TW202432008A - An aerosol generating material - Google Patents

Abstract

Described herein is an aerosol generating material comprising: a fibrous material, nicotine benzoate, and glycerol, methods of preparing the same, and an article and delivery system comprising the same.

Description

Aerosol Generating Materials

Invention Field

The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating material including a fiber material and a non-flammable aerosol supply system including the aerosol generating material.

Invention Background

The aerosol generating material is typically heated, such as by a non-flammable aerosol supply system, to form an aerosol that can be inhaled by a consumer. The aerosol generating material can be made from a variety of different sources, including tobacco materials and/or non-tobacco materials.

Summary of the invention

According to a first aspect, an aerosol generating material is described, which includes: a fiber material, nicotine benzoate and glycerin.

According to a second aspect, an aerosol generating rod is described, which includes an aerosol generating material according to the first aspect.

According to a third aspect, a delivery system is described, comprising an aerosol generating material according to the first aspect or an aerosol generating rod according to the second aspect.

According to a fourth aspect, a method for preparing an aerosol generating material is described, the method comprising: extracting and separating a fiber material into an extract and a fiber portion; treating the fiber portion to form a pulp; forming the pulp into a sheet; impregnating the sheet with nicotine benzoate, glycerin, and the extract; and drying the impregnated sheet to form an aerosol generating material.

According to a fifth aspect, an aerosol generating material obtained or obtainable by the method according to the fourth aspect is described.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention relates to an aerosol generating material. The present invention also relates to a method of manufacturing an aerosol generating material, a use of an aerosol generating material, an article used in a delivery system, and a system and a device containing an aerosol generating material.

The aerosol generating material comprises an aerosolizable component. In use, the aerosol generating material generates an aerosol, such as a suspension of liquid droplets or particles in a gas. The aerosol comprises nicotine and other components generated by the aerosol generating material. In use, the user inhales the aerosol. Therefore, it is important that the aerosol generating material generates an aerosol that provides an appropriate user experience and satisfaction.

The composition of the aerosol affects user experience and satisfaction. One attribute that affects user experience and satisfaction is the nicotine content of the aerosol. Another attribute that affects user experience and satisfaction is the perceived irritation of the aerosol. Therefore, it is important to control the nicotine content and irritation of the aerosol.

In some cases, it has been discovered that aerosol generating materials comprising nicotine salts produce aerosols having a favorable perceived irritation. The inventors of the present invention have noted that aerosol generating materials containing pure nicotine (e.g., free base nicotine) produce aerosols with excessively high perceived irritation. Using nicotine salts reduces the perceived irritation to a favorable level.

As used herein, the term "delivery system" is intended to cover systems that deliver substances to a user and includes: Combustible aerosol delivery systems, such as cigarettes, cigarillos, cigars and pipe or rolling tobacco or make-your-own-cigarette tobacco (whether based on tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco substitutes or other inhalable materials); Non-combustible aerosol delivery systems that release compounds from an aerosol generating material without burning the aerosol generating material, such as electronic cigarettes, tobacco heating products and hybrid systems that use a combination of aerosol generating materials to generate aerosols; Non-aerosol delivery systems, such as lozenges, chewing gum, patches, articles containing inhalable powders, and smokeless tobacco products, such as snus and nasal powders, that deliver material to the user without forming an aerosol.

According to the present disclosure, a "combustible" aerosol delivery system is an aerosol delivery system in which the constituent aerosol generating materials of the aerosol delivery system (or its components) are combusted or ignited during use to facilitate the delivery of at least one substance to a user.

In some embodiments, the delivery system is a combustible aerosol supply system, such as a system selected from the group consisting of cigarettes, cigarillos, and cigars.

In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to components for use in a flammable aerosol delivery system, such as filters, filter rods, filter segments, tobacco rods, empty tubes, aerosol modifier release components (such as capsules, threads or beads) or paper (such as plug wrap, tipping paper or rolling paper).

According to the present disclosure, a "non-flammable" aerosol delivery system is an aerosol delivery system in which the constituent aerosol generating materials of the aerosol delivery system (or its components) do not burn or ignite to facilitate delivery to a user.

In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-flammable aerosol supply system, such as a powered non-flammable aerosol supply system.

In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol delivery system is an electronic cigarette, also known as an electronic smoking device or an electronic tobacco delivery system.

In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol supply system is a tobacco heating system, also known as a heat-not-burn system.

In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol supply system is a hybrid system that generates an aerosol using a combination of aerosol generating materials, one or more of which may be heated. Each of the aerosol generating materials may be, for example, in solid, liquid, or gel form. In some embodiments, the hybrid system includes a liquid or gel aerosol generating material and a solid aerosol generating material. The solid aerosol generating material may include, for example, a tobacco material or a non-tobacco product.

Typically, a non-flammable aerosol supply system may include a non-flammable aerosol supply device (also referred to herein as an aerosol generating device), and consumables for use with the non-flammable aerosol supply system.

In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to consumables that include aerosol generating materials and are configured to be used with a non-flammable aerosol supply device. Throughout the present disclosure, these consumables are sometimes referred to as objects.

In some embodiments, it is contemplated that a consumable that itself includes components for powering an aerosol generating assembly may itself form a non-flammable aerosol supply system.

In some embodiments, a non-flammable aerosol supply system may include a power source and a controller. The power source may be an electrical power source or a thermal power source. In some embodiments, the thermal power source includes a carbon matrix that can be stimulated to distribute electricity in the form of heat to an aerosol generating material or a heat transfer material proximate to the thermal power source. In some embodiments, a power source such as a thermal power source is provided in an article to form a non-flammable aerosol supply system.

In some embodiments, a non-flammable aerosol supply system may include an area for receiving consumables, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating area, a housing, a nozzle, a filter, and/or an aerosol modifier.

In some embodiments, consumables for use with a non-flammable aerosol supply device may include an aerosol generating material, an aerosol generating material storage area, an aerosol generating material transfer assembly, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating area, a housing, a covering, a filter, a nozzle and/or an aerosol modifier.

In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered comprises an active substance. As used herein, an active substance may be a physiologically active material, which is a material intended to achieve or enhance a physiological response. The active substance may be selected, for example, from a nutraceutical, a nootropic, a psychoactive agent. The active substance may be naturally occurring or obtained synthetically. The active substance may comprise, for example, niacin, caffeine, taurine, theophylline, vitamins (e.g., B6 or B12 or C), melatonin, cannabinoids, or components, derivatives, or combinations thereof. The active substance may comprise one or more components, derivatives, or extracts of tobacco, cannabis, or another plant material.

In some embodiments, the active substance is a legally permitted recreational drug.

In some embodiments, the active substance comprises niacin. In some embodiments, the active substance comprises caffeine, melatonin, or vitamin B12.

As referred to herein, an active substance may comprise one or more components, derivatives or extracts of cannabis, such as one or more cannabinoids or terpenes.

The active substance may be CBD, or a derivative thereof.

As used herein, the term "plant material" includes any material derived from a plant, including but not limited to extracts, leaves, bark, fibers, stems, roots, seeds, flowers, fruits, pollen, husks, shells, or the like. Alternatively, the material may contain active compounds naturally present in the plant material, obtained synthetically. The material may be in the form of a liquid, gas, solid, powder, dust, crushed particles, granules, pellets, chips, strips, flakes, or the like. Exemplary botanical materials are tobacco, eucalyptus, star anise, hemp, cocoa, cannabis, fennel, lemongrass, peppermint, spearmint, rooibos, chamomile, flax, ginger, ginkgo, hazel, hibiscus, laurel, licorice, matcha, mate, orange peel, papaya, rose, sage, teas such as green or black tea, thyme, cloves, cinnamon, coffee, aniseed (aniseed), basil, bay leaf, cardamom, coriander, cumin, nutmeg, oregano, paprika , rosemary, saffron, lavender, lemon peel, mint, juniper, elderflower, vanilla, wintergreen, basil, turmeric, turmeric, sandalwood, cilantro, bergamot, orange blossom, myrtle, black currant, valerian, pimento, cardamom, damian, marjoram, olive, lemongrass, lemon basil, chives, kudzu, verbena, tarragon, geranium, mulberry, ginseng, theanine, theanine, maca, ashwagandha, damiana, guarana, chlorophyll, baobab, or any combination thereof. The mint may be selected from the following mint varieties: wild mint (Mentha arvensis), mint cultivar (Mentha c.v.), Egyptian mint (Mentha niliaca), hot mint (Mentha piperita), lemon hot mint cultivar (Mentha piperita citrata c.v.), hot mint cultivar (Mentha piperita c.v.), Moroccan mint (Mentha spicata crispa), heart mint (Mentha cordifolia), horse mint (Mentha longifolia), pineapple mint (Mentha suaveolens variegata), lip mint (Mentha pulegium), spearmint cultivar (Mentha spicata c.v.) and apple mint (Mentha suaveolens).

In some embodiments, the active ingredient comprises or is derived from one or more plant materials or components, derivatives or extracts thereof, and the plant material is selected from eucalyptus, cocoa and hemp.

In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or is derived from one or more plant materials or components, derivatives or extracts thereof, and the plant material is selected from star anise, rooibos tea and fennel.

In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered includes a flavoring agent.

As used herein, the terms "flavoring agent" and "flavoring agent" refer to materials that may be used to produce a desired taste, aroma or other sensory sensation in products intended for adult consumers, as permitted by local regulations. They may include naturally occurring flavoring materials, plant materials, extracts of plant materials, synthetically obtained materials, or combinations thereof (e.g., tobacco, cannabis, licorice, hydrangea, eugenol, Japanese white magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, maple, matcha, menthol, Japanese mint, anise seed (anise), cinnamon, turmeric, Indian spices, Asian spices, herbs, wintergreen, cherry, berry, cranberry, cranberry, peach, apple, orange, mango, clementine, lemon, lime, tropical fruit, Papaya, rhubarb, grapes, durian, dragon fruit, cucumber, blueberry, mulberry, citrus fruits, Drambuie, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, gin, tequila, rum, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, aloe, cardamom, celery, kaleidoscopic bark, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, khat, naswar, betel nut, tobacco, pine, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, neroli , cherry blossom, cinnamon, kudzu, cognac, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sage, fennel, horseradish, allspice, ginger, cilantro, coffee, hemp, peppermint oil from any species of the genus Mentha, eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, lemongrass, rooibos, flax, ginkgo, hazel, hibiscus, laurel, mate, orange peel, rose, teas such as green or black, thyme, juniper, elderflower, basil, bay leaf, cumin, oregano, red pepper, rosemary, saffron, lemon peel, mint, basil, turmeric, cilantro, myrtle, black currant, valerian, pimento, mace, damson, marjoram, olive, lemongrass, lemon basil, chives, kudzu, verbena, tarragon, limonene, thymol, camphene), flavor enhancers, bitter taste receptor site blockers, sensory receptor site activators or stimulants, sugars and/or sugar substitutes (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharin, sodium cyclamate, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol), and other additives such as charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, plant-based materials, or breath fresheners. The flavoring agents or seasonings may be imitation, synthetic or natural ingredients or blends thereof. They may be in any suitable form, such as liquid (e.g., oil), solid (e.g., powder) or gas.

In some embodiments, the flavor comprises menthol, spearmint, and/or peppermint. In some embodiments, the flavor comprises a flavor component of cucumber, blueberry, citrus fruit, and/or cranberry. In some embodiments, the flavor comprises eugenol. In some embodiments, the flavor comprises a flavor component extracted from tobacco. In some embodiments, the flavor comprises a flavor component extracted from cannabis, such as terpenes.

In some embodiments, in addition to or in place of smell or taste nerves, flavoring agents may also include sensory agents that are intended to achieve somatosensory sensations that are usually chemically induced and perceived by stimulating the fifth cranial nerve (trigeminal nerve), and these sensory agents may include agents that provide heating, cooling, tingling, numbing effects. Suitable thermal effectors may be, but are not limited to, vanillyl ethyl ether, and suitable cooling agents may be, but are not limited to, eucolyptol, WS-3.

In some embodiments, the flavor comprises menthol, green mint and/or peppermint. In some embodiments, the flavor comprises a flavoring ingredient of berries, citrus fruits and/or tropical fruits. In some embodiments, the flavor may comprise cucumber, blueberry, citrus fruits, pineapple, strawberry and/or cranberry.

In some embodiments, the flavoring agent added to the aerosol generating material can be selected to enhance the basic characteristics of the aerosol generating material. For example, as described herein, it may be preferred that the fiber material does not contain tobacco material but is formed from plant material. In such cases, the plant material can produce a particularly neutral flavor characteristic, such as when using Louis Rooibos tea, fennel, star anise and/or mint in the aerosol generating material. When one or more of these plant materials are used, the flavor can be enhanced when paired with flavoring agents such as: menthol, green mint and/or peppermint; berry fruits, citrus fruits and/or tropical fruits, or any combination of these flavoring agents.

Aerosol-generating materials are materials that are capable of generating an aerosol, for example when heated, irradiated or energized in any other way. Aerosol-generating materials may, for example, be in the form of a solid, liquid or semisolid (e.g., a gel), which may or may not contain active substances and/or flavoring agents.

The aerosol generating material may comprise one or more active substances and/or flavoring agents, one or more aerosol former materials and optionally one or more other functional materials.

The aerosol generating material may comprise or be a continuous sheet of material. The sheet may be in the form of a wrap, it may be gathered to form a gathered sheet or it may be shredded to form a shredded sheet. The shredded sheet may comprise one or more strands or strips of the aerosol generating material.

Aerosols are suspensions of particles of liquid, solid, or both in a gas.

The flakes or shredded flakes comprise a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. The first surface and the second surface are of the same size. The first surface and the second surface of the flakes or shredded flakes may have any shape. For example, the first surface and the second surface may be square, rectangular, oval or circular. Irregular shapes are also contemplated.

The first surface and/or the second surface of the flakes or shredded flakes may be relatively uniform (e.g., they may be relatively smooth), or they may be non-uniform or irregular. For example, the first surface and/or the second surface of the flakes may be textured or patterned to define a relatively rough surface. In some embodiments, the first surface and/or the second surface are relatively rough.

The smoothness of the first and second surfaces may be affected by a number of factors, such as the area density of the flakes or shredded flakes, the nature of the components that make up the aerosolizable material, or whether the surface of the material has been manipulated, such as embossed, scored, or otherwise altered to impart a pattern or texture thereto.

The areas of the first surface and the second surface are each defined by a first dimension (e.g., width) and a second dimension (e.g., length). The measurements of the first dimension and the second dimension may have a ratio of 1:1 or greater than 1:1, and thus the flakes or shredded flakes may have an "aspect ratio" of 1:1 or greater than 1:1. As used herein, the term "aspect ratio" is the ratio of the measurement of a first dimension of the first surface or the second surface to the measurement of a second dimension of the first surface or the second surface. An "aspect ratio of 1:1" means that the measurement of the first dimension (e.g., width) is consistent with the measurement of the second dimension (e.g., length). An "aspect ratio greater than 1:1" means that the measurement of the first dimension (e.g., width) is different from the measurement of the second dimension (e.g., length). In some embodiments, the first and second surfaces of the flakes or shredded flakes have an aspect ratio greater than 1:1, such as 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 1:6, 1:7 or more.

The shredded flakes may include one or more strands or strips of aerosolizable material. In some embodiments, the shredded flakes include multiple (e.g., two or more) strands or strips of aerosolizable material. The strands or strips of aerosolizable material may have an aspect ratio of 1:1. In one embodiment, the strands or strips of aerosolizable material have an aspect ratio greater than 1:1. In some embodiments, the strands or strips of aerosolizable material have an aspect ratio of about 1:5 to about 1:16 or about 1:5, 1:6, 1:7, 1:8, 1:9, 1:10, 1:11, or 1:12. Where the aspect ratio of a strand or strip is greater than 1:1, the strand or strip includes a longitudinal dimension or length extending between a first end of the strand or strip and a second end of the strand or strip.

In the case where the shredded flakes include a plurality of strands or strips of material, the size of each strand or strip may vary between different strands or strips. For example, the shredded flakes may include a first population of strands or strips and a second population of strands or strips, wherein the size of the first population of strands or strips is different from the size of the second population of strands or strips. In other words, the plurality of strands or strips may include a first population of strands or strips having a first aspect ratio and a second population of strands or strips having a second aspect ratio that is different from the first aspect ratio.

The first dimension or cut width of the strand or strip of aerosolizable material is between 0.9 mm and 1.5 mm. The inventors of the present invention have discovered that when a strand or strip of aerosolizable material having a cut width less than 0.9 mm is incorporated into an object for use in a non-flammable aerosol supply system, the pressure drop across the object may be increased to a level that makes the object unsuitable for use in a non-flammable aerosol supply device. However, if the strand or strip has a cut width greater than 2 mm (e.g., greater than 2 mm), it may be challenging to insert the strand or strip of aerosolizable material into the object during the manufacture of the object. In a preferred embodiment, the cut width of the strand or strip of aerosolizable material is between approximately 1 mm and 1.5 mm.

The strands or strips of material are formed by shredding a sheet of aerosolizable material. The sheet of aerosolizable material can be cut transversely, for example in a cross-cutting shredding process, to define the cut length of the strands or strips of aerosolizable material in addition to the cutting width. The cut length of the shredded aerosolizable material is preferably at least 5 mm, for example at least 10 mm or at least 20 mm. The cut length of the shredded aerosolizable material can be less than 60 mm, less than 50 mm or less than 40 mm.

In some embodiments, a plurality of strands or strips of aerosolizable material are provided and at least one of the plurality of strands or strips of aerosolizable material has a length greater than about 10 mm. Alternatively or in addition, at least one of the plurality of strands or strips of aerosolizable material may have a length between about 10 mm and about 60 mm, or between about 20 mm and about 50 mm. Each of the plurality of strands or strips of aerosolizable material may have a length between about 10 mm and about 60 mm, or between about 20 mm and about 50 mm.

A consumable is an object containing or consisting of an aerosol generating material, part or all of which is intended to be consumed by a user during use. In some embodiments, a consumable for use with a non-flammable aerosol supply device may include one or more other components, such as an aerosol generating material storage area, an aerosol generating material transfer assembly, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating area, a housing, a covering, a filter, a nozzle and/or an aerosol modifier. A consumable may also include an aerosol generator, such as a heater, which emits heat during use to cause the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol. The heater may, for example, include a combustible material, a material that can be heated by electrical conduction, or a receptor.

A susceptor is a material that can be heated by penetration with a varying magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field. A susceptor can be a conductive material, such that penetration with a varying magnetic field causes inductive heating of the heated material. A heating material can be a magnetic material, such that penetration with a varying magnetic field causes hysteresis heating of the heated material. A susceptor can be conductive and magnetic, such that the susceptor can be heated by both heating mechanisms. A device configured to generate a varying magnetic field is referred to herein as a magnetic field generator.

The aerosol generator is a heater capable of interacting with an aerosol-generating material to release one or more volatiles from the aerosol-generating material to form an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is capable of generating an aerosol from the aerosol-generating material without applying heat. For example, the aerosol generator is capable of generating an aerosol from the aerosol-generating material without applying heat to the aerosol-generating material, such as via one or more of vibration, mechanical, pressurization, or electrostatic means.

In some embodiments, the fiber material comprises plant material. The fiber material comprising plant material can supplement the flavor characteristics of any aerosol produced. For example, a plant material with a relatively neutral flavor characteristic can be selected. A neutral flavor characteristic can be described as a flavor characteristic with few strong flavors and/or a flavor characteristic that easily accepts the addition of top flavoring agents without affecting its perception. For example, a fiber material containing reconstituted tobacco material can be described as producing an aerosol with a relatively neutral flavor characteristic. It can be advantageous to be able to produce an aerosol with a neutral flavor characteristic similar to reconstituted tobacco but without using tobacco material.

In some embodiments, the fiber material comprises Rooibos Tea.

In some embodiments, the fiber material does not contain Rooibos Tea.

In some embodiments, the fiber material comprises eucalyptus, star anise, hemp, cocoa, cannabis, fennel, lemongrass, peppermint, spearmint, chamomile, flax, ginger, ginkgo, hazel, hibiscus, laurel, licorice, matcha, mate, orange peel, papaya, rose, sage, tea such as green tea or black tea, thyme, cloves, cinnamon, coffee, aniseed (aniseed), basil, bay leaf, cardamom, coriander, cumin, nutmeg, oregano, red pepper, cinnamon ... Rosemary, saffron, lavender, lemon peel, mint, juniper, elderflower, vanilla, wintergreen, basil, turmeric, turmeric, sandalwood, cilantro, bergamot, orange blossom, myrtle, black currant, valerian, pimento, cardamom, damian, marjoram, olive, lemongrass, lemon basil, chives, kudzu, verbena, tarragon, geranium, mulberry, ginseng, theanine, theanine, maca, ashwagandha, damiana, guarana, chlorophyll, baobab, or any combination thereof. The mint may be selected from the following mint varieties: wild mint, mint cultivar, Egyptian mint, hot mint, lemon mint cultivar, hot mint cultivar, Moroccan mint, heart mint, horse mint, pineapple mint, lip-calyx mint, spearmint cultivar and apple mint.

In some embodiments, the fiber material comprises star anise, fennel, or mint, or a mixture thereof.

In some embodiments, the fiber material may be referred to as a substrate. The substrate is preferably made of non-tobacco material so that consumers can reduce their use of tobacco-based materials. However, consumers may wish to maintain the physiological effects provided by nicotine. Therefore, providing a substrate made of non-tobacco plant materials that include nicotine may be of interest to consumers.

In some embodiments, the plant material can be any non-tobacco plant material. For example, the material can be derived from species that are members of the Asteracae family, Fabaceae family, Myrtaceae family, Apiaceae family, Camellia taliensis, Solanaceae family, Brassicaceae family, Caricaceae family, Asclepiadaceae family, Equisetaceae family, Oleaceae family, Lamiaceae family, and herbal teas. For example, the non-tobacco plant material can be selected from species of Matricaria, such as chamomile; species of Pimpinella anisum, such as aniseed; species of Foeniculum vulgare, such as fennel; jasmine; lavender; clove; eucalyptus and species of Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis), such as Rooibos louis.

In some embodiments, the non-tobacco plant material is selected from plant materials that contain favorable odor properties for use in non-combustible aerosol delivery systems. For example, the non-tobacco plant material can contain relatively few odor compounds compared to traditional tobacco materials; therefore, an aerosol produced from the non-tobacco plant material can have a different volatile compound profile than an aerosol produced from tobacco materials. The non-tobacco plant material can deliver an aerosol that is perceived as favorable by consumers of a tobacco-based delivery system. In some embodiments, the non-tobacco plant material can produce an aerosol when heated that has a sensory experience comparable to the experience provided by conventional combustible products (such as cigarettes). In some embodiments, the non-tobacco plant material is selected from plants that produce seeds that do not exhibit persistent woody tissue and which are generally valued for their medicinal or sensory properties. In some embodiments, it may be preferred to provide an aerosol generating material for use in a non-flammable aerosol delivery system that does not contain any tobacco plant material.

As used herein, the term "tobacco material" refers to any material comprising tobacco or a derivative or substitute thereof. The tobacco material may be in any suitable form. The term "tobacco material" may include one or more of the following: tobacco, a tobacco derivative, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco or a tobacco substitute. The tobacco material may include one or more of the following: ground tobacco, tobacco fiber, cut tobacco, extruded tobacco, tobacco stems, tobacco leaves and/or reconstituted tobacco. It is understood that nicotine extracts derived from tobacco material are not considered "tobacco material".

In some embodiments, the fiber material may preferably be free of tobacco material; some consumers may prefer to inhale an aerosol produced from a non-tobacco material while still containing nicotine.

The inventors of the present invention have determined that aerosols generated from an aerosol generating material comprising a fibrous material, nicotine benzoate, and glycerin are particularly advantageous. Specifically, the perceived irritation is at an ideal level and comparable to that provided by known combustible products.

In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material comprises a total fiber material content of between about 70% and about 95% by weight on a dry weight basis. For example, the total fiber material content may be between about 70% and about 90% by weight on a dry weight basis, such as between about 70% and about 85% by weight, such as between about 75% and about 80% by weight. In some embodiments, the total fiber material content of the aerosol generating material is about 75% by weight on a dry weight basis.

In some embodiments, the fiber material includes a first fiber material and a second fiber material. In some embodiments, the first fiber material is different from the second fiber material. When the first fiber material is different from the second fiber material, the properties of the aerosol generating material, such as the aerosol generated, can be improved. For example, two different fiber materials can be combined, which complement each other and provide an aerosol that is particularly desirable/advantageous to consumers.

In some embodiments, the first fibrous material comprises a plant material and the second fibrous material comprises wood fiber/wood pulp. As used herein, wood fiber and wood pulp may be used to describe a cellulose material derived from a cellulose material having little or substantially no noticeable odor. For example, the wood fiber and wood pulp may be similar in nature to the wood fiber/wood pulp used to make paper. The wood fiber and wood pulp are obtained from a source that is primarily non-tobacco material.

In some embodiments, the ratio between the first fiber material and the second fiber material may be about 10:1 to about 2:1. For example, the ratio may be about 9:1 to about 3:1; such as about 8:1 to about 4:1; such as about 7:1 to about 4:1; such as about 6:1 to about 4:1. In some embodiments, the ratio between the first fiber material and the second fiber material may be about 5:1.

In some embodiments, modifying the amounts of a first fiber material, such as plant material, and a second fiber material, such as wood fiber/wood pulp, enables the aerosol to be modified/tuned to specific desired characteristics. For example, the relative amount of plant material can be increased compared to wood fiber/wood pulp, thereby increasing the amount of odor compounds derived from the plant material in the aerosol.

In some embodiments, when the aerosol generating material comprises a plant material, the aerosol generating material further comprises an extract derived from the plant material. For example, as shown in FIG. 1 , the aerosol generating material can be prepared by extracting and separating the plant material into an extract and a fiber portion. The fiber portion can be combined with a second fiber material, treated to form a slurry, and formed into a sheet. In addition to nicotine salts and an aerosol forming agent, the extract can be applied to the sheet, for example, impregnated therein, and then the sheet is dried. The extract from the plant material is reintroduced into the resulting aerosol generating material so that the odor compounds from the plant material can be present in the aerosol generating material. It is believed that, for example, processing plant materials to form aerosol-generating materials by a typical papermaking process results in the loss of volatile flavor/odor compounds. In particular, heating the plant materials during the papermaking process can result in the loss of highly volatile compounds, which are more likely to be compounds that provide flavor and/or odor to the plant material.

In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material contains substantially 100% of the original plant material. For example, the fiber material comprises all of the fiber portions of the original plant material, and the extract comprises all of the extracts removed from the original plant material. It is advantageous to utilize all of the fiber portions and extracts of the plant material because waste is reduced. In addition, the complete flavor characteristics of the original plant material are maintained in the resulting aerosol generating material. This may be particularly advantageous for consumers who may need to consume aerosols having a temperature from the plant material.

In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material comprises an extract in an amount of about 5% to about 15% by weight of the aerosol-generating material. For example, the extract may be included in an amount of about 6% to about 14% by weight of the aerosol-generating material, such as about 7% to about 13% by weight of the aerosol-generating material, such as about 8% to about 12% by weight of the aerosol-generating material, such as about 10% to about 12% by weight of the aerosol-generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material comprises an extract in an amount of about 11% by weight of the aerosol-generating material.

The aerosol generating material includes glycerol as an aerosol former/aerosol former material. The total amount of glycerol may be about 10% to about 20% by weight of the aerosol generating material. In some embodiments, the total amount of the aerosol former is about 13% to about 16% by weight of the aerosol generating material. In some embodiments, the total amount of the aerosol former material is about 15% by weight of the aerosol generating material.

In this context, an "aerosol former" is an agent or material that promotes the generation of an aerosol. Aerosol formers can promote the generation of aerosols by promoting initial vaporization and/or condensation of gases into inhalable solid and/or liquid aerosols. In some embodiments, aerosol formers can improve the delivery of flavoring agents from aerosol generating materials.

Aerosol forming materials have been found to improve the sensory performance of articles used with aerosol generating devices comprising aerosol generating materials by aiding in the transfer of compounds such as flavor compounds from the fiber material to the consumer. In some embodiments, the aerosol forming materials described herein, such as glycerin, are flavored and/or comprise a flavoring agent as described herein.

In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material may include two or more aerosol forming agents. For example, the aerosol generating material may include glycerol and one or more of the following: polyols, such as sorbitol, diols, such as propylene glycol or triethylene glycol; non-polyols, such as monohydric alcohols; high boiling point hydrocarbons; acids, such as lactic acid; glycerol derivatives; esters, such as diacetin, triacetin, triethylene glycol diacetate, triethyl citrate or myristate, including ethyl myristate and isopropyl myristate; and aliphatic carboxylic acid esters, such as methyl stearate, dimethyl dodecanedioate and dimethyl tetradecanedioate.

In some embodiments, the additional aerosol former can be selected from the group consisting of propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, erythritol, meso-erythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, glyceryl triacetate, a mixture of diacetates, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenylacetate, glyceryl tributyrate, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, propylene carbonate, and mixtures thereof.

In some embodiments, the aerosol former comprises glycerol in an amount of about 10% to about 90% by weight of the aerosol former.

In some embodiments, the ratio of glycerol to fiber material is about 1:7 to about 1:3. For example, about 1:6 to about 1:4, such as about 1:5. When the ratio of glycerol to fiber material is within this range, the aerosol generating material exhibits favorable storage properties and generates favorable aerosols.

The aerosol generating material described herein may include a filler component. The filler component is typically a non-tobacco component, i.e., a component that does not include ingredients derived from tobacco. The filler component may be a non-tobacco fiber, such as wood fiber or wood pulp or wheat fiber. The filler component may also be an inorganic material, such as chalk, perlite, vermiculite, diatomaceous earth, colloidal silica, magnesium oxide, magnesium sulfate, magnesium carbonate. The filler component may also be a non-tobacco casting material.

The filler component can be present in an amount of about 0 to about 20% by weight of the tobacco material, or in an amount of about 1 to about 10% by weight of the aerosol generating material. In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol generating material includes a filler component in an amount between about 5% and about 10% by weight of the aerosol generating material. In some embodiments, the filler component is absent.

In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material has a thickness of about 250 μm to about 450 μm. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material has a thickness of about 250 μm and about 400 μm, such as about 280 μm to about 490 μm. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material has a thickness of about 300 μm to about 400 μm. For example, the thickness may be about 310 μm to about 390 μm. For example, the thickness may be about 310 μm to about 380 μm. For example, the thickness may be about 320 μm to about 370 μm. For example, the thickness may be about 320 μm to about 360 μm. For example, the thickness may be about 320 μm to about 350 μm. For example, the thickness can be about 320 μm to about 340 μm. For example, the thickness can be about 325 μm to about 340 μm. For example, the thickness can be about 330 μm to about 340 μm.

In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material has a water content between about 3% and about 8%. For example, the aerosol generating material has a water content between about 4% and about 7%, such as between about 5% and about 6%. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material comprises a water content of about 5%.

In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material has a filling value of about 2 cm ³ /g to about 10 cm ³ /g. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material has a filling value of about 3 cm ³ /g to about 8 cm ³ /g, for example, the aerosol generating material may have a filling value of about 4 cm ³ /g to about 7 cm ³ /g, such as about 4 cm ³ /g to about 6 cm ³ /g. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material has a filling value of about 5 cm ³ /g. When the filling value is between about 2 cm ³ /g and about 10 cm ³ /g, such as about 5 cm ³ /g, the consumables containing the aerosol generating material can weigh less. Therefore, the total weight of the materials used to achieve the same/required filling value is less, which can save the cost of goods. Additionally, use of the aerosol generating materials described herein may also be advantageous because the resistance to draw is not affected, thereby providing a favorable user experience for the consumer.

In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material exhibits a rupture strength between about 5 KPa and about 40 KPa. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material exhibits a rupture strength between about 10 KPa and about 30 KPa. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material exhibits a rupture strength between about 15 KPa and about 25 KPa, such as between about 20 KPa and about 25 KPa. In some embodiments, the rupture strength is about 20 KPa.

In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material comprises nicotine benzoate in an amount of less than about 12% by weight on a dry basis, such as less than about 10% by weight on a dry basis, such as less than about 8% by weight, such as less than about 6% by weight, such as less than about 5% by weight. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material may comprise nicotine benzoate in an amount of about 1% to about 10% by weight on a dry basis. For example, the aerosol generating material may have a total nicotine benzoate amount of about 1% to about 9% by weight on a dry basis, about 1% to about 8% by weight on a dry basis, about 2% to about 6% by weight on a dry basis, and about 3% to about 5% by weight on a dry basis.

In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material comprises at least one additional nicotine salt. For example, the aerosol generating material may additionally comprise: nicotine acetyl propionate, nicotine lactate, nicotine citrate, or a mixture thereof. When the aerosol generating material comprises two or more nicotine salts, the total amount of nicotine salts in the aerosol generating material may be about 1 wt % to about 10 wt % on a dry weight basis. For example, the aerosol generating material can have a total nicotine salt content of about 1 wt % to about 9 wt % by dry weight, about 1 wt % to about 8 wt % by dry weight, about 2 wt % to about 6 wt % by dry weight, and about 3 wt % to about 5 wt % by dry weight.

In one embodiment, the aerosol generating material is in the form of a rod. The aerosol generating rod may have a total weight between about 250 mg and about 350 mg. In one embodiment, the aerosol generating rod may be coated in a coating having a permeability of less than 100 Coresta Units. The aerosol generating rod may have an outer circumference of at least about 19 mm, preferably between about 19 mm and about 23 mm or about 21 mm. This may facilitate the insertion of objects into the aerosol generating device.

As used herein, the term "rod" is used to describe a generally cylindrical element of generally circular, oval, or elliptical cross-section.

In the compositions described herein, where amounts are given in the form of % by weight, for the avoidance of doubt, unless specifically stated to the contrary, this refers to dry weight. Therefore, for the purpose of determining % by weight, any water that may be present in the aerosol generating material or any of its components is completely ignored. The water content of the aerosol generating material described herein can vary and can be, for example, 5 to 15% by weight. The water content of the aerosol generating material described herein can vary, for example, depending on the temperature, pressure and humidity conditions under which the composition is maintained. As known to those skilled in the art, the water content can be determined by Karl-Fisher analysis. On the other hand, for the avoidance of doubt, even when the aerosol forming agent material is a component in the liquid phase, such as glycerol or propylene glycol, any component other than water is included in the weight of the aerosol generating material.

In some embodiments, the system includes an object as described herein, and the aerosol-generating device is configured to receive at least a portion of the object comprising an aerosol-generating material and heat the portion of the object comprising the aerosol-generating material and generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating material.

In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material may be positioned in an aerosol generating section of the article. In use, the aerosol generating section may exhibit a pressure drop from about 15 mm to about 40 mm H ₂ O. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating section exhibits a pressure drop across the aerosol generating section of about 15 mm to about 30 mm H ₂ O.

In some embodiments, the article includes a nozzle and a cylindrical rod of an aerosol generating material directly or indirectly connected to the nozzle. A nozzle wrap, also described herein as a tipping paper, can be wrapped around the entire length of the nozzle and over a portion of the rod of the aerosol generating material and have an adhesive on its inner surface to connect the nozzle and the rod.

In some embodiments, the tipping paper extends 5 mm above the rod of the aerosol generating material, but it may alternatively extend between 3 mm and 10 mm, or more preferably between 4 mm and 6 mm, above the rod 3 to provide a fixed attachment between the nozzle and the rod. The basis weight of the tipping paper may be greater than the basis weight of the plug paper used in the article used for the aerosol generating device, for example a basis weight of 40 gsm to 80 gsm, more preferably between 50 gsm and 70 gsm, and in the present example 58 gsm. It has been found that basis weights in these ranges produce tipping paper having acceptable tensile strength while being flexible enough to wrap around the article and adhere to itself along the longitudinal lap seam on the paper. The outer circumference of the tipping paper wrapped once around the nozzle may be about 21 mm.

According to some embodiments, an article for use in an aerosol delivery system is provided, the article comprising an aerosol generating material or substrate, a nozzle located downstream of the aerosol generating material, and a covering, wherein the covering contains a sensate material. During use, a portion of the nozzle covering near the downstream end of the nozzle contacts the lips of a consumer.

The nozzle cover can be configured to wrap around and close the nozzle in a region between the upstream and downstream ends of the nozzle. The nozzle cover can be configured so that when the object is inserted into the heating device, a portion of the nozzle cover is heated to the same or similar temperature as the aerosol generating material.

In some embodiments, the nozzle coating comprises a sensory material. The sensory material may comprise a flavoring as described herein. In some embodiments, the flavoring is preferably liquorice, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, mint flavor (suitably, menthol and/or mint oil from any mint species, such as peppermint oil and/or spearmint oil), or lavender, fennel or anise. In a preferred embodiment, the sensory material comprises sugar and/or a sugar substitute (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharin, sodium cyclamate, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol or mannitol). Additionally or alternatively, the susceptor material may include a material that delivers a sensation of cooling, heating, or acid to the consumer during use of the article.

In some embodiments, the sensory material may include one or more of a pH adjuster, a stabilizer, and/or an antioxidant. These materials may help extend the shelf life of the nozzle cover, thereby extending the shelf life of the object.

The susceptor material may be encapsulated in an encapsulating material. For example, the susceptor material may be provided in the form of microcapsules which are applied to the coating.

The mouthpiece covering may include an inner surface and an outer surface, and the sensate material may be present on at least a portion of the inner surface and/or the outer surface of the covering. For example, the sensate material may be disposed in an area of the outer surface of the mouthpiece covering that contacts the consumer's lips during use. By disposing the sensate material on the outer surface of the mouthpiece covering, the sensate material may be transferred to the consumer's lips during use. Transferring the sensate material to the consumer's lips during use of the article may change the sensory properties (e.g., taste) of the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating substrate. For example, the sensate material may flavor the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating substrate. The sensate material may be at least partially soluble in water so that it can be transferred to the user via the consumer's saliva.

Advantageously, relatively low amounts of sensory material may be required in order to alter the sensory properties delivered to a consumer during use of the article, but this will depend to some extent on the properties of the sensory material, as the minimum amount required to alter the sensory properties will vary between different sensory materials. This may have the advantage that adding sensory material to the nozzle wrap may not significantly increase the overall weight of the article.

In some embodiments, the system includes an object as described herein, and the aerosol-generating device is configured to receive at least a portion of the object comprising an aerosol-generating material and heat the portion of the object comprising the aerosol-generating material and generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating material.

The various embodiments described herein are presented only to aid in understanding and teach the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as a representative sample of embodiments and are not exhaustive and/or exclusive. It should be understood that the advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures and/or other aspects described herein should not be considered to limit the scope of the invention as defined by the scope of the application or the equivalents of limiting the scope of the application, and other embodiments may be utilized and may be modified without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. The various embodiments of the present invention may suitably include, consist of, or consist essentially of appropriate combinations of disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, components, etc. other than those specifically described herein. In addition, the present disclosure may include other inventions that are not currently claimed but may be claimed in the future.

(without)

Embodiments of the present invention are described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: FIG. 1 shows a flow chart of a method for producing an aerosol generating material.

(without)

Claims (32)

An aerosol generating material comprising: a fiber material, nicotine benzoate, and glycerol. The aerosol generating material of claim 1, wherein the fiber material comprises a plant material. The aerosol generating material of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the plant material is selected from the list consisting of fennel, star anise, mint and rooibos, or a mixture thereof. The aerosol generating material of claim 3, wherein the plant material comprises Rooibos tea. The aerosol generating material of claim 4, wherein the plant material comprises fennel, star anise or mint, or a mixture thereof. The aerosol generating material of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the nicotine benzoate is included in an amount of about 2 wt % to about 8 wt % of the aerosol generating material. The aerosol generating material of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the glycerol is included in an amount of about 10 wt % to about 20 wt % of the aerosol generating material. An aerosol generating material as in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the aerosol generating material comprises a total fiber material content between about 70 wt % and about 95 wt %. An aerosol generating material as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the fiber material comprises a first fiber material selected from the list consisting of fennel, star anise, mint and Rooibos tea, or a mixture thereof; and a second fiber material, wherein the first fiber material is different from the second fiber material. The aerosol generating material of claim 9, wherein the second fiber material comprises wood fiber and/or wood pulp. The aerosol generating material of claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the first fiber material comprises Rooibos tea. The aerosol generating material of claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the first fiber material comprises fennel, star anise or mint, or a mixture thereof. An aerosol generating material as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the aerosol generating material is in the form of a sheet. The aerosol generating material of any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising an extract derived from a plant material, wherein the plant material is selected from the list consisting of fennel, aniseed, mint and Rooibos tea, and mixtures thereof. The aerosol generating material of claim 14, wherein the plant material is Rooibos tea. The aerosol generating material of claim 14, wherein the plant material is fennel, star anise or mint, or a mixture thereof. The aerosol generating material of claim 16, wherein the aerosol generating material comprises the extract in an amount of about 5 wt % to about 15 wt % of the aerosol generating material. The aerosol generating material of any one of claims 1 to 17, further comprising a second nicotine salt selected from the list consisting of nicotine acetyl propionate, nicotine citrate and nicotine lactate, or a mixture thereof. An aerosol generating material as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the aerosol generating material has a thickness of about 200 μm to about 450 μm. An aerosol generating material as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the ratio of aerosol former to fiber material is from about 1:7 to about 1:3. The aerosol generating material of any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the aerosol generating material has a filling value between about 2 cm ³ /g and about 10 cm ³ /g. An aerosol generating material as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the aerosol generating material exhibits a burst strength between about 5 KPa and about 40 KPa. An aerosol generating material as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the aerosol generating material does not contain or substantially does not contain tobacco material. An aerosol generating rod comprising the aerosol generating material of any one of claims 1 to 23. An aerosol generating rod as claimed in claim 24, wherein the rod is surrounded by a sheath. A delivery system comprising an aerosol generating material as in any one of claims 1 to 23 or an aerosol generating rod as in claim 24 or claim 25. A method for preparing an aerosol generating material, comprising: extracting and separating a fiber material into an extract and a fiber portion; treating the fiber portion to form a pulp; forming the pulp into a sheet; impregnating the sheet with nicotinic benzoate, glycerin and the extract; and drying the impregnated sheet to form an aerosol generating material. The method of claim 27, wherein the fiber material is a plant material. The method of claim 28, wherein the plant material is selected from the list consisting of fennel, star anise, mint and Rooibos tea, or a mixture thereof. The method of claim 29, wherein the plant material is Rooibos tea. The method of claim 29, wherein the plant material is selected from fennel, star anise or mint, or a mixture thereof. An aerosol generating material obtained by or obtainable by the method of any one of claims 27 to 31.