RU2793873C2 - Cartridge for aerosol generating system containing alkaloid source containing alkaloid-based liquid composition - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: aerosol system.

SUBSTANCE: group of inventions relates to a cartridge for use in an aerosol generating system and an aerosol generating system containing such a cartridge. A cartridge for use in an aerosol generating system comprises: the first compartment containing an alkaloid source, wherein the alkaloid source contains an alkaloid-based liquid composition having a polyhydric alcohol content of 10 to 40 weight percent and an alkaloid content of 10 to 90 weight percent; and a second compartment containing the acid source. The aerosol generating system contains said cartridge and an aerosol generating device comprising: a housing forming a device cavity configured to accommodate at least a portion of the cartridge; and a heating element for heating the first compartment and the second compartment of the cartridge.

EFFECT: generation of an aerosol with an optimal size of particles or droplets for inhalation, which provides an excellent delivery of nicotine with an improved perceived astringency.

15 cl, 5 dwg, 1 ex

Description

The invention relates to a cartridge for use in an aerosol generating system and an aerosol generating system containing such a cartridge. In particular, the invention relates to a cartridge containing an acid source and an alkaloid source containing an alkaloid-based liquid composition for use in an aerosol generating system for in situ aerosol generation, and an aerosol generating system containing such a cartridge.

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

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

It would be desirable to provide a cartridge containing a nicotine source and an acid source for use in an aerosol generating system for in situ generation of an aerosol which, when used, can provide an aerosol improved in terms of perceived astringency present.

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

The invention provides a cartridge for use in an aerosol generating system, the cartridge comprising: a first compartment containing an alkaloid source; and a second compartment containing an acid source, wherein the alkaloid source comprises an alkaloid-based liquid formulation having a polyhydric alcohol content of at least about 10 weight percent and an alkaloid content of at least about 10 weight percent.

The invention also provides an aerosol generating system comprising: a cartridge according to the invention; and an aerosol generating device comprising: a body defining a device cavity adapted to receive at least a portion of the cartridge; and a heating element for heating the first compartment and the second compartment of the cartridge.

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

As further described below, it has been successfully found that incorporating in a cartridge of the invention an alkaloid source comprising an alkaloid-based liquid formulation having a polyhydric alcohol content of at least 10 weight percent and an alkaloid content of at least about 10 weight percent, reduces the perceived astringency of an aerosol generated by an aerosol generating system comprising a cartridge compared to an aerosol generated by an aerosol generating system comprising a cartridge containing an alkaloid source containing an alkaloid-based liquid formulation having an alkaloid content of at least about 10 weight percent, which does not contain polyhydric alcohol. Without being limited by theory, it is believed that this improvement in perceived astringency is due to coating or enveloping the alkaloid with the polyhydric alcohol.

Furthermore, it has surprisingly been found that the inclusion of at least 10 weight percent polyhydric alcohol in the alkaloid source alkaloid liquid formulation of the cartridge of the invention does not significantly affect the particle or droplet size of the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating system comprising the cartridge of the invention. This is particularly important as it allows the perceived astringency of the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating system containing the cartridge to be improved by incorporating a polyhydric alcohol without adversely affecting delivery of the aerosol to the user upon inhalation.

It has also surprisingly been found that the inclusion of at least about 10 weight percent polyhydric alcohol in the alkaloid source liquid formulation of the alkaloid cartridge of the invention can advantageously improve alkaloid delivery for use by the aerosol generating system comprising the cartridge of the invention. In particular, it has been found that the inclusion of at least about 10 weight percent polyhydric alcohol in the liquid alkaloid source cartridge formulation of the invention can deliver more alkaloid per puff from a given amount of alkaloid in the liquid alkaloid source alkaloid formulation.

In the context of this document regarding the present invention, the term "alkaloid-based liquid composition" means a liquid composition containing one or more alkaloids or a gel-like composition containing one or more alkaloids.

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

The terms "upstream", "downstream", "near" and "far" as used herein in connection with the invention describe the relative positions of the components or parts of the cartridge components and the aerosol generating system.

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

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

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

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

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

The liquid alkaloid formulation may contain one or more alkaloids.

The liquid alkaloid formulation may contain one or more naturally occurring alkaloids.

The liquid alkaloid formulation may contain one or more synthetic alkaloids.

Preferably, the liquid alkaloid composition contains one or more tobacco alkaloids.

Used in this document in relation to the present invention, the term "tobacco alkaloids" is used to describe alkaloids found in tobacco plants and tobacco smoke.

For example, the liquid alkaloid formulation may contain one or more tobacco alkaloids selected from the group consisting of nicotine, nornicotine, nicotyrine, myosmin, cotinine, anabasine, and anatabine.

The liquid alkaloid composition may contain one or more natural tobacco alkaloids.

The liquid alkaloid formulation may contain one or more synthetic tobacco alkaloids.

Most preferably, the alkaloid-based liquid formulation contains nicotine.

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

The liquid alkaloid composition may contain natural nicotine or synthetic nicotine.

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

The liquid alkaloid formulation has a polyhydric alcohol content of at least about 10 weight percent and an alkaloid content of at least about 10 weight percent.

Unless otherwise indicated, the weight percentages of polyhydric alcohol and alkaloid in the alkaloid-based liquid formulation given herein are based on the total weight of the alkaloid-based liquid formulation.

Preferably, the weight percent alkaloid content of the liquid alkaloid formulation is at least about 1.5 times the weight percent polyhydric alcohol content of the liquid alkaloid formulation. More preferably, the weight percent alkaloid content of the liquid alkaloid formulation is at least about 1.8 times the weight percent polyhydric alcohol content of the liquid alkaloid formulation. Most preferably, the weight percent alkaloid content of the liquid alkaloid formulation is at least about 2 times the weight percent polyhydric alcohol content of the liquid alkaloid formulation.

That is, preferably the ratio of weight percent alkaloid to weight percent polyhydric alcohol in the liquid alkaloid formulation is greater than or equal to about 1.5, more preferably greater than or equal to about 1.8, most preferably greater than or equal to about 2.

In embodiments where the alkaloid-based liquid formulation is a nicotine-based liquid formulation, it is preferred that the weight percent nicotine content of the nicotine-based liquid formulation is at least about 1.5 times the weight percent polyhydric alcohol content of the nicotine-based liquid formulation. nicotine. More preferably, the weight percent nicotine content of the nicotine liquid formulation is at least about 1.8 times the weight percent polyhydric alcohol content of the nicotine liquid formulation. Most preferably, the weight percent nicotine content of the nicotine-based liquid formulation is at least about 2 times the weight percent polyhydric alcohol content of the nicotine-based liquid formulation.

That is, preferably the ratio of weight percent nicotine to weight percent polyhydric alcohol in the nicotine liquid formulation is greater than or equal to about 1.5, more preferably greater than or equal to about 1.8, most preferably greater than or equal to about 2.

Preferably, the weight percent alkaloid content of the alkaloid-based liquid formulation is about 8 times or less the weight percent polyhydric alcohol content of the alkaloid-based liquid formulation. More preferably, the weight percent alkaloid content of the alkaloid based liquid formulation is about 7 times or less the weight percent polyhydric alcohol content of the alkaloid based liquid formulation, or about 6 times or less the weight percent polyhydric alcohol content of the alkaloid based liquid formulation. Most preferably, the weight percent alkaloid content of the liquid alkaloid formulation is about 4 times or less the weight percent polyhydric alcohol content of the liquid alkaloid formulation.

That is, preferably the ratio of weight percent alkaloid to weight percent polyhydric alcohol in the liquid alkaloid formulation is less than or equal to about 8, more preferably less than or equal to about 7 or less than or equal to about 6, most preferably less than or equal to about 4.

In embodiments where the alkaloid-based liquid formulation is a nicotine-based liquid formulation, preferably the weight percent nicotine content of the nicotine-based liquid formulation is about 8 times or less the weight percent polyhydric alcohol content of the nicotine-based liquid formulation. More preferably, the weight percent nicotine content of the nicotine liquid formulation is about 7 times or less the polyhydric alcohol weight percent content of the nicotine liquid formulation, or about 6 times or less the polyhydric alcohol weight percent content of the nicotine liquid formulation. Most preferably, the weight percent nicotine content of the nicotine liquid formulation is about 4 times or less the weight percent polyhydric alcohol content of the nicotine liquid formulation.

That is, preferably the ratio of weight percent nicotine to weight percent polyhydric alcohol in the nicotine liquid formulation is less than or equal to about 8, more preferably less than or equal to about 7 or less than or equal to about 6, most preferably less than or equal to about 4.

Preferably, the weight percent alkaloid content of the alkaloid based liquid formulation is in the range of from about 1.5 times to about 9 times the weight percent polyol content of the alkaloid based liquid formulation. For example, the weight percent alkaloid content of the liquid alkaloid formulation may be in the range of about 1.8 times to about 9 times the weight percent polyol content of the liquid alkaloid based formulation, or in the range of about 2 times to about 9 times the polyhydric alcohol content. alcohol in weight percent liquid composition based on the alkaloid. For example, the weight percent alkaloid content of the liquid alkaloid formulation may be in the range of about 1.8 times to about 8 times the weight percent polyol content of the liquid alkaloid based formulation, or in the range of about 2 times to about 8 times the polyhydric alcohol content. alcohol in weight percent liquid composition based on the alkaloid.

More preferably, the weight percent alkaloid content of the alkaloid-based liquid formulation is in the range of about 1.5 times to about 7 times the polyol content in the weight percent of the alkaloid-based liquid formulation, or is in the range of about 1.5 times to about 6 times the content of polyhydric alcohol in weight percent of the liquid composition based on the alkaloid. For example, the weight percent alkaloid content of the alkaloid-based liquid formulation may be in the range of about 1.8 times to about 7 times the weight percent polyhydric alcohol content of the alkaloid-based liquid formulation, or in the range of about 1.8 times to about 6 times the content of polyhydric alcohol in weight percent of the liquid composition based on the alkaloid. For example, the weight percent alkaloid content of the alkaloid-based liquid formulation may be in the range of about 2 times to about 7 times the weight percent polyhydric alcohol content of the alkaloid-based liquid formulation, or in the range of about 2 times to about 6 times the polyhydric alcohol content in weight percent liquid composition based on the alkaloid.

Most preferably, the weight percent alkaloid content of the alkaloid-based liquid formulation is in the range of from about 1.5 times to about 4 times the weight percent polyol content of the alkaloid-based liquid composition. For example, the weight percent alkaloid content of the liquid alkaloid formulation may be in the range of about 1.8 times to about 4 times the weight percent polyol content of the liquid alkaloid based formulation, or in the range of about 2 times to about 4 times the polyhydric alcohol content. alcohol in weight percent liquid composition based on the alkaloid.

In embodiments where the alkaloid liquid formulation is a nicotine liquid formulation, preferably the weight percent nicotine content of the liquid nicotine formulation is in the range of from about 1.5 times to about 9 times the weight percent polyhydric alcohol content of the liquid. composition based on nicotine. For example, the weight percent nicotine content of the nicotine liquid formulation may be between about 1.8 times to about 9 times the weight percent polyhydric alcohol content of the nicotine liquid formulation, or between about 2 times to about 9 times the polyhydric alcohol content. alcohol in weight percent liquid composition based on nicotine. For example, the weight percent nicotine content of a nicotine liquid formulation may be from about 1.8 times to about 8 times the weight percent polyhydric alcohol content of the nicotine liquid formulation, or from about 2 times to about 8 times the polyhydric alcohol content. alcohol in weight percent liquid composition based on nicotine.

More preferably, the weight percent nicotine content of the nicotine liquid formulation is in the range of about 1.5 times to about 7 times the polyhydric alcohol content in the weight percent of the nicotine liquid formulation, or in the range of about 1.5 times to about 6 times the content of polyhydric alcohol in weight percent liquid composition based on nicotine. For example, the weight percent nicotine content of a nicotine liquid formulation may be in the range of about 1.8 times to about 7 times the weight percent polyhydric alcohol content of the nicotine liquid formulation, or in the range of about 1.8 times to about 6 times the content of polyhydric alcohol in weight percent of the liquid composition based on nicotine. For example, the weight percent nicotine content of a nicotine liquid formulation may be in the range of about 2 times to about 7 times the weight percent polyhydric alcohol content of the nicotine liquid formulation, or in the range of about 2 times to about 6 times the polyhydric alcohol content in weight percent liquid composition based on nicotine.

Most preferably, the weight percent nicotine content of the nicotine liquid formulation is in the range of from about 1.5 times to about 4 times the weight percent polyhydric alcohol content of the nicotine liquid composition. For example, the weight percent nicotine content of the nicotine liquid formulation may be between about 1.8 times to about 4 times the weight percent polyhydric alcohol content of the nicotine liquid formulation, or between about 2 times to about 4 times the polyhydric alcohol content. alcohol in weight percent liquid composition based on nicotine.

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

In embodiments where the alkaloid liquid formulation is a nicotine liquid formulation, preferably the nicotine content of the nicotine liquid formulation is at least about 60 weight percent. More preferably, the nicotine content of the liquid nicotine formulation is at least about 65 weight percent or at least about 70 weight percent.

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

In embodiments where the alkaloid liquid formulation is a nicotine liquid formulation, preferably the nicotine content of the nicotine liquid formulation is less than or equal to about 85 weight percent. More preferably, the nicotine content of the nicotine liquid formulation is less than or equal to about 75 weight percent, or less than or equal to about 80 weight percent.

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

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

In embodiments where the alkaloid-based liquid formulation is a nicotine-based liquid formulation, preferably the nicotine content of the nicotine-based liquid formulation is from about 60 weight percent to about 90 weight percent. For example, the nicotine content of a nicotine liquid formulation may be from about 60 weight percent to about 85 weight percent, from about 60 weight percent to about 80 weight percent, or from about 60 weight percent to about 75 weight percent.

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

The liquid alkaloid formulation may contain one or more polyhydric alcohols.

Preferably, the liquid alkaloid composition contains one or more polyhydric alcohols selected from the group consisting of propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol and glycerin.

More preferably, the alkaloid-based liquid formulation contains glycerol.

Most preferably, the alkaloid-based liquid formulation contains vegetable glycerin.

In embodiments in which the liquid alkaloid composition contains glycerol, preferably the weight percent alkaloid content of the liquid alkaloid composition is at least about 1.5 times the weight percent glycerol of the liquid alkaloid composition. More preferably, the weight percent alkaloid content of the alkaloid based liquid formulation is at least about 1.8 times the weight percent glycerol content of the alkaloid based fluid formulation. Most preferably, the weight percent alkaloid content of the alkaloid based liquid formulation is at least about 2 times the weight percent glycerol content of the alkaloid based fluid formulation.

That is, preferably the ratio of weight percent alkaloid to weight percent glycerol in the liquid alkaloid formulation is greater than or equal to about 1.5, more preferably greater than or equal to about 1.8, most preferably greater than or equal to about 2.

In embodiments in which the alkaloid-based liquid composition contains glycerol, preferably the weight percent alkaloid content of the alkaloid-based liquid composition is about 8 times or less the weight percent glycerol content of the alkaloid-based liquid composition. More preferably, the weight percent alkaloid content of the alkaloid based liquid formulation is about 7 times or less the weight percent glycerol content of the alkaloid based liquid formulation, or about 6 times or less the weight percent glycerol content of the alkaloid based liquid formulation. Most preferably, the weight percent alkaloid content of the alkaloid based liquid formulation is about 4 times or less the weight percent glycerol content of the alkaloid based liquid formulation.

That is, preferably the ratio of weight percent alkaloid to weight percent glycerol in the liquid alkaloid-based formulation is less than or equal to about 8, more preferably less than or equal to about 7 or less than or equal to about 6, most preferably less than or equal to about 4.

In embodiments in which the liquid alkaloid composition contains glycerol, preferably the weight percent alkaloid content of the liquid alkaloid composition is in the range of about 1.5 times to about 9 times the weight percent glycerol of the liquid alkaloid composition. For example, the weight percent alkaloid content of the alkaloid-based liquid formulation may be in the range of about 1.8 times to about 9 times the weight percent glycerol content of the alkaloid-based liquid formulation, or in the range of about 2 times to about 9 times the glycerol content in weight percent liquid composition based on the alkaloid. For example, the weight percent alkaloid content of the alkaloid-based liquid formulation may be in the range of about 1.8 times to about 8 times the weight percent glycerol content of the alkaloid-based liquid formulation, or in the range of about 2 times to about 8 times the glycerol content in weight percent liquid composition based on the alkaloid.

More preferably, the weight percent alkaloid content of the alkaloid based liquid formulation is in the range of about 1.5 times to about 7 times the glycerol content in the weight percent liquid alkaloid based formulation, or in the range of about 1.5 times to about 6 times the glycerol content. in weight percent liquid composition based on the alkaloid. For example, the weight percent alkaloid content of the alkaloid-based liquid formulation may be in the range of about 1.8 times to about 7 times the weight percent glycerol content of the alkaloid-based liquid formulation, or in the range of about 1.8 times to about 6 times the glycerol in weight percent liquid composition based on the alkaloid. For example, the weight percent alkaloid content of the alkaloid-based liquid formulation may be in the range of about 2 times to about 7 times the weight percent glycerol content of the alkaloid-based liquid formulation, or in the range of about 2 times to about 6 times the weight percent glycerol content. liquid composition based on an alkaloid.

Most preferably, the weight percent alkaloid content of the alkaloid based liquid formulation is in the range of about 1.5 times to about 4 times the weight percent glycerol content of the alkaloid based liquid formulation. For example, the weight percent alkaloid content of the alkaloid-based liquid formulation may be in the range of about 1.8 times to about 4 times the weight percent glycerol content of the alkaloid-based liquid formulation, or in the range of about 2 times to about 4 times the glycerol content in weight percent liquid composition based on the alkaloid.

In particularly preferred embodiments, the alkaloid-based liquid formulation is a nicotine-based liquid formulation having a glycerol content of at least about 10 weight percent and a nicotine content of at least about 10 weight percent.

In embodiments where the alkaloid-based liquid formulation is a nicotine-based liquid formulation and contains glycerol, preferably the weight percent nicotine content of the nicotine-based liquid formulation is at least about 1.5 times the weight percent glycerol content of the liquid formulation. based on nicotine. More preferably, the weight percent nicotine content of the nicotine-based liquid formulation is at least about 1.8 times the weight percent glycerol content of the nicotine-based liquid formulation. Most preferably, the weight percent nicotine content of the nicotine liquid formulation is at least about 2 times the weight percent glycerol content of the nicotine liquid formulation.

That is, preferably the ratio of weight percent nicotine to weight percent glycerol in the liquid nicotine formulation is greater than or equal to about 1.5, more preferably greater than or equal to about 1.8, most preferably greater than or equal to about 2.

In embodiments where the alkaloid liquid formulation is a nicotine liquid formulation and contains glycerin, preferably the weight percent nicotine content of the nicotine liquid formulation is greater than about 8 times or less the weight percent glycerol content of the nicotine liquid formulation. . More preferably, the weight percent nicotine content of the nicotine-based liquid formulation is greater than about 7 times or less the weight percent glycerol content of the nicotine-based liquid formulation, or less than or about 6 times or less the weight percent glycerol content of the liquid formulation by nicotine base. Most preferably, the weight percent nicotine content of the nicotine-based liquid formulation is about 4 times or less the weight percent glycerol content of the nicotine-based liquid formulation.

That is, preferably the ratio of weight percent nicotine to weight percent glycerol in the nicotine liquid formulation is less than or equal to about 8, more preferably less than or equal to about 7 or less than or equal to about 6, most preferably less than or equal to about 4.

In embodiments where the alkaloid liquid formulation is a nicotine liquid formulation and contains glycerol, preferably the weight percent nicotine content of the nicotine liquid formulation is greater than about 1.5 times to about 9 times or less the glycerol content. in weight percent liquid composition based on nicotine. For example, the weight percent nicotine content of a nicotine liquid formulation may be in the range of about 1.8 times to about 9 times the weight percent glycerol content of the nicotine liquid formulation, or in the range of about 2 times to about 9 times the glycerol content in weight percent liquid composition based on nicotine. For example, the weight percent nicotine content of a nicotine liquid formulation may be in the range of about 1.8 times to about 8 times the weight percent glycerol content of the nicotine liquid formulation, or in the range of about 2 times to about 8 times the glycerol content in weight percent liquid composition based on nicotine.

More preferably, the weight percent nicotine content of the nicotine liquid formulation is in the range of about 1.5 times to about 7 times the glycerol content in the weight percent liquid nicotine formula, or in the range of about 1.5 times to about 6 times the glycerol content. in weight percent liquid composition based on nicotine. For example, the weight percent nicotine content of a nicotine liquid formulation may be between about 1.8 times to about 7 times the weight percent glycerol content of a nicotine liquid formulation, or between about 1.8 times to about 6 times the nicotine content. glycerol in weight percent liquid composition based on nicotine. For example, the weight percent nicotine content of the nicotine liquid formulation may be in the range of about 2 times to about 7 times the weight percent glycerol content of the nicotine liquid formulation, or in the range of about 2 times to about 6 times the weight percent glycerol content. liquid composition based on nicotine.

Most preferably, the weight percent nicotine content of the nicotine liquid formulation is in the range of about 1.5 times to about 4 times the weight percent glycerol content of the nicotine liquid formulation. For example, the weight percent nicotine content of a nicotine liquid formulation may be in the range of about 1.8 times to about 4 times the weight percent glycerol content of the nicotine liquid formulation, or in the range of about 2 times to about 4 times the glycerol content in weight percent liquid composition based on nicotine.

Preferably, the liquid alkaloid composition has a polyhydric alcohol content of at least about 15 weight percent.

More preferably, the liquid alkaloid composition has a polyhydric alcohol content of at least about 20 weight percent.

In embodiments in which the liquid alkaloid composition contains glycerol, preferably the glycerol content of the liquid alkaloid composition is at least about 15 weight percent.

In embodiments in which the liquid alkaloid composition contains glycerol, more preferably the glycerol content of the liquid alkaloid composition is at least about 20 weight percent.

Preferably, the polyhydric alcohol content of the liquid alkaloid composition is less than or equal to about 40 weight percent. More preferably, the polyhydric alcohol content of the liquid alkaloid composition is less than or equal to about 35 weight percent, or less than or equal to about 30 weight percent.

This may advantageously ensure that the incorporation of the polyhydric alcohol into the liquid alkaloid formulation does not adversely affect the in situ reaction between the alkaloid and the acid during use of the aerosol generating system containing the cartridge.

In embodiments in which the liquid alkaloid composition contains glycerol, preferably the glycerol content of the liquid alkaloid composition is less than or equal to about 40 weight percent. More preferably, the glycerol content of the liquid alkaloid composition is less than or equal to about 35 weight percent, or less than or equal to about 30 weight percent.

Preferably, the polyol content of the liquid alkaloid composition is from about 10 weight percent to about 40 weight percent. For example, the polyhydric alcohol content of the liquid alkaloid composition may be from about 15 weight percent to about 40 weight percent, or from about 20 weight percent to about 40 weight percent.

More preferably, the liquid alkaloid composition has a polyhydric alcohol content of from about 10 weight percent to about 35 weight percent, or from about 10 weight percent to about 30 weight percent. For example, the polyhydric alcohol content of the liquid alkaloid composition may be from about 15 weight percent to about 35 weight percent, or from about 20 weight percent to about 35 weight percent. For example, the polyhydric alcohol content of the liquid alkaloid composition may be from about 15 weight percent to about 30 weight percent, or from about 20 weight percent to about 30 weight percent.

In embodiments in which the liquid alkaloid composition contains glycerol, preferably the glycerol content of the liquid alkaloid composition is from about 10 weight percent to about 40 weight percent. For example, the glycerol content of the liquid alkaloid formulation may be from about 15 weight percent to about 40 weight percent, or from about 20 weight percent to about 40 weight percent.

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

Preferably, the liquid alkaloid formulation has a total polyhydric alcohol and alkaloid content of at least about 95 weight percent. More preferably, the alkaloid-based liquid formulation has a total polyhydric alcohol and alkaloid content of at least about 97 weight percent. Most preferably, the alkaloid-based liquid formulation has a total polyhydric alcohol and alkaloid content of at least about 99 weight percent.

In embodiments where the alkaloid-based liquid formulation is a nicotine-based liquid formulation and contains glycerin, preferably the nicotine-based liquid formulation has a combined glycerol and nicotine content of at least about 95 weight percent. More preferably, the nicotine-based liquid formulation has a glycerol content and a nicotine content together of at least about 97 weight percent. Most preferably, the nicotine-based liquid formulation has a glycerol content and a nicotine content together of at least about 99 weight percent.

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

Preferably, the alkaloid-based liquid composition has a flavor content that is less than or equal to about 1 weight percent.

Preferably, the alkaloid source comprises a first carrier material impregnated with an alkaloid-based liquid composition.

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

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

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

Preferably, the shape and size of the first carrier material is similar to the shape and size of the first compartment of the cartridge.

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

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

For example, the alkaloid source may comprise a first carrier material impregnated with about 10 microliters to about 25 microliters of alkaloid-based liquid composition or about 15 microliters to about 25 microliters of alkaloid-based liquid composition.

Advantageously, the alkaloid source comprises a first carrier material impregnated with an alkaloid-based liquid composition in an amount less than or equal to about 25 microliters. For example, the alkaloid source may comprise a first carrier material impregnated with an alkaloid-based liquid formulation in an amount less than or equal to about 20 microliters.

For example, the alkaloid source may comprise a first carrier material impregnated with about 10 microliters to about 20 microliters of alkaloid-based liquid composition or about 15 microliters to about 20 microliters of alkaloid-based liquid composition.

In embodiments where the alkaloid-based liquid formulation is a nicotine-based liquid formulation, the nicotine-based liquid formulation may contain from about 1 milligram to about 40 milligrams of nicotine. For example, a nicotine liquid formulation may contain from about 3 milligrams to about 30 milligrams of nicotine, from about 6 milligrams to about 20 milligrams of nicotine, or from about 8 milligrams to about 18 milligrams of nicotine.

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

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

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

Preferably, the second compartment of the cartridge contains an acid source containing a second carrier material impregnated with acid.

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

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

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

Preferably, the shape and size of the second carrier material is similar to the shape and size of the second compartment of the cartridge.

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

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

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

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

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

In embodiments where the acid source contains lactic acid, advantageously the acid source comprises a second carrier material impregnated with about 2 milligrams to about 60 milligrams of lactic acid.

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

In embodiments where the alkaloid source comprises a first carrier material impregnated with the liquid alkaloid composition and the acid source comprises a second carrier material impregnated with acid, the first carrier material and the second carrier material may be the same or different.

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

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

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

The shape and dimensions of the first compartment of the cartridge may be chosen to accommodate the required amount of liquid alkaloid composition in the cartridge.

The shape and dimensions of the second compartment of the cartridge may be chosen to accommodate the required amount of acid in the cartridge.

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

The first compartment of the cartridge may have a length L ₁ from about 8 millimeters to about 40 millimeters, for example, from about 10 millimeters to about 20 millimeters. The first compartment of the cartridge may have a width W ₁ from about 4 millimeters to about 6 millimeters. The first compartment of the cartridge may have a height H ₁ of about 0.5 millimeters to about 2.5 millimeters.

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

The second cartridge compartment may have a length L ₂ from about 8 millimeters to about 40 millimeters, for example, from about 10 millimeters to about 20 millimeters. The second cartridge compartment may have a width W ₂ of about 4 millimeters to about 6 millimeters. The second compartment of the cartridge may have a height H ₂ of about 0.5 millimeters to about 2.5 millimeters.

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

The ratio of alkaloid and acid required to achieve the appropriate reaction stoichiometry can be controlled and balanced by changing the volume of the first compartment relative to the volume of the second compartment.

Advantageously, the first compartment comprises a first air inlet and a first air outlet.

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

Advantageously, the second compartment comprises a second air inlet and a second air outlet.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Having a first compartment containing a first air inlet containing multiple openings and a second compartment containing a second air inlet containing multiple openings can advantageously provide a more uniform airflow within the first compartment and the second compartment, respectively. In use, this can improve the capture of the alkaloid into the air stream drawn through the first compartment and improve the capture of acid into the air stream drawn through the second compartment.

The ratio of alkaloid to acid required to achieve an appropriate reaction stoichiometry can be controlled and balanced by varying the volumetric air flow through the first compartment of the cartridge relative to the volumetric air flow through the second compartment of the cartridge. The ratio of the volume flow of air passing through the first compartment to the volume flow of air passing through the second compartment can be adjusted by changing one or more of the number, size and location of the openings forming the first air inlet of the first compartment of the cartridge, relative to the number, size and location openings defining a second air inlet of the second compartment of the cartridge.

Advantageously, before the first use of the cartridge, the first air inlet of the first compartment and/or the second air inlet of the second compartment may be hermetically sealed with one or more removable or frangible baffles. For example, one or both of the first air inlet of the first compartment and the second air inlet of the second compartment may be sealed with one or more tear-off seals or pierceable seals.

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

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

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

Preferably, each of the first air outlet of the first cartridge compartment and the second air outlet of the second cartridge compartment may comprise a plurality of openings. For example, each of the first air outlet of the first compartment of the cartridge and the second air outlet of the second compartment of the cartridge may comprise two, three, four, five, six, or seven openings. Having a first compartment including a first air outlet having multiple openings and a second compartment including a second air outlet having multiple openings can advantageously provide a more uniform air flow within the first compartment and the second compartment, respectively. In use, this can improve the capture of the alkaloid into the air stream drawn through the first compartment and improve the capture of acid into the air stream drawn through the second compartment.

As described above, the ratio of alkaloid to acid required to achieve an appropriate reaction stoichiometry can be controlled and balanced by varying the air volume flow through the first cartridge compartment relative to the air volume flow through the second cartridge compartment. The ratio of the volume flow of air passing through the first compartment to the volume flow of air passing through the second compartment can be adjusted by changing one or more of the number, size and location of the openings forming the first air outlet of the first compartment of the cartridge, relative to the number, size and location openings defining a second air outlet of the second compartment of the cartridge.

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

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

The first compartment and the second compartment may be arranged in series within the cartridge.

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

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

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

Advantageously, the first compartment and the second compartment are arranged in parallel within the cartridge.

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

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

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

The first compartment and the second compartment may be arranged symmetrically with respect to each other within the cartridge.

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

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

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

The cartridge may be of any suitable size.

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

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

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

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

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

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

In embodiments where the cartridge includes a distal end cap, one or more openings defining a first air inlet for the first compartment of the cartridge and one or more openings defining a second air inlet for the second compartment of the cartridge may be provided in the distal end cap.

In embodiments where the cartridge comprises a proximal end cap, one or more openings defining a first air outlet of the first compartment of the cartridge and one or more openings defining a second air outlet of the second compartment of the cartridge may be provided in the proximal end cap.

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

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

The cartridge may be formed from one or more materials that are alkaloid resistant and acid resistant.

The first cartridge compartment may be coated with one or more alkaloid resistant materials and the second cartridge compartment may be coated with one or more acid resistant materials.

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

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

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

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

The first cartridge compartment and the second cartridge compartment may be coated with one or more thermally conductive materials.

The use of one or more thermally conductive materials to form the cartridge and/or cover the inner surface of the first compartment and the second compartment of the cartridge may advantageously increase heat transfer from the heating element to the alkaloid source and acid source.

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

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

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

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

The cartridge may be removable after the liquid alkaloid composition has been used up in the first compartment and the acid has been used up in the second compartment.

The cartridge may be refillable.

The cartridge may include a heating element configured to heat the first compartment and the second compartment. In such embodiments, the implementation of the heating element is mainly located between the first compartment and the second compartment. That is, the first compartment and the second compartment are located on both sides of the heating element.

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

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

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

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

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

Preferably, the cartridge may include a cavity for receiving a heating element configured to heat the first compartment and the second compartment. In such embodiments, the cavity is preferably located between the first compartment and the second compartment. That is, the first compartment and the second compartment are located on both sides of the cavity.

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

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

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

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

The cavity may be closed along its length.

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

Advantageously, the cartridge may comprise a current collector for inductively heating the first compartment and the second compartment. In such embodiments, the current collector is preferably located between the first compartment and the second compartment. That is, the first compartment and the second compartment are located on both sides of the current collector.

The invention also provides an aerosol generating system comprising: a cartridge according to the invention; and an aerosol generating device comprising: a body defining a device cavity adapted to receive at least a portion of the cartridge; and a heating element for heating the first compartment and the second compartment of the cartridge.

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

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

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

In such embodiments, during use, the inductive heating element generates an alternating magnetic field to generate eddy currents and hysteresis losses in the current collector in the cartridge, providing heat to the current collector, thereby heating the first compartment and the second compartment of the cartridge.

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

Advantageously, the heating element may be positioned within a device cavity in the aerosol generating device and the cartridge may comprise a cavity for receiving the heating element described above. In use, a heating element is placed in the cavity of the cartridge and heats the first compartment and the second compartment of the cartridge.

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

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

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

Preferably, the heating element may be an induction coil and the cartridge may include a current collector for inductively heating the first compartment and the second compartment of the cartridge as described above.

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

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

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

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

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

The aerosol generating device may include one or more temperature sensors configured to detect the temperature of the heating element and the temperature of the first compartment and the second compartment of the cartridge. In such embodiments, the controller may be configured to adjust the power supply to the heating element based on the monitored temperature.

The aerosol generating system may further comprise a mouthpiece. In such embodiments, the alkaloid vapor that is released from the alkaloid source in the first compartment of the cartridge and the acid vapor that is released from the acid source in the second compartment of the cartridge may react with each other in the gas phase in the mouthpiece to form an aerosol.

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

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

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

The mouthpiece may be removable after the alkaloid is used up in the first compartment and the acid is used up in the second compartment.

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

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

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

in fig. 1 shows a cartridge according to one embodiment of the present invention;

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

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

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

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

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

The cartridge 2 comprises an elongated first compartment 10 that extends from the proximal end of the main body 4 to the distal end of the main body 4. The first compartment 10 contains an alkaloid source containing a first carrier material 12 impregnated with 18 microliters of an alkaloid-based liquid composition. The alkaloid-based liquid formulation is a nicotine-based liquid formulation having a glycerol content of about 32 weight percent and a nicotine content of about 68 weight percent.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Example

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

The aerosol generating system of the present invention comprises a cartridge of the present invention comprising: a first compartment containing an alkaloid source, wherein the alkaloid source comprises a first carrier material impregnated with 18 microliters of a nicotine-based liquid formulation containing 5 microliters (6.3 milligrams) glycerin (32.4 weight percent glycerol) and 13 microliters (13.13 milligrams) of nicotine (67.6 weight percent nicotine); and a second compartment containing an acid source, wherein the acid source contains a second carrier material impregnated with 18 microliters of lactic acid.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Claims (21)

1. A cartridge for use in an aerosol generating system, comprising: a first compartment containing an alkaloid source, the alkaloid source comprising an alkaloid-based liquid formulation having a polyhydric alcohol content of 10 weight percent to 40 weight percent and an alkaloid content of 10 weight percent to 90 weight percent; And the second compartment containing the acid source. 2. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein the weight percent alkaloid content of the liquid alkaloid composition is 1.5 times to 9 times the weight percent polyhydric alcohol content of the liquid alkaloid composition. 3. The cartridge according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the alkaloid weight percent content of the liquid alkaloid composition is 1.8 times to 8 times the weight percent polyhydric alcohol content of the liquid alkaloid composition. 4. The cartridge according to any one of paragraphs. 1-3, wherein the alkaloid content in weight percent of the alkaloid-based liquid composition is 2 times to 4 times the weight percent content of the polyhydric alcohol in the alkaloid-based liquid composition. 5. Cartridge according to any one of paragraphs. 1-4, wherein the alkaloid content of the liquid alkaloid composition is from 70 weight percent to 90 weight percent. 6. The cartridge according to any one of paragraphs. 1-5, in which the content of polyhydric alcohol liquid composition based on the alkaloid is from 10 weight percent to 30 weight percent. 7. Cartridge according to any one of paragraphs. 1-6, wherein the liquid alkaloid composition contains one or more flavoring agents. 8. The cartridge according to any one of paragraphs. 1-7, wherein the alkaloid is nicotine. 9. The cartridge according to any one of paragraphs. 1-8, wherein the polyhydric alcohol is glycerol. 10. The cartridge according to any one of paragraphs. 1-9, wherein the acid source contains lactic acid. 11. The cartridge according to any one of paragraphs. 1-10, wherein the alkaloid source comprises a first carrier material impregnated with an alkaloid-based liquid formulation. 12. The cartridge according to claim 11, wherein the first carrier material is impregnated with an amount of liquid alkaloid composition ranging from 10 microliters to 25 microliters. 13. The cartridge according to any one of paragraphs. 1-12, wherein the acid source comprises a second carrier material impregnated with acid. 14. The cartridge of claim 13, wherein the second carrier material is impregnated with an amount of acid ranging from 10 microliters to 25 microliters. 15. An aerosol generating system, comprising: cartridge according to any one of paragraphs. 1-14; And an aerosol generating device, comprising: a housing defining a device cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the cartridge; And a heating element for heating the first compartment and the second compartment of the cartridge.

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