CN117042636A

CN117042636A - Conductive consumable

Info

Publication number: CN117042636A
Application number: CN202280020332.9A
Authority: CN
Inventors: T·约翰特格斯
Original assignee: JT International SA
Current assignee: JT International SA
Priority date: 2021-03-10
Filing date: 2022-03-08
Publication date: 2023-11-10
Also published as: WO2022189452A1; EP4304393A1; US20240298699A1; JP2024508462A; JP2024509232A; US20240138471A1; WO2022189551A9; TW202235014A; KR20230155485A; WO2022189551A1; KR20230167353A; EP4304392A1

Abstract

According to the present application, the application relates to a consumable for an aerosol-generating device, the consumable comprising a heating layer of an aerosol substrate, the heating layer being formed to be sandwiched between two electrodes of the device. The heated layer of the aerosol matrix comprises a perfume material and an aerosol former. The consumable is characterized in that the layer further comprises an electrically conductive material in the form of particles embedded in the layer, wherein the electrically conductive material is arranged in a heating layer to conduct an electrical current between the two electrodes and to heat the aerosol matrix to a temperature sufficient to aerosolize the aerosol former. The application also relates to a method for manufacturing such a consumable, a device for delivering a tobacco aerosol comprising the consumable, and a method for producing a tobacco aerosol by means of the device.

Description

Conductive consumable

Technical Field

The present application relates to electrically conductive tobacco having a heating layer as a consumable of an aerosol generating device. Furthermore, the application relates to a method for manufacturing such an electrically conductive consumable, a device aerosol generating device and a method for generating an aerosol from said consumable.

Background

A wide variety of electronic smoking devices are commercially available. Most popular is an electronic cigarette, which evaporates an electronic liquid into an inhalable vapor. However, such devices are very susceptible to leakage of electronic liquids. This is very disadvantageous for users who place electronic smoking devices in pockets or bags. Alternative devices with solid state consumables are commercially available. Such devices consist in heating, rather than burning, the tobacco reconstituted substance wrapped in paper, and do not leak. However, such devices require a heater as part of the device and thus require adequate insulation to avoid high temperatures at the surface of the device. The device is relatively complex to assemble and is therefore relatively expensive.

Disclosure of Invention

It is therefore an object of the present application to provide an electrically conductive consumable for an aerosol-generating device that enables the aerosol-generating device to be operated with a rechargeable battery (e.g. a lithium ion battery) without the need for a heating system or an igniter as part of the device. Furthermore, it is an object of the present application to provide a method for manufacturing said electrically conductive consumable, an aerosol generating device for use with the consumable and a method for generating an aerosol.

The above requirements are met by the object of claim 1. Preferred embodiments are the object of the dependent claims.

The consumable for an aerosol-generating device according to the application comprises a heating element, in particular a heating layer of an aerosol substrate, which heating layer is formed to be sandwiched between two electrodes of the device. The heated layer of the aerosol matrix comprises a perfume material and an aerosol former.

The consumable is characterized in that the layer further comprises an electrically conductive material in the form of particles embedded in the layer, wherein the electrically conductive material is arranged in the heating layer to conduct an electrical current between the two electrodes and/or to heat the aerosol matrix to a temperature sufficient to aerosolize the aerosol-former.

Preferably, the flavour material included in the heating layer comprises natural and/or synthetic ingredients which enhance and alter the taste of the aerosol produced. It is contemplated that the flavor material includes tobacco material that may preferably be made from different types of tobacco plants. However, the addition of tobacco material to the flavor material is not necessary.

Preferably, the consumable is arranged between two electrodes, more preferably the consumable is pressed between the electrodes. These two electrodes preferably represent a common electrode for use as a heater in an aerosol-generating device. Preferably, the consumable, in particular the heating layer, is formed as a paste or paste. It is advantageous to provide consumables of this shape, at least because of the various storage possibilities.

The consumable in the form of a paste is preferably provided or stored as a layer rolled up on itself, similar to a spiral or hyperbolic spiral. Consumable items wound on a spool may also be provided. Preferably, the entire consumable, in particular the heated layer of aerosol matrix, is stored in a cartridge, which preferably aims to keep the consumable fresh. The cartridge is preferably provided with a mechanism for opening and closing the cartridge. Various closures are available for this purpose. Thus, it is envisaged that the cartridge may be refilled with a consumable, in particular a heating layer.

Consumable products provided as pastes include up to 10 ² Viscosity of mPas (at 20 ℃). The preferred dynamic viscosity of the consumable preferably decreases with increasing temperature of the electrode. It is contemplated that the consumable is a non-newtonian fluid and includes solid particles. The amount of solid particles will vary depending on the composition of the materials used for the consumable. Thus, the viscosity, in particular the dynamic viscosity, of the consumable is preferably dependent on the ingredients and the amount of solid particles comprised in the consumable.

Preferably, both electrodes of the aerosol-generating device are connected to a voltage source. It is also preferred that the voltage source supplies electrical energy to the whole aerosol-generating device, thereby providing a voltage in the range of 1V to 5V. In a preferred embodiment, the voltage source is a lithium ion battery delivering a value of 3.7V. Such a voltage source is particularly advantageous for modern aerosol generating devices in view of chargeability. The heating layer according to the application is considered as a conductor between the electrodes and provides direct aerosolization of the consumable. Preferably, the two electrodes and the heating layer reach a temperature in the range of 90 ℃ to 230 ℃ sufficient to aerosolize the aerosol former comprised in the consumable.

According to another embodiment, the consumable is characterized in that the conductive material has a specific surface area of at least 3.10 ² Conductivity of S/m (at 20 ℃). The value of the conductivity may vary depending on the conductive material selected. Preferably, the electrically conductive material comprised in the consumable or heating layer has a value of 100 x 10 ⁶ Conductivity of S/m.

The conductive material is preferably a nontoxic approved additive for use in the tobacco industry. In another embodiment, it is conceivable that the conductive material comprised in the consumable or heating layer has a value of 3 x 10 ² S/m to 3 x 10 ⁶ Conductivity in the range of S/m. The conductive material preferably allows current to flow from the first electrode to the second electrode. Preferably, the current flows in a transverse direction perpendicular to the thickness of the consumable. In this context, the thickness of the consumable means the thickness of the consumable arranged between the first electrode and the second electrode. Preferably, in order to achieve a sufficient current flow between the electrodes through the consumable, in particular through the heating layer, it is necessary to provide the electrically conductive material in an amount of at least 2.5%, preferably less than 50%, more preferably between 2.5% and 25% by weight of the consumable.

Additionally or alternatively, the desired conductivity may be achieved by modulating the contact surface of the electrode. It is contemplated that the smaller electrode contact surface achieves a greater resistance. The smaller electrode contact surface preferably comprises 150mm ² To 200mm ² In the range of (2) contact surface area. In this case, the amount of the conductive material in the heating layer can be increased. Thus, electrodes with large electrode contact surfaces should preferably be used with heating layers comprising a smaller amount of conductive material. Preferably, the large electrode contact surface comprises 250mm ² To 320mm ² In the range of (2) contact surface area. In a preferred embodiment, the electrode contact surface area is 200mm ² To 250mm ² Within the range of (2) more preferably includes215mm ² 。

According to another embodiment, the consumable is characterized in that the thickness of the heating layer is between 0.5 and 3mm, preferably between 0.5 and 2mm, and most preferably 0.75mm. The minimum thickness of the consumable is preferably determined by the heating layer. Preferably, the electrical resistance of the consumable is proportional to the thickness of the heating layer used. The thinner the layer, the less resistive.

It is envisaged that the thickness of the heating layer corresponds to the thickness of the entire consumable. In this case, the heating layer is preferably not formed as a separate layer, but is distributed throughout the consumable. Thus, the entire consumable including the conductive material is the heating layer. The maximum thickness of the consumable is preferably determined by the design of the aerosol generating device. The space available in small aerosol generating devices is typically very small, and therefore the thickness of the consumable is particularly important. Thus, the preferred thickness of the consumable is particularly advantageous for storage in cartridges.

The small thickness of the consumable enables a larger capacity of the cartridge comprising the consumable. At the same time, it is preferable that the heating of the consumable requires a lower voltage and a shorter heating time. This allows the user to use a single cartridge with a consumable for a longer period of time. A further advantage of the preferred thickness of the consumable or heating layer is a compact wrapping in the cartridge. This helps to avoid wasting voids in cartridges with consumables.

According to another embodiment, the consumable is characterized in that the conductive material is distributed in and on the layer in an amount that allows electric power to flow from one electrode to the other electrode through the thickness of the layer. It is conceivable to coat the consumable or heating layer with a conductive material to provide electrical conduction between the two electrodes. In some embodiments of the application, the consumable comprises two heating layers comprising an electrically conductive material.

The heating layer is preferably arranged as an upper and lower layer of the consumable to produce a layered consumable comprising at least three layers. In this case, preferably, the heating layer is in contact with the electrode. It is also preferred that the consumable comprises a conductive material in the intermediate layer, thereby ensuring the flow of current from one electrode to the other.

In another embodiment, the conductive material is particularly uniformly distributed in the heating layer to allow current to flow from one electrode to the other electrode through the thickness of the heating layer. In this case, in particular, the entire consumable is a heating layer. However, the use of additional highly enriched layers comprising conductive materials is also contemplated.

According to another embodiment, the conductive material is randomly distributed inside the heating layer and on the surface area of the heating layer. In particular, it is preferred that the conductive material is randomly distributed within the consumable and over the surface area of the consumable. The distribution of the conductive material in the consumable or heating layer is preferably described by the feik's law of diffusion. If the conductive material or the heating layer is a solid material, preferably provided in the form of a paste, the conductive material is preferably anisotropically distributed inside the heating layer of the consumable. This results in the formation of areas of higher and lower concentrations of conductive material inside the heating layer or consumable.

Preferably, however, the conductive material inside the heating layer of the consumable is dispersed to ensure the extent of the current flow. The distribution of the conductive material inside the more liquid consumable (preferably in the form of a paste) may advantageously be better than the distribution inside the solid consumable. Preferably, the conductive material is uniformly dispersed within the liquid consumable. This may be achieved by a liquid conductive material or conductive particles dispersed in a carrier liquid.

According to another embodiment, the conductive material is graphite or charcoal particles. The material may take the form of powder, loose or agglomerated particles. Other conductive materials are also contemplated for use, particularly at least as approved in the tobacco industry or food industry.

According to another embodiment, the conductive material comprises an amount of 2.5 to 50wt.%, preferably 2.5 to 25wt.%, relative to the heating layer. Preferably, the conductive material comprises an amount of 2.5wt.% to 59wt.% relative to the consumable. Preferably, the amount of carbon or charcoal particles present in the consumable or heating layer depends at least on the thickness of the consumable or heating layer. It is also contemplated that the amount of carbon or charcoal particles present in the consumable depends on the pressure provided between the first electrode and the second electrode during the heating process. The consumable may include both carbon and charcoal particles. In this case, the amount of the two materials in the heating layer or the consumable is preferably in the range of 5wt.% to 40wt.%, and still preferably 2.5wt.% to 60wt.% with respect to the consumable. In general, it is contemplated to use carbon and/or charcoal particles in an amount greater than 50wt.% in the consumable or heating layer.

The conductive material may have a hollow structure. The hollow structure may be formed by a hole or a tube or another capillary or sponge-like structure. The advantage of this arrangement is that it can provide a reservoir for aerosol former without softening the consumable.

According to another embodiment, the heating layer further comprises a binder, preferably carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), in an amount of 0.5wt.% to 2.5wt.% relative to the consumable or heating layer. In particular, the consumable preferably comprises the binder in CMC form in an amount of 0.5wt.% to 2.5wt.% relative to the consumable. In an example, the binder is included in an amount of about 1.74wt.% of the total weight of the consumable. Other binders such as cellulose gum, water and glycerol mixtures are contemplated. The water can activate the adhesive and the amount thereof can vary depending on the adhesive selected.

According to another embodiment, the aerosol former comprises an amount of less than 25wt.% relative to the consumable or heating layer. Preferably, the aerosol former is propylene glycol and/or propylene glycol. Thus, the aerosol former may not be added to the consumable or heating layer. In this case, the included conductive material (preferably charcoal) requires a higher temperature to aerosolize the fragrance included in the consumable. Particularly when using a relatively solid consumable product, it is conceivable to use a small amount of aerosol former or no aerosol former. This helps to avoid unnecessary moisture content in the consumable. However, aerosol formers are particularly advantageous for the elasticity of the consumable. The use of aerosol formers in consumables at least avoids their brittleness. This achieves an optimal shape of the consumable or heating layer for heating between the two electrodes of the aerosol-generating device. In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol former comprises an amount of at least 5wt.% and less than 25wt.% relative to the consumable. For example, the aerosol former is glycerol in an amount of about 12.50 wt.%.

According to another embodiment, the layer further comprises water in an amount of 10wt.% to 49.5wt.%, preferably 22.5wt.% to 49.5wt.%, relative to the consumable. For example, the layer includes about 36wt.% water.

According to another embodiment, the tobacco material comprises tobacco in an amount of up to 47.5wt.% relative to the consumable. Preferably, the tobacco material comprises tobacco in an amount of 25wt.% to 47.5wt.% of the total weight of the consumable. The tobacco may be tobacco dust and/or cut tobacco, such as smoke-cured tobacco (FCT). In particular, the consumer may use a consumable according to the present application that does not comprise tobacco dust. Preferably, the consumable comprising the humectant without the tobacco dust is aerosolizable between electrodes of the aerosol generating device. The humectants preferably include fragrances for enhancing the aerosol produced with different flavors. However, the tobacco dust provides a special enhanced tobacco taste of the aerosol produced. It is envisaged that the tobacco dust comprised in the consumable or heating layer will adhere to a conductive material, preferably charcoal, thereby providing nicotine to the aerosol produced.

According to another embodiment, the tobacco dust has a particle size of less than 1000 microns. The tobacco particles may be from any part of the tobacco plant, such as the leaf, stem or root. The particle size of the tobacco dust is critical in view of the taste of the tobacco delivered. It has been found that grinding tobacco particles to smaller particle sizes may affect odor. It is believed that some of the odorant molecules decompose due to high shear energy.

Furthermore, during the milling process or during a later handling process, some of the flavoring molecules may leave the tobacco particles that are too small. This will result in the dissipation of these flavoring molecules in the tobacco particles and of flavoring compositions other than whole tobacco flavor. In other embodiments, it is contemplated that the particle size of the tobacco dust used in the heating layer or consumable is less than 600 microns or less. Tobacco particles having such small average particle sizes provide a high surface area from which the flavoring molecules can leave the particles. Thus, small tobacco particles have been found to be important because they provide a full tobacco flavor over a long period of time.

According to another embodiment, the flavor material includes smoke (FCT) in an amount of 1wt.% to 47.5wt.% relative to the consumable. In a preferred example, the flavor material includes smoke (FCT) in an amount of about 25wt.% of the total weight of the consumable. The smoke may comprise a mixture of tobacco cut filler and tobacco dust. For example, cut tobacco may include cut tobacco (e.g., formula cut tobacco) up to about 5mm long. Preferably, the flavour material comprises tobacco material comprising different types of tobacco. Thus, at least flue-cured and/or other plant additives may be used to enhance consumables with different tobacco tastes.

Preferably, the ratio of solids to liquid ingredient content of the consumable is between 70:30 and 30:70, preferably 60:40 to 40:60, more preferably between 55:45 and 50:50, most preferably 52:48. Thus, the consumable contains sufficient aerosol former to form a sheet without being too brittle, while having sufficient conductive material to conduct electricity.

The object is also achieved by a method for manufacturing a consumable, comprising the steps of:

mixing the fragrance material with the electrically conductive material in particulate form, an aerosol former and water to form a paste or paste,

pressing the paste or paste into layers,

and solidifying the heating layer, for example by curing and/or drying.

It is contemplated to add tobacco dust or tobacco material to the delivered paste or paste. The paste or cream comprising tobacco material or tobacco paste preferably delivers a strong tobacco taste. In other embodiments, the flavor material further comprises natural flavors or synthetic flavors that can enhance the consumable or the heating layer, or generate an aerosol with flavors such as chocolate, vanilla, or menthol.

In particular, "mixing" in this context means that the ingredients of the consumable or heating layer are diffusible or dispensable. It is envisaged that some ingredients will be provided in solid form, while others will be provided in liquid form. It is also conceivable to soak the solid ingredients with the liquid ingredients to manufacture the consumable or the heating layer. Thereafter, it is advantageous to knead the paste or paste in order to distribute the ingredients particularly uniformly. Preferably, the electrically conductive material, the fragrance material and at least the CFT are provided as a solid dose of the consumable or heating layer. Also preferably, the aerosol former, water and at least the binder are provided as a liquid formulation of the consumable. Preferably, the optimal ratio of ingredients for the consumable or heating layer comprises at least 52wt.% solid ingredients and at least 48wt.% liquid ingredients.

Preferably, the paste or paste is pressed into a layer having a thickness of at least 0.5 mm. But may also be pressed into a layer having a thickness of 2mm or less. However, the electrical resistance of the consumable or heating layer disposed between the two electrodes increases as the thickness of the layer increases. In embodiments where the consumable is provided as a paste or a paste, the paste or paste may be pressed into layers and allowed to dry. Additionally or alternatively, the paste or paste may be pressed to the support layer and/or rolled up between two porous wrapping layers. Such a coating may facilitate the formation and maintenance of a layered form of the compressed ingredients. The support layer and/or the wrapping layer preferably comprises paper or silicon. Thus, a particularly stable form of the heating layer can be achieved.

The object is also achieved by a device for delivering tobacco aerosol comprising a consumable, the device being characterized by a pair of electrodes and an electrical energy source powering the electrodes, wherein the electrodes comprising a contact surface are configured to be pressed across a layer of the consumable along at least a portion of a surface area of the layer. The device for delivering tobacco aerosols is preferably usable as an aerosol generating device for a consumable according to the application. It is envisaged that such devices include further mechanical, electrical and/or electronic parts as conventional electrical aerosol delivery devices. Thus, the device may further comprise a cartridge for storing the consumable. Preferably, the cartridge is refillable or suppliable with a consumable.

According to another embodiment, the device is characterized in that the portion in contact with the layer is between 10% and 80%, preferably 20% to 50% of the surface area between the electrodes.

According to another embodiment, the electrode is pressed against the layer with a pressure between 0.5 and 10 bar, preferably 5 bar. In a preferred embodiment, the device comprises means for generating pressure. Preferably, the device comprises a spring for generating a pressure between 0.5 and 10 bar. In a preferred embodiment the means for generating a pressure generates a pressure of 5 bar between the two electrodes. Preferably, the pressure is applied to a surface area of 150 to 300mm ² For example 215mm ² Is arranged on the electrode of the battery. But it is also possible to generate a pressure of at least 5 bar over a larger surface area of the electrode. However, the surface area of the electrode depends on the size of the entire device. The electrode may include holes or channels to facilitate aerosol flow out of the consumable. For example, each electrode includes a corrugated and/or apertured contact surface.

The object is also achieved by a method of generating a tobacco aerosol, comprising the steps of:

disposing a heating layer of the aerosol-substrate between two electrodes of the aerosol-generating device,

pressing the electrode against the heating layer,

supplying an electric current to the electrodes, wherein the heating layer conducts the electric current between the electrodes,

-heating the heating layer, thereby generating a tobacco aerosol.

Preferably, the heating of the heating layer or consumable is provided by an electrical current flowing from the electrode of the aerosol-generating device to the other electrode. The electrically conductive material comprised in the consumable or heating layer preferably enables a current flow. Whereby the consumable or heating layer burns between the two electrodes of the device, thereby producing an inhalable aerosol.

Preferably, the method further comprises directing the tobacco aerosol through a conduit or aerosol passage to the mouthpiece outlet. It is envisaged that the conduit or aerosol passage is connected to the mouthpiece and the heating section of the device. Preferably, the heating section of the device comprises two electrode and heating layer arrangements.

In the present patent application, the particle size refers to the average diameter D90 determined by laser diffraction using dry dispersion method and software v3.62 with a particle size analyzer Malvern 3000.

Drawings

Other advantages, objects and features of the application will be described in the following description, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, like elements in different embodiments may be represented by like reference numerals.

The drawings show:

FIG. 1a shows a schematic cross-section of a consumable comprising a conductive material between two electrodes and one particle of the conductive material;

FIG. 1b shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a consumable comprising a conductive material between two electrodes touching two particles of the conductive material;

FIG. 1c shows a schematic top view of a consumable comprising a conductive material between two electrodes;

FIG. 2 shows a schematic view of a device for delivering an aerosol having two electrodes and a consumable disposed between the electrodes;

FIG. 3 illustrates a flow chart of a method for manufacturing a consumable comprising a conductive material;

fig. 4 shows a flow chart of a method of generating an aerosol by a device comprising two electrodes and a consumable arranged between the electrodes;

fig. 5a shows a schematic view of a cartridge comprising consumables arranged in a spiral;

fig. 5b shows a schematic view of a cartridge comprising consumables arranged in a hyperbolic spiral.

Detailed Description

In fig. 1a and 1b, a schematic cross-sectional view of a consumable 1 comprising a conductive material 7 between two electrodes 4a, 4b is shown. In both figures, the consumable 1 is shown to comprise at least a fragrance material 5, a conductive material 7 and optionally an aerosol former 6. It is contemplated that the consumable 1 further comprises ingredients forming an aerosol matrix (not shown). The flavor material 5 may be a tobacco material for enhancing an aerosol matrix with individual tobacco flavors, and/or may be another flavor substance added to the tobacco material in addition or alternatively. These ingredients, in particular the conductive material 7, are provided in the form of particles. In particular, the formulation may be provided as a solid powder comprising particles of the electrically conductive material. Such particulate ingredients are preferably embedded in the heating layer 3 or the consumable 1. Preferably, however, the consumable 1 is formed as a layer, in particular a heating layer 3 or comprises such a heating layer. It is also preferred that the layer 3 or consumable 1 is arranged between two electrodes 4a, 4b in the aerosol-generating device 2 (shown in fig. 2).

The two electrodes 4a, 4b are spaced apart from each other and connected to the consumable 1 or the heating layer 3. Preferably, the distance between the electrodes 4a, 4b is considered as the thickness 8 of the consumable 1. The thickness 8 of the consumable 1 or the heating layer 3 may preferably be in the range of 0.5mm to 5mm, preferably in the range of 0.5mm to 2 mm. In particular, the thickness 8 depends on the size of the aerosol-generating device 2 (shown in fig. 2) and the size of the electrodes 4a, 4b. In particular, the hand-held device 2 preferably comprises electrodes 4a, 4b having a small average contact surface 11. In the example, the contact surface 11 comprises 215mm ² Is a part of the area of the substrate. It is also conceivable that the contact surface 11 comprises 150mm ² To 300mm ² Is within a range of (a) and (b). As shown in fig. 1a, the contact surface 11 of the electrodes 4a, 4b is in direct contact with the consumable 1 or the heating layer 3. In the example, 70% to 95% of the contact surface 11 touches the consumable 1 or the heating layer 3. Preferably, the electrodes 4a, 4b apply pressure to the consumable 1 or the heating layer 3 to reduce the contact resistance between the electrodes and the conductive particles.

The first electrode 4a and the second electrode 4b are supplied by a voltage source 19. In the use state of the aerosol-generating device 2, an electric current flows from one electrode 4b through the consumable 1 to the other electrode 4a. In an example, the voltage source 19 is powered by a rechargeable battery (e.g., a lithium ion battery) having a voltage value of 3.7V. It is also conceivable to use other sources of electrical energy 10 (shown in fig. 2) for energizing the electrodes 4a, 4b.

The consumable 1 as shown in fig. 1a preferably comprises a thickness 8 after compression, which is equal to or smaller than the largest dimension of the conductive particles. The conductive material 7 is shown as particles. It is contemplated that consumable 1 comprises more than one particle of conductive material 7. Preferably, the consumable comprises a plurality of particles randomly dispersed in the consumable. For example, the conductive material 7 includes particles having a particle size of about 780 micrometers. In particular, the conductive material 7 is activated carbon particles with reference names Jacobi EcoSorb MB 3-10H. It is envisaged that the resistance between the electrodes will depend on the size of the particles of the conductive material 7. The conductive material 7 may preferably comprise two contact points 7a with the electrodes 4a, 4b, which electrodes are preferably arranged parallel to each other. Preferably, current flows from one contact point 7a to the other, electrically connecting the electrodes 4a, 4b. In another embodiment (see fig. 1 b) the conductive material 7 comprising at least two particles preferably comprises at least three contact points 7a. Preferably, two contact points 7a touch the electrodes 4a, 4b, and a third contact point 7a is a contact point between particles of the conductive material 7. Of course, it is also possible to have conductive material 7 in the consumable in both arrangements of fig. 1a, 1 b. Preferably, the thickness 8 of the consumable is substantially equal to the particle size to ensure contact points 7a of the plurality of particles with the electrode. The thickness of the consumable may be 0 to 20% greater than the particle size to ensure contact points between the electrodes after compression of the consumable. For example, the particle size of the conductive particles may be about 250 microns, or 300 microns, or 350 microns, or 400 microns, or 450 microns, or 500 microns, or 550 microns, or 600 microns, or 650 microns, or 700 microns, or 750 microns, or 800 microns, respectively, and the thickness of the consumable or the distance 8 between the electrodes may be between 200 and 250 microns, or 300 and 360 microns, or 350 and 420 microns, or 400 and 480 microns, or 450 and 540 microns, or 500 and 600 microns, or 55 and 660 microns, or 600 and 720 microns, or 650 and 780 microns, or 700 and 840 microns, or 750 and 900 microns, or 800 and 960 microns, respectively.

Fig. 1a and 1b show a particularly preferred embodiment, wherein the electrical resistance at the thickness 8 of the consumable 1 is reduced. Through the thickness 8 of the consumable, the current flows better, which achieves as few contact points 7a as possible with the electrodes 4a, 4b. The transition resistance is thus preferably proportional to the thickness 8 and/or the number of contact points 7a.

Fig. 1c shows a schematic top view of a consumable 1 comprising a conductive material 7 between two electrodes 4a, 4b. As can be seen in fig. 1b, the consumable 1 is arranged between the electrodes 4a, 4b (4 b not shown). Preferably, the consumable 1 or the heating layer 3 comprises at least one surface area 3a touching the contact surface 11 (not shown) of the electrodes 4a, 4b. Due to the fact that the consumable 1 is pressed between the electrodes 4a, 4b, it is conceivable that only a part of the surface 3b of the consumable 1 is heatable.

Fig. 2 shows a schematic view of a device 2 for delivering an aerosol, the device having two electrodes 4a, 4b and a consumable 1 arranged between the electrodes 4a, 4b. The device 2 further comprises an electrical energy source 10, a mouthpiece 12, an aerosol passage 13 and a cartridge 14. It is contemplated that the device 2 may include further mechanical, electrical, and/or electronic components. Preferably, the electrodes 4a, 4b are supplied with energy comprised in the source of electrical energy 10. Thus, the electrodes 4a, 4b preferably do not require an external voltage source 19 (not shown). But another embodiment of the device 2 may also comprise a voltage source 19 which only provides energy to the electrodes (not shown).

Preferably, the cartridge 14 comprises the consumable 1. The cartridge 14 is used for storing the consumable 1. It is also preferred that the stored consumables 1 in the cartridge 14 are advantageously placed in a space-saving manner. The cartridge 14 is preferably connected to the electrodes 4a, 4b for supplying fresh, in particular unburnt, consumables 1 to the electrodes 4a, 4b. It is envisaged that the cartridge comprises means (not shown) for pushing the stored consumable 1 forward to the electrodes 4a, 4b. Such devices may be manually or electrically propelled.

The heated consumable 1 arranged between the two electrodes 4a, 4b preferably isolates the inhalable aerosol 9. Preferably, the aerosol 9 is guided through an aerosol channel 13 to a mouthpiece 12 of the device 2. Thus, it is conceivable that the aerosol channel 13 is connected to the electrodes 4a, 4b. The electrodes 4a, 4b may also be arranged in the aerosol passage 13. In this case, the aerosol passage 14 may be connected to the cartridge 13.

Fig. 3 shows a flow chart of a method for manufacturing a consumable 1 comprising a conductive material 7. The first step of the method for manufacturing the consumable 1 may preferably be mixing ingredients of an aerosol matrix to provide a smooth mixture (100). Preferably, the ingredients include solids and liquids. It is also preferred that the flavour material 5 and the electrically conductive material 7, such as tobacco material or other flavour material, are provided in particulate form, preferably as a powder. It is advantageous to mix the solid material before adding the liquid ingredients to the solid ingredients. The aerosol former 6 and water are preferably provided as a liquid formulation. It is also contemplated that a binder may be used to obtain a smoother aerosol matrix mixture. It is also contemplated that porous conductive particles such as charcoal are soaked in a liquid forming agent prior to mixing with other ingredients. After mixing the ingredients (100), an aerosol matrix in the form of a paste or paste is obtained. The next step of the manufacturing method is preferably a pressing step 101. Preferably, the pressing step 101 comprises mechanically compressing the aerosol substrate used to form the consumable 1 into a layer. It is conceivable that after the pressing step 101, the pressed consumable 1 is arranged between two packages. Such wraps are preferably used to roll up or laminate the consumable 1. In some embodiments, the consumable 1 may be rolled or laminated without the use of a wrapper. The wrapping layer may be a paper layer. However, it is advantageous to make the consumable 1 in a roll form for further storage in the cartridge 14. As a final step of the method of manufacturing the consumable, there may be a solidification step 102. Preferably, the pressed and/or rolled consumable 1 is dried and/or cured during step 102. It is conceivable to arrange the consumable 1 in a cartridge 14 for further use in the device 2. The consumable 1 should include a certain amount of moisture in order to have sufficient elasticity for further use. Preferably, the consumable 1 is gradually spread out during further use of the device 2.

Fig. 4 shows a flow chart of a method of generating an aerosol by means of a device 2 comprising two electrodes 4a, 4b and a consumable 1 arranged between the electrodes 4a, 4b. The first step of the method for generating aerosols is preferably to arrange the consumable 1 or the heating layer 3 between the electrodes 4a, 4b of the device 2 (200). It is also conceivable that the consumable 1 is deployed and guided from the cartridge 14 of the device 2 to the electrodes 4a, 4b before the arrangement (200). The method for generating an aerosol further comprises a pressing step 201, wherein the electrodes 4a, 4b are pressed to the consumable 1 with a certain amount of pressure. Preferably, the electrodes 4a, 4b are arranged parallel to each other (shown in fig. 1 a) and surround the consumable 1 from both sides or directions. The method further comprises a supplying step 202. The supplying step 202 comprises supplying a current to the electrodes 4a, 4b. Preferably, the heating layer 3 or the consumable 1 conducts an electric current between the two electrodes 4a, 4b. Thus, the method comprises a heating step 203. The temperature of the electrodes 4a, 4b is preferably increased to heat the consumable 1 or the heating layer 3. During the heating step 203, an inhalable aerosol 9 is generated from the consumable 1 or the heating layer 3.

Fig. 5a shows a schematic view of a cartridge 14 comprising a consumable 1 arranged in a spiral. Preferably, the consumable 1 or the heating layer 3 extends around a curve emanating from a point (not shown) so as to be displaced farther as the consumable 1 rotates around the point. The consumable 1 is preferably arranged or stored in a cartridge 14. It is contemplated that the cartridge 14 is a storage case or another container that keeps the consumable fresh. The cartridge further comprises a guide channel 17 connected to the electrodes 4a, 4b of the device 2. It is also conceivable that the guide channel 17 is connected to the aerosol channel 13 of the device 2, wherein the electrodes 4a, 4b are at least partially arranged inside the aerosol channel 13. However, the cartridge 14 is preferably detachably connected to the electrodes 4a, 4b via the connection means 18. This may be useful in case the cartridge 14 is refilled with a new consumable 1. It is envisaged that the device 2 further comprises a container 15 for used consumables 16. In some embodiments, the used consumable 16 is preferably heated to a temperature of up to 350 ℃, where the used consumable 16 includes very little or no liquid. If the amount of liquid forming agent is too low, a higher temperature, such as 350 ℃ (near the combustion temperature of tobacco), may be required to produce an aerosol. If a sufficient amount of forming agent is contained in the consumable, the temperature at which sufficient aerosol is vaporized may be reduced, for example below 300 ℃. After fresh consumable 1 is sent from cartridge 14 to electrodes 4a, 4b, the used consumable 16 preferably falls into container 15. Other configurations for storing the used consumable 16 are also contemplated as being arranged in the device 2.

Fig. 5b shows a schematic view of a cartridge 14 comprising a consumable 1 arranged in a hyperbolic spiral. The consumable 1 is preferably arranged in a cartridge 14, as shown in fig. 5 a. Preferably, the consumable 1 is wrapped on a wrapper or fixture (not shown) to better support the consumable 1 inside the cartridge 14. However, there are many possibilities for arranging the consumable 1 or the heating layer 3 inside the cartridge 14. It is important that the consumable 1 is very compactly arranged inside the cartridge 14 to provide a long time of use of the cartridge 14 inside the device 2.

The consumable may be stored in alternative to fig. 5a, 5b, such as a stack of continuous foldable consumable items or in separate layers in a stacked arrangement.

In view of the prior art, the inventors reserve all the features disclosed in the patent application documents as essential features of the application as long as they are new, individually or in combination. Furthermore, it should be noted that features are depicted in the figures, which may be advantageous alone. Those skilled in the art will directly recognize that certain features disclosed in the figures may also be advantageous without employing other features in the figures. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that advantages may be evolved from a combination of various features disclosed in one or more of the figures.

List of reference numerals

1. Consumable product

2. Aerosol generating device

3. Heating layer

Surface area of layer 3a

Part of the surface of layer 3b

4a first electrode

4b second electrode

5. Flavor material/tobacco material

6. Aerosol forming agent

7. Conductive material

7a contact point of conductive material with electrode

8. Thickness of heating layer/consumable

9. Aerosol aerosol

10. Electric energy

11. Contact surface of electrode

12. Suction nozzle

13. Aerosol channel

14. Cartridge for cigarettes

15. Container for used consumables

16. Spent consumable

17. Guide channel

18. Connection device

19. Voltage source

100. Mixing ingredients of consumable products

101. Pressing the paste or paste into layers

102. Solidifying the heating layer

200. Disposing a heating layer/consumable between electrodes

201. Pressing electrodes against heating layers/consumables

202. Supplying current to the electrode

203. Heating the heating layer

Claims

1. A consumable (1) for an aerosol generating device (2) comprising a heating layer (3) of an aerosol matrix formed to be sandwiched between two electrodes (4 a, b) of the device (2), wherein the heating layer (3) of the aerosol matrix comprises a fragrance material (5) and an aerosol former (6),

it is characterized in that the method comprises the steps of,

the layer (3) further comprises a conductive material (7) in the form of particles, which is embedded in the layer (3), wherein the conductive material (7) is arranged in the heating layer (3) to conduct an electric current between the two electrodes (4 a, b) and to heat the aerosol matrix to a temperature sufficient to aerosolize the aerosol-former (6).

2. Consumable (1) according to claim 1,

it is characterized in that the method comprises the steps of,

the electrically conductive material (7) has a thickness of at least 3.10 ² Conductivity of S/m (inAt 20 ℃).

3. Consumable (1) according to claim 1 or 2,

it is characterized in that the method comprises the steps of,

the thickness (8) of the layer (3) is between 0.5 and 3mm, preferably between 0.5 and 2 mm.

4. A consumable (1) according to claim 1 to 3,

it is characterized in that the method comprises the steps of,

the conductive material (7) is distributed in and on the layer (3) in an amount that allows electrical power to flow from one electrode (4 a) through the thickness (8) of the layer (3) to the other electrode (4 b).

5. Consumable (1) according to any preceding claim,

it is characterized in that the method comprises the steps of,

the conductive material (7) is randomly distributed inside the heating layer (3) and over the surface area (3 a) of the layer.

6. Consumable (1) according to any preceding claim,

it is characterized in that the method comprises the steps of,

the electrically conductive material (7) comprises graphite and/or charcoal particles.

7. Consumable (1) according to any preceding claim,

it is characterized in that the method comprises the steps of,

the conductive material (7) comprises an amount of 2.5 to 50wt.%, preferably 2.5 to 25wt.%, relative to the layer (3).

8. Consumable (1) according to any preceding claim,

it is characterized in that the method comprises the steps of,

the layer (3) further comprises a binder, preferably CMC, in an amount of 0.5wt.% to 2.5wt.% relative to the consumable.

9. Consumable (1) according to any preceding claim,

it is characterized in that the method comprises the steps of,

the aerosol former (6), preferably glycerol and/or propylene glycol, comprises an amount of less than 25wt.% relative to the consumable.

10. Consumable (1) according to any preceding claim,

it is characterized in that the method comprises the steps of,

the layer (3) further comprises water in an amount of 10wt.% to 49.5 wt.%.

11. The consumable according to claim 1 to 10,

it is characterized in that the method comprises the steps of,

the flavor material includes tobacco in an amount up to 47.5wt.% relative to the consumable.

12. Consumable (1) according to claim 11,

it is characterized in that the method comprises the steps of,

tobacco comprises tobacco dust having a particle size of less than 1000 microns.

13. Consumable (1) according to claim 11 or 12,

it is characterized in that the method comprises the steps of,

the tobacco material (5) comprises smoke (FCT) in an amount of 1% to 47.5%.

14. A method for manufacturing a consumable (1) according to any of the preceding claims, comprising the steps of:

mixing the fragrance material (5) with the electrically conductive material (7) in particulate form, the aerosol former (6) and water to form a paste or paste (100),

pressing the paste or paste into layers (3) (101),

-and curing (102) the heating layer (3), such as by curing and/or drying.

15. Device (2) for delivering a tobacco aerosol (9), comprising a consumable (1) according to any of the preceding claims,

it is characterized in that the method comprises the steps of,

a pair of electrodes (4 a, b) and an electrical energy source (10) for powering the electrodes (4 a, b), wherein the electrodes (4 a, b) comprising a contact surface (11) are configured to be pressed along at least a portion (3 b) of a surface area (3 a) of the layer (3) sandwiching the layer (3) of the consumable (1).