled and balanced by varying the volume of the first compartment relative to the volume of the second compartment.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention, advantageously the first compartment comprises a first air inlet and a first air outlet.

The first outlet element for air of the first compartment of the cartridge is located at the proximal end of the first compartment of the cartridge. The first air inlet of the first cartridge compartment is located upstream of the first air outlet of the first cartridge compartment.

In embodiments where the cartridge comprises a second compartment containing an acid source, advantageously the second compartment comprises a second air inlet and a second air outlet.

The second air outlet for the second cartridge compartment is located at the proximal end of the second cartridge compartment. The second air inlet of the second cartridge compartment is located upstream of the second air outlet of the second cartridge compartment.

In the context of this document regarding the present invention, the term "air inlet" describes one or more openings through which air can be drawn into a component or part of a cartridge component.

In the context of this document regarding the present invention, the term "air outlet" describes one or more openings through which air can be drawn from a component or part of a cartridge component.

The first air inlet of the first cartridge compartment and the second air inlet of the second cartridge compartment may each comprise one or more openings. For example, each of the first air inlet of the first compartment of the cartridge and the second air inlet of the second compartment of the cartridge may comprise one, two, three, four, five, six, or seven openings.

The first air inlet of the first cartridge compartment and the second air inlet of the second cartridge compartment may have the same or different numbers of openings.

Preferably, each of the first air inlet of the first cartridge compartment and the second air inlet of the second cartridge compartment has a plurality of openings. For example, each of the first air inlet for the first compartment of the cartridge and the second air inlet for the second compartment of the cartridge may comprise two, three, four, five, six, or seven openings.

Having a first compartment containing a first air inlet having multiple holes and a second compartment containing a second air inlet having multiple holes can advantageously provide a more uniform air flow within the first compartment and the second compartment, respectively. In use, this can improve nicotine uptake in the airflow drawn through the first compartment and improve acid uptake in the airflow drawn through the second compartment.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing a liquid nicotine formulation according to the present invention and a second compartment containing an acid source, the ratio of nicotine to acid required to provide the appropriate reaction stoichiometry can be controlled and balanced by varying the volume flow air passing through the first compartment of the cartridge relative to the volume flow of air passing through the second compartment of the cartridge. The ratio of the volume flow of air passing through the first compartment to the volume flow of air passing through the second compartment can be adjusted by varying one or more of the number, size, and arrangement of the openings forming the first air inlet of the first cartridge compartment with respect to the number, size, and the arrangement of the holes forming the second inlet element for the air of the second compartment of the cartridge.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine composition of the present invention and a second compartment containing an acid source, advantageously prior to the first use of the cartridge, one or both of the first compartment air inlet and the second air inlet the second compartment air element may be hermetically sealed by one or more removable or frangible baffles. For example, one or both of the first first compartment air inlet and the second second compartment air inlet may be sealed with one or more tear seals or pierceable seals.

The one or more removable or fragile baffles may be made from any suitable material. For example, one or more removable or fragile baffles may be made from a metal foil or film.

Each of the first air outlet of the first cartridge compartment and the second air outlet of the second cartridge compartment may comprise one or more openings. For example, each of the first air outlet of the first cartridge compartment and the second air outlet of the second cartridge compartment may comprise one, two, three, four, five, six, or seven openings.

The first air outlet for the first cartridge compartment and the second air outlet for the second cartridge compartment may have the same or different numbers of openings.

Preferably, each of the first air outlet of the first cartridge compartment and the second air outlet of the second cartridge compartment may comprise a plurality of openings. For example, each of the first air outlet of the first cartridge compartment and the second air outlet of the second cartridge compartment may comprise two, three, four, five, six, or seven openings. The provision of a first compartment containing a first air outlet with multiple holes and a second compartment containing a second air outlet with multiple holes can advantageously provide a more uniform airflow within the first compartment and the second compartment, respectively. In use, this can improve nicotine uptake in the airflow drawn through the first compartment and improve acid uptake in the airflow drawn through the second compartment.

As described above, in embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention and a second compartment containing an acid source, the ratio of nicotine to acid required to provide the appropriate reaction stoichiometry can be controlled and be balanced by changing the volume flow of air passing through the first compartment of the cartridge relative to the volume flow of air passing through the second compartment of the cartridge. The ratio of the volume flow of air passing through the first compartment to the volume flow of air passing through the second compartment can be adjusted by varying one or more of the number, size, and arrangement of the openings forming the first air outlet of the first compartment of the cartridge with respect to the number, size, and the arrangement of the holes forming the second outlet element for the air of the second compartment of the cartridge.

Prior to the first use of the cartridge, one or both of the first first compartment air outlet and the second second compartment air outlet may be sealed with one or more removable or frangible baffles. For example, one or both of the first first compartment air outlet and the second second compartment air outlet may be sealed with one or more tear seals or pierceable seals.

The one or more removable or fragile baffles may be made from any suitable material. For example, one or more removable or fragile baffles may be made from a metal foil or film.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention and a second compartment containing an acid source, the first compartment and the second compartment may be sequentially positioned within the cartridge.

In the context of this document with respect to the present invention, "in series" means that the first compartment and the second compartment are located within the cartridge such that, in use, the airflow drawn through the cartridge passes through one of the first compartment and the second compartment, and then passes through the other of the cartridges. first section and second section. Nicotine vapor and glycerol vapor are released from the nicotine source in the first compartment into the airflow drawn through the cartridge, and acid vapor is released from the acid source in the second compartment into the airflow drawn through the cartridge. The nicotine vapor reacts with the acid vapor in the gas phase to form an aerosol. As described above, the user feels that the perceived astringency of the aerosol is weaker due to the presence of glycerin in the aerosol.

Where the first compartment and the second compartment are arranged in series within the cartridge, the second compartment may be arranged upstream of the first compartment such that, in use, airflow drawn through the cartridge passes into the first compartment through the first air inlet, passes through the first compartment and exits the first compartment through the first air outlet, and then passes into the second compartment through the second air inlet, passes through the second compartment, and exits the second compartment through the second air outlet. In such embodiments, the nicotine vapor may react with the acid vapor in the second compartment to form an aerosol. In such embodiments, the cartridge may further comprise a third compartment located downstream of the second compartment and in fluid communication with the second air outlet of the second compartment. The nicotine vapor can react with the acid vapor in the third compartment to form an aerosol.

Alternatively, where the first compartment and the second compartment are in series within the cartridge, the second compartment may be positioned upstream of the first compartment such that, in use, airflow drawn through the cartridge passes into the second compartment through the second air inlet, passes through the second compartment and exits the second compartment through the second air outlet, and then passes into the first compartment through the first air inlet, passes through the first compartment, and exits the first compartment through the first air outlet. In such embodiments, the acid vapor may react with the nicotine vapor in the second compartment to form an aerosol. In such embodiments, the cartridge may further comprise a third compartment located downstream of the first compartment and in fluid communication with the first air outlet of the first compartment. The acid vapor can react with the nicotine vapor in the third compartment to form an aerosol.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention and a second compartment containing an acid source, advantageously the first compartment and the second compartment are arranged parallel to each other within the cartridge.

In the context of this document with respect to the present invention, by "parallel" is meant that the first compartment and the second compartment are located within the cartridge such that, in use, the first airflow drawn through the cartridge passes into the first compartment through the first air inlet, flows downstream through the first compartment and exits the first compartment through the first air outlet, and the second airflow drawn through the cartridge passes into the second compartment through the second air inlet, flows downstream through the second compartment and exits the second compartment through the second outlet for air. Nicotine vapor and glycerol vapor are released from the nicotine source in the first compartment into the first airflow drawn through the cartridge, and acid vapor is released from the acid source in the second compartment into the second airflow drawn through the cartridge. The nicotine vapor in the first air stream reacts with the acid vapor in the second air stream in the gas phase to form an aerosol. As described above, the user feels that the perceived astringency of the aerosol is weaker due to the presence of glycerin in the aerosol.

In such embodiments, the cartridge may further comprise a third compartment located downstream of the first compartment and the second compartment and in fluid communication with the first air outlet of the first compartment and the second air outlet of the second compartment. The nicotine vapor in the first air stream may react with the acid vapor in the second air stream in the third compartment to form an aerosol.

In embodiments where the cartridge further comprises a third compartment, the third compartment may contain one or more aerosol modifying agents. For example, the third compartment may contain one or more sorbents, one or more flavors, one or more receptacles, or a combination thereof.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention and a second compartment containing an acid source, the first compartment and the second compartment may be located within the cartridge symmetrically with respect to each other.

Advantageously, the cartridge is an oblong cartridge. In embodiments where the cartridge is an oblong cartridge, the first compartment and the second compartment of the cartridge may be arranged symmetrically about the longitudinal axis of the cartridge.

The cartridge may be in any suitable shape. For example, the cartridge may be generally cylindrical.

The cartridge may have any suitable cross-sectional shape. For example, the cross-sectional shape of the cartridge may be round, semicircular, elliptical, triangular, square, rectangular, or trapezoidal.

The cartridge may be of any suitable size.

For example, the cartridge may have a length of from about 5 millimeters to about 50 millimeters. Advantageously, the cartridge may have a length of from about 10 millimeters to about 20 millimeters.

For example, the cartridge may have a width of about 4 millimeters to about 10 millimeters and a height of about 4 millimeters to about 10 millimeters. Advantageously, the cartridge may have a width of about 6 millimeters to about 8 millimeters and a height of about 6 millimeters to about 8 millimeters.

The cartridge may include a body and one or more end caps.

The cartridge may include a body and a distal end cap.

The cartridge may include a body and a proximal end cap.

The cartridge may include a body, a distal end cap, and a proximal end cap.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention, a second compartment containing an acid source, and a distal end cap, one or more openings may be provided in the distal end cap to form a first inlet. an air element for the first compartment of the cartridge; and one or more openings defining a second air inlet element for the air of the second compartment of the cartridge.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention, a second compartment containing an acid source, and a proximal end cap, one or more openings may be provided in the proximal end cap to form a first outlet. an air element for the first compartment of the cartridge; and one or more openings defining a second air outlet for the air of the second compartment of the cartridge.

The cartridge may be made from any suitable material or combination of materials. Suitable materials include, but are not limited to, aluminum, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyimides such as Kapton®, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene (PE), high density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyoxymethylene (POM), epoxy resins, polyurethane resins, vinyl resins, liquid crystal polymers (LCP) and modified LCPs such as graphite fiber or glass fiber LCPs.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a body and one or more end caps, the body and one or more end caps may be made from the same or different materials.

The cartridge may be made from one or more materials that are nicotine resistant and acid resistant.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention, the first compartment of the cartridge may be coated with one or more nicotine resistant materials.

In embodiments in which the cartridge contains a second compartment containing an acid source, the second compartment of the cartridge may be coated with one or more acid-resistant materials.

Examples of suitable nicotine resistant materials and acid resistant materials may include, but are not limited to, polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), epoxy resins, polyurethane resins, vinyl resins, and combinations thereof.

The use of one or more nicotine-resistant materials for one or both of the preparation of the cartridge and the coating of the interior of the first compartment of the cartridge can advantageously increase the shelf life of the cartridge.

The use of one or more acid-resistant materials for one or both of the manufacture of the cartridge and the coating of the interior of the second compartment of the cartridge can advantageously increase the shelf life of the cartridge.

The cartridge may be made from one or more thermally conductive materials.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention, the first cartridge compartment and the second cartridge compartment may be coated with one or more thermally conductive materials.

The use of one or more thermally conductive materials for one or both of producing the cartridge and coating the inside of the first compartment of the cartridge can advantageously increase heat transfer to the nicotine source from the heating element.

In embodiments in which the cartridge contains a second compartment containing an acid source, the second compartment of the cartridge may be coated with one or more thermally conductive materials.

The use of one or more thermally conductive materials for one or both of forming the cartridge and coating the inside of the second compartment of the cartridge can advantageously increase heat transfer to the acid source from the heating element.

Suitable thermally conductive materials include, but are not limited to, metals such as, for example, aluminum, chromium, copper, gold, iron, nickel and silver, alloys such as brass and steel, and combinations thereof.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention and a second compartment containing an acid source, the cartridge may be made from one or more low resistivity or high resistivity materials depending on on whether the first compartment and the second compartment are heated by conduction or induction.

The first cartridge compartment and the second cartridge compartment may be coated with one or more low resistivity or high resistivity materials depending on whether the first compartment and the second compartment are heated by conduction or induction.

The cartridge may be made in any suitable manner. Suitable methods include, but are not limited to, deep drawing, injection molding, expansion, blow molding, and extrusion.

In embodiments in which the cartridge contains a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine composition of the present invention, the cartridge can be configured to be removed when the liquid nicotine composition is depleted.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing a liquid nicotine formulation according to the present invention and a second compartment containing an acid source, the cartridge may be removable when the liquid nicotine formulation in the first compartment and the acid in the second departments are exhausted.

The cartridge may be refillable.

The cartridge may include a heating element configured to heat the nicotine source.

In embodiments where the cartridge comprises a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine composition of the present invention and an acid source, the cartridge may include a heating element configured to heat the nicotine source and the acid source.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention, the cartridge may include a heating element configured to heat the first compartment.

In embodiments where the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention and a second compartment containing an acid source, the cartridge may include a heating element configured to heat the first compartment and the second compartment.

In such embodiments, the implementation of the heating element is mainly located between the first compartment and the second compartment. That is, the first compartment and the second compartment are located on both sides of the heating element.

The heating element may be an electrical heating element. The heating element may comprise a resistive heating element.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention and a second compartment containing an acid source, advantageously the heating element is configured to heat the first compartment and the second compartment of the cartridge to a temperature lower than about 250 degrees Celsius. Preferably, the heating element is configured to heat the first compartment and the second compartment of the cartridge to a temperature of from about 80 degrees Celsius to about 150 degrees Celsius.

Preferably, the heating element is configured to heat the first compartment and the second compartment of the cartridge to generally the same temperature.

In the context of this document regarding the present invention, "generally the same temperature" means that the difference in temperature between the first compartment and the second compartment of the cartridge, measured at the respective locations relative to the heating element, is less than about 3°C.

In use, heating the first compartment and the second compartment of the cartridge to a temperature above ambient temperature advantageously allows the nicotine vapor concentrations in the first cartridge compartment and the acid vapor pressure in the second cartridge compartment to be proportionally controlled and balanced to provide effective stoichiometry for the reaction between nicotine and acid. Advantageously, this can improve the aerosol generation efficiency and the stability of the aerosol delivery to the user. Advantageously, this may also reduce the delivery of unreacted nicotine and unreacted acid to the user.

Advantageously, the cartridge may include a cavity for receiving a heating element configured to heat the nicotine source.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention, the cartridge may include a cavity for receiving a heating element configured to heat the first compartment.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention and an acid source, advantageously the cartridge may include a cavity for receiving a heating element configured to heat the nicotine source and the acid source.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention and a second compartment containing an acid source, advantageously the cartridge may include a cavity for receiving a heating element configured to heat the first compartment and the second compartment. . In such embodiments, the cavity is preferably located between the first compartment and the second compartment. That is, the first compartment and the second compartment are located on both sides of the cavity.

Advantageously, the cavity extends from the distal end of the cartridge at least partially along the length of the cartridge.

Advantageously, the cavity extends along the longitudinal axis of the cartridge.

The cavity may extend from the distal end of the cartridge to the proximal end of the cartridge. In such embodiments, the cavity has an open distal end and an open proximal end.

The cavity may extend from the distal end of the cartridge partially along the length of the cartridge. In such embodiments, the cavity has an open distal end and a closed proximal end.

The cavity may be closed along its length.

The cavity may be at least partially open along its length. This may advantageously facilitate the insertion of the heating element into the cavity.

Advantageously, the cartridge may comprise a current collector for inductively heating the nicotine source.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention, the cartridge may include a current collector for inductively heating the first compartment.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention and an acid source, advantageously the cartridge may comprise a current collector for inductively heating the nicotine source and the acid source.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention and a second compartment containing an acid source, advantageously the cartridge may include a current collector for inductively heating the first compartment and the second compartment. In such embodiments, the current collector is preferably located between the first compartment and the second compartment. That is, the first compartment and the second compartment are located on both sides of the current collector.

The present invention also provides an aerosol generating system comprising: a cartridge according to the present invention; and an aerosol generating device comprising: a housing defining a device cavity configured to accommodate at least a portion of the cartridge; and a heating element for heating the cartridge.

The aerosol generating system may advantageously comprise a disposable cartridge according to the present invention and a reusable aerosol generating device comprising a housing defining a device cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the cartridge and a heating element for heating the cartridge.

The heating element may be an electrical heating element. The heating element may comprise a resistive heating element.

The heating element may be an induction heating element. The induction heating element may comprise an induction coil. In such embodiments, the induction heating element may advantageously surround at least a portion of the device cavity in the aerosol generating device.

In such embodiments, during use, the induction heating element generates an alternating magnetic field to generate eddy currents and hysteresis losses in the current collector in the cartridge to heat the current collector and thereby heat the cartridge. For example, during use in embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention and a second compartment containing an acid source, the induction heating element generates an alternating magnetic field to generate eddy currents and power loss. hysteresis in the pantograph in the cartridge to ensure heating of the pantograph and thereby heating of the first compartment and the second compartment of the cartridge.

The heating element may be positioned within a device cavity in the aerosol generating device.

Advantageously, the heating element may be positioned within a device cavity in the aerosol generating device, and the cartridge may comprise a cavity for receiving the heating element described above. In use, a heating element is placed within the cavity of the cartridge and heats the cartridge. For example, when used in embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine composition of the present invention and a second compartment containing an acid source, a heating element is placed within the cavity of the cartridge and heats the first compartment and the second compartment of the cartridge.

In such embodiments, the heating element of the aerosol generating device may advantageously be an elongated heater blade heating element with a width that is greater than its thickness, and the cavity of the cartridge may be formed as an elongated slit.

The heating element may surround at least a portion of the cavity of the device.

In such embodiments, the implementation of the heating element may be located surrounding at least part of the cartridge, when at least part of the cartridge is located within the cavity of the device.

Advantageously, in embodiments where the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention and a second compartment containing an acid source, the heating element may be an induction coil and the cartridge may comprise a current collector for inductively heating the first compartment. and a second cartridge compartment as described above.

Advantageously, the heating element is configured to heat the first compartment and the second compartment of the cartridge to a temperature lower than about 250 degrees Celsius. Preferably, the heating element is configured to heat the first compartment and the second compartment of the cartridge to a temperature of from about 80 degrees Celsius to about 150 degrees Celsius.

Preferably, the heating element is configured to heat the first compartment and the second compartment of the cartridge to generally the same temperature.

In the context of this document regarding the present invention, by "generally the same temperature" is meant that the difference in temperature between the first compartment and the second compartment of the cartridge, measured at the respective locations relative to the heating element, is less than about 3 degrees Celsius.

In use, heating the first compartment and the second compartment of the cartridge to a temperature above ambient temperature advantageously allows the nicotine vapor concentrations in the first cartridge compartment and the acid vapor pressure in the second cartridge compartment to be proportionally controlled and balanced to provide effective stoichiometry for the reaction between nicotine and acid. Advantageously, this can improve the aerosol generation efficiency and the stability of the aerosol delivery to the user. Advantageously, this may also reduce the delivery of unreacted nicotine and unreacted acid to the user.

The aerosol generating system may further comprise a power supply for supplying power to the heating element and a controller configured to control the supply of power from the power supply to the heating element.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention and a second compartment containing an acid source, the aerosol generating device may include one or more temperature sensors configured to monitor the temperature of the heating element. element and temperature of the first compartment and the second compartment of the cartridge. In such embodiments, the controller may be configured to adjust the power supply to the heating element based on the monitored temperature.

The aerosol generating system may further comprise a mouthpiece.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing a liquid nicotine composition according to the present invention and a second compartment containing an acid source, nicotine vapor released from the nicotine source in the first compartment of the cartridge and acid vapor released from the source acids in the second compartment of the cartridge can react with each other in the gas phase in the mouthpiece to form an aerosol.

The mouthpiece may be configured to be engaged with the cartridge.

In embodiments in which the mouthpiece is operable to engage with the cartridge, the cartridge and mouthpiece combination may follow the shape and dimensions of a combustible smoking article such as a cigarette, cigar or cigarillo. Advantageously, in such embodiments, the combination of cartridge and mouthpiece can follow the shape and dimensions of a cigarette.

The mouthpiece may be configured to be engaged with the housing of the aerosol generating device.

The mouthpiece can be configured to be removed after the liquid nicotine composition in the nicotine source of the cartridge has been depleted.

In embodiments in which the cartridge comprises a first compartment containing a nicotine source containing a liquid nicotine composition according to the present invention and a second compartment containing an acid source, the mouthpiece may be configured to remove after exhaustion of nicotine in the first compartment and acid in the second compartment.

The mouthpiece may be reusable. In embodiments where the mouthpiece is reusable, the mouthpiece may advantageously be removably attachable to the cartridge or body of the aerosol generating device.

For the avoidance of doubt, the features described above in relation to one aspect of the present invention may also be applied to other aspects of the present invention. In particular, the features described above with respect to the liquid nicotine composition of the present invention may also apply to the cartridge of the present invention, as appropriate, and vice versa , and the features described above with respect to the cartridge of the present invention, may also apply, as appropriate, to the system, generating aerosol, according to the present invention, and vice versa .

Hereinafter, by way of example only, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

In FIG. 1 shows a cartridge according to one embodiment of the present invention;

in fig. 2 shows an aerosol generating system according to one embodiment of the present invention; And

In FIG. 3A-C show: the volume percentage of droplets with a particle size of less than 5 microns (FIG. 3A); transmission (Fig. 3B); and the average amount of nicotine delivered per puff in aerosols produced by an aerosol generating system according to the present invention and a comparable aerosol generating system not according to the present invention.

In FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of an elongated cartridge 2 according to one embodiment of the present invention for use in an aerosol generating system for producing an aerosol containing nicotine lactate salt particles.

Cartridge 2 is approximately 15 millimeters long, approximately 7 millimeters wide and approximately 5.2 millimeters high. Cartridge 2 comprises an elongated body 4, a distal end cap 6 and a proximal end cap 8.

The body 4 is approximately 13 millimeters long, approximately 7 millimeters wide and approximately 5.2 millimeters high. The distal end cap 6 and proximal end cap 8 are approximately 2 millimeters long, approximately 7 millimeters wide, and approximately 5.2 millimeters high.

The cartridge 2 comprises an elongated first compartment 10 that extends from the proximal end of the main body 4 to the distal end of the main body 4. The first compartment 10 contains a nicotine source containing a first carrier material 12 impregnated with 18 microliters of a liquid nicotine formulation according to the present invention with a glycerol content of approximately 32 percent by weight and a nicotine content of approximately 68 percent by weight. The weight ratio of nicotine to glycerol in the liquid nicotine formulation is approximately 2.1.

The cartridge 2 includes an elongated second compartment 14 that extends from the proximal end of the main body 4 to the distal end of the main body 4. The second compartment 14 contains a source of lactic acid containing a second carrier material 16 impregnated with approximately 18 microliters of lactic acid.

The first compartment 10 and the second compartment 14 are arranged parallel to each other.

The cartridge 2 further comprises a cavity 18 for receiving a heating element configured to heat the first compartment 10 and the second compartment 14. The cavity 18 is located between the first compartment 10 and the second compartment 14 and extends from the proximal end of the main body 4 to the distal end of the main body 4. The cavity 18 has a cross section that is generally a rectangle with two semicircular sides and is approximately 6.3 millimeters wide and approximately 1 millimeter high.

The distal end cap 6 comprises a first air inlet 20 comprising a row of three spaced holes and a second air inlet 22 comprising a row of five spaced holes. Each of the openings defining the first air inlet 20 and the second air inlet 22 is generally circular in cross section and has a diameter of approximately 0.3 millimeters.

The far end cap 6 further comprises a third inlet 24 located between the first air inlet 20 and the second air inlet 22. The third inlet 24 has a cross section that is generally rectangular with two semicircular sides and is approximately 6.3 millimeters wide and approximately 1 millimeter high.

The proximal end cap 8 comprises a first air outlet 26 comprising a row of three spaced holes and a second air outlet 28 comprising a row of five spaced holes. Each of the openings defining the first air outlet 26 and the second air outlet 28 is generally circular in cross section and has a diameter of approximately 0.3 millimeters.

As shown in FIG. 1, to obtain a cartridge 2, the proximal end cap 8 is inserted into the proximal end of the body 4 so that the first air outlet 26 is aligned with the first compartment 10 and the second air outlet 28 is aligned with the second compartment 14.

The first carrier material 12 impregnated with liquid nicotine formulation is inserted into the first compartment 10 and the second carrier material 16 impregnated with lactic acid is inserted into the second compartment 14.

The distal end cap 6 is then inserted into the distal end of the body 4 such that the first air inlet 20 is aligned with the first compartment 10, the second air inlet 22 is aligned with the second compartment 14, and the third air inlet 24 is aligned with cavity 18.

The first compartment 10 and the second compartment 14 are generally the same shape and size. The first compartment 10 and the second compartment 14 are generally rectangular in cross section and are approximately 11 millimeters long, approximately 4.3 millimeters wide, and approximately 1 millimeter high.

The first carrier material 12 and the second carrier material 16 comprise a PET/PBT nonwoven sheet and are generally of the same shape and dimensions. The shape and dimensions of the first carrier material 12 and the second carrier material 16 are similar to the shape and dimensions of the first compartment 10 and the second compartment 14 of the cartridge 2, respectively.

The first air inlet 20 is in fluid communication with the first air outlet 26 such that the first air flow can pass into the cartridge 2 through the first air inlet 20, through the first compartment 10, and out of the cartridge 2 through the first outlet. 26 for air. The second air inlet 22 is in fluid communication with the second air outlet 28 such that a second airflow can pass into the cartridge 2 through the second air inlet 22, through the second compartment 14, and out of the cartridge 2 through the second outlet. 28 for air.

Prior to the first use of the cartridge 2, the first air inlet 20 and the second air inlet 22 may be hermetically sealed by a removable tear-off seal or a pierceable seal (not shown) attached to the outer surface of the distal end cap 6. Similarly, prior to the first use of the cartridge 2, the first outlet the air element 26 and the second air outlet 28 may be hermetically sealed with a removable tear-off seal or a pierceable seal (not shown) attached to the outer surface of the proximal end cap 8.

In FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of an aerosol generating system 200 according to one embodiment of the present invention for producing an aerosol containing nicotine lactate salt particles.

The aerosol generating system comprises an aerosol generating device 202, a cartridge 2 according to the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 1, and mouthpiece 204.

The aerosol generating device 202 includes a housing 206 defining a cavity 208 of the device configured to receive the cartridge 2 and a heating element (not shown) configured to heat both the first compartment 10 and the second compartment 14 of the cartridge 2.

The heating element is a single elongated electric heating element. The heating element is located within the device cavity 208 in the aerosol generating device 202 and extends along the longitudinal axis of the device cavity 208. The aerosol generating device 202 further comprises a power supply and a controller (not shown) for controlling the supply of power from the power supply to the heating element.

When the cartridge 2 is inserted into the device cavity 208 in the aerosol generating device 202, the heating element passes through the third inlet 24 of the distal end cap 106 of the cartridge 2 and is located in the cavity 18 located between the first compartment 10 and the second compartment 14 of the cartridge 2. During use the controller of the aerosol generating device 202 controls the supply of power from the power supply of the aerosol generating device 202 to the heating element to heat the first compartment 10 and the second compartment 14 of the cartridge 2 to generally the same temperature of approximately 115°C.

When the cartridge 2 is inserted into the device cavity 208 in the aerosol generating device 202, the distal end of the mouthpiece 204 is connected to the proximal end of the body 206 of the aerosol generating device 202.

In use, the user draws through the proximal end of the mouthpiece 204 to draw the first airflow through the first compartment 10 of the cartridge 2 and the second airflow through the second compartment 14 of the cartridge 2. As the first airflow is drawn through the first compartment 10 of the cartridge 2, from the first carrier material 12, nicotine and glycerin vapor is released into the first air stream. As the second airflow is drawn through the second compartment 14 of the cartridge 2, lactic acid vapor is released from the second carrier material 16 into the second airflow.

The nicotine vapor in the first air stream and the lactic acid vapor in the second air stream react with each other in the gas phase in the mouthpiece 204 to form an aerosol of nicotine lactate salt particles, which is delivered to the user through the proximal end of the mouthpiece 204. As described above, the user feels that the astringency of the aerosol felt by him is weaker due to the presence of glycerin in the aerosol.

In one alternative embodiment (not shown), the distal end of the mouthpiece 204 may be configured to engage the proximal end of the cartridge 2 rather than the proximal end of the housing 206 of the aerosol generating device 202.

In the aerosol generating system of the present invention shown in FIG. 2, the aerosol generating device 202 includes a heating element within the cavity 208 of the device, and the cartridge 2 includes a cavity 18 for receiving the heating element. In one alternative embodiment (not shown), instead of a heating element accommodating cavity configured to heat the first compartment and the second compartment, the cartridge may include a heating element positioned between the first compartment and the second compartment. In this alternative embodiment, the aerosol generating device may be configured to energize the heating element of the cartridge through one or more heating element connection points at the distal end of the cartridge.

In the aerosol generating system of the present invention shown in FIG. 2, the aerosol generating device 202 includes an electrical heating element within the cavity 208 of the device, and the cartridge 2 includes a cavity 18 for receiving the heating element. In one alternative embodiment (not shown), aerosol generating device 202 may include an induction heating element extending around the device cavity 208, and cartridge 2 may include a current collector located within cavity 18. In this alternative embodiment, during use, the controller The aerosol generating device 202 controls the power supply from the power supply of the aerosol generating device 202 to the induction heating element to heat the current collector inside the cavity 18 of the cartridge 2. After heating, the current collector heats the first compartment 10 and the second compartment 14 of the cartridge 2.

Example

In FIG. 3A-C show: the volume percentage of droplets with a particle size of less than 5 microns (FIG. 3A); transmission (Fig. 3B); and the average amount of nicotine delivered per puff in aerosols produced by an aerosol generating system according to the present invention and a comparable aerosol generating system not according to the present invention.

The aerosol generating system of the present invention comprises a cartridge of the present invention comprising: a first compartment containing a nicotine source, wherein the nicotine source comprises a first carrier material impregnated with 18 microliters of the liquid nicotine formulation of the present invention containing 5 microliters (6.3 milligrams ) glycerin and 13 microliters (13.13 milligrams) of nicotine; and a second compartment containing an acid source, wherein the acid source contains a second carrier material impregnated with 18 microliters of lactic acid.

A comparable aerosol generating system according to the present invention comprises a non-inventive cartridge comprising: a first compartment containing a nicotine source, the nicotine source comprising a first carrier material impregnated with 13 microliters (13.13 milligrams) of nicotine; and a second compartment containing an acid source, wherein the acid source contains a second carrier material impregnated with 18 microliters of lactic acid.

Other than the liquid nicotine formulation in the nicotine source, all features of the aerosol generating system of the present invention and the comparable aerosol generating system of the present invention are identical.

Collect aerosols produced by aerosol generating systems according to a Health Canada smoking regimen (12 puffs of 2 seconds, each with a puff volume of 55 milliliters, with an interval of 30 seconds between puffs), and use standard techniques to measure droplet volume percent. with a particle size of less than 5 microns (Fig. 3A), transmission (Fig. 3B) and the average amount of nicotine delivered per puff. During the tests, the cartridges of the aerosol generating systems are heated by a heating element which is controlled to provide a steady temperature of 115°C. Before puffing, a preheat period of 1 minute is allowed to allow a steady temperature to be reached.

The results shown in FIG. 3A-C are the means of 4 trials. In FIG. 3A-3C, results for an aerosol generating system according to the present invention are shown in left columns, and results for a comparable aerosol generating system not according to the present invention are shown in right columns.

The observed perceived astringency of the aerosol produced by the aerosol generating system according to the present invention and the aerosol produced by the aerosol generating system not according to the present invention is also evaluated.

The perceived astringency of the aerosol produced by the aerosol generating system according to the present invention is advantageously felt to be weaker than the astringency of the aerosol produced by the aerosol generating system not according to the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 3A and 3B, the volume percentage of droplets with a particle size of less than 5 microns (FIG. 3A) and transmission, which is a measure of the total number of droplets in a puff, (FIG. 3B) of the aerosol produced by the aerosol generating system according to the present invention are the same , as in an aerosol produced by an aerosol generating system not according to the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 3C, delivery of nicotine in a puff in the case of an aerosol produced by an aerosol generating system according to the present invention is advantageously higher than that of an aerosol produced by an aerosol generating system not according to the present invention.

Claims (19)

1. A cartridge for use in an aerosol generating system, wherein the cartridge contains a nicotine source containing a liquid nicotine formulation, wherein the liquid nicotine formulation contains at least 10 percent glycerol by weight and nicotine, wherein the weight ratio of nicotine to glycerol is liquid nicotine composition is from 3:2 to 9:1. 2. Cartridge according to claim. 1, characterized in that the weight ratio of nicotine to glycerol in the liquid nicotine composition is at least 9:5. 3. Cartridge according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the weight ratio of nicotine to glycerol in the liquid nicotine composition is less than or equal to 8:1. 4. The cartridge according to any one of paragraphs. 1-3, characterized in that the weight ratio of nicotine to glycerol in the liquid nicotine composition is from 3:2 to 4:1. 5. Cartridge according to any one of paragraphs. 1-4, characterized in that the content of nicotine in the liquid nicotine composition is from 60 percent by weight to 90 percent by weight. 6. The cartridge according to any one of paragraphs. 1-5, characterized in that the content of glycerin in the liquid nicotine composition is from 10 percent by weight to 30 percent by weight. 7. Cartridge according to any one of paragraphs. 1-6, characterized in that the content of nicotine in the liquid nicotine composition is at least 70 percent by weight. 8. The cartridge according to any one of paragraphs. 1-7, characterized in that the content of glycerol and the content of nicotine in the liquid nicotine composition together constitute at least 95 percent by weight. 9. The cartridge according to any one of paragraphs. 1-8, characterized in that the liquid nicotine composition contains one or more flavors. 10. The cartridge according to any one of paragraphs. 1-9, characterized in that the source of nicotine contains the first carrier material impregnated with a liquid nicotine composition. 11. A cartridge according to claim 10, characterized in that the first carrier material is impregnated with an amount of liquid nicotine composition ranging from 10 microliters to 25 microliters. 12. The cartridge according to any one of paragraphs. 1-11, characterized in that it additionally contains a source of acid. 13. Cartridge according to claim 12, characterized in that the source of acid contains a second carrier material impregnated with acid. 14. Cartridge according to claim 13, characterized in that the second carrier material is impregnated with an amount of acid ranging from 10 microliters to 25 microliters. 15. An aerosol generating system, comprising: cartridge according to any one of paragraphs. 1-14; And an aerosol generating device, comprising: a housing having a device cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the cartridge; And heating element for heating the cartridge.

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