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WO2025027300A1 - Composant de génération d'aérosol - Google Patents

Composant de génération d'aérosol Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2025027300A1
WO2025027300A1 PCT/GB2024/051986 GB2024051986W WO2025027300A1 WO 2025027300 A1 WO2025027300 A1 WO 2025027300A1 GB 2024051986 W GB2024051986 W GB 2024051986W WO 2025027300 A1 WO2025027300 A1 WO 2025027300A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
aerosol generating
carbon
allotrope
generating component
aerosol
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
PCT/GB2024/051986
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English (en)
Inventor
Damyn Musgrave
Jack Warren
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Nicoventures Trading Ltd
Original Assignee
Nicoventures Trading Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Nicoventures Trading Ltd filed Critical Nicoventures Trading Ltd
Publication of WO2025027300A1 publication Critical patent/WO2025027300A1/fr
Pending legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/40—Constructional details, e.g. connection of cartridges and battery parts
    • A24F40/46—Shape or structure of electric heating means
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/10—Devices using liquid inhalable precursors

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an aerosol generating component, particularly an aerosol generating component for use in a non-combustible aerosol provision system.
  • the present invention further relates to an aerosol generating assembly comprising the aerosol generating component, an aerosol generating system comprising the aerosol generating component or the aerosol generating assembly, and a method of forming the aerosol generating component.
  • Non-combustible aerosol provision systems that generate an aerosol for inhalation by a user are known in the art.
  • Such systems typically comprise an aerosol generating component which is capable of converting an aerosolisable material into an aerosol.
  • the aerosol generated is a condensation aerosol whereby an aerosolisable material is first vaporised and then allowed to condense into an aerosol.
  • the aerosol generated is an aerosol which results from the atomisation of the aerosolisable material.
  • Such atomisation may be induced mechanically, e.g. by subjecting the aerosolisable material to vibrations so as to form small particles of material that are entrained in airflow.
  • such atomisation may be induced electrostatically, or in other ways, such as by using pressure.
  • aerosol provision system is used to simulate a smoking experience, e.g. as an e- cigarette or similar product
  • control of these various characteristics is especially important since the user may expect a specific sensorial experience to result from the use of the system.
  • an aerosol generating component for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the aerosol generating component comprising an allotrope of carbon supported on an electrically insulating substrate.
  • the allotrope of carbon comprises one or more layers of graphene. Where there is more than one layer of graphene, at least two of the layers of graphene may be non-parallel relative to each other. Where there is more than one layer of graphene, at least two of the layers of graphene may be parallel to each other.
  • the allotrope of carbon may be bilayer graphene.
  • the allotrope of carbon comprises graphite.
  • the allotrope of carbon has one or more of: a thermal conductivity of from 100 to 5500 Wm’ 1 k’ 1 , an electrical conductivity of from 1 to 2.5x10 6 Sm -1 , and a non-linear elasticity.
  • the electrically insulating substrate is selected from plastic, glass, paper, and ceramic.
  • the aerosol generating component comprises a capillary structure.
  • the electrically insulating substrate has a porous structure formed from pillars and interstitial pores.
  • the allotrope of carbon is formed on the pillars.
  • the interstitial pores have an average pore size of from 0.5 to 40 pm.
  • the average pore size may be the mean pore size or the median pore size.
  • the average pore size may be determined by mercury intrusion porosimetry or gas adsorption.
  • the allotrope of carbon is formed as a plurality of nanotubes.
  • the allotrope of carbon is formed as an open-cell foam.
  • the allotrope of carbon is formed as a plurality of flakes.
  • the allotrope of carbon has a thickness of from 0.345 nm to 100 pm.
  • the electrically insulating substrate is formed as a plate, strip, or rod.
  • the electrically insulating substrate has a thickness of from 5 to 500 pm.
  • the electrically insulating substrate has a width of from 0.5 to 50 mm.
  • the electrically insulating substrate has a length of from 1 to 50 mm.
  • the allotrope of carbon is supported across substantially 100% of the area of a surface of the electrically insulating substrate.
  • each of the one or more electrodes is formed of copper, silver, or gold.
  • the allotrope of carbon comprises disordered graphite and/or amorphous carbon.
  • a Raman spectrum of the allotrope of carbon comprises a G band, and D band, wherein a G band peak is within a Raman shift range of about 1500 cm -1 to about 1650 cm -1 , and a D band peak is within a Raman shift range of from about 1250 cm -1 to about 1400 cm -1 , wherein a ratio I D /IG of the intensity ID of the D band peak to the intensity IG of the G band peak is from about 0.8 to about 2, preferably from about 1 to about 1 .8.
  • an aerosol generating assembly comprising the aerosol generating component according to a first aspect of the present disclosure, and an aerosol generating material transfer component for supplying aerosol generating material to the aerosol generating component.
  • the aerosol generating material transfer component comprises a reservoir.
  • the aerosol generating component traverses the reservoir.
  • the aerosol generating material transfer component comprises at least one capillary channel having an outlet.
  • the outlet is arranged adjacent to the aerosol generating component, such that aerosolisable material exiting the outlet directly contacts the aerosol generating component.
  • a non-combustible aerosol provision system comprising the aerosol generating component according to the first aspect of the present disclosure, or the aerosol generating assembly according to the second aspect of the present disclosure; and one or more of a power source and a controller.
  • a method of forming an aerosol generating component according to the first aspect of the present disclosure comprising the step of: forming an allotrope of carbon on an electrically insulating substrate.
  • the allotrope of carbon is formed on the electrically insulating substrate by one of printing, laser induced graphene formation, and chemical vapour deposition.
  • Clause B1 An aerosol generating component for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the aerosol generating component comprising an allotrope of carbon supported on an electrically insulating substrate, wherein the allotrope of carbon is configured such that the contact angle between a droplet of glycerol and a surface of the allotrope of carbon at a temperature of 150°C is no greater than 20 degrees.
  • Clause B2 The aerosol generating component according to clause B1 , wherein the contact angle between a droplet of glycerol and a surface of the allotrope of carbon at a temperature of 20°C is from 70 degrees to 130 degrees.
  • Clause B4 The aerosol generating component according to clause B3, wherein the one or more dopants comprise an n-dopant.
  • Clause B5. The aerosol generating according to clause B4, wherein the n-dopant is selected from the group consisting of phosphorous and nitrogen.
  • Clause B6 The aerosol generating component according to clause B3 to B5, wherein the one or more dopants comprise a p-dopant.
  • Clause B8 The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses B1 to B7, wherein the allotrope of carbon comprises one or more layers of graphene, wherein where there is more than one layer of graphene, at least two of the layers of graphene are non-parallel relative to each other.
  • Clause B9 The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses B1 to B7, wherein the allotrope of carbon is graphite.
  • Clause B10 The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses B1 to B9, wherein the allotrope of carbon has one or more of: a thermal conductivity of from 100 to 5500 Wm’ 1 k’ 1 , an electrical conductivity of from 1 to 2.5x10 6 Sm -1 , and a non-linear elasticity.
  • Clause B11 The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses B1 to B10, wherein the electrically insulating substrate has a thickness of from 5 to 500 pm, and/or a width of from 0.5 mm to 50 mm, and/or a length of from 1 mm to 50 mm.
  • Clause B12 The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses B1 to B11 , wherein the electrically insulating substrate is selected from the group consisting of plastic, glass, paper, and ceramic.
  • Clause B13 The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses B1 to B12, wherein the electrically insulating substrate has a porous structure formed from pillars and interstitial pores.
  • Clause B15 The aerosol generating component according to clause B13 or B14, wherein the interstitial pores have an average pore size of from 0.5 to 40 pm.
  • Clause B16 The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses B1 to B14, wherein the allotrope of carbon is formed as a plurality of nanotubes.
  • Clause B17 The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses B1 to B14, wherein the allotrope of carbon is formed as an open-cell foam.
  • Clause B18 The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses B1 to B14, wherein the allotrope of carbon is formed a plurality of flakes.
  • Clause B19 The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses B1 to B18, wherein the aerosol generating component comprises a capillary structure.
  • An aerosol generating assembly for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the aerosol generating assembly comprising: an aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses B1 to B19; and an aerosol generating material transfer component for supplying aerosol generating material to the aerosol generating component.
  • Clause B21 The aerosol generating assembly according to clause B20, wherein the aerosol generating material transfer component comprises a reservoir.
  • Clause B22 The aerosol generating assembly according to clause B20 or B21 , wherein the aerosol generating component traverses the reservoir.
  • a non-combustible aerosol provision system comprising: the aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses B1 to B19 or the aerosol generating assembly according to any one of clauses B20 to B24; and one or more of a power source and a controller.
  • An aerosol generating component for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the aerosol generating component comprising an allotrope of carbon supported on an electrically insulating substrate, wherein the substrate is elongate and has a length to width ratio of from 5:1 to 50:1.
  • the electrically insulating substrate has a length of from 10 to 30 mm.
  • Clause C4 The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses C1 to C3, wherein the allotrope of carbon is formed as a plurality of nanotubes.
  • Clause C5. The aerosol generating component of any one of clauses C1 to C3, wherein the allotrope of carbon is formed as an open-cell foam.
  • Clause C6 The aerosol generating component of any one of clauses C1 to C3, wherein the allotrope of carbon is formed as a plurality of flakes.
  • Clause C7 The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses C1 to C6, wherein the electrically insulating substrate is selected from the group consisting of plastic, glass, paper, and ceramic.
  • Clause C8 The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses C1 to C7, wherein the electrically insulating substrate has a porous structure formed from pillars and interstitial pores.
  • Clause C10 The aerosol generating component according to clause C8 or C9, wherein the interstitial pores have an average pore size of from 0.5 to 40 pm.
  • Clause C11 The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses C1 to C10, wherein the allotrope of carbon comprises one or more layers of graphene, wherein where there is more than one layer of graphene, at least two of the layers of graphene are non-parallel relative to each other.
  • Clause C12 The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses C1 to C10, wherein the allotrope of carbon is graphite.
  • Clause C13 The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses C1 to C12, wherein the allotrope of carbon has one or more of: a thermal conductivity of from 100 to 5500 Wm’ 1 k’ 1 , an electrical conductivity of from 1 to 2.5x10 6 Sm -1 , and a non-linear elasticity.
  • An aerosol generating assembly for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the aerosol generating assembly comprising: an aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses C1 to C13; and an aerosol generating material transfer component for supplying aerosol generating material to the aerosol generating component.
  • Clause C16 The aerosol generating assembly according to clause C14 or C15, wherein the aerosol generating material transfer component traverses the reservoir.
  • Clause C17 The aerosol generating assembly according to clause C14, wherein the aerosol generating material transfer component comprises at least one capillary channel having an outlet.
  • a non-combustible aerosol provision system comprising: the aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses C1 to C13 or the aerosol generating assembly according to any one of clauses 14 to 18; and one or more of a power source and a controller.
  • Clause C20 The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to clause C19, wherein the controller is arranged in electrical communication with the aerosol generating component, and wherein the controller is configured to control the supply of power to the aerosol generating component by the power source.
  • Clause C22 The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to clause C20 or C21 , wherein the amount of power supplied to the aerosol generating component is based on the amount of aerosolisable material supplied to the aerosol generating component.
  • Clause C23 The non-combustible aerosol provision system according to any one of clauses C20 to C22, wherein when no aerosolisable material is supplied to the aerosol generating component, the controller is configured such that a baseline power is supplied to the aerosol generating component, wherein the baseline power is greater than zero and less than the power supplied to the aerosol generating component when aerosolisable material is supplied to the aerosol generating component.
  • An aerosol generating component for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the aerosol generating component comprising an allotrope of carbon supported on an electrically insulating substrate, wherein at least one elongate aperture extends through the aerosol generating component.
  • Clause D2 The aerosol generating component of clause D1 , wherein the or each elongate aperture is linear.
  • Clause D4 The aerosol generating component of any one of clauses D1 to D3, wherein a plurality of elongate apertures extends through the aerosol generating component.
  • Clause D6 The aerosol generating component of any one of clauses D1 to D5, wherein the electrically insulating substrate is formed as a strip or rod.
  • Clause D7 The aerosol generating component of clause D6, wherein the at least one elongated aperture extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal extent of the electrically insulating substrate, preferably wherein the electrically insulating substrate has a thickness of from 100 pm to 4 mm, and/or a width of from 0.5 mm to 50 mm, and/or a length of from 1 mm to 50 mm.
  • Clause D8 The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses D1 to D7, wherein the allotrope of carbon comprises one or more layers of graphene, wherein where there is more than one layer of graphene, at least two of the layers of graphene are non-parallel relative to each other.
  • Clause D10 The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses D1 to D9, wherein the allotrope of carbon has one or more of: a thermal conductivity of from 100 to 5500 Wm’ 1 k’ 1 , an electrical conductivity of from 1 to 2.5x10 6 Sm -1 , and a non-linear elasticity.
  • Clause D11 The aerosol generating component of any one of clauses D1 to D10, wherein the electrically insulating substrate is selected from the group consisting of plastic, glass, paper and ceramic.
  • Clause D16 The aerosol generating component of any one of the clauses D1 to D15, wherein the allotrope of carbon is formed as a plurality of nanotubes.
  • Clause D17 The aerosol generating component of any one of clauses D1 to D15, wherein the allotrope of carbon is formed as an open-cell foam.
  • Clause D18 The aerosol generating component of any one of clauses D1 to D15, wherein the allotrope of carbon is formed as a plurality of flakes.
  • Clause D19 The aerosol generating component of any one of the clauses D1 to D18, wherein the or each elongate aperture has a width of from 0.1 mm to 1 mm, and/or a length which is from 5 to 95% of the length of the aerosol generating component.
  • An aerosol generating assembly for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the aerosol generating assembly comprising the aerosol generating component of any of clauses D1 to D19 and an aerosol generating material transfer component for supplying aerosol generating material to the aerosol generating component.
  • Clause D23 The aerosol generating assembly according to clause D20, wherein the aerosol generating material transfer component comprises at least one capillary channel having an outlet.
  • Clause D24 The aerosol generating assembly according to clause D23, wherein the outlet is arranged adjacent to the aerosol generating component, such that aerosolisable material exiting the outlet directly contacts the aerosol generating component.
  • a non-combustible aerosol provision system comprising: the aerosol generating component of any one of clauses D1 to D19 or the aerosol generating assembly of any one of clauses D20 to D24; and one or more of a power source and a controller.
  • Clause E1 A method of preparing an aerosol generating component for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the method comprising the steps of: forming an allotrope of carbon on an electrically insulating substrate; and forming one or more electrodes in contact with the allotrope of carbon.
  • Clause E2 The method according to clause E1, wherein the step of forming the one or more electrodes in contact with the allotrope of carbon comprises a sintering step.
  • Clause E3 The method according to clause E1 or E2, wherein the or each electrode is selected from copper, silver, or gold.
  • Clause E4 The method according to any one of clauses E1 to E3, wherein the allotrope of carbon is formed on the electrically insulating substrate by printing.
  • Clause E5. The method according to any one of clauses E1 to E4, wherein the allotrope of carbon is formed on the electrically insulating substrate by chemical vapour deposition.
  • Clause E6 The method according to any one of clauses E1 to E5, wherein the allotrope of carbon is formed on the electrically insulating substrate by laser induced deposition.
  • Clause E7 The method according to any one of clauses E1 to E6, wherein the allotrope of carbon is formed as a plurality of nanotubes; or an open-cell foam; or a plurality of flakes.
  • Clause E8 The method according to any one of clauses E1 to E7, wherein the electrically insulating substrate has a pore structure formed from pillars and interstitial pores.
  • Clause E9 The method according to clause E8, wherein the allotrope of carbon is formed on the pillars. Clause E10. The method according to clause E9, wherein the interstitial pores have an average pore size of from 0.5 to 40 pm.
  • Clause E11 The method according to any one of clauses E1 to E10, wherein the allotrope of carbon comprises one or more layers of graphene, wherein where there is more than one layer of graphene, at least two of the layers of graphene are non-parallel relative to each other.
  • Clause E12 The method according to any one of clauses E1 to E10, wherein the allotrope of carbon is graphite.
  • Clause E13 The method according to any one of clauses E1 to E12, wherein the allotrope of carbon has one or more of: a thermal conductivity of from 100 to 5500 Wm’ 1 k’ 1 , an electrical conductivity of from 1 to 2.5x10 6 Sm -1 , and a non-linear elasticity.
  • Clause E14 The method according to any one of clauses E1 to E13 comprising forming one or more grooves and/or one or more apertures in the electrically insulating substrate before depositing the allotrope of carbon thereon.
  • Clause E15 The method according to any one of clauses E1 to E14, wherein the electrically insulating substrate is selected from the group consisting of plastic, glass, paper, and ceramic.
  • Clause E16 The method according to clause E15, wherein the electrically insulating substrate is glass, and wherein the glass is borosilicate glass.
  • Clause E17 An aerosol generating component obtained by the method of any one of clauses E1 to E16.
  • An aerosol generating assembly for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the aerosol generating assembly comprising: the aerosol generating component according to clause E17; and an an aerosol generating material transfer component for supplying aerosol generating material to the aerosol generating component.
  • Clause E20 The aerosol generating assembly according to clause E18 wherein the aerosol generating material transfer component comprises at least one capillary channel having an outlet.
  • Clause E21 The aerosol generating assembly according to clause E20, wherein the outlet is arranged adjacent to the aerosol generating component, such that aerosolisable material exiting the outlet directly contacts the aerosol generating component.
  • a non-combustible aerosol provision system comprising: the aerosol generating component of clause E17 or the aerosol generating assembly according to any one of clauses E18 to E21 ; and one or more of a power source and a controller.
  • An aerosol generating component for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the aerosol generating component comprising an allotrope of carbon supported on an electrically insulating substrate, wherein the aerosol generating component comprises a heating portion and at least one aerosolisable material feed portion extending from the heating portion.
  • Clause F2 The aerosol generating component according to clause F1 , wherein the or each aerosolisable material feed portion extends from a side of the heating portion.
  • Clause F4 The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses F1 to F3, wherein the or each aerosolisable material feed portion is elongate.
  • Clause F5. The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses F1 to F4, wherein the or each aerosolisable material feed portion has a length to width ratio of from 1 :1 to 5:1.
  • Clause F6 The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses F1 to F5, wherein the or each aerosolisable material feed portion has a length of from 1 to 15 mm.
  • Clause F7 The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses F1 to F6, wherein the or each aerosolisable material feed portion has a width of from 1 to 3 mm.
  • Clause F8 The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses F1 to F7, wherein the or each aerosolisable material feed portion tapers away from the elongate heating portion.
  • Clause F9. The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses F1 to F8, wherein electrically insulating substrate has a thickness of 5 to 500 pm.
  • Clause F10 The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses F1 to F9, wherein the heating portion has a width of from 0.5 mm to 50 mm.
  • Clause F11 The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses F1 to F10, wherein the heating portion has a length of from 1 mm to 50 mm.
  • Clause F12 The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses F1 to F11 , wherein the allotrope of carbon is formed as a plurality of nanotubes; or an open-cell foam.; or a plurality of flakes.
  • Clause F13 The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses F1 to F12, wherein the allotrope of carbon comprises one or more layers of graphene, wherein where there is more than one layer of graphene, at least two of the layers of graphene are non-parallel relative to each other.
  • Clause F14 The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses F1 to F12, wherein the allotrope of carbon is graphite.
  • Clause F15 The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses F1 to F14, wherein the allotrope of carbon has one or more of: a thermal conductivity of from 100 to 5500 Wm’ 1 k’ 1 , an electrical conductivity of from 1 to 2.5x10 6 Sm -1 , and a non-linear elasticity.
  • Clause F16 The aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses F1 to F15, wherein the electrically insulating substrate has a pore structure formed from pillars and interstitial pores.
  • Clause F17 The aerosol generating component according to clause F16, wherein the allotrope of carbon is formed on the pillars.
  • Clause F18 The aerosol generating component according to clause F16 or F17, wherein the interstitial pores have an average pore size of from 0.5 to 40 pm.
  • An aerosol generating assembly for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the aerosol generating assembly comprising: the aerosol generating component according to any one of clauses F1 to F18; and an aerosol generating material transfer component for supplying aerosol generating material to the aerosol generating component.
  • Clause F20 The aerosol generating assembly according to clause F19, wherein the aerosol generating material transfer component comprises a reservoir.
  • Clause F21 The aerosol generating assembly according to clause F20, wherein the aerosol generating component traverses the reservoir.
  • a non-combustible aerosol provision system comprising: the aerosol generating component of any one of clauses F1 to F18 or the aerosol generating assembly according to any one of clauses F19 to F23; and one or more of a power source and a controller.
  • Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram (not to scale or proportion) of a non-combustible aerosol provision system according to the present disclosure
  • Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram of the aerosol generating component according to the present disclosure, in side view;
  • Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram of the aerosol generating component of Fig. 2, in perspective view;
  • Fig. 4A is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating component according to the present disclosure, wherein the allotrope of carbon is one or more layers of graphene are formed as an open cell foam;
  • Fig. 4B is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating component according to the present disclosure, wherein the allotrope of carbon is one or more layers of graphene are formed as a plurality of flakes
  • Fig. 4C is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating component according to the present disclosure, wherein the allotrope of carbon is one or more layers of graphene are formed as a plurality of nanotubes;
  • Fig. 5A shows a plan view of an aerosol generating assembly according to the present disclosure
  • Fig. 5B shows a side view of the aerosol generating assembly of Fig. 5A;
  • Fig. 5C is a schematic diagram of the aerosol generating assembly of Fig. 5A (not showing the aerosol generating material transport component)
  • Fig. 6A shows an aerosol generating assembly according to the present disclosure, in perspective view
  • Fig. 6B is a schematic diagram of the aerosol generating assembly of Fig. 6A;
  • Fig. 7A shows an aerosol generating component according to the present disclosure, in plan view
  • Fig. 7B is a heat map of the aerosol generating component of Fig. 7A, wherein the aerosol generating component was energised;
  • Fig. 8A is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating component according to the present disclosure, wherein the aerosol generating component comprises a heating portion and one or more aerosolisable material feed portions extending from the heating portion;
  • Fig. 8B is a heat map of the aerosol generating component of Fig. 8A, wherein the aerosol generating component was energised;
  • Fig. 9 shows an aerosol generating component according to the present disclosure, in plan view
  • Fig. 10A shows a graph of energy density, mass loss, and efficiency for aerosol generating components according to the present disclosure
  • Fig. 10B shows a table of the data in Fig. 10A.
  • Fig. 11 shows a Raman spectra of an allotrope of carbon sample, in which the x-axis corresponds to Raman shift (cm -1 ) and the y-axis corresponds to intensity (counts), with a D band peak, a G band peak, and a 2D band peak.
  • the present disclosure relates, but is not limited, to non-combustible aerosol provision systems, articles, aerosol generating assemblies, and aerosol generating components, that generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material (also referred to herein as “aerosolisable material”) without combusting the aerosol-generating material.
  • aerosol-generating material also referred to herein as “aerosolisable material”
  • examples of such systems include electronic cigarettes, and hybrid systems (which generate aerosol using a combination of aerosol-generating materials).
  • the noncombustible aerosol provision system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vaping device or electronic nicotine delivery system (END), although it is noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol-generating material is not a requirement of the present disclosure.
  • END electronic nicotine delivery system
  • the non-combustible aerosol provision system is a hybrid system to generate aerosol using a combination of aerosol-generating materials, one or a plurality of which may be heated.
  • Each of the aerosol-generating materials in such a hybrid system may or may not contain nicotine.
  • the hybrid system comprises a liquid or gel aerosolgenerating material and a solid aerosol-generating material.
  • the solid aerosol-generating material may comprise, for example, tobacco or a non-tobacco product.
  • e-cigarette and “electronic cigarette” may sometimes be used. However, it will be appreciated these terms may be used interchangeably with non-combustible aerosol (vapour) provision system as explained above.
  • the present disclosure relates to consumables for holding aerosolgenerating material, and which are configured to be used with non-combustible aerosol provision devices. These consumables may be referred to as “articles” throughout the present disclosure.
  • the non-combustible aerosol provision system typically comprises a device part (also referred to herein as a “device”) and a consumable/article part (also referred to herein as an “article”).
  • the device part typically comprises a power source and/or a controller.
  • the power source may typically be an electrical power source, e.g. a rechargeable battery.
  • the non-combustible aerosol provision system may comprise an area for receiving or engaging with the consumable/article (which area may be comprised by or within the device), an aerosol generator (which may or may not be comprised by or within the consumable/article), an aerosol generation area (which may be comprised by or within the consumable/article), a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter, and/or an aerosol-modifying agent.
  • the consumable/article for use with the non-combustible aerosol provision system may comprise aerosol-generating material, an aerosol-generating material storage area (also referred to herein as a “reservoir for aerosolisable material”), an aerosol-generating material transfer component (e.g. a wick, such as a pad), an aerosol generator (also referred to herein as an “aerosol generating component”), an aerosol generation area (also referred to herein as an “aerosol generation chamber”), a housing, a wrapper, a filter, a mouthpiece, and/or an aerosol-modifying agent.
  • an aerosol-generating material e.g. a wick, such as a pad
  • an aerosol generator also referred to herein as an “aerosol generating component”
  • an aerosol generation area also referred to herein as an “aerosol generation chamber”
  • a housing a wrapper, a filter, a mouthpiece, and/or an aerosol-modifying agent.
  • the systems described herein typically generate an inhalable aerosol by vaporisation of an aerosol generating material.
  • the aerosol generating material may comprise one or more active constituents, one or more flavours, one or more aerosol-former materials, and/or one or more other functional materials.
  • the aerosol-generating material may, for example, be in the form of a liquid or gel which may or may not contain an active substance and/or flavourants.
  • active substance may relate to a physiologically active material, which is a material intended to achieve or enhance a physiological response.
  • the active substance may be for example selected from nutraceuticals, nootropics, and psychoactives.
  • the active substance may be naturally occurring or synthetically obtained.
  • the active substance may comprise for example nicotine, caffeine, taurine, theine, vitamins such as B6 or B12 or C, melatonin, cannabinoids, or constituents, derivatives, or combinations thereof.
  • the active substance may comprise one or more constituents, derivatives or extracts of tobacco, cannabis or another botanical.
  • the aerosol-former material may comprise one or more constituents capable of forming an aerosol.
  • the aerosol-former material may comprise one or more of glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1 ,3-butylene glycol, erythritol, meso-Erythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, a diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, a diacetin mixture, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenyl acetate, tributyrin, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate.
  • the one or more other functional materials may comprise one or more of pH regulators, colouring agents, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers, and/or antioxidants.
  • the term “component” is used to refer to a part, section, unit, module, assembly or similar of an electronic cigarette or similar device that incorporates several smaller parts or elements, possibly within an exterior housing or wall.
  • An electronic cigarette may be formed or built from one or more such components, and the components may be removably or separably connectable to one another, or may be permanently joined together during manufacture to define the whole electronic cigarette.
  • the present disclosure is applicable, but not limited, to systems comprising two components separably connectable to one another and configured, for example, as a consumable/article component capable of holding an aerosol generating material (also referred to herein as a “cartridge” or “cartomiser”), and a device/control unit having a battery for providing electrical power to operate an element for generating vapour from the aerosol generating material.
  • a consumable/article component capable of holding an aerosol generating material
  • a device/control unit having a battery for providing electrical power to operate an element for generating vapour from the aerosol generating material.
  • Fig. 1 is a highly schematic diagram (not to scale) of an example non-combustible aerosol provision system such as an e-cigarette 10.
  • the e-cigarette 10 has a generally cylindrical shape, extending along a longitudinal axis indicated by a dashed line, and comprises two main components, namely a control or power component or section 20 (which may be referred to herein as a device) and a cartridge assembly or section 30 (which may be referred to herein as an “article”, “consumable”, “cartomizer”, or “cartridge”) that operates as a vapour generating component.
  • the article 30 includes a storage compartment (also referred to herein as a “reservoir”) 3 containing an aerosolisable material comprising (for example) a liquid formulation from which an aerosol is to be generated.
  • the liquid formulation may or may not contain nicotine.
  • the aerosolisable material may comprise around 1 to 3% nicotine and 50% glycerol, with the remainder comprising roughly propylene glycol, and possibly also comprising other components, such as water or flavourings.
  • the storage compartment 3 has the form of a storage tank, i.e. a container or receptacle in which aerosolisable material can be stored such that the aerosolisable material is free to move and flow (if liquid) within the confines of the container or receptacle.
  • the storage compartment 3 may contain a quantity of absorbent material such as cotton wadding or glass fibre which holds the aerosolisable material within a porous structure.
  • the storage compartment 3 may be sealed after filling during manufacture so as to be disposable after the aerosolisable material is consumed, or may have an inlet port or other opening through which new aerosolisable material can be added.
  • the article 30 also comprises an electrical aerosol generating component 4 located externally of the storage compartment 3 for generating the aerosol by vaporisation of the aerosolisable material.
  • the aerosol generating component is a heating element (a heater) which is heated by the passage of electrical current (via resistive or inductive heating) to raise the temperature of the aerosolisable material until it evaporates.
  • An aerosol generating material transfer component (not shown in Fig. 1), e.g. a liquid conduit arrangement such as a wick or other porous element, may be provided to deliver aerosolisable material from the storage compartment 3 to the aerosol generating component 4.
  • the aerosol generating material transfer component may have one or more parts located inside the storage compartment 3 so as to be able to absorb aerosolisable material and transfer it by wicking or capillary action to other parts of the aerosol generating material transfer component that are in contact with the aerosol generating component 4. This aerosolisable material is thereby vaporised, and is to be replaced by new aerosolisable material transferred to the aerosol generating component 4 by the aerosol generating material transfer component.
  • a heater and wick combination, or other arrangement of parts that perform the same functions, is sometimes referred to as an atomiser or atomiser assembly (which may be referred to herein as an “aerosol generation assembly”).
  • an atomiser or atomiser assembly which may be referred to herein as an “aerosol generation assembly”.
  • the parts may be differently arranged compared to the highly schematic representation of Fig. 1.
  • the wick may be an entirely separate element from the aerosol generating component.
  • the aerosol generating material transfer component 4 for delivering liquid for vapour generation may be formed at least in part from one or more slots, tubes or channels between the storage compartment and the aerosol generating component which are narrow enough to support capillary action to draw source liquid out of the storage compartment and deliver it for vaporisation.
  • an atomiser can be considered to be an aerosol generating component 4 able to generate vapour from aerosolisable material delivered to it, and an aerosol generating material transfer component (e.g. a liquid conduit) able to deliver or transport liquid from the storage compartment 3 or similar liquid store to the aerosol generating component by a capillary force.
  • the aerosol generating component is at least partially located within an aerosol generating chamber that forms part of an airflow channel through the electronic cigarette/system. Vapour produced by the aerosol generating component is driven off into this chamber, and as air passes through the chamber, flowing over and around the aerosol generating component, it collects the produced vapour whereby it condenses to form the required aerosol.
  • the cartridge assembly 30 also includes a mouthpiece 35 having an opening or air outlet through which a user may inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating component 4, and delivered through the airflow channel.
  • the power component 20 includes a cell 5 (also referred to herein as a battery, and which may be re-chargeable) to provide power for electrical components of the e-cigarette 10, in particular the aerosol generating component 4. Additionally, there is a printed circuit board 28 and/or other electronics or circuitry for generally controlling the e-cigarette 10.
  • the control electronics/circuitry connect the aerosol generating element 4 to the battery 5 when vapour is required, for example in response to a signal from an air pressure sensor or air flow sensor (not shown) that detects an inhalation on the system 10 during which air enters through one or more air inlets 26 in the wall of the power component 20 to flow along the airflow channel.
  • the aerosol generating component 4 When the aerosol generating component 4 receives power from the cell 5, the aerosol generating component 4 vaporises aerosolisable material delivered from the storage compartment 3 to generate the aerosol, and the aerosol is then inhaled by a user through the opening in the mouthpiece 35.
  • the aerosol is carried to the mouthpiece 35 along the airflow channel (not shown) that connects the air inlet 26 to the air outlet when a user inhales on the mouthpiece 35.
  • An airflow path through the electronic cigarette is hence defined, between the air inlet(s) (which may or may not be in the power component 20) to the atomiser and on to the air outlet at the mouthpiece.
  • the air flow direction along this airflow path is from the air inlet to the air outlet, so that the atomiser can be described as arranged downstream of the air inlet and upstream of the air outlet.
  • the power component 20 and the cartridge assembly 30 are separate parts detachable from one another by separation in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis, as indicated by the solid arrows in Fig. 1.
  • the components 20, 30 are joined together when the device 10 is in use by cooperating engagement elements 21 , 31 (for example, a screw, magnetic or bayonet fitting) which provide mechanical and electrical connectivity between the power section 20 and the cartridge assembly 30.
  • cooperating engagement elements 21 , 31 for example, a screw, magnetic or bayonet fitting
  • the two sections 20, 30 may connect together end-to-end in a longitudinal configuration as in Fig. 1 , or in a different configuration such as a parallel, side-by- side arrangement.
  • the non-combustible aerosol provision system 10 may or may not be generally cylindrical and/or have a generally longitudinal shape. Either or both sections may be intended to be disposed of and replaced when exhausted (the reservoir is empty or the battery is flat, for example), or be intended for multiple uses enabled by actions such as refilling the reservoir, recharging the battery, or replacing the atomiser.
  • the e-cigarette 10 may be a unitary device (disposable or refillable/rechargeable) that cannot be separated into two or more parts, in which case all components are comprised within a single body or housing. Examples of the present invention are applicable to any of these configurations and other configurations of which the skilled person will be aware.
  • a type of aerosol generating component such as a heating element, that may be utilised in an atomising portion of an electronic cigarette 10 (a part configured to generate vapour from a source liquid) combines the functions of heating and liquid delivery, by being both electrically conductive (resistive) and porous.
  • electrically conductive refers to components which have the capacity to generate heat in response to the flow of electrical current therein. Such flow could be imparted by via so-called resistive heating or induction heating.
  • the aerosol generating component may be of a sheetlike form, i.e. a planar shape with a thickness many times smaller than its length or breadth. It is possible for the planar aerosol generating component to define a curved plane and in these instances reference to the planar aerosol generating component forming a plane means an imaginary flat plane forming a plane of best fit through the component.
  • the aerosol generating component may comprise appropriately sized voids and/or interstices to provide a capillary force for wicking aerosolisable material (e.g. liquid).
  • the aerosol generating component may also be considered to be porous, so as to provide for the uptake and distribution of aerosolisable material (e.g. liquid).
  • the presence of voids and/or interstices may mean air can permeate through said aerosol generating component.
  • at least part of the aerosol generating component is electrically conductive and therefore suitable for resistive heating, whereby electrical current flowing through a material with electrical resistance generates heat.
  • An aerosol generating component (e.g. which is planar and/or sheet-like) may be arranged within a non-combustible aerosol provision system (e.g. an electronic cigarette), such that the aerosol generating component lies within the aerosol generating chamber forming part of an airflow channel.
  • the aerosol generating component may be oriented within the chamber such that air flow though the chamber may flow in a surface direction, i.e. substantially parallel to the plane of the aerosol generating component.
  • An example of such a configuration can be found in WO2010/045670 and WO2010/045671 , the contents of which are incorporated herein in their entirety by reference. Air can thence flow over the aerosol generating component, and gather vapour. Aerosol generation is thereby made effective.
  • the aerosol generating component may be oriented within the chamber such that air flow though the chamber may flow in a direction which is substantially transverse to the surface direction, i.e. substantially orthogonally to the plane of the aerosol generating component.
  • a direction which is substantially transverse to the surface direction i.e. substantially orthogonally to the plane of the aerosol generating component.
  • the aerosol generating component may have a high degree of porosity.
  • a high degree of porosity may ensure that the heat produced by the aerosol generating component is predominately used for evaporating the liquid and high efficiency can be obtained.
  • a porosity of greater than 50% may be envisaged. In one embodiment, the porosity of the aerosol generating component is 50% or greater, 60% or greater, 70% or greater.
  • the aerosol generating component may form a generally flat structure, comprising first and second surfaces.
  • the generally flat structure may take the form of any two dimensional shape, for example, circular, semi-circular, triangular, square, rectangular and/ or polygonal.
  • the aerosol generating component may have a uniform thickness.
  • the aerosol generating component is formed from an electrically resistive material
  • electrical current is permitted to flow through the aerosol generating component so as to generate heat (so called Joule heating).
  • the electrical resistance of the aerosol generating component can be selected appropriately.
  • the aerosol generating component may have an electrical resistance of 2 ohms or less, such as 1.8 ohms or less, such as 1.7 ohms or less, such as 1.6 ohms or less, such as 1.5 ohms or less, such as 1.4 ohms or less, such as 1.3 ohms or less, such as 1.2 ohms or less, such as 1.1 ohms or less, such as 1.0 ohm or less, such as 0.9 ohms or less, such as 0.8 ohms or less, such as 0.7 ohms or less, such as 0.6 ohms or less, such as 0.5 ohms or less.
  • the parameters of the aerosol generating component can be selected so as to provide the desired resistance.
  • a relatively lower resistance will facilitate higher power draw from the power source, which can be advantageous in producing a high rate of aerosolisation.
  • the resistance should not be so low as to prejudice the integrity of the aerosol generator.
  • the resistance may not be lower than 0.5 ohms.
  • an aerosol generating component 100 for use as part of a non-combustible aerosol provision system, the aerosol generating component 100 comprising an allotrope of carbon 101 supported on an electrically insulating substrate 102.
  • the aerosol generating component 100 exhibits desirable heating and aerosolisation performance in the context of a non-combustible aerosol provision system.
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 supports the allotrope of carbon 101. In this way, the allotrope of carbon 101 is directly or indirectly supported on the electrically insulating substrate 102.
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 may be porous. Alternatively, the electrically insulating substrate 102 may be non-porous.
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 may comprise one or more layers. At least one layer may be porous. At least one layer may be non-porous. For example, at least one layer may be porous and at least one layer may be non-porous.
  • At least one of the layers may be formed as a coating.
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 may comprise at least two layers, wherein the layer which directly contacts the allotrope of carbon 101 is porous, and at least one other layer is non-porous.
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 may comprise at least two layers, wherein the layer which directly contacts the allotrope of carbon 101 is non-porous, and at least one other layer is porous.
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 may be made of any suitable electrically conductive material.
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 may be thermally insulating (in which case the substrate may be referred to as an “electrically insulating and thermally insulating substrate 102”).
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 may have a thermal conductivity of no greater than 5 Wm’ 1 k’ 1 .
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 may have a thermal conductivity of no greater than 3 Wnr 1 k' 1 .
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 may have a thermal conductivity of no greater than 2 Wm’ 1 k’ 1 .
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 may have a thermal conductivity of no greater than 1 Wm’ 1 k’ 1 .
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 may have a thermal conductivity of no greater than 0.5 Wm’ 1 k’ 1 .
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 may have a thermal conductivity of no greater than 0.2 Wm’ 1 k’ 1 .
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 may have a thermal conductivity of no greater than 0.1 Wm- 1 k’ 1 .
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 may be selected from the group consisting of plastic, glass, paper, and ceramic.
  • each layer may be independently selected from the group consisting of plastic, glass, paper, and ceramic.
  • the plastic may be selected from polysulfone (PSU), poly(ethersulfone) (PES), polyimide (PI), poly(phenylene sulphide) (PPS), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and polyether ketone (PEK).
  • the polyimide (PI) is selected from polyetherimide (PEI) and polyamideimide (PAI).
  • the polyimide is poly(4,4'-oxydiphenylene-pyromellitimide). Poly(4,4'-oxydiphenylene-pyromellitimide) is commercially available from DuPont under the trade name Kapton® HN (and other Kapton® products).
  • the glass may be selected from the group consisting of silicate glass and non-silicate glass.
  • the silicate glass is borosilicate glass, or quartz glass (fused quartz).
  • the glass may be flexible.
  • the glass may be non-porous.
  • the electrically insulating substrate 101 may have a porous structure formed from pillars and interstitial pores (also referred herein to voids and/or interstices).
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may be formed on the pillars to form a coating.
  • the interstitial pores of the coated electrically insulating substrate may have an average pore size of from 0.5 to 40 pm (although this may vary).
  • the average pore size may be the mean pore size or the median pore size.
  • the average pore size may be determined methods including (but not limited to) mercury intrusion porosimetry or gas adsorption. Those skilled in the art are familiar with such methods.
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 may be formed as a sheet (which may be curved or substantially planar).
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 may be substantially planar.
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 may be formed as a plate, a strip (as shown in Figs. 2, 3, 5A, 5B, 6A, and 6B), or a rod. As shown in Figs. 2 to 9, the electrically insulating substrate 102 may be elongate.
  • the cross sectional area of the electrically insulating substrate 102 perpendicular to the longitudinal extent (e.g. length) of the electrically insulating substrate 102 is polygonal (e.g. a square, a rectangle, or a triangle).
  • the cross sectional area of the electrically insulating substrate 102 perpendicular to the longitudinal extent (e.g. length) of the electrically insulating substrate 102 is curved (e.g. a circle, an oval, or an ellipse).
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 has a thickness of from 100 pm to 4 mm. In some embodiments, the electrically insulating substrate 102 has a thickness of from 200 pm to 3 mm. In some embodiments, the electrically insulating substrate 102 has a thickness of from 400 pm to 2 mm.
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 has a thickness of from 5 pm to 500 pm. In some embodiments, the electrically insulating substrate 102 has a thickness of from 10 pm to 500 pm. In some embodiments, the electrically insulating substrate 102 has a thickness of from 50 pm to 500 pm. In some embodiments, the electrically insulating substrate 102 has a thickness of from 100 pm to 500 pm. In some embodiments, the electrically insulating substrate 102 has a thickness of from 50 pm to 300 pm. In some embodiments, the electrically insulating substrate 102 has a thickness of from 100 pm to 200 pm. For example, the thickness of the electrically insulating substrate 102 is represented by “Ts” in Fig. 2.
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 has a length of from 1 mm to 50 mm. In some embodiments, the electrically insulating substrate 102 has a length of from 2 mm to 40 mm. In some embodiments, the electrically insulating substrate 102 has a length of from 5 mm to 30 mm. In some embodiments, the electrically insulating substrate 102 has a length of from 10 mm to 30 mm. In some embodiments, the electrically insulating substrate 102 has a length of from 10 mm to 25 mm. In some embodiments, the electrically insulating substrate 102 has a length of from 10 mm to 20 mm. In some embodiments, the electrically insulating substrate 102 has a length of from 12 mm to 18 mm. For example, the length of the electrically insulating substrate 102 is represented by “Ls” in Fig. 2.
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 has a width of from 0.5 mm to 50 mm. In some embodiments, the electrically insulating substrate 102 has a width of from 0.5 mm to 20 mm. In some embodiments, the electrically insulating substrate 102 has a width of 0.5 mm to 10 mm. In some embodiments, the electrically insulating substrate 102 has a width of from 0.5 mm to 5 mm. In some embodiments, the electrically insulating substrate 102 has a width of from 1 mm to 50 mm. In some embodiments, the electrically insulating substrate 102 has a width of from 1 mm to 20 mm.
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 has a width of from 1 mm to 10 mm. In some embodiments, the electrically insulating substrate 102 has a width of from 1 mm to 5 mm. In some embodiments, the electrically insulating substrate 102 has a width of from 1 mm to 3 mm. For example, the width of the electrically insulating substrate 102 is represented by “Ws” in Fig. 3.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 has a length of from 1 mm to 50 mm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a length of from 2 mm to 40 mm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a length of from 5 mm to 30 mm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a length of from 10 mm to 30 mm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a length of from 10 mm to 25 mm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a length of from 10 mm to 20 mm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a length of from 12 mm to 18 mm.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 has a width of from 0.5 mm to 50 mm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a width of from 0.5 mm to 20 mm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a width of 0.5 mm to 10 mm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a width of from 0.5 mm to 5 mm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a width of from 1 mm to 50 mm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a width of from 1 mm to 20 mm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a width of from 1 mm to 10 mm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a width of from 1 mm to 5 mm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a width of from 1 mm to 3 mm.
  • the aerosol generating component 100 may comprise a capillary structure.
  • the provision of a capillary structure facilitates the effective transport aerosolisable material through the bulk structure of the aerosol generating component 100 and/or across the surface of the one or more layers of the allotrope of carbon 101 .
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 comprises a capillary structure.
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 may comprise a capillary structure.
  • a capillary structure may be provided by the porous structure of the electrically insulating substrate 102 (where present).
  • the capillary structure may additionally or alternatively be provided by one or more channels or grooves in the electrically insulating substrate 102 (where present).
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may include pores.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may be porous.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may be permeable, e.g. liquid and/or gas permeable.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may be at least partially exposed.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may be a monolithic material.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may have a heating surface.
  • the heating surface may be partially or completely exposed. In use, aerosol may be emitted from the heating surface.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 comprises a capillary structure, and the electrically insulating substrate 102 comprises a capillary structure.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 comprises a capillary structure, and the electrically insulating substrate 102 is non-porous (and does not comprise a capillary structure).
  • the aerosol generating component 100 comprises an allotrope of carbon 101 supported on the electrically insulating substrate 102.
  • the allotrope of carbon provides for an effective aerosol generating component.
  • the allotrope of carbon provides a carbonaceous surface which distributes and aerosolises the aerosolisable material in use. Where the allotrope of carbon is heated to aerosolisation temperatures, the carbonaceous surface has a high surface free energy and therefore a high wettability. In this way, where the allotrope of carbon is heated to aerosolisation temperatures, a thin layer of aerosolisable material can be evenly distributed across the carbonaceous surface of the allotrope of carbon and efficiently aerosolised.
  • the allotrope of carbon has a high power density, a low thermal mass, and a small volume of the aerosolisable material can be thinly formed across a given surface area of the allotrope of carbon (relative to materials for which aerosolisable material cannot be as thinly formed across a surface thereof). This provides for efficient transfer of energy to the aerosolisable material in use.
  • the allotrope of carbon may comprise carbon structured so as to contain a plurality of carbon to carbon bonds lying in the same plane.
  • the allotrope of carbon may comprise graphite.
  • the allotrope of carbon comprises graphite
  • the allotrope comprises a plurality of stacked layers of carbon atoms, the carbon atoms of each layer being bonded to three adjacent carbon atoms in the layer, with each bond lying in the same plane so as to form a hexagonal lattice structure. Non-covalent bonding exists between the stacked layers.
  • graphite includes multiple stacked layers of carbon, in which the layers of carbon are parallel relative to each other.
  • the allotrope of carbon may comprise graphene.
  • the allotrope of carbon may be graphene.
  • the allotrope of carbon is graphene, a single layer of carbon atoms, i.e. a one-atom thick layer of carbon, are arranged to form a hexagonal lattice structure.
  • graphene provides for a particularly effective aerosol generating component.
  • the high thermal conductivity and electrical conductivity of graphene is such that the graphene can effectively dissipate heat, reduce temperature variation, and reduce the severity of the hot spots.
  • the aerosol generating component can be operated at high power levels with a reduced risk of hot spots causing damage to the aerosol generating component.
  • graphene is elastic and therefore compliant to thermal expansion (e.g. of the electrically insulating substrate) in use. Therefore, the aerosol generating component is resistant to degradation due to a difference in thermal coefficient of expansion of the graphene and the electrically insulating substrate 102.
  • the allotrope of carbon comprises graphene
  • more than one layer of graphene may be present.
  • At least two of the layers of graphene 101 may be non-parallel relative to each other.
  • non-parallel it is meant that an imaginary plane through one layer of graphene 101 (or an imaginary plane of best-fit through a non-planer layer of graphene 101), is non-parallel relative to an imaginary plane through another layer of graphene 101 (or an imaginary plane of best-fit through the another non-planar layer of graphene 101).
  • the layers of graphene 101 are electrically connected to form a current path.
  • the combination of porosity and the low surface energy of graphene at typical aerosolisation temperatures is such that aerosolisable material can be effectively distributed across not only the outermost surface of the graphene, but also the bulk structure of the graphene. In effect, aerosolisable material can be provided in intimate contact with an increased surface area of heated material, provided by the graphene layers. This provides for efficient and effective aerosolisation performance.
  • At least three, at least four, at least five, at least six, at least eight, or at least ten of the layers of graphene 101 are non-parallel relative to each other.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may be bilayer graphene.
  • some layers of layers of graphene 101 may directly contact the electrically insulating substrate 101 , whereas some layers of graphene 101 may be provided on top of other layers of graphene 101.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 comprises disordered graphite and/or amorphous carbon. In some preferred embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 is selected from the group comprising disordered graphite, amorphous carbon, or a combination thereof.
  • a Raman spectrum of the allotrope of carbon 101 comprises a G band, and a D band.
  • the Raman spectrum of the allotrope of carbon 101 also comprises a 2D band.
  • the Raman spectrum of the allotrope of carbon 101 comprises a G band peak within a Raman shift range of about 1500 cm -1 to about 1650 cm -1 .
  • Raman spectrum of the allotrope of carbon 101 may comprise a D band peak within a Raman shift range of from about 1250 cm -1 to about 1400 cm -1 .
  • the Raman spectrum of the allotrope of carbon 101 may comprise a 2D band peak within a Raman shift range of from about 2600 cm -1 to about 2750 cm -1 .
  • the Raman spectrum of the allotrope of carbon 101 comprises a G band peak within a Raman shift range of about 1550 cm -1 to about 1590 cm -1 .
  • the Raman spectrum of the allotrope of carbon 101 may comprise a D band peak within a Raman shift range of from about 1310 cm -1 to about 1340 cm -1 .
  • the Raman spectrum of the allotrope of carbon 101 may comprise a 2D band peak within a Raman shift range of from about 2620 cm -1 to about 2680 cm -1 .
  • a ratio I D /IG of the intensity ID of the D band peak to the intensity IG of the G band peak may be from about 0.8 to about 2.
  • the ratio ID/IG may be from about 0.9 to about 1.9.
  • the ratio ID/IG may be from about 1 to about 1 .8.
  • the G band peak may have a full width at half maximum (FWHM) of at from about 30 cm -1 to about 100 cm -1 .
  • the G band peak may have a FWHM of from about 30 cm -1 to about 70 cm -1 .
  • the 2D band may follow a Gaussian curve model or a Lorentzian curve model.
  • a Raman spectrum of the allotrope of carbon 101 comprises a G band, and D band, wherein a G band peak is within a Raman shift range of about 1500 cm’ 1 to about 1650 cm -1 , and a D band peak is within a Raman shift range of from about 1250 cm’ 1 to about 1400 cm -1 , wherein a ratio ID/IG of the intensity ID of the D band peak to the intensity IG of the G band peak is from about 0.8 to about 2.
  • a Raman spectrum of the allotrope of carbon 101 comprises a G band, and D band, wherein a G band peak is within a Raman shift range of about 1550 cm -1 to about 1590 cm -1 , and a D band peak is within a Raman shift range of from about 1310 cm -1 to about 1340 cm -1 , wherein a ratio ID/IG of the intensity ID of the D band peak to the intensity IG of the G band peak is from about 1 to about 1 .8.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 is porous.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 is formed as a foam.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 is electrically conductive.
  • the Raman spectrum may be measured using Raman microspectroscopy.
  • the Raman microspectroscopy may be performed using a laser wavelength of 638 nm.
  • the Raman microspectroscopy may be performed using a grating having 1800 grooves/mm.
  • the Raman microspectroscopy may be performed with a laser power of 10.9 mW.
  • the Raman microspectroscopy may be performed using an acquisition time of 5 seconds.
  • the Raman microspectroscopy may be performed using 20 accumulations.
  • the Raman microspectroscopy may be performed with a confocal pinhole of 300 pm.
  • the Raman microspectroscopy may be performed at a wavelength range of from about 1000 cm -1 to about 3000 cm -1 .
  • the Raman microspectroscopy may be performed with a microscope objective of 50x LWD (long working distance) and 0.8 NA (numerical aperture).
  • the Raman microspectroscopy may be performed using a Horiba Xplora Plus Raman Microspectrometer.
  • the Raman microspectroscopy may be performed at 21 °C.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 subjected to the Raman microspectroscopy may be unused. That is, the allotrope of carbon 101 has not been used to generate aerosol and/or has not been heated to typical aerosolisation temperatures (post-manufacture of the allotrope of carbon 101).
  • the present inventors have analysed various allotrope of carbon 101 samples using Raman microspectroscopy.
  • Each of the allotrope of carbon 101 samples was prepared by laser irradiation of a polyimide (poly(4,4'-oxydiphenylene-pyromellitimide), Kapton® HN, Dupont) substrate 102 (an electrically insulating substrate).
  • Each polyimide substrate had a length of approximately 4.5 mm, a width of about 4.5 mm, and a thickness of about 125 pm, and was shaped as a rectangular prism. This involved irradiating an area of about 4.5 mm by about 2 mm (i.e. about 9 mm 2 ; and rectangular) of each polyimide substrate with a laser beam to form the allotrope of carbon 101.
  • Each of the allotrope of carbon 101 samples was subjected to Raman microspectroscopy. Each of the allotrope of carbon 101 samples was porous and electrically conductive.
  • Raman spectroscopy is considered as a non-destructive vibrational spectroscopic technique that utilises a laser to excite the bonds within a sample (e.g. carbon) and interprets the inelastic scattering of the bond vibrations as a relative Raman shift.
  • the inelastic scattering from interaction with the sample produces a relative Raman shifts and thereby a spectrum that can be utilised to interpret the characteristics and/or identity of the sample.
  • the peak position of the D band which is typically observed at around 1329 cm -1
  • the G band which is typically observed at around 1579 cm -1
  • the 2D band which is typically observed at around 2630 cm -1 .
  • the D band can be referred to as the “disorder band” and is an indication of sp 3 hybridization of carbon within the sample.
  • the G band can be referred to as the “graphene band” and is utilised to determine the sp 2 hybridization of the carbon structure within the sample.
  • the Raman spectrum of a pristine graphene sample would typically include a high intensity, narrow G band and no D band.
  • the Raman spectrum of a graphite sample would typically include a G band and a D band, with the D band being lower in intensity than the G band.
  • the I D /IG ratio can be utilized by determining the counts of the intensity (a.u.) of the D band peak (ID) to the counts of the intensity of the G band peak (IG) and can be used to determine the allotrope of carbon present within the sample.
  • the 2D band can also be utilized by interpreting the area of the curve and peak position to determine the morphology of the allotrope. For example, crystalline graphite would typically exhibit a sharp and narrow peak curve that would follow a Lorentzian curve fit model while the 2D band of a sample including amorphous carbon would typically exhibit broader and flatter band which follows a Gaussian curve fit model.
  • the full width at half maximum (FWHM) of a peak also can be used to determine crystallinity within a sample. The FWHM is measured by determining the width of the peak in question at half the total intensity of the sample.
  • the Raman microspectroscopy involved measuring a Raman spectrum of each of the samples using a Horiba Xplora Plus Raman Microspectrometer and the following parameters: a laser wavelength of 638 nm; a grating having 1800 grooves/mm; an acquisition time of 5 seconds;
  • the Raman microspectroscopy was performed at 21 °C.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 samples subjected to Raman microspectroscopy were unused.
  • the Raman spectrum of each of the allotrope of carbon 101 samples comprised a G band, and D band, wherein a G band peak was within a Raman shift range of about 1550 cm -1 to about 1590 cm -1 , and a D band peak was within a Raman shift range of from about 1310 cm -1 to about 1340 cm -1 , wherein a ratio I D /IG of the intensity ID of the D band peak to the intensity IG of the G band peak was from 1 to 1 .8.
  • the Raman spectrum of each of the allotrope of carbon 101 samples comprised a 2D band peak within a Raman shift range of from about 2620 cm -1 to about 2680 cm -1 .
  • the G band peak had a full width at half maximum (FWHM) of from about 45 cm -1 to about 62 cm -1 .
  • the 2D band typically followed a Lorentzian curve fit model.
  • the Raman spectrum of each of the allotrope of carbon 101 samples indicated that the samples included disordered graphite, amorphous carbon, or a combination thereof.
  • Fig. 11 shows the Raman spectrum of one of the allotrope of carbon 101 samples. The sample was unused. As shown in Fig. 11 , a G band peak was observed at about 1573 cm -1 , a D band peak was observed at about 1320 cm -1 , and a 2D band peak was observed at about 2630 cm- 1 . The ratio I G /ID of the intensity l G of the G band peak to the intensity ID of the D band peak was about 1.6. The G band peak had a FWHM of about 62 cm -1 . The 2D band followed a Lorentzian curve fit model.
  • the present inventors have found that the allotrope of carbon 101 comprising disordered graphite, amorphous carbon, or a combination thereof provided for a particularly effective aerosol generating component.
  • Such allotropes of carbon 101 were found to effectively dissipate heat, reduce temperature variation, and reduce the severity of any hot spots.
  • Such allotropes of carbon 101 exhibited a low electrical resistance (and high electrical conductivity) that was particularly suited to use in non-combustible aerosol provision systems.
  • Such allotropes of carbon 101 also facilitated effective liquid distribution, e.g. across the surface of and/or within the allotrope of carbon.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may have a thermal conductivity of from 100 Wm’ 1 k’ 1 to 5500 WOT 1 k’ 1 .
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may have a thermal conductivity of from 100 Wm’ 1 k’ 1 to 4000 Wm’ 1 k’ 1 .
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may have a thermal conductivity of from 100 Wm’ 1 k’ 1 to 2000 Wm’ 1 k’ 1 .
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may have a thermal conductivity of from 150 WOT 1 k -1 to 1000 Wm’ 1 k’ 1 .
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may have a thermal conductivity of from 180 Wm’ 1 k’ 1 to 700 Wm’ 1 k’ 1 .
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may have a thermal conductivity of from 200 Wm’ 1 k’ 1 to 500 Wm T
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may have an electrical conductivity of from 1 Sm -1 to 2.5x10 6 Snr 1 .
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may have an electrical conductivity of from 100 Sm -1 to 1.0X 10 6 Snr 1 .
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may have an electrical conductivity of from 200 Sm -1 to 100000 Snr 1 .
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may have an electrical conductivity of from 400 Snr 1 to 50000 Snr 1 .
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may have an electrical conductivity of from 500 Sm -1 to 10000 Sm -1 .
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may have an electrical conductivity of from 600 Sm -1 to 5000 Sm -1 .
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may have an electrical conductivity of from 800 Sm -1 to 3000 Sm -1 .
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may have an electrical conductivity of from 900 Sm’ 1 to 1300 Sm’ 1 .
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may have a non-linear elasticity.
  • the layer or layers may be provided in various forms.
  • the one or more layers of graphene 101 may be formed as a plurality of three-dimensional structures.
  • the three-dimensional graphene structures may be selected from cubes, cuboids, cones, cylinders (e.g. tubes), spheres, pyramids, and/or prisms.
  • arc discharge arc discharge
  • laser ablation high-pressure carbon monoxide disproportionation
  • chemical vapour deposition arc discharge, laser ablation, high-pressure carbon monoxide disproportionation, and chemical vapour deposition.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may be formed as a foam.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may be formed as an open-cell foam.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may comprise a capillary structure.
  • the open-cell foam may comprise the capillary structure.
  • FIG. 4A to 4C Examples of forms in which the one or more layers 101 may be provided are shown in Figs. 4A to 4C.
  • the one or more layers of graphene 101 may be formed as an open-cell foam (which may be referred to herein as “graphene foam”; see e.g. High-Resolution Laser- Induced Graphene. Flexible Electronics beyond the Visible Limit; Michael G. Stanford, et al., ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces 2020 12 (9), 10902-10907).
  • the graphene foam may comprise a capillary structure.
  • the graphene foam may be formed by vapour deposition, e.g. chemical vapour deposition.
  • the graphene foam comprises a three-dimensional, open-cell structure through which aerosolisable material can traverse, e.g. by capillary action.
  • the allotrope of carbon (e.g. the one or more layers of graphene) 101 may be formed as a plurality of flakes. There may be interstices between the flakes. The interstices between the flakes may provide a capillary structure. Aerosolisable material can traverse the interstices, e.g. by capillary action.
  • the allotrope of carbon (e.g. the one or more layers of graphene) 101 may be formed as a plurality of nanotubes. There may be interstices between the nanotubes. Interstices between the nanotubes and/or the tubular space within the nanotubes may provide a capillary structure. Aerosolisable material can traverse the interstices and/or tubular spaces, e.g. by capillary action.
  • the allotrope of carbon (e.g. the one or more layers of graphene 101) may be sintered to the allotrope of carbon 101. Sintering has been found to increase the mechanical strength and/or resistance to damage of the one or more layers of graphene 101.
  • the allotrope of carbon is supported on an electrically insulating substrate.
  • the thickness of the allotrope may vary.
  • the thickness of the allotrope is understood to refer to the extent of carbon allotrope, measured orthogonally, between the supporting surface of the electrically insulating substrate and an outer surface of the allotrope.
  • the outer surface in this regard refers to a surface of the carbon allotrope which does not have another layer supported thereon when viewed orthogonally from the supporting surface of the electrically insulating substrate. Where the allotrope of carbon includes internal pores, these are effectively ignored for in the measurement of thickness.
  • a first example allotrope of carbon and a second example allotrope of carbon which differ only insofar as the first example allotrope has internal pores and the second example allotrope is non-porous, will have the same thickness.
  • the thickness of the allotrope of carbon may refer to the thickness of a single layer or a multi-layer.
  • suitable methods for measuring the thickness of the allotrope of carbon e.g. electron microscopy.
  • the thickness will have a natural lower limit corresponding to the thickness of a single layer of graphene, which may be 0.345 nm. However, where present as multiple layers of graphene, the thickness will be greater than 0.345 nm.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of no greater than 100 pm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of no greater than 80 pm.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of no greater than 60 pm.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of no greater than 50 pm.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of no greater than 30 pm.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of no greater than 20 pm.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of no greater than 10 pm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of no greater than 5 pm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of no greater than 1 pm.
  • the thickness of the allotrope of carbon 101 is represented by “t” in Figs. 4A to 4C. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of no greater than 500 nm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of no greater than 400 nm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of no greater than 300 nm.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of no greater than 200 nm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of no greater than 100 nm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of no greater than 80 nm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of no greater than 50 nm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of no greater than 30 nm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of no greater than 20 nm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of no greater than 10 nm.
  • the thickness of the allotrope of carbon 101 may have a natural lower limit corresponding to the thickness of a single layer of graphene, which may be 0.345 nm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of at least 0.7 nm. In some embodiments the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of at least 1 nm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of at least 2 nm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of at least 5 nm.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 0.345 nm to 100 pm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 0.345 nm to 80 pm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 0.345 nm to 60 pm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 0.345 nm to 50 pm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 0.345 nm to 40 pm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 0.345 nm to 30 pm.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 0.345 nm to 20 pm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 0.345 nm to 10 pm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 0.345 nm to 1 pm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 0.345 nm to 500 nm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 0.345 nm to 200 nm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 0.345 nm to 100 nm.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 0.345 nm to 50 nm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 0.345 nm to 20 nm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 0.345 nm to 10 nm.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 1 nm to 1 pm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 1 nm to 500 nm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 1 nm to 200 nm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 1 nm to 100 nm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 1 nm to 50 nm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 1 nm to 20 nm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 1 nm to 10 nm.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 2 nm to 1 pm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 2 nm to 500 nm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 2 nm to 200 nm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 2 nm to 100 nm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 2 nm to 50 nm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 2 nm to 20 nm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 2 nm to 10 nm.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 5 nm to 1 pm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 5 nm to 500 nm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 5 nm to 200 nm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 5 nm to 100 nm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 5 nm to 50 nm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 5 nm to 20 nm. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 has a thickness of from 5 nm to 10 nm.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 is supported across at least 50% of the area of a surface 102a of the electrically insulating substrate 102. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 is supported across at least 70% of the area of the surface 102a of the electrically insulating substrate 102. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 is supported across at least 90% of the area of the surface 102a of the electrically insulating substrate 102. In some embodiments, the allotrope of carbon 101 is supported across substantially 100% of the area of the surface 102a of the electrically insulating substrate 102.
  • the surface 102a on which the allotrope of carbon 101 is supported may provide at least 30% of the outer surface area of the electrically insulating substrate 102.
  • the surface 102a on which the allotrope of carbon 101 is supported may provide at least 40% of the outer surface area of the electrically insulating substrate 102.
  • the surface 102a on which the allotrope of carbon 101 is supported may provide at least 45% of the outer surface area of the electrically insulating substrate 102.
  • the surface 102a on which the allotrope of carbon 101 is supported is curved.
  • the surface 102a on which the allotrope of carbon 101 is supported is substantially planar.
  • the surface 102a on which the allotrope of carbon 101 is supported may be a major surface.
  • the “major surface” is a surface having the largest (or jointly-largest) area relative to the other surfaces of the electrically insulating substrate 102.
  • the major surface of a rectangular prismatic electrically insulating substrate 102 having a length of 15 cm, a width of 2 cm, and a height of 1 cm is the surface defined by the length and the width (of which there are two).
  • the one or more layers of graphene 101 are shown as being supported on the major surface of the electrically insulating substrate 102.
  • the aerosol generating component 100 may comprise one or more electrodes 103 arranged in electrical contact with the allotrope of carbon 101.
  • the one or more electrodes 103 may be arranged in direct electrical contact with the allotrope of carbon 101.
  • the one or more electrodes 103 are configured to form an electrical connection with a power source such that electrical power can be delivered to the aerosol generating component 100 (e.g. the allotrope of carbon 101).
  • the aerosol generating component 100 may comprise two electrodes 103, wherein each electrode 103 is arranged in electrical contact with the allotrope of carbon 101.
  • each electrode 103 is arranged in electrical contact with the allotrope of carbon 101.
  • one of the electrodes may be arranged towards or at an end of the aerosol generating component 100, and the other of the electrodes 103 may be arranged towards or at the opposite end of the aerosol generating component 100.
  • the one or more electrodes 103 are made of any suitable electrically conductive material.
  • the one or more electrodes 103 may be selected from copper, silver, or gold.
  • the one or more electrodes 103 may be sintered to the allotrope of carbon 101 .
  • the sintering may be conducted at a temperature of from 100°C to 300°C, such as from 120°C to 200°C.
  • the sintering may be conducted for a time of from 5 seconds to 5 minutes, such as from 10 seconds to 3 minutes.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 is configured such that the contact angle between a droplet of glycerol and a surface of the allotrope of carbon 101 at a temperature of 150°C is no greater than 20 degrees.
  • the contact angle may be measured using the Wilhelmy plate method. EM, simulation, guniomer.
  • the contact angle may be measured optically.
  • the contact angle may be measured by photography. Those skilled in the art will be familiar with such methods of measuring contact angles.
  • the “contact angle” is the angle where a liquid-vapour interface meets a solid surface, and that the contact angle quantifies the wettability of the solid surface by the liquid via the Young equation:
  • Ys is the solid surface tension
  • YL is the liquid surface tension
  • YSL is the solid and liquid boundary tension (the solid-liquid interfacial energy)
  • Q is the contact angle
  • the aerosolisable material when the allotrope of carbon 101 is so configured, in use the aerosolisable material can form a thin layer distributed evenly across the surface of the allotrope of carbon 101 , and the aerosolisable material can be efficiently distributed throughout the bulk structure of the allotrope of carbon 101. Moreover, aerosolisable material can be rapidly distributed across the allotrope of carbon 101 , and volatilised aerosolisable material can be rapidly replenished. Furthermore, the aerosol generating component 100 has a reduced propensity to “dry out”, i.e. a phenomenon by which the aerosol generating component 100 or parts thereof inadvertently become dry because the rate at which aerosolisable material is replenished is less than the rate at which aerosolisable material is volatilised.
  • the temperature at which the contact angle is measured may refer to the temperature measured at the surface of the allotrope of carbon on which the droplet of glycerol is provided.
  • the contact angle between a droplet of glycerol and the surface of the allotrope of carbon 101 at a temperature of 150°C may be no greater than 18 degrees.
  • the contact angle between a droplet of glycerol and the surface of the allotrope of carbon 101 at a temperature of 150°C may be no greater than 16 degrees.
  • the contact angle between a droplet of glycerol and the surface of the allotrope of carbon 101 at a temperature of 150°C may be no greater than 14 degrees.
  • the contact angle between a droplet of glycerol and the surface of the allotrope of carbon 101 at a temperature of 150°C may be no greater than 12 degrees.
  • the contact angle between a droplet of glycerol and the surface of the allotrope of carbon 101 at a temperature of 150°C may be no greater than 10 degrees.
  • the contact angle between a droplet of glycerol and the surface of the allotrope of carbon 101 at a temperature of 20°C may be from 70 degrees to 130 degrees, such as from 80 degrees to 110 degrees.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may comprise one or more dopants.
  • the one or more dopants may comprise an n-dopant.
  • the n-dopant may be selected from the group consisting of phosphorous and nitrogen.
  • the one or more dopants may comprise a p-dopant.
  • the p-dopant may be selected from the group consisting of boron and sulfur.
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 is elongate and has a length to width ratio of from 5: 1 to 50: 1 . Such a length to width ratio has been found to provide desirable heating performance in use.
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 may have a length to width ratio of from 5:1 to 40:1.
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 may have a length to width ratio of from
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 may have a length to width ratio of from
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 may have a length to width ratio of from
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 may have a length to width ratio of from
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 may have a length to width ratio of from 8:1 to 40:1.
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 may have a length to width ratio of from
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 may have a length to width ratio of from
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 may have a length to width ratio of from
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 may have a length to width ratio of from
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 comprises an elongate heating surface having a length to width ratio of from 5:1 to 50:1 .
  • a length to width ratio has been found to provide desirable heating performance in use.
  • such a length to width ratio has been found to exhibit a desirable aerosolisation rate as well as energy efficiency.
  • the heating surface may be considered as a portion of the allotrope of carbon 101 which reaches a temperature for aerosolising aerosolisable material in use.
  • the heating surface of the allotrope of carbon 101 may have a length to width ratio of from 5:1 to 40:1.
  • the heating surface of the allotrope of carbon 101 may have a length to width ratio of from 5:1 to 35:1.
  • the heating surface of the allotrope of carbon 101 may have a length to width ratio of from 5:1 to 30:1.
  • the heating surface of the allotrope of carbon 101 may have a length to width ratio of from 5:1 to 25:1.
  • the heating surface of the allotrope of carbon 101 may have a length to width ratio of from 5:1 to 22:1.
  • the heating surface of the allotrope of carbon 101 may have a length to width ratio of from 8:1 to 40:1.
  • the heating surface of the allotrope of carbon 101 may have a length to width ratio of from 8:1 to 35:1.
  • the heating surface of the allotrope of carbon 101 may have a length to width ratio of from 8:1 to 30:1.
  • the heating surface of the allotrope of carbon 101 may have a length to width ratio of from 8:1 to 25:1.
  • the heating surface of the allotrope of carbon 101 may have a length to width ratio of from 8:1 to 22:1.
  • the heating surface of the allotrope of carbon 101 may be substantially planar.
  • Figs. 10A and 10B show the relationship between energy density, efficiency, and mass loss data for aerosol generating components 100 according to the present disclosure.
  • the aerosol generating component 100 traversed an aerosol generating material transfer component which was a reservoir for aerosolisable material (as shown in Figs. 6A and 6B).
  • the aerosol generating component 100 contacted the surface of the aerosolisable material in the reservoir.
  • the energy density indicated the amount of energy per mm 2 provided by the aerosol generating component 100.
  • the efficiency blue crosses in Fig.
  • the aerosol generating components 100 varied in length and width, and each comprised multiple layers of graphene 101 arranged on a polyimide substrate 102, wherein a plurality of layers of graphene 101 are non-parallel relative to each other. Lower values of efficiency (J/mg) are preferable, and higher values of mass change loss (mg) are preferable.
  • At least one elongate aperture 104 extends through the aerosol generating component 100.
  • FIG. 7A and 7B An example of such an aerosol generating component 100 is shown in Figs. 7A and 7B.
  • the at least one aperture increases the edge length and immediate surface area of the aerosol generating component 100 available for contact with aerosol generating material. It has been found that notwithstanding the presence of the at least one aperture, heat is evenly distributed across the aerosol generating component 100 in use. Even heat distribution advantageously provides for consistent aerosolisation and a reduced propensity for the formation of “hot spots”. This is illustrated in Fig. 7B, which is a heat map of the aerosol generating component 100 of Fig. 7A in use, where the aerosol generating component 100 was energised using a power source.
  • a plurality of elongate apertures 104 may extend through the aerosol generating component 100.
  • at least two, at least three, at least four, at least five, or at least six elongate apertures 104 may extend through the aerosol generating component 100.
  • the or each elongate aperture 104 may be linear.
  • the or each elongate aperture may be non-linear.
  • the or each elongate aperture 104 may extend substantially parallel to an axis of the aerosol generating component 100 (e.g. the electrically insulating substrate 102).
  • the or each elongate aperture 104 may extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal extent (e.g. the longitudinal axis) of the aerosol generating component 100 (e.g. the electrically insulating substrate 102).
  • the or each elongate aperture 104 may extend substantially parallel to the transverse extent (e.g. the transverse axis) of the aerosol generating component 100 (e.g. the electrically insulating substrate 102).
  • the elongate apertures 104 may be arranged side-by-side. In embodiments comprising a plurality of elongate apertures 104, the elongate apertures 104 may be arranged parallel to each other. For example, at least two, at least three, at least four, at least five, or at least six of the elongate apertures 104 may be arranged parallel to each other, and one or more elongate apertures 104 may be nonparallel thereto.
  • the elongate apertures 104 extend parallel to the longitudinal extent (e.g. the longitudinal axis) of the aerosol generating component 100 (the electrically insulating substrate 102), are spaced apart from each other, are arranged side-by-side, and are arranged parallel to each other.
  • the or each elongate aperture 104 may have a width of from 0.05 mm to 2 mm.
  • the or each elongate aperture 104 may have a width of from 0.05 mm to 1.5 mm.
  • the or each elongate aperture 104 may have a width of from 0.1 mm to 1 mm.
  • the or each elongate aperture 104 may have a width of from 0.2 mm to 0.8 mm.
  • the or each elongate aperture 104 may have a width of from 0.3 mm to 0.6 mm.
  • the or each elongate aperture 104 may have a length of from 5% to 95% of the length of the aerosol generating component 100.
  • the or each elongate aperture 104 may have a length of from 20% to 95% of the length of the aerosol generating component 100.
  • the or each elongate aperture 104 may have a length of from 40% to 95% of the length of the aerosol generating component 100.
  • the or each elongate aperture 104 may have a length of from 50% to 95% of the length of the aerosol generating component 100.
  • the or each elongate aperture 104 may have a length of from 60% to 95% of the length of the aerosol generating component 100.
  • the or each elongate aperture 104 may have a length of from 70% to 95% of the length of the aerosol generating component 100.
  • the or each elongate aperture 104 may have a length of from 80% to 95% of the length of the aerosol generating component 100.
  • the or each elongate aperture 104 may have a length of from 90% to 95% of the length of the aerosol generating component 100.
  • the or each elongate aperture 104 may have a length of from 1 mm to 45 mm.
  • the or each elongate aperture 104 may have a length of from 2 mm to 40 mm.
  • the or each elongate aperture 104 may have a length of from 5 mm to 30 mm.
  • the or each elongate aperture 104 may have a length of from 5 mm to 20 mm.
  • the or each elongate aperture 104 may have a length of from 5 mm to 18 mm.
  • the or each elongate aperture 104 may have a length of from 5 mm to 18 mm.
  • the or each elongate aperture 104 may have a length of from 10 mm to 18 mm.
  • the aerosol generating component 100 had a length of 20 mm, a width of 1.0 mm, and a total thickness of 0.15 mm, and each elongate aperture 104 had a length of 18 mm and a width of 0.5 mm.
  • the substrate (polyimide) 102 had a length of 20 mm, a width of 1.0 mm, and a thickness of 0.10 mm (100 pm).
  • the allotrope of carbon (graphene layers, a plurality of the layers being non-parallel relative to each other) 102 covered substantially the entire upper surface of the electrically insulating substrate 102.
  • the allotrope of carbon had a thickness of 0.05 mm (50 pm).
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may comprise a first outer edge and a second outer edge.
  • the first outer edge may and the second outer edge may be electrically connected to each other.
  • the first outer edge and the second outer edge may be opposing edges.
  • An electrical pathway may extend between the first outer edge and the second outer edge.
  • the at least one elongate aperture 104 may be provided between the first outer edge and the second outer edge.
  • the at least one elongate aperture 104 may extend in a plane defined by an outer surface of the allotrope of carbon 101.
  • the at least one elongate aperture 104 may extend through both the allotrope of carbon 101 and the electrically insulating substrate 102.
  • the aerosol generating component 100 comprises a heating portion 100a.
  • the aerosol generating component 100 may comprise at least one aerosolisable material feed portion 100b.
  • the at least one aerosolisable material feed portion may extend from the heating portion 101 .
  • Such an aerosol generating component 100 is shown in Figs. 8A and 8B.
  • the heating portion 100a and the at least one aerosolisable material feed portion 100b By virtue of the heating portion 100a and the at least one aerosolisable material feed portion 100b, it has been found that the aerosol generating component exhibits improved transfer of aerosolisable material to the aerosol generating component 100 and improved aerosolisation efficiency. That is, the at least one aerosolisable material feed portion 100b effectively transfers aerosolisable material to the heating portion 100a. Moreover, it has been found that when the aerosol generating component 100 is energised there is no significant spread of thermal energy to the at least one aerosolisable material feed portions 100b. This is shown in Fig. 8B, which is a heat map of the aerosol generating component 100 of Fig. 8A in use, where the aerosol generating component 100 was energised to aerosolisation temperature using a power source.
  • the use of the at least one aerosolisable material feed portion 100b to feed aerosolisable material to the heating portion 100a reduces or prevents the problem of vapour formation between the outer surface of the heating portion and aerosolisable material. This can occur where aerosolisable material is directly fed onto the outer surface of the heating portion and may result in inadvertent ejection of aerosolisable material (e.g. “sputtering” or “spitting”).
  • the heating portion 100a may be elongate.
  • the heating portion 100a may be formed as a plate, a strip, or a rod.
  • the heating portion 100a may be linear.
  • the heating portion 100a may be non-linear.
  • the heating portion 100a may comprise or consist of the allotrope of carbon 101 and the substrate 102.
  • the heating portion 100a may consist of the allotrope of carbon 101.
  • the heating portion 100a may have a length of from 1 mm to 50 mm. In some embodiments, the heating portion 100a has a length of from 2 mm to 40 mm. In some embodiments, the heating portion 100a has a length of from 5 mm to 30 mm. In some embodiments, the heating portion 100a has a length of from 10 mm to 30 mm. In some embodiments, the heating portion 100a has a length of from 10 mm to 25 mm. In some embodiments, the heating portion 100a has a length of from 10 mm to 20 mm. The heating portion 100a may have a width of from 0.5 mm to 50 mm. In some embodiments, the heating portion 100a has a width of from 0.5 mm to 20 mm.
  • the heating portion 100a has a width of 0.5 mm to 10 mm. In some embodiments, the heating portion 100a has a width of from 0.5 mm to 5 mm. In some embodiments, the heating portion 100a has a width of from 1 mm to 50 mm. In some embodiments, the heating portion 100a has a width of from 1 mm to 20 mm. In some embodiments, the heating portion 100a has a width of from 1 mm to 10 mm. In some embodiments, the heating portion 100a has a width of from 1 mm to 5 mm. In some embodiments, the heating portion 100a has a width of from 1 mm to 3 mm.
  • the aerosol generating component 100 may comprise a plurality (e.g. at least two, three, four, five, or six) aerosolisable material feed portions 100b each extending from the heating portion 100a. As shown in Figs. 8A and 8B, the or each aerosolisable material feed portion 100b may extend from a side of the heating portion 100a. As shown in Figs. 8A and 8B, the or each aerosolisable material feed portion 100b may extend transversely to the longitudinal extent of the heating portion 100a. The or each aerosolisable material feed portion 100b may extend laterally from the heating portion 100a.
  • a plurality e.g. at least two, three, four, five, or six
  • the or each aerosolisable material feed portion 100b may extend from a side of the heating portion 100a. As shown in Figs. 8A and 8B, the or each aerosolisable material feed portion 100b may extend transversely to the longitudinal extent of the heating portion 100a. The or each aerosolisable material feed portion 100
  • the aerosol generating component 100 may be substantially planar. In this way, the heating portion 100a and the at least one aerosolisable material feed portions 100b may be provided in the same plane.
  • the or each aerosolisable material feed portion 100b may be elongate 100a.
  • the or each aerosolisable material feed portion 100b may be formed as a plate, a strip, or a rod.
  • the or each aerosolisable material feed portion 100b may be linear.
  • the or each aerosolisable material feed portion 100b may have length to width ratio of from 1 :1 to 5: 1.
  • the or each aerosolisable material feed portion 100b may have a width of from 1 to 3 mm.
  • the or each aerosolisable material feed portion 100b may have a length of from 1 to 15 mm.
  • the or each aerosolisable material feed portion 100b may taper.
  • the or each aerosolisable material feed portion 100b may taper away from the elongate heating portion 100a.
  • the at least one aerosolisable material feed portion 100b may be porous.
  • the at least one aerosolisable material feed portion 100b may comprise a capillary material.
  • the at least one aerosolisable material feed portion 100b may have any features of the electrically insulating substrate, as defined herein.
  • the heating portion 100a may have a longitudinal extent (e.g. a longitudinal axis).
  • the or each aerosolisable material feed portion 100b may extend obliquely or orthogonally from the longitudinal extent of the heating portion 100a.
  • the heating portion 100a comprises the allotrope of carbon 101 arranged on the electrically insulating substrate 102.
  • the or each aerosolisable material feed portion 100b comprises the electrically insulating substrate 102.
  • the at least one aerosolisable material feed portion 100b comprises the allotrope of carbon 101 and the electrically insulating substrate 102.
  • the at least one aerosolisable material feed portion 100b comprises the electrically insulating substrate 102, e.g. a portion of the electrically insulating substrate 102 on which the allotrope of carbon is not supported (as per Figs. 7A, 7B, 8A, and 8B).
  • the heating portion 100a and the substrate 102 are integrally formed.
  • an aerosol generating assembly comprising the aerosol generating component 100 of any aspect of the present disclosure, and an aerosol generating material transfer component 200 for supplying aerosol generating material to the aerosol generating component 100.
  • FIG. 5A to 6C Examples of the aerosol generating assembly are shown in Figs. 5A to 6C.
  • the aerosol generating material transfer component 200 may be for passively supplying the aerosol generating material to the aerosol generating component 100. “Passively supplying” encompasses aerosol generating material transfer components 200 which do not require power to transport the aerosol generating material to the aerosol generating component 100.
  • the aerosol generating material transfer component 200 may comprise a porous structure.
  • the aerosol generating material transfer component 200 may comprise a capillary structure. Capillary structures have been found to be particularly effective for transfer of aerosolisable material to the aerosol generating component 101.
  • the aerosol generating material transfer component 200 may comprise at least one capillary channel 201 having an outlet 202.
  • the outlet 202 may be arranged adjacent to the aerosol generating component 100 (e.g. the one or more layers of graphene 101 and/or the substrate 102), such that aerosolisable material exiting the outlet 202 directly contacts the aerosol generating component.
  • the outlet 202 is arranged to supply aerosol generating material from above or alongside the aerosol generating component 100 to the aerosol generating component 100, with respect to gravity.
  • the (or each) capillary channel 201 may be formed by a first layer (e.g. a cover layer) 203 and a second layer (e.g. a base layer) 204.
  • the first layer 203 and the second layer 204 are spaced apart by approximately 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm (although the spacing may be varied).
  • the outlet 202 of the capillary channel 201 may be provided at a terminal end of the first layer 203 and second layer 204, proximal the aerosol generating component 100 (e.g. the allotrope of carbon 101 and/or the substrate 102).
  • the at least one capillary channel 201 can be provided in various forms.
  • the or each capillary channel 101 may comprise a groove or a conduit.
  • the aerosol generating component may comprise a plurality of capillary channels (each of which may independently comprise any features of the capillary channel described herein).
  • the first layer 203 may be formed of any one of plastic, glass, paper, and ceramic.
  • the first layer 203 may be non-porous.
  • the second layer 204 may be formed of any one of plastic, glass, paper, and ceramic.
  • the second layer 204 may be non-porous.
  • each of the first and second layers 203, 204 is formed of glass.
  • the aerosol generating material transfer component 200 may comprise a reservoir 210.
  • the aerosol generating component 100 may traverse the reservoir 210.
  • the reservoir 210 is arranged to supply aerosol generating material from below the aerosol generating component 100 to the aerosol generating component 100, with respect to gravity.
  • the reservoir 210 may be configured to comprise an amount of aerosolisable material such that aerosolisable material directly contacts the aerosol generating component 100 (e.g. the one or more layers of graphene 101), e.g. an outer surface thereof, particularly the surface provided by the one or more layers of graphene 101.
  • the aerosol generating assembly may comprise a movement mechanism (not shown in the figures) for moving (e.g. raising or lowering) the aerosol generating component 100, so as to maintain direct contact between the aerosol generating component 100 and any aerosolisable material in the reservoir 210.
  • the movement mechanism may be automatically controlled by a controller.
  • an article for use as part of a noncombustible aerosol provision system comprising the aerosol generating component 100 of any aspect of the present disclosure, or the aerosol generating assembly of any aspect of the present disclosure.
  • an article for use as part of a noncombustible aerosol provision system comprising: the aerosol generating component 100 comprising the heating portion 100a and the at least one aerosolisable material feed portion 100b according to any aspect of the present disclosure; and at least one reservoir for aerosolisable material, wherein the or each aerosolisable material feed portion 100b is arranged in fluid communication with at least one of the at least one reservoir.
  • the or each aerosolisable material feed portion 100b may extend to or into at least one or the at least one reservoir. In this way, the or each aerosolisable material feed portion 100b can directly transport aerosolisable material from the reservoir to the heating portion 100a.
  • the heating portion 100a may be offset from the at least one reservoir.
  • the article may comprise an aerosol generation chamber.
  • the aerosol generating component may be at least partially arranged in the aerosol generation chamber.
  • the heating portion 100a may be arranged in the aerosol generation chamber.
  • the reservoir may radially surround the aerosol generation chamber. In this way, the reservoir may form an annulus around the aerosol generating chamber (the ring may be partial or complete).
  • At least one airflow path may extend through the article.
  • the article may comprise at least one inlet and at least one outlet.
  • the at least one airflow path may extend from the at least one inlet to the at least one outlet.
  • the airflow path may comprise the aerosol generation chamber.
  • the article may be orientated such that air flows along the aerosol generating component (e.g. the heating portion 100a) in a surface-direction (e.g. along the surface of the aerosol generating component 100, e.g. heating portion 100a) in use.
  • air may enter the article through the at least one inlet, flow through the airflow path via the aerosol generation chamber in which the aerosol generating component 100 (e.g. the heating portion 100a) is arranged, and exit the article through the at least one outlet.
  • a non-combustible aerosol provision system comprising: the aerosol generating component 100 of any aspect of the present disclosure, or the aerosol generating assembly of any aspect of the present disclosure, or the article of any aspect of the present disclosure; and one or more of a power source and a controller.
  • the power source is for supplying electrical power to the aerosol generating component, e.g. the allotrope of carbon 101 .
  • the controller may be arranged in electrical communication with the aerosol generating component 100 (e.g. the allotrope of carbon 101), wherein the controller is configured to control the supply of power to the aerosol generating component 100 (e.g. the allotrope of carbon 101) by the power source.
  • the controller may be configured to cause the supply of aerosolisable material to the aerosol generating component 100.
  • the supply may be active supply.
  • the active supply may be by an active supply device, such as a pump.
  • the amount of power supplied to the aerosol generating component 100 may be based on the amount of aerosolisable material supplied to the aerosol generating component 100.
  • the system can be configured so that power is set to zero or a baseline value when no aerosolisable material is supplied to the aerosol generating component 100, and so that power is set to a higher value when aerosolisable material is supplied to the aerosol generating component.
  • Such a device has been found to exhibit improved energy efficiency while maintaining desirable heating performance.
  • the controller when no aerosolisable material is supplied to the aerosol generating component 100, the controller may be configured such that no power is supplied to the aerosol generating component.
  • the controller When no aerosolisable material is supplied to the aerosol generating component 100, the controller may be configured such that a baseline power (which is greater than zero) is supplied to the aerosol generating component.
  • the baseline power be less than the power supplied to the aerosol generating component 100 when aerosol generating material is supplied thereto 100.
  • Use of a baseline power advantageously reduces the time to reach aerosolisation temperatures while limiting power consumption during non-use.
  • the method may comprise the step of: forming the allotrope of carbon 101 on an electrically insulating substrate 102.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may be as defined herein.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may be formed on the electrically insulating substrate 102 by printing.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may be formed on the electrically insulating substrate 102 by laser irradiation of the electrically insulating substrate 102.
  • the foam may be formed on the electrically insulating substrate 102 by laser irradiation of the electrically insulating substrate 102.
  • the laser irradiation may comprise irradiating the electrically insulating substrate 102 with a laser beam, wherein the electrically insulating substrate 102 is a carbon-containing material.
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 may be formed of polyimide (PI). The laser irradiation may be performed in an inert environment.
  • the method of forming an aerosol generating component 100 comprises forming the allotrope of carbon 101 on an electrically insulating substrate 102 by laser irradiation comprising irradiating the electrically insulating substrate 102 with a laser beam, wherein the electrically insulating substrate 102 is a carbon-containing material (optionally formed of polyimide (PI)), and the allotrope of carbon 101 is formed as a foam.
  • the electrically insulating substrate 102 is a carbon-containing material (optionally formed of polyimide (PI)
  • PI polyimide
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may be formed on the electrically insulating substrate 102 by laser induced deposition.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 is or comprises one or more layers of graphene
  • this may be formed on the electrically insulating substrate 102 by laser induced graphene (LIG) formation.
  • the laser induced graphene formation comprises irradiating a laser beam on the electrically insulating substrate 102, wherein the electrically insulating substrate is a carbon- containing material.
  • LIG may be used to form graphene foam on the electrically insulating substrate.
  • the allotrope of carbon 101 may be formed on the electrically insulating substrate 102 by chemical vapour deposition (CVD).
  • the chemical vapour deposition comprises flowing a carbon-containing gas (e.g. methane) (and optionally hydrogen) past the electrically insulating substrate 102.
  • the chemical vapour deposition may be at sub-atmospheric pressure, otherwise known as low-pressure CVD.
  • CVD may be used to form graphene foam on the electrically insulating substrate.
  • the method may comprise the step of forming one or more electrode 103 in contact with the allotrope of carbon 101 .
  • the forming the one or more electrodes 103 in contact with the allotrope of carbon 101 may comprise a sintering step.
  • the forming the at least one electrode 103 in contact with the allotrope of carbon 101 may comprise sintering the at least one electrode to the allotrope of carbon 101 .
  • the or each electrode 103 may be selected from copper, silver, and gold.
  • the or each electrode 103 made be sintered, e.g. sintered copper, sintered silver, or sintered gold. It has been found that copper, such as sintered copper, is particularly effective at forming a direct, low-loss electrical connection.
  • the method may comprise forming one or more grooves and/or one or more apertures in the electrically insulating substrate before arranging the allotrope of carbon 101 thereon.
  • the one or more apertures extend through the substrate 102 (i.e. as through-holes).
  • the grooves and apertures help to distribute aerosolisable material across and through the aerosol generating component 100 and to improve heating efficiency.
  • the substrate 102 is glass, e.g. borosilicate glass (e.g. “Willow Glass”) or quartz glass (fused quartz).
  • glass e.g. borosilicate glass (e.g. “Willow Glass”) or quartz glass (fused quartz).
  • Fig. 9 shows an allotrope of carbon 102 formed on a borosilicate glass substrate 102, and two copper electrodes 103 in contact with the allotrope of carbon 101.
  • an aerosol generating component 100 obtained by the method according to any aspect of the present disclosure.
  • a method of operating a noncombustible aerosol provision system comprising the steps of: supplying power to the aerosol generating component 100.
  • the method may comprise actuating the controller to control (e.g. cause or prevent) the supply of aerosolisable material to the aerosol generating component 100.
  • the method may comprise actuating the controller to control (e.g. cause or prevent) the supply of power to the aerosol generating component 100.
  • the method may comprise supplying an amount of power to the aerosol generating component 100 which is based on the amount of aerosolisable material supplied to the aerosol generating component 100.
  • the method may comprising to supplying a baseline power (which is greater than zero) to the aerosol generating component 100 when no aerosolisable material is supplied to the aerosol generating component 100.
  • the method may comprising to supplying an amount of power which is greater than the baseline power to the aerosol generating component 100 when aerosolisable material is supplied to the aerosol generating component 100.
  • any aspect of the present disclosure may be defined in relation to any of the other aspects of the present disclosure.
  • one aspect of the present disclosure may include any of the features of any other aspect of the present disclosure and/or the features of one aspect of the present disclosure may be as defined in relation to the features of any other aspect of the present disclosure.

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  • Cosmetics (AREA)
  • Medicinal Preparation (AREA)
  • Physical Or Chemical Processes And Apparatus (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un composant de génération d'aérosol (100) à utiliser en tant que partie d'un système de fourniture d'aérosol non combustible. Le composant de génération d'aérosol (100) comprend un allotrope de carbone (101) supporté sur un substrat électriquement isolant (102).
PCT/GB2024/051986 2023-07-31 2024-07-29 Composant de génération d'aérosol Pending WO2025027300A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

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GBGB2311749.2A GB202311749D0 (en) 2023-07-31 2023-07-31 Aerosol generating component
GB2311749.2 2023-07-31

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WO2025027300A1 true WO2025027300A1 (fr) 2025-02-06

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GB (1) GB202311749D0 (fr)
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