US20250212941A1 - Aersol -generating article with relatively short rod of aersol -generating substrate - Google Patents

Aersol -generating article with relatively short rod of aersol -generating substrate Download PDF

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Publication number
US20250212941A1
US20250212941A1 US18/853,469 US202318853469A US2025212941A1 US 20250212941 A1 US20250212941 A1 US 20250212941A1 US 202318853469 A US202318853469 A US 202318853469A US 2025212941 A1 US2025212941 A1 US 2025212941A1
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Prior art keywords
aerosol
millimetres
length
generating
hollow tubular
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US18/853,469
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English (en)
Inventor
Eva Saade Latorre
Jerome Uthurry
Hüseyin Efe SENYILMAZ
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Philip Morris Products SA
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Philip Morris Products SA
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Assigned to PHILIP MORRIS PRODUCTS S.A. reassignment PHILIP MORRIS PRODUCTS S.A. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: SENYILMAZ, Hüseyin Efe, SAADE LATORRE, Eva, Uthurry, Jerome
Publication of US20250212941A1 publication Critical patent/US20250212941A1/en
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    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24B—MANUFACTURE OR PREPARATION OF TOBACCO FOR SMOKING OR CHEWING; TOBACCO; SNUFF
    • A24B15/00—Chemical features or treatment of tobacco; Tobacco substitutes, e.g. in liquid form
    • A24B15/10—Chemical features of tobacco products or tobacco substitutes
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24D—CIGARS; CIGARETTES; TOBACCO SMOKE FILTERS; MOUTHPIECES OF CIGARS OR CIGARETTES; MANUFACTURE OF TOBACCO SMOKE FILTERS OR MOUTHPIECES
    • A24D1/00—Cigars; Cigarettes
    • A24D1/20—Cigarettes specially adapted for simulated smoking devices
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/40—Constructional details, e.g. connection of cartridges and battery parts
    • A24F40/46—Shape or structure of electric heating means
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/20—Devices using solid inhalable precursors

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-generating substrate and adapted to produce an inhalable aerosol upon heating.
  • Aerosol-generating articles in which an aerosol-generating substrate, such as a tobacco-containing substrate, is heated rather than combusted, are known in the art.
  • an aerosol is generated by the transfer of heat from a heat source to a physically separate aerosol-generating substrate or material, which may be located in contact with, within, around, or downstream of the heat source.
  • volatile compounds are released from the aerosol-generating substrate by heat transfer from the heat source and are entrained in air drawn through the aerosol-generating article. As the released compounds cool, they condense to form an aerosol.
  • a number of prior art documents disclose aerosol-generating devices for consuming aerosol-generating articles.
  • Such devices include, for example, electrically heated aerosol-generating devices in which an aerosol is generated by the transfer of heat from one or more electrical heater elements of the aerosol-generating device to the aerosol-generating substrate of a heated aerosol-generating article.
  • electrically heated aerosol-generating devices have been proposed that comprise an internal heater blade which is adapted to be inserted into the aerosol-generating substrate.
  • Use of an aerosol-generating article in combination with an external heating system is also known.
  • WO 2020/115151 describes the provision of one or more heating elements arranged around the periphery of the aerosol-generating article when the aerosol-generating article is received in a cavity of the aerosol-generating device.
  • inductively heatable aerosol-generating articles comprising an aerosol-generating substrate and a susceptor arranged within the aerosol-generating substrate have been proposed by WO 2015/176898.
  • Aerosol-generating articles in which a tobacco-containing substrate is heated rather than combusted present a number of challenges that were not encountered with conventional smoking articles.
  • tobacco-containing substrates are typically heated to significantly lower temperatures compared with the temperatures reached by the combustion front in a conventional cigarette. This may have an impact on nicotine release from the tobacco-containing substrate and nicotine delivery to the consumer.
  • the heating temperature is increased in an attempt to boost nicotine delivery, then the aerosol generated typically needs to be cooled to a greater extent and more rapidly before it reaches the consumer.
  • aerosol-generating articles that are easy to use and have improved practicality.
  • the present disclosure relates an aerosol-generating article.
  • the aerosol-generating article may comprise a rod of aerosol-generating substrate.
  • the aerosol-generating article may have a length of at least 50 millimetres.
  • the rod of aerosol-generating substrate may have a length of less than or equal to 36 millimetres.
  • a ratio of the length of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate to the total length of the aerosol-generating article may be less than or equal to 0.4.
  • an aerosol-generating article comprising: a rod of aerosol-generating substrate, wherein the aerosol-generating article has a length of at least 50 millimetres, wherein the rod of aerosol-generating substrate has a length of less than or equal to 36 millimetres, and wherein a ratio of the length of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate to the total length of the aerosol-generating article is less than or equal to 0.4.
  • the present disclosure relates an aerosol-generating article.
  • the aerosol-generating article may comprise a rod of aerosol-generating substrate.
  • the aerosol-generating article may have a length of at least 60 millimetres.
  • the rod of aerosol-generating substrate may have a length of less than or equal to 36 millimetres.
  • a ratio of the length of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate to the total length of the aerosol-generating article may be less than or equal to 0.4.
  • an aerosol-generating article comprising: a rod of aerosol-generating substrate, wherein the aerosol-generating article has a length of at least 60 millimetres, wherein the rod of aerosol-generating substrate has a length of less than or equal to 36 millimetres, and wherein a ratio of the length of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate to the total length of the aerosol-generating article is less than or equal to 0.4.
  • the present invention relates to a relatively long aerosol-generating article having a relatively short rod of aerosol-generating substrate.
  • Aerosol-generating articles of the prior art that are relatively long have corresponding relatively long rods of aerosol-generating substrate. Therefore, providing a relatively long aerosol-generating article with a relatively short rod of aerosol-generating substrate is a significantly different construction to aerosol-generating articles of the prior art.
  • a rod of aerosol-generating substrate may generate an aerosol upon heating, for example by an aerosol-generating device.
  • the resulting generated aerosol may have a high temperature that could be very uncomfortable for a user if the aerosol was delivered to the user immediately after being generated. Therefore, some aerosol-generating articles provide space for an aerosol to cool down after being generated, and before the aerosol is delivered to a user. In some aerosol-generating articles, space for cooling is provided between the rod of aerosol-generating substrate and a downstream end of the aerosol-generating article.
  • Reducing the length of the rod of the aerosol-generating substrate while maintaining the relatively long length of the aerosol-generating article may increase the total length of the path travelled by the generated aerosol within the aerosol-generating article, before the generated aerosol is delivered to a user.
  • Increasing the total length of the path travelled by the aerosol before it is delivered to a user may provide more time of the aerosol to cool and reduce in temperature before it is delivered to a user.
  • reducing the length of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate while maintaining the relatively long length of the aerosol-generating article may provide for the aerosol having a lower temperature when it is delivered to a user.
  • the lower temperature of the aerosol-generating substrate may improve the overall experience for the user.
  • a rod of aerosol-generating substrate with a reduced length for example, in order to maximise the proportion of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate that is heated when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into a heating cavity of an aerosol-generating device.
  • This in turn may optimise the efficiency of aerosol generation from the rod of aerosol-generating substrate, so that the amount of aerosol-generating substrate can be minimised to the extent possible without impacting the generation of aerosol.
  • the amount of aerosol-generating substrate that is effectively wasted, since it is not used to generate aerosol can also be minimised.
  • the present invention provides for a rod of aerosol-generating substrate with a reduced length, while retaining the overall length of the aerosol-generating article.
  • An aerosol-generating article in accordance with the present invention comprises a rod of aerosol-generating substrate. Further, an aerosol-generating article in accordance with the present invention comprises one or more elements provided downstream of the aerosol-generating substrate. Where present, the one or more elements downstream of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate form a downstream section of the aerosol-generating article. An aerosol-generating article in accordance with the present invention may comprise one or more elements provided upstream of the aerosol-generating substrate. Where present, the one or more elements upstream of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate form an upstream section of the aerosol-generating article.
  • the rod of aerosol-generating substrate is preferably circumscribed by a wrapper, such as a plug wrap.
  • the rod of aerosol-generating substrate preferably has a length of at least 10 millimetres.
  • the rod of aerosol-generating substrate has a length of at least 15 millimetres. More preferably, the rod of aerosol-generating substrate has a length of at least 17 millimetres. Even more preferably, the rod of aerosol-generating substrate has a length of at least 18 millimetres. Most preferably, the rod of aerosol-generating substrate has a length of at least 20 millimetres.
  • the rod of aerosol-generating substrate preferably has a length of less than 40 millimetres.
  • the rod of aerosol-generating substrate has a length of less than 35 millimetres. More preferably, the rod of aerosol-generating substrate has a length of less than 30 millimetres.
  • the rod of aerosol-generating substrate preferably has a length of between 10 millimetres and 40 millimetres, or between 10 millimetres and 35 millimetres, or between 10 millimetres and 30 millimetres, or between 15 millimetres and 40 millimetres, or between 15 millimetres and 35 millimetres, or between 15 millimetres and 30 millimetres, or between 20 millimetres and 40 millimetres, or between 20 millimetres and 35 millimetres, or between 20 millimetres and 30 millimetres.
  • the rod of aerosol-generating substrate preferably has an external diameter of less than 8 millimetres. More preferably, the rod of aerosol-generating substrate has an external diameter of less than 7.5 millimetres. Even more preferably, the rod of aerosol-generating substrate has an external diameter of less than 7 millimetres.
  • a diameter of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate falling within the ranges described herein is particularly advantageous in terms of a balance between energy consumption and aerosol delivery.
  • This advantage is felt in particular when an aerosol-generating article comprising a rod of aerosol-generating substrate having a diameter as described herein is used in combination with an external heater arranged around the periphery of the aerosol-generating article. Under such operating conditions, it has been observed that less thermal energy is required to achieve a sufficiently high temperature at the core of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate and, in general, at the core of the article. Thus, when operating at lower temperatures, a desired target temperature at the core of the aerosol-generating substrate may be achieved within a desirably reduced time frame and by a lower energy consumption.
  • the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is at least 100 mg per cubic centimetre. More preferably, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is at least 125 mg per cubic centimetre. More preferably, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is at least 150 mg per cubic centimetre. Even more preferably, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is at least 200 mg per cubic centimetre.
  • the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is less than 1000 mg per cubic centimetre. More preferably, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is less than 800 mg per cubic centimetre. More preferably, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is less than 700 mg per cubic centimetre. More preferably, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is less than 600 mg per cubic centimetre. More preferably, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is less than 500 mg per cubic centimetre. More preferably, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is less than 400 mg per cubic centimetre. More preferably, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is less than 350 mg per cubic centimetre.
  • the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is preferably from 100 mg per cubic centimetre to 1000 mg per cubic centimetre, preferably from 100 mg per cubic centimetre to 800 mg per cubic centimetre, more preferably from 100 mg per cubic centimetre to 700 mg per cubic centimetre, more preferably from 100 mg per cubic centimetre to 600 mg per cubic centimetre, more preferably from 100 mg per cubic centimetre to 500 mg per cubic centimetre, even more preferably from 100 mg per cubic centimetre to 400 mg per cubic centimetre.
  • the aerosol-generating substrate may comprise a tobacco material.
  • the rod of aerosol-generating substrate may comprise a tobacco material.
  • the tobacco material may comprise a shredded tobacco material.
  • the shredded tobacco material may be in the form of cut filler or tobacco cut filler.
  • the tobacco material has a bulk density of at least 100 mg per cubic centimetre. More preferably, the tobacco material has a bulk density of at least 125 mg per cubic centimetre. More preferably, the tobacco material has a bulk density of at least 150 mg per cubic centimetre. Even more preferably, the tobacco material has a bulk density of at least 200 mg per cubic centimetre. Preferably, the tobacco material has a bulk density of less than 345 milligrams per cubic centimetre. More preferably, the tobacco material has a bulk density of less than 325 milligrams per cubic centimetre. Even more preferably, the tobacco material has a bulk density of less than 300 milligrams per cubic centimetre.
  • the tobacco material has a bulk density of less than 290 milligrams per cubic centimetre. Even more preferably, the tobacco material has a bulk density of less than 280 milligrams per cubic centimetre.
  • the tobacco material may have a bulk density of from 100 milligrams per cubic centimetre to 350 milligrams per cubic centimetre, preferably from 100 milligrams per cubic centimetre to 345 milligrams per cubic centimetre, more preferably from 125 milligrams per cubic centimetre to 325 milligrams per cubic centimetre, more preferably from 150 milligrams per cubic centimetre to 300 milligrams per cubic centimetre, more preferably from 150 milligrams per cubic centimetre to 290 milligrams per cubic centimetre, even more preferably from 200 milligrams per cubic centimetre to 280 milligrams per cubic centimetre.
  • density refers to the bulk density of the aerosol-generating substrate. This can be calculated by measuring the total weight of the aerosol-generating substrate and dividing this by the volume of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate (excluding any wrapper).
  • the bulk density of the tobacco material in the aerosol-generating substrate may be calculated by dividing the sum of the mass of the tobacco material in the rod of aerosol-generating substrate by the volume of the aerosol-generating substrate (excluding any wrapper).
  • the mass of the tobacco material in the aerosol-generating substrate may be determined by removing the tobacco material from the aerosol-generating substrate, and weighing the tobacco material.
  • the bulk density of the tobacco material in the aerosol-generating substrate may be determined after conditioning the aerosol-generating substrate in accordance with ISO Standard 3402:1999.
  • the aerosol-generating substrate may comprise a shredded tobacco material.
  • the rod of aerosol-generating substrate may comprise a shredded tobacco material.
  • the shredded tobacco material may be in the form of cut filler or tobacco cut filler.
  • the density of such aerosol-generating substrate or shredded tobacco material may be in accordance with the below.
  • the rod of aerosol-generating substrate comprises shredded tobacco material, for example tobacco cut filler, having a density of less than 350 mg per cubic centimetre, preferably less than 345 mg per cubic centimetre, preferably less than 325 mg per cubic centimetre, more preferably less than 300 mg per cubic centimetre, more preferably less than 290 mg per cubic centimetre, more preferably less than 280 mg per cubic centimetre.
  • the rod of aerosol-generating substrate comprises shredded tobacco material having a bulk density of at least 100 mg per cubic centimetre. More preferably, the rod of aerosol-generating substrate comprises shredded tobacco material having a bulk density of at least 125 mg per cubic centimetre.
  • the rod of aerosol-generating substrate comprises shredded tobacco material having a bulk density of at least 150 mg per cubic centimetre. Even more preferably, the rod of aerosol-generating substrate comprises shredded tobacco material having a bulk density of at least 200 mg per cubic centimetre.
  • the rod of aerosol-generating substrate may comprise shredded tobacco material having a density of from 100 mg per cubic centimetre to 350 mg per cubic centimetre, preferably from 100 mg per cubic centimetre to 345 mg per cubic centimetre, preferably from 125 mg per cubic centimetre to 325 mg per cubic centimetre, more preferably from 150 mg per cubic centimetre to 300 mg per cubic centimetre, more preferably from 150 mg per cubic centimetre to 290 mg per cubic centimetre, even more preferably from 200 mg per cubic centimetre to 280 mg per cubic centimetre.
  • the RTD of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate is preferably less than about 10 millimetres H 2 O. More preferably, the RTD of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate is less than 9 millimetres H 2 O. Even more preferably, the RTD of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate is less than 8 millimetres H 2 O.
  • the RTD of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate is from 4 millimetres H 2 O to 10 millimetres H 2 O, preferably from 5 millimetres H 2 O to 10 millimetres H 2 O, preferably from 6 millimetres H 2 O to 25 millimetres H 2 O. In other embodiments, the RTD of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate is from 4 millimetres H 2 O to 20 millimetres H 2 O, preferably from 5 millimetres H 2 O to 18 millimetres H 2 O preferably from 6 millimetres H 2 O to 16 millimetres H 2 O.
  • the aerosol former comprises one or more of glycerine and propylene glycol.
  • the aerosol former may consist of glycerine or propylene glycol or of a combination of glycerine and propylene glycol.
  • the amount of aerosol former is at least 5 percent by weight on a dry weight basis, preferably between 5 percent and 30 percent by weight on a dry weight basis of the cut filler, more preferably, the amount of aerosol former is between 6 percent and 20 percent by weight on a dry weight basis of the cut filler, for example the amount of aerosol former is between 8 percent and 15 percent by weight on a dry weight basis of the cut filler.
  • the cut filler may become relatively sticky.
  • the amount of aerosol former has a target value of about 13 percent by weight on a dry weight basis of the cut filler.
  • the most efficient amount of aerosol former will depend also on the cut filler, whether the cut filler comprises plant lamina or homogenized plant material. For example, among other factors, the type of cut filler will determine to which extent the aerosol-former can facilitate the release of substances from the cut filler.
  • a rod of aerosol-generating substrate comprising cut filler as described above is capable of efficiently generating sufficient amount of aerosol at relatively low temperatures.
  • a temperature of between 150 degrees Celsius and 200 degrees Celsius in the heating chamber may be sufficient for one such cut filler to generate sufficient amounts of aerosol while in aerosol-generating devices using tobacco cast leave sheets typically temperatures of about 250 degrees Celsius are employed.
  • a further advantage connected with operating at lower temperatures is that there is a reduced need to cool down the aerosol. As generally low temperatures are used, a simpler cooling function may be sufficient. This in turn allows using a simpler and less complex structure of the aerosol-generating article.
  • the aerosol-generating substrate comprises homogenised plant material, preferably a homogenised tobacco material.
  • homogenised plant material encompasses any plant material formed by the agglomeration of particles of plant.
  • sheets or webs of homogenised tobacco material for the aerosol-generating substrates of the present invention may be formed by agglomerating particles of tobacco material obtained by pulverising, grinding or comminuting plant material and optionally one or more of tobacco leaf lamina and tobacco leaf stems.
  • the homogenised plant material may be produced by casting, extrusion, paper making processes or other any other suitable processes known in the art.
  • the homogenised plant material may be in the form of a plurality of pellets or granules.
  • the strands may be formed in situ within the aerosol-generating substrate as a result of the splitting or cracking of a sheet of homogenised plant material during formation of the aerosol-generating substrate, for example, as a result of crimping.
  • the strands of homogenised plant material within the aerosol-generating substrate may be separate from each other.
  • each strand of homogenised plant material within the aerosol-generating substrate may be at least partially connected to an adjacent strand or strands along the length of the strands.
  • adjacent strands may be connected by one or more fibres. This may occur, for example, where the strands have been formed due to the splitting of a sheet of homogenised plant material during production of the aerosol-generating substrate, as described above.
  • the one or more sheets as described herein may each individually have a grammage of between 100 grams per square metre and 600 grams per square metre.
  • the one or more sheets as described herein may each individually have a density of from 0.3 grams per cubic centimetre to 1.3 grams per cubic centimetre, and preferably from 0.7 grams per cubic centimetre to 1.0 gram per cubic centimetre.
  • the one or more sheets of homogenised plant material may be gathered transversely relative to the longitudinal axis thereof and circumscribed with a wrapper to form a continuous rod or a plug.
  • the one or more sheets of homogenised plant material may advantageously be crimped or similarly treated.
  • crimped denotes a sheet having a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or corrugations.
  • the one or more sheets of homogenised plant material may be embossed, debossed, perforated or otherwise deformed to provide texture on one or both sides of the sheet.
  • one or more sheets of homogenised plant material may be crimped such that it has a plurality of ridges or corrugations substantially parallel to the cylindrical axis of the plug.
  • This treatment advantageously facilitates gathering of the crimped sheet of homogenised plant material to form the plug.
  • the one or more sheets of homogenised plant material may be gathered.
  • crimped sheets of homogenised plant material may alternatively or in addition have a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or corrugations disposed at an acute or obtuse angle to the cylindrical axis of the plug.
  • the sheet may be crimped to such an extent that the integrity of the sheet becomes disrupted at the plurality of parallel ridges or corrugations causing separation of the material, and results in the formation of shreds, strands or strips of homogenised plant material.
  • the susceptor element preferably has a length from 5 millimetres to 15 millimetres, for example from 6 millimetres to 12 millimetres, or from 8 millimetres to 10 millimetres.
  • the paper wrapper comprising PVOH or silicone (or polysiloxane) may have a grammage of less than or equal to 50 gsm, preferably less than or equal to 45 gsm, more preferably less than or equal to 40 gsm.
  • the paper wrapper comprising PVOH or silicone (or polysiloxane) may have a grammage from 20 gsm to 50 gsm, preferably from 25 gsm to 45 gsm, more preferably from 30 gsm to 40 gsm.
  • the paper wrapper comprising PVOH or silicone (or polysiloxane) may have a grammage of 35 gsm.
  • the paper wrapper comprising PVOH or silicone (or polysiloxane) may have a thickness of at least 25 micrometres, preferably at least 30 micrometres, more preferably at least 35 micrometres.
  • the paper wrapper comprising PVOH or silicone (or polysiloxane) may have a thickness of less than or equal to 50 micrometres, preferably less than or equal to 45 micrometres, more preferably less than or equal to 40 micrometres.
  • the paper wrapper comprising PVOH or silicone (or polysiloxane) may have a thickness from 25 micrometres to 50 micrometres, preferably from 30 micrometres to 45 micrometres, more preferably from 35 micrometres to 40 micrometres.
  • the paper wrapper comprising PVOH or silicone (or polysiloxane) may have a thickness of 37 micrometres.
  • the wrapper circumscribing the rod of aerosol-generating substrate may comprise a flame retardant composition comprising one or more flame retardant compounds.
  • flame retardant compounds is used herein to describe chemical compounds that, when added to or otherwise incorporated into a carrier substrate, such as paper or plastic compounds, provide the carrier substrate with varying degrees of flammability protection. In practice, flame retardant compounds may be activated by the presence of an ignition source and are adapted to prevent or slow the further development of ignition by a variety of different physical and chemical mechanisms.
  • a flame retardant composition may typically further comprise one of more non-flame retardant compounds, that is, one or more compound-such as a solvent, an excipient, a filler—that does not actively contribute to providing the carrier substrate with flammability protection, but is used to facilitate the application of the flame retardant compound or compounds onto or into the wrapper or both.
  • flame retardant compounds are known to the skilled person.
  • several flame retardant compounds and formulations suitable for treating cellulosic materials are known and have been disclosed and may find use in the manufacture of wrappers for aerosol-generating articles in accordance with the present invention.
  • the flame retardant composition may comprise a polymer and a mixed salt based on at least one mono, di- and/or tri-carboxylic acid, at least one polyphosphoric, pyrophosphoric and/or phosphoric acid, and a hydroxide or a salt of an alkali or an alkaline earth metal, where the at least one mono, di- and/or tri-carboxylic acid and the hydroxide or salt form a carboxylate and the at least one polyphosphoric, pyrophosphoric and/or phosphoric acid and the hydroxide or salt form a phosphate.
  • the flame retardant composition may further comprise a carbonate of an alkali or an alkaline earth metal.
  • the flame retardant composition may comprise cellulose modified with at least one C 10 or higher fatty acid, tall oil fatty acid (TOFA), phosphorylated linseed oil, phosphorylated downstream corn oil.
  • the at least one C 10 or higher fatty acid is selected from the group consisting of capric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, and combinations thereof.
  • the flame retardant composition may be provided in a treated portion of the wrapper. This means that the flame retardant composition has been applied onto or into a corresponding portion of a wrapping base material of the wrapper or both.
  • the wrapper has an overall dry basis weight that is greater than the dry basis weight of the wrapping base material.
  • the treated portion of the wrapper may extend over at least 10 percent of an outer surface area of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate circumscribed by the wrapper, preferably over at least 20 percent of an outer surface area of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate circumscribed by the wrapper, more preferably over at least 40 percent of an outer surface area of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate, even more preferably over at least 60 percent of an outer surface area of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate.
  • the treated portion of the wrapper extends over at least 80 percent of an outer surface area of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate.
  • the treated portion of the wrapper extends over at least 90 or even 95 percent of an outer surface area of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate.
  • the treated portion of the wrapper extends substantially over the entire outer surface area of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate.
  • the wrapper comprising a flame retardant composition may have a grammage of at least 20 gsm, preferably at least 25 gsm, more preferably at least 30 gsm.
  • the wrapper comprising a flame retardant composition may have a grammage of less than or equal to 45 gsm, preferably less than or equal to 40 gsm, more preferably less than or equal to 35 gsm.
  • the wrapper comprising a flame retardant composition may have a grammage from 20 gsm to 45 gsm, preferably from 25 gsm to 40 gsm, more preferably from 30 gsm to 35 gsm.
  • the wrapper comprising a flame retardant composition may have a grammage of 33 gsm.
  • the wrapper comprising a flame retardant composition may have a thickness of at least 25 micrometres, preferably at least 30 micrometres, even more preferably 35 micrometres.
  • the wrapper comprising a flame retardant composition may have a thickness of less than or equal to 50 micrometres, preferably less than or equal to 45 micrometres, even more preferably less than or equal to 40 micrometres.
  • the wrapper comprising a flame retardant composition may have a thickness of 37 micrometres.
  • Aerosol-generating articles according to the present disclosure may further comprise an upstream section located upstream of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate.
  • the upstream section is preferably located immediately upstream of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate.
  • the upstream section preferably extends between the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article and the rod of aerosol-generating substrate.
  • the upstream section may comprise one or more upstream elements located upstream of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate. Such one or more upstream elements are described within the present disclosure.
  • the aerosol-generating articles of the present invention preferably comprise an upstream element located upstream of and adjacent to the aerosol-generating substrate.
  • the upstream element advantageously prevents direct physical contact with the upstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate.
  • the upstream element may prevent direct physical contact with the upstream end of the susceptor element. This helps to prevent the displacement or deformation of the susceptor element during handling or transport of the aerosol-generating article. This in turn helps to secure the form and position of the susceptor element.
  • the presence of an upstream element helps to prevent any loss of the substrate, which may be advantageous, for example, if the substrate contains particulate plant material.
  • the upstream section or element thereof may additionally help to prevent the loss of loose particles of tobacco from the upstream end of the article. This may be particularly important when the shredded tobacco has a relatively low density, for example.
  • the upstream section, or upstream element thereof, may also additionally provide a degree of protection to the aerosol-generating substrate during storage, as it covers at least to some extent the upstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate, which may otherwise be exposed.
  • the upstream section, or upstream element thereof may advantageously facilitate the insertion of the upstream end of the article into the cavity.
  • the inclusion of the upstream element may additionally protect the end of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate during the insertion of the article into the cavity such that the risk of damage to the substrate is minimised.
  • the upstream section, or upstream element thereof may also provide an improved appearance to the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article. Furthermore, if desired, the upstream section, or upstream element thereof, may be used to provide information on the aerosol-generating article, such as information on brand, flavour, content, or details of the aerosol-generating device that the article is intended to be used with.
  • An upstream element may be a porous plug element.
  • an upstream element has a porosity of at least 50 percent in the longitudinal direction of the aerosol-generating article. More preferably, an upstream element has a porosity of between 50 percent and 90 percent in the longitudinal direction.
  • the porosity of an upstream element in the longitudinal direction is defined by the ratio of the cross-sectional area of material forming the upstream element and the internal cross-sectional area of the aerosol-generating article at the position of the upstream element.
  • An upstream element may be made of a porous material or may comprise a plurality of openings. This may, for example, be achieved through laser perforation. Preferably, the plurality of openings is distributed homogeneously over the cross-section of the upstream element.
  • the porosity or permeability of an upstream element may advantageously be designed in order to provide an aerosol-generating article with a particular overall resistance to draw (RTD) without substantially impacting the filtration provided by other portions of the article.
  • RTD overall resistance to draw
  • An upstream element may be formed from a material that is impermeable to air.
  • the aerosol-generating article may be configured such that air flows into the rod of aerosol-generating substrate through suitable ventilation means provided in a wrapper.
  • this may be the case for articles that are intended to be inserted the cavity of an aerosol-generating device such that the aerosol-generating substrate is externally heated, as described herein.
  • the RTD of an upstream element is preferably less than 30 millimetres H 2 O. More preferably, the RTD of an upstream element is less than 20 millimetres H 2 O. Even more preferably, the RTD of an upstream element is less than or equal to 10 millimetres H 2 O. Even more preferably, the RTD of the upstream element is less than or equal to 5 millimetres H 2 O. Even more preferably, the RTD of the upstream element is less than or equal to 2 millimetres H 2 O.
  • the RTD of an upstream element may be at least 0.1 millimetres H 2 O, or at least 0.25 millimetres H 2 O or at least 0.5 millimetres H 2 O.
  • the RTD of an upstream element is from 0.1 millimetres H 2 O to 30 millimetres H 2 O, preferably from 0.25 millimetres H 2 O to 30 millimetres H 2 O, preferably from 0.5 millimetres H 2 O to 30 millimetres H 2 O. In other embodiments, the RTD of an upstream element is from 0.1 millimetres H 2 O to 20 millimetres H 2 O, preferably from 0.25 millimetres H 2 O to 20 millimetres H 2 O preferably from 0.5 millimetres H 2 O to 20 millimetres H 2 O.
  • the RTD of an upstream element is from 0.1 millimetres H 2 O to 10 millimetres H 2 O, preferably from 0.25 millimetres H 2 O to 10 millimetres H 2 O, more preferably from 0.5 millimetres H 2 O to 10 millimetres H 2 O. In further embodiments, the RTD of an upstream element is from 0.1 millimetres H 2 O to 5 millimetres H 2 O, preferably from 0.25 millimetres H 2 O to 5 millimetres H 2 O, more preferably from 0.5 millimetres H 2 O to 5 millimetres H 2 O.
  • the RTD of an upstream element is from 0.1 millimetres H 2 O to 2 millimetres H 2 O, preferably from 0.25 millimetres H 2 O to 2 millimetres H 2 O, more preferably from 0.5 millimetres H 2 O to 2 millimetres H 2 O.
  • an upstream element has an RTD of less than 2 millimetres H 2 O per millimetre of length, more preferably less than 1.5 millimetres H 2 O per millimetre of length, more preferably less than 1 millimetre H 2 O per millimetre of length, more preferably less than 0.5 millimetres H 2 O per millimetre of length, more preferably less than 0.3 millimetres H 2 O per millimetre of length, more preferably less than 0.2 millimetres H 2 O per millimetre of length.
  • the combined RTD of the upstream section, or upstream element thereof, and the rod of aerosol-generating substrate is less than 15 millimetres H 2 O, more preferably less than 12 millimetres H 2 O, more preferably less than 10 millimetres H 2 O.
  • an upstream element is formed of a solid cylindrical plug element having a filled cross-section.
  • a plug element may be referred to as a ‘plain’ element.
  • the solid plug element may be porous, as described above, but does not have a tubular form and therefore does not provide a longitudinal flow channel.
  • the solid plug element preferably has a substantially uniform transverse cross section.
  • the diameter of the longitudinal cavity of the hollow tubular segment forming an upstream element is at least 3 millimetres, more preferably at least 3.5 millimetres, more preferably at least 4 millimetres and more preferably at least 4.5 millimetres.
  • the diameter of the longitudinal cavity is maximised in order to minimise the RTD of the upstream section, or upstream element thereof.
  • the wall thickness of the hollow tubular segment is less than 2 millimetres, more preferably less than 1.5 millimetres and more preferably less than 1 millimetre.
  • An upstream element of the upstream section may be made of any material suitable for use in an aerosol-generating article.
  • the upstream element may, for example, be made of a same material as used for one of the other components of the aerosol-generating article, such as the downstream filter segment or the hollow tubular cooling element.
  • Suitable materials for forming the upstream element include filter materials, ceramic, polymer material, cellulose acetate, cardboard, zeolite or aerosol-generating substrate.
  • the upstream element may comprise a plug of cellulose acetate.
  • the upstream element may comprise a hollow acetate tube, or a cardboard tube.
  • an upstream element is formed of a heat resistant material.
  • an upstream element is formed of a material that resists temperatures of up to 350 degrees Celsius. This ensures that an upstream element is not adversely affected by the heating means for heating the aerosol-generating substrate.
  • the upstream section, or an upstream element thereof has an external diameter that is approximately equal to the external diameter of the aerosol-generating article.
  • the external diameter of the upstream section, or an upstream element thereof is between 5 millimetres and 8 millimetres, more preferably between 5.25 millimetres and 7.5 millimetres, more preferably between 5.5 millimetres and 7 millimetres.
  • the upstream section is preferably connected to the rod of aerosol-generating substrate and optionally at least a part of the downstream section by means of an outer wrapper, as described herein.
  • an aerosol-generating article comprises a downstream section located downstream of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate.
  • the downstream section is preferably located immediately downstream of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate.
  • the downstream section of the aerosol-generating article preferably extends between the rod of aerosol-generating substrate and the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article.
  • the downstream section may comprise one or more elements, each of which will be described in more detail within the present disclosure.
  • a length of the downstream section may be less than 75 millimetres.
  • a length of the downstream section may be equal to or less than 70 millimetres.
  • a length of the downstream section may be equal to or less than 65 millimetres.
  • a length of the downstream section may be between 40 millimetres and 65 millimetres, or between 45 millimetres and 65 millimetres, or between 48 millimetres and 65 millimetres, or between 50 millimetres and 65 millimetres.
  • Providing a relatively long downstream section ensures that a suitable length of the aerosol-generating article protrudes from an aerosol-generating device when the article is received therein.
  • a suitable protrusion length facilitates the ease of insertion and extraction of the article from the device, which also ensures that the upstream portions of the article are suitably inserted into the device with reduced risk of damage, particularly during insertion.
  • a ratio between a length of the downstream section and an overall length of the aerosol-generating article is from 0.50 to 0.85, preferably from 0.55 to 0.85, more preferably from 0.60 to 0.85, even more preferably from 0.65 to 0.85. In other embodiments, a ratio between a length of the downstream section and an overall length of the aerosol-generating article is from 0.50 to 0.80, preferably from 0.55 to 0.80, more preferably from 0.60 to 0.80, even more preferably from 0.65 to 0.80.
  • a ratio between a length of the downstream section and a length of the upstream section may be less than 30.
  • a ratio between a length of the downstream section and a length of the upstream section may be less than 20. More preferably, a ratio between a length of the downstream section and a length of the upstream section may be less than 15. Even more preferably, a ratio between a length of the downstream section and a length of the upstream section may be less than 10.
  • a ratio between a length of the downstream section and a length of the upstream section is from 4 to 30, preferably from 5 to 30, more preferably from 6 to 30, even more preferably from 7 to 18. In other embodiments, a ratio between a length of the downstream section and a length of the upstream section is from 4 to 20, preferably from 5 to 20, more preferably from 6 to 20, even more preferably from 7 to 20. In further embodiments, a ratio between a length of the downstream section and a length of the upstream section is from 4 to 15, preferably from 5 to 15, more preferably from 6 to 15, even more preferably from 7 to 15. In further embodiments, a ratio between a length of the downstream section and a length of the upstream section is from 4 to 10, preferably from 5 to 10, more preferably from 6 to 10, even more preferably from 7 to 10.
  • a ratio between the length of the downstream section and the length of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate is preferably at least 1.0. More preferably, a ratio between the length of the downstream section and the length of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate is at least 1.25. More preferably, a ratio between the length of the downstream section and the length of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate is at least 1.5. More preferably, a ratio between the length of the downstream section and the length of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate is at least 1.75.
  • a ratio between the length of the downstream section and the length of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate is preferably less than 3.5.
  • a ratio between the length of the downstream section and the length of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate is less than 3.25. More preferably, a ratio between the length of the downstream section and the length of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate is less than 3.0. Even more preferably, a ratio between the length of the downstream section and the length of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate is less than 2.75.
  • a ratio between the length of the downstream section and the length of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate is from 1.0 to 3.5, preferably from 1.25 to 3.5, more preferably from 1.50 to 3.5, even more preferably from 1.75 to 3.5. In other embodiments, a ratio between the length of the downstream section and the length of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate is from 1.0 to 3.25, preferably from 1.25 to 3.25, more preferably from 1.50 to 3.25, even more preferably from 1.75 to 3.25.
  • the downstream section of an aerosol-generating article according to the present invention preferably comprises a hollow tubular cooling element provided downstream of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate.
  • the hollow tubular cooling element may advantageously provide an aerosol-cooling element for the aerosol-generating article.
  • the hollow tubular cooling element may be provided immediately downstream of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate. In other words, the hollow tubular cooling element may abut a downstream end of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate.
  • the hollow tubular cooling element may define an upstream end of the downstream section of the aerosol-generating article.
  • the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article may coincide with the downstream end of the downstream section.
  • the downstream section of the aerosol-generating article comprises a single hollow tubular element.
  • the downstream section of the aerosol-generating article may comprise only one hollow tubular element.
  • the downstream section comprises two or more hollow tubular elements, as described below.
  • the term “hollow tubular element” denotes a generally elongate element defining a lumen or airflow passage along a longitudinal axis thereof.
  • tubular will be used in the following with reference to a tubular element having a substantially cylindrical cross-section and defining at least one airflow conduit establishing an uninterrupted fluid communication between an upstream end of the tubular element and a downstream end of the tubular element.
  • the hollow tubular cooling element may be an individual, discrete element of the aerosol-generating article which has a defined length and thickness.
  • An internal volume defined by the hollow tubular cooling element may be at least 100 cubic millimetres.
  • a volume of the cavity or lumen defined by the hollow tubular cooling element may be at least 100 cubic millimetres.
  • an internal volume defined by the hollow tubular cooling element may be at least 300 cubic millimetres.
  • An internal volume defined by the hollow tubular cooling element may be at least 700 cubic millimetres.
  • An internal volume defined by the hollow tubular cooling element may be less than or equal to 1200 cubic millimetres. Preferably, an internal volume defined by the hollow tubular cooling element may be less than or equal to 1000 cubic millimetres. An internal volume defined by the hollow tubular cooling element may be less than or equal to 900 cubic millimetres.
  • An internal volume defined by the hollow tubular cooling element may be between 100 and 1200 cubic millimetres. Preferably, an internal volume defined by the hollow tubular cooling element may be between 300 and 1000 cubic millimetres. An internal volume defined by the hollow tubular cooling element may be between 700 and 900 cubic millimetres.
  • a hollow tubular cooling element provides an unrestricted flow channel. This means that the hollow tubular cooling element provides a negligible level of resistance to draw (RTD).
  • RTD resistance to draw
  • the term “negligible level of RTD” is used to describe an RTD of less than 1 millimetres H 2 O per 10 millimetres of length of the hollow tubular cooling element, preferably less than 0.4 millimetres H 2 O per 10 millimetres of length of the hollow tubular cooling element, more preferably less than 0.1 millimetres H 2 O per 10 millimetres of length of the hollow tubular cooling element.
  • the RTD of a hollow tubular cooling element is preferably less than or equal to 10 millimetres H 2 O. More preferably, the RTD of a hollow tubular cooling element is less than or equal to 5 millimetres H 2 O. Even more preferably, the RTD of a hollow tubular cooling element is less than or equal to 2.5 millimetres H 2 O. Even more preferably, the RTD of the hollow tubular cooling element is less than or equal to 2 millimetres H 2 O. Even more preferably, the RTD of the hollow tubular cooling element is less than or equal to 1 millimetre H 2 O.
  • the RTD of a hollow tubular cooling element may be at least 0 millimetres H 2 O, or at least 0.25 millimetres H 2 O or at least 0.5 millimetres H 2 O or at least 1 millimetre H 2 O.
  • the RTD of a hollow tubular cooling element is from 0 millimetre H 2 O to 10 millimetres H 2 O, preferably from 0.25 millimetres H 2 O to 10 millimetres H 2 O, preferably from 0.5 millimetres H 2 O to 10 millimetres H 2 O. In other embodiments, the RTD of a hollow tubular cooling element is from 0 millimetres H 2 O to 5 millimetres H 2 O, preferably from 0.25 millimetres H 2 O to 5 millimetres H 2 O preferably from 0.5 millimetres H 2 O to 5 millimetres H 2 O.
  • the RTD of a hollow tubular cooling element is from 1 millimetre H 2 O to 5 millimetres H 2 O. In further embodiments, the RTD of a hollow tubular cooling element is from 0 millimetres H 2 O to 2.5 millimetres H 2 O, preferably from 0.25 millimetres H 2 O to 2.5 millimetres H 2 O, more preferably from 0.5 millimetres H 2 O to 2.5 millimetres H 2 O.
  • the flow channel should therefore be free from any components that would obstruct the flow of air in a longitudinal direction.
  • the flow channel is substantially empty and particularly preferably the flow channel is empty.
  • the aerosol-generating article may comprise a ventilation zone at a location along the downstream section.
  • the aerosol-generating article may comprise a ventilation zone at a location along the hollow tubular cooling element.
  • ventilation zone may extend through the peripheral wall of the hollow tubular cooling element. As such, fluid communication is established between the flow channel internally defined by the hollow tubular cooling element and the outer environment. The ventilation zone is further described within the present disclosure.
  • the length of the hollow tubular cooling element is at least 20 millimetres. More preferably, the length of the hollow tubular cooling element is at least 30 millimetres. The length of the hollow tubular cooling element may be at least 40 millimetres. More preferably, the length of the hollow tubular cooling element is at least 45 millimetres.
  • the length of the hollow tubular cooling element may be between 20 millimetres and 60 millimetres, or between 30 millimetres and 60 millimetres, or between 40 millimetres and 60 millimetres, or between 45 millimetres and 60 millimetres. In other embodiments, the length of the hollow tubular cooling element may be between 20 millimetres and 55 millimetres, or between 30 millimetres and 55 millimetres, or between 40 millimetres and 55 millimetres, or between 45 millimetres and 55 millimetres.
  • the length of the hollow tubular cooling element may be between 20 millimetres and 50 millimetres, or between 30 millimetres and 50 millimetres, or between 40 millimetres and 50 millimetres, or between 45 millimetres and 50 millimetres.
  • a relatively long hollow tubular cooling element provides and defines a relatively long internal cavity within the aerosol-generating article and downstream of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate.
  • providing an empty cavity downstream (preferably, immediately downstream) of the aerosol-generating substrate enhances the nucleation of aerosol particles generated by the substrate.
  • Providing a relatively long cavity maximises such nucleation benefits, thereby improving aerosol formation and cooling.
  • a ratio between the length of the hollow tubular cooling element and the length of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate is preferably at least 1.0. More preferably, a ratio between the length of the hollow tubular cooling element and the length of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate is at least 1.25. More preferably, a ratio between the length of the hollow tubular cooling element and the length of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate is at least 1.5. More preferably, a ratio between the length of the hollow tubular cooling element and the length of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate is at least 1.75.
  • a ratio between the length of the hollow tubular cooling element and the length of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate is from 1.0 to 3.5, preferably from 1.25 to 3.5, more preferably from 1.50 to 3.5, even more preferably from 1.75 to 3.5. In other embodiments, a ratio between the length of the hollow tubular cooling element and the length of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate is from 1.0 to 3.25, preferably from 1.25 to 3.25, more preferably from 1.50 to 3.25, even more preferably from 1.75 to 3.25.
  • a ratio between the length of the hollow tubular cooling element and the length of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate is from 1.0 to 3.0, preferably from 1.25 to 3.0, more preferably from 1.50 to 3.0, even more preferably from 1.75 to 3.0. In further embodiments, a ratio between the length of the hollow tubular cooling element and the length of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate is from 1.0 to 2.75, preferably from 1.25 to 2.75, more preferably from 1.50 to 2.75, even more preferably from 1.75 to 2.75.
  • a ratio between a length of the hollow tubular cooling element and a length of the downstream section may be less than 1.
  • a ratio between a length of the hollow tubular cooling element and a length of the downstream section may be less than 0.90. More preferably, a ratio between a length of the hollow tubular cooling element and a length of the downstream section may be less than 0.85. Even more preferably, a ratio between a length of the hollow tubular cooling element and a length of the downstream section may be less than 0.80.
  • a ratio between a length of the hollow tubular cooling element and a length of the downstream section may be at least 0.35.
  • a ratio between a length of the hollow tubular cooling element and a length of the downstream section may be at least 0.45. More preferably, a ratio between a length of the hollow tubular cooling element and a length of the downstream section may be at least 0.50. Even more preferably, a ratio between a length of the hollow tubular cooling element and a length of the downstream section may be at least 0.60.
  • a ratio between a length of the hollow tubular cooling element and a length of the downstream section is from 0.35 to 1, preferably from 0.45 to 1, more preferably from 0.50 to 1, even more preferably from 0.60 to 1. In other embodiments, a ratio between a length of the hollow tubular cooling element and a length of the downstream section is from 0.35 to 0.90, preferably from 0.45 to 0.90, more preferably from 0.50 to 0.90, even more preferably from 0.60 to 0.90. In further embodiments, a ratio between a length of the hollow tubular cooling element and a length of the downstream section is from 0.35 to 0.85, preferably from 0.45 to 0.85, more preferably from 0.50 to 0.85, even more preferably from 0.60 to 0.85. By way of example, a ratio between a length of the hollow tubular cooling element and a length of the downstream section may preferably be 0.75.
  • a ratio between a length of the hollow tubular cooling element and an overall length of the aerosol-generating article may be less than or equal to 0.80.
  • a ratio between a length of the hollow tubular cooling element and an overall length of the aerosol-generating article may be less than or equal to 0.75.
  • a ratio between a length of the hollow tubular cooling element and an overall length of the aerosol-generating article may be less than or equal to 0.70.
  • a ratio between a length of the hollow tubular cooling element and an overall length of the aerosol-generating article may be less than or equal to 0.65.
  • a ratio between a length of the hollow tubular cooling element and an overall length of the aerosol-generating article may be at least 0.40.
  • a ratio between a length of the hollow tubular cooling element and an overall length of the aerosol-generating article may be at least 0.45.
  • a ratio between a length of the hollow tubular cooling element and an overall length of the aerosol-generating article may be at least 0.50.
  • a ratio between a length of the hollow tubular cooling element and an overall length of the aerosol-generating article may be at least 0.6.
  • a ratio between a length of the hollow tubular cooling element and an overall length of the aerosol-generating article is from 0.40 to 0.80, preferably from 0.45 to 0.80, more preferably from 0.50 to 0.80, even more preferably from 0.60 to 0.80. In other embodiments, a ratio between a length of the hollow tubular cooling element and an overall length of the aerosol-generating article is from 0.40 to 0.75, preferably from 0.45 to 0.75, more preferably from 0.50 to 0.75, even more preferably from 0.60 to 0.75.
  • a ratio between a length of the hollow tubular cooling element and an overall length of the aerosol-generating article is from 0.40 to 0.70, preferably from 0.45 to 0.70, more preferably from 0.50 to 0.70, even more preferably from 0.60 to 0.70. In further embodiments, a ratio between a length of the hollow tubular cooling element and an overall length of the aerosol-generating article is from 0.40 to 0.65, preferably from 0.45 to 0.65, more preferably from 0.50 to 0.65, even more preferably from 0.60 to 0.65.
  • Providing a downstream section or hollow tubular cooling element with the ratios listed above maximises the aerosol cooling and formation benefits of having a relatively long hollow tubular cooling element while providing a sufficient amount of filtration for an aerosol-generating article that is configured to be heated, not combusted. Further, providing a longer hollow tubular cooling element may advantageously lower the effective RTD of the downstream section of the aerosol-generating article, which would primarily be defined by the RTD of a downstream filter segment.
  • the thickness of a peripheral wall (in other words, the wall thickness) of the hollow tubular cooling element may be at least 100 micrometres.
  • the wall thickness of the hollow tubular cooling element may be at least 150 micrometres.
  • the wall thickness of the hollow tubular cooling element may be at least 200 micrometres, preferably at least 250 micrometres and even more preferably at least 500 micrometres (or 0.5 millimetres).
  • the wall thickness of the hollow tubular cooling element may preferably be 250 micrometres (0.25 millimetres).
  • the thickness of the peripheral wall of the hollow tubular cooling element relatively low ensures that the overall internal volume of the hollow tubular cooling element-which is made available for the aerosol to begin the nucleation process as soon as the aerosol components leave the rod of aerosol—generating substrate—and the cross-sectional surface area of the hollow tubular cooling element are effectively maximised, whilst at the same time ensuring that the hollow tubular cooling element has the necessary structural strength to prevent a collapse of the aerosol-generating article as well as to provide some support to the rod of aerosol-generating substrate, and that the RTD of the hollow tubular cooling element is minimised.
  • the hollow tubular cooling element preferably has an outer diameter that is approximately equal to the outer diameter of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate and to the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article.
  • the hollow tubular cooling element may have an outer diameter of between 5 millimetres and 10 millimetres, for example of between 5.5 millimetres and 9 millimetres or of between 6 millimetres and 8 millimetres. In a preferred embodiment, the hollow tubular cooling element has an outer diameter of less than 7 millimetres.
  • the hollow tubular cooling element may have an internal diameter.
  • the hollow tubular cooling element may have a constant internal diameter along a length of the hollow tubular cooling element.
  • the internal diameter of the hollow tubular cooling element may vary along the length of the hollow tubular cooling element.
  • a hollow tubular cooling element having an internal diameter as set out above may advantageously reduce the resistance to draw of the hollow tubular cooling element.
  • the hollow tubular cooling element may have an internal diameter of between 2 millimetres and 10 millimetres, between 3 millimetres and 9 millimetres, between 4 millimetres and 8 millimetres, or between 5 millimetres and 7 millimetres.
  • the ratio between an internal diameter of the hollow tubular cooling element and the external diameter of the hollow tubular cooling element may be at least 0.8.
  • the ratio between an internal diameter of the hollow tubular cooling element and the external diameter of the hollow tubular cooling element may be at least 0.85, at least 0.9, or at least 0.95.
  • the ratio between an internal diameter of the hollow tubular cooling element and the external diameter of the hollow tubular cooling element may be no more than 0.99.
  • the ratio between an internal diameter of the hollow tubular cooling element and the external diameter of the hollow tubular cooling element may be no more than 0.98.
  • the ratio between an internal diameter of the hollow tubular cooling element and the external diameter of the hollow tubular cooling element may be 0.97.
  • the provision of a relatively large internal diameter may advantageously reduce the resistance to draw of the hollow tubular cooling element and enhance cooling and nucleation of aerosol particles.
  • the lumen or cavity of the hollow tubular cooling element may have any cross sectional shape.
  • the lumen of the hollow tubular cooling element may have a circular cross sectional shape.
  • the hollow tubular cooling element may comprise a paper-based material.
  • the hollow tubular cooling element may comprise at least one layer of paper.
  • the paper may be very rigid paper.
  • the paper may be crimped paper, such as crimped heat resistant paper or crimped parchment paper.
  • the hollow tubular cooling element may comprise cardboard.
  • the hollow tubular cooling element may be a cardboard tube.
  • the hollow tubular cooling element may be formed from cardboard.
  • cardboard is a cost-effective material that provides a balance between being deformable in order to provide ease of insertion of the article into an aerosol-generating device and being sufficiently stiff to provide suitable engagement of the article with the interior of the device.
  • a cardboard tube may therefore provide suitable resistance to deformation or compression during use.
  • the hollow tubular cooling element may be paper tube.
  • the hollow tubular cooling element may be a tube formed from spirally wound paper.
  • the hollow tubular cooling element may be formed from a plurality of layers of the paper.
  • the paper may have a basis weight of at least 50 grams per square meter, at least 60 grams per square meter, at least 70 grams per square meter, or at least 90 grams per square meter.
  • the hollow tubular cooling element may comprise a polymeric material.
  • the hollow tubular cooling element may comprise a polymeric film.
  • the polymeric film may comprise a cellulosic film.
  • the hollow tubular cooling element may comprise low density polyethylene (LDPE) or polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) fibres.
  • the hollow tube may comprise cellulose acetate tow.
  • the hollow tubular cooling element comprises cellulose acetate tow
  • the cellulose acetate tow may have a denier per filament of between 2 and 4 and a total denier of between 25 and 40.
  • the aerosol-generating article according to the present invention may comprise a ventilation zone at a location along the downstream section.
  • the ventilation zone may be provided at a location along the hollow tubular cooling element.
  • the ventilation zone may be provided at a location along the downstream hollow tubular element.
  • a ventilated cavity is provided downstream of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate. This provides several potential technical benefits.
  • one such ventilated hollow tubular cooling element provides a particularly efficient cooling of the aerosol.
  • a satisfactory cooling of the aerosol can be achieved even by means of a relatively short downstream section.
  • This is especially desirable as it enables the provision of an aerosol-generating article wherein an aerosol-generating substrate (and particularly a tobacco-containing one) is heated rather than combusted that combines a satisfactory aerosol delivery with an efficient cooling of the aerosol down to temperatures that are desirable for the consumer.
  • the inventors have surprisingly found that such rapid cooling of the volatile species released upon heating the aerosol-generating substrate promotes enhances nucleation of aerosol particles. This effect is felt particularly when, as will be described in more detail below, the ventilation zone is arranged at a precisely defined location along the length of the hollow tubular cooling element relative to other components of the aerosol-generating article.
  • the inventors have found that the favourable effect of the enhanced nucleation is capable of significantly countering potentially less desirable effects of the dilution induced by the introduction of ventilation air.
  • EX4 An aerosol-generating article according to example EX3, wherein the tobacco material has a density of less than 350 milligrams per cubic centimetre.
  • EX6 An aerosol-generating article according to example EX3, EX4 or EX5, wherein the tobacco material has a density of at least 100 milligrams per cubic centimetre.
  • EX7 An aerosol-generating article according to example EX3, wherein the tobacco material has a density of between 150 milligrams per cubic centimetre and 500 milligrams per cubic centimetre.
  • EX8 An aerosol-generating article according to example EX7, wherein the tobacco material has a density of between 200 milligrams per cubic centimetre and 400 milligrams per cubic centimetre.
  • An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding example comprising a downstream section provided downstream of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate.
  • EX14 An aerosol-generating article according to example EX12 or EX13, wherein the downstream filter segment is a solid plug.
  • EX17 An aerosol-generating article according to example EX15 or EX16, wherein the ventilation zone is at a location along the downstream hollow tubular element.
  • EX18 An aerosol-generating article according to example EX17, wherein the ventilation zone is at a location towards an upstream end of the downstream hollow tubular element.
  • EX22 An aerosol-generating article according to any one of examples EX12 or EX21, wherein the downstream filter segment has a length of between 5 millimetres and 20 millimetres.
  • EX24 An aerosol-generating article according to example EX9 or EX23, wherein the downstream section comprises a hollow tubular cooling element.
  • EX25 An aerosol-generating article according to example EX24, wherein the hollow tubular cooling element has a length of at least 20 millimetres.
  • EX26 An aerosol-generating article according to example EX25, wherein the hollow tubular cooling element has a length of at least 25 millimetres.
  • EX27 An aerosol-generating article according to any one of examples EX24 to EX26, wherein the hollow tubular cooling element has a length less than or equal to 50 millimetres.
  • EX28 An aerosol-generating article according to example EX27, wherein the hollow tubular cooling element has a length of between 20 millimetres and 50 millimetres.
  • EX29 An aerosol-generating article according to any one of examples EX9, or EX23 to EX26, wherein the downstream section has a length of at least 45 millimetres.
  • EX30 An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding example, wherein the maximum external diameter of the aerosol-generating article is less than 8 millimetres.
  • EX31 An aerosol-generating article according to example EX30, wherein the aerosol-generating article has a maximum external diameter between 5 millimetres and 8 millimetres.
  • EX32 An aerosol-generating article according to example EX30 or EX31, wherein the aerosol-generating article has a maximum external diameter less than or equal to 7 millimetres.
  • EX33 An aerosol-generating article according to example EX32, wherein the aerosol-generating article has a maximum external diameter between 5.5 millimetres and 7 millimetres.
  • EX36 An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding example, wherein the aerosol-generating article has a total length of at least 50 millimetres.
  • EX37 An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding example, wherein the rod of aerosol-generating substrate has a length less than or equal to 40 millimetres.
  • EX38 An aerosol-generating article according to example EX37, wherein the rod of aerosol-generating substrate has a length less than or equal to 36 millimetres.
  • EX40 An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding example, wherein the rod of aerosol-generating substrate has a length less than or equal to 25 millimetres.
  • EX41 An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding example, wherein the rod of aerosol-generating substrate has a length less than or equal to 20 millimetres.
  • EX42 An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding example, wherein a ratio of the length of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate to the total length of the aerosol-generating article is less than or equal to 0.4.
  • EX43 An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding example, wherein the rod of aerosol-generating substrate has a length of at least 17 millimetres.
  • EX44 An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding example, wherein the rod of aerosol-generating substrate has a length of at least 20 millimetres.
  • EX45 An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding example, wherein the rod of aerosol-generating substrate has a length of at least 25 millimetres.
  • EX46 An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding example, wherein the rod of aerosol-generating substrate has a length of at least 29 millimetres.
  • EX47 An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding example, wherein the rod of aerosol-generating substrate has a length of between 29 millimetres and 36 millimetres.
  • EX48 An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding example, comprising an upstream element.
  • EX49 An aerosol-generating article according to example EX48, wherein the upstream element is provided upstream of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate.
  • EX50 An aerosol-generating article according to example EX48 or EX49, wherein the upstream element is provided abutting an upstream end of the rod of aerosol-generating substrate.
  • EX51 An aerosol-generating article according to any one of examples EX48 to EX50, wherein the upstream element has a length of between 2 millimetres and 8 millimetres.
  • EX52 An aerosol-generating article according to any one of examples EX48 to EX51, wherein the upstream element has a length of between 2 millimetres and 6 millimetres.
  • EX53 An aerosol-generating article according to any one of examples EX48 to EX52, wherein the upstream element has a length of between 4 millimetres and 6 millimetres.
  • EX54 An aerosol-generating article according to any one of examples EX48 to EX53, wherein the upstream element comprises a hollow support segment having a central longitudinal cavity extending through it.
  • EX56 An aerosol-generating article according to one of examples EX48 to EX55, wherein the resistance to draw (RTD) of the upstream element is less than or equal to 10 millimetres H 2 O.
  • RTD resistance to draw
  • EX58 An aerosol-generating article according to example EX57, wherein the aerosol-generating article has a total length of at least 65 millimetres.
  • EX61 An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding example, wherein the rod of aerosol-generating substrate comprises one or more aerosol formers.
  • EX62 An aerosol-generating article according to example EX61, wherein the rod of aerosol-generating substrate has an aerosol former content of less than or equal to 30 percent by weight on a dry weight basis.
  • EX63 An aerosol-generating article according to example EX62, wherein the rod of aerosol-generating substrate has an aerosol former content of less than or equal to 20 percent by weight on a dry weight basis.
  • EX64 An aerosol-generating article according to example EX63, wherein the rod of aerosol-generating substrate has an aerosol former content of less than or equal to 10 percent by weight on a dry weight basis.
  • EX65 An aerosol-generating article according to example EX62, wherein the rod of aerosol-generating substrate has an aerosol former content of between 10 percent and 30 percent by weight on a dry weight basis.
  • EX66 An aerosol-generating article according to any one of examples EX61 to EX65, wherein the one or more aerosol formers comprise one or more of glycerine and propylene glycol.
  • EX68 An aerosol-generating article according to any one of examples EX3 to EX67, wherein the tobacco material comprises a shredded tobacco material.
  • FIG. 2 shows a schematic side sectional view of an aerosol-generating article in accordance with the present disclosure
  • FIGS. 4 a & 4 b shows a schematic side sectional view of an aerosol-generating article in accordance with the present disclosure
  • FIG. 6 shows a schematic side sectional view of an aerosol-generating article in accordance with the present disclosure
  • FIG. 7 shows a schematic side sectional view of an aerosol-generating article in accordance with the present disclosure
  • FIG. 8 shows a schematic side sectional view of an aerosol-generating article in accordance with the present disclosure
  • FIG. 9 shows a schematic side sectional view of an aerosol-generating article in accordance with the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 10 shows a schematic side sectional view of an aerosol-generating article in accordance with the present disclosure
  • FIG. 11 shows a schematic side sectional view of an aerosol-generating article in accordance with the present disclosure
  • FIG. 12 shows a schematic side sectional view of an aerosol-generating article in accordance with the present disclosure
  • FIG. 13 shows a schematic side sectional view of an aerosol-generating article in accordance with the present disclosure
  • FIG. 14 shows a schematic side sectional view of an aerosol-generating article in accordance with the present disclosure
  • FIG. 15 shows a schematic side sectional view of an aerosol-generating article in accordance with the present disclosure.
  • FIG. 16 shows a schematic side sectional view of an aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device and an aerosol-generating article in accordance with the present disclosure.
  • Aerosol-generating articles shown in all Figures of the present disclosure comprise a rod 12 of aerosol-generating substrate and a downstream section 14 located downstream of the rod 12 of aerosol-generating substrate. Aerosol-generating articles extend from an upstream or distal end 18 to a downstream or mouth end 19 . The downstream or mouth end 19 is defined by the downstream end of the downstream section 14 .
  • each of the components of the aerosol-generating articles shown in the Figures and described in the present disclosure may be circumscribed by corresponding wrappers or may be joined together by one or more wrappers, which are not shown in the Figures.
  • a maximum external diameter of each of the aerosol-generating articles shown in the Figures is about 6.5 mm, unless specified otherwise.
  • the rod 12 of aerosol-generating substrate is circumscribed by a wrapper (not shown), and comprises at least one of the types of aerosol-generating substrate described in the present disclosure, such as plant cut filler, particularly tobacco cut filler, homogenised tobacco, a gel formulation, or a homogenised plant material comprising particles of a plant other than tobacco.
  • plant cut filler particularly tobacco cut filler, homogenised tobacco, a gel formulation, or a homogenised plant material comprising particles of a plant other than tobacco.
  • the rod 12 of the aerosol-generating articles shown in all Figures have an average tobacco density of about 250 mg per cubic centimetre.
  • the downstream section 14 of the aerosol-generating article 10 shown in FIG. 1 comprises a hollow tubular cooling element 22 , a downstream filter segment 24 , and a downstream, or mouth end, hollow tubular element 26 .
  • the hollow tubular cooling element 22 is located immediately downstream of the rod 12 of aerosol-generating substrate. In other words, the hollow tubular cooling element 22 abuts the downstream end of the rod 12 .
  • the downstream filter segment 24 abuts the downstream end of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 and the downstream hollow tubular element 26 abuts the downstream end of the downstream filter segment 24 .
  • the downstream filter segment 24 is therefore located between the hollow tubular cooling element 22 and the downstream hollow tubular element 26 .
  • the downstream end 19 of the article 10 is defined by the downstream end of the downstream hollow tubular element 26 .
  • the length of the rod 12 of aerosol-generating substrate is about 40 mm.
  • the hollow tubular cooling element 22 is provided in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube made of cardboard or cellulose acetate.
  • the hollow tubular cooling segment 22 defines an internal cavity that extends all the way from an upstream end of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 to an downstream end of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 .
  • the internal cavity is substantially empty, and so substantially unrestricted airflow is enabled along the internal cavity.
  • the hollow tubular cooling element 22 may not substantially contribute to the overall RTD of the aerosol-generating article 10 .
  • the length of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 is about 25 mm.
  • the wall thickness of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 is about 250 micrometres ( ⁇ m).
  • the downstream filter segment 24 comprises a cylindrical plug of cellulose acetate tow.
  • the length of the downstream filter segment 24 is about 10 mm.
  • the downstream hollow tubular element 26 is provided in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube made of cellulose acetate.
  • the downstream hollow tubular element 26 defines an internal cavity that extends all the way from an upstream end of the downstream hollow tubular element 26 to an downstream end of the downstream hollow tubular element 26 .
  • the internal cavity is substantially empty, and so substantially unrestricted airflow is enabled along the internal cavity.
  • the downstream hollow tubular element 26 does not substantially contribute to the overall RTD of the aerosol-generating article 10 .
  • the length of the downstream hollow tubular element 26 is about 6 mm.
  • the wall thickness of the downstream hollow tubular element 26 is about 1 mm.
  • the aerosol-generating article 10 comprises a ventilation zone 36 provided at a location along the hollow tubular cooling element 22 .
  • the ventilation zone 36 comprises at least one circumferential row of perforations extending through the peripheral wall of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 and any wrapper (not shown) circumscribing the hollow tubular cooling element 22 .
  • the ventilation zone 36 is provided at about 2 millimetres from the downstream end of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 .
  • the aerosol-generating article 101 shown in FIG. 2 is similar to the aerosol-generating article 10 shown in FIG. 1 and differs only in the following aspects.
  • the rod 12 of aerosol-generating substrate is shorter and the hollow tubular cooling element 22 is longer.
  • the length of the rod 12 of aerosol-generating substrate is about 25 mm.
  • the length of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 is about 40 mm.
  • the aerosol-generating article 102 shown in FIG. 3 a is similar to the aerosol-generating article 101 shown in FIG. 2 and differs only in the following aspects.
  • the hollow tubular cooling element 22 is shorter and the downstream hollow tubular element 27 is longer.
  • the length of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 is about 25 mm.
  • the length of the downstream hollow tubular element 27 is about 20 mm.
  • the ventilation zone 36 is provided along the downstream hollow tubular element 27 .
  • the ventilation zone 36 is provided at about 2 millimetres from the upstream end of the downstream hollow tubular element 26 .
  • the ventilation zone 36 comprises at least one circumferential row of perforations extending through the peripheral wall of the downstream hollow tubular element 27 and any wrapper (not shown) circumscribing the downstream hollow tubular element 27 .
  • the aerosol-generating article 103 shown in FIG. 3 b is similar to the aerosol-generating article 102 shown in FIG. 3 a and differs only in the following aspects.
  • the downstream hollow tubular element 27 comprises two abutting hollow tubular segments 271 , 272 .
  • the first hollow tubular segment 271 is located between the downstream filter segment 24 and the second first hollow tubular segment 272 .
  • the first hollow tubular segment 271 is provided in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube made of cardboard.
  • the first hollow tubular segment 271 defines an internal cavity that extends all the way from an upstream end of the first hollow tubular segment 271 to an downstream end of the first hollow tubular segment 271 .
  • the internal cavity is substantially empty, and so substantially unrestricted airflow is enabled along the internal cavity.
  • the first hollow tubular segment 271 may not substantially contribute to the overall RTD of the aerosol-generating article 103 .
  • the length of the first hollow tubular segment 271 is about 10 mm.
  • the wall thickness of the first hollow tubular segment 271 is about 250 micrometres ( ⁇ m).
  • the ventilation zone 36 is provided at about 2 millimetres from the upstream end of the first hollow tubular segment 271 of the downstream hollow tubular element 27 .
  • the second hollow tubular segment 272 is provided in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube made of cellulose acetate.
  • the second hollow tubular segment 272 defines an internal cavity that extends all the way from an upstream end of the second hollow tubular segment 272 to an downstream end of the second hollow tubular segment 272 .
  • the internal cavity is substantially empty, and so substantially unrestricted airflow is enabled along the internal cavity.
  • the second hollow tubular segment 272 does not substantially contribute to the overall RTD of the aerosol-generating article 103 .
  • the length of the second hollow tubular segment 272 is about 10 mm.
  • the wall thickness of the second hollow tubular segment 272 is about 1 mm.
  • the aerosol-generating articles 104 , 105 shown in FIGS. 4 a & 4 b are similar to the aerosol-generating article 101 shown in FIG. 2 and differ only in that the aerosol-generating articles 104 , 105 further comprise an upstream section 16 located upstream of the rod 12 of aerosol-generating substrate.
  • the distal end 18 of the articles 104 , 105 is defined by the upstream end of the upstream section 16 .
  • the upstream section 16 comprises an upstream element 341 , 342 abutting the upstream end of the rod 12 .
  • the length of the upstream element 341 , 342 is about 5 mm.
  • the upstream element 341 is provided in the form of a cylindrical plug of cellulose acetate tow.
  • the upstream element 342 is provided in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube made of cellulose acetate having a wall thickness of about 1 mm.
  • the downstream section 14 of the aerosol-generating article 20 shown in FIG. 5 comprises a hollow tubular support element 28 , a cooling element 32 , and a downstream filter segment 24 .
  • the hollow tubular support element 28 is located immediately downstream of the rod 12 of aerosol-generating substrate. In other words, the hollow tubular support element 28 abuts the downstream end of the rod 12 .
  • the cooling element 32 abuts the downstream end of the hollow tubular support element 28 and the downstream filter segment 24 abuts the downstream end of the cooling element 32 .
  • the cooling element 32 is therefore located between the hollow tubular support element 28 and the downstream filter segment 24 .
  • the downstream end 19 of the article 20 is defined by the downstream end of the downstream filter segment 24 .
  • the length of the rod 12 of aerosol-generating substrate is about 25 mm.
  • the hollow tubular support element 28 is provided in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube made of cellulose acetate.
  • the hollow tubular support element 28 defines an internal cavity that extends all the way from an upstream end of the hollow tubular support element 28 to an downstream end of the hollow tubular support element 28 .
  • the internal cavity is substantially empty, and so substantially unrestricted airflow is enabled along the internal cavity.
  • the hollow tubular support element 28 may not substantially contribute to the overall RTD of the aerosol-generating article 20 .
  • the length of hollow tubular support element 28 is about 8 mm.
  • the wall thickness of the hollow tubular support element 28 is about 1.5 mm.
  • the cooling element 32 is formed by thin polylactic acid (PLA) sheet material that has been crimped, pleated, gathered, or folded to form the channels.
  • the length of the cooling element 32 is about 18 mm.
  • the downstream filter segment 24 comprises a cylindrical plug of cellulose acetate tow.
  • the length of the downstream filter segment 24 is about 7 mm.
  • a maximum external diameter of the aerosol-generating article 20 is about 7.3 mm.
  • the aerosol-generating article 201 shown in FIG. 6 is similar to the aerosol-generating article 20 shown in FIG. 5 and differs in that it further comprises a hollow tubular cooling element 22 and in that the rod 12 of aerosol-generating substrate is shorter.
  • the length of the rod 12 of aerosol-generating substrate is about 12 mm.
  • the hollow tubular cooling element 22 is located immediately downstream of the cooling element 32 and immediately upstream of the downstream filter segment 24 . In other words, the hollow tubular cooling element 22 abuts the cooling element 32 and the downstream filter segment 24 .
  • the hollow tubular cooling element 22 is provided in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube made of cardboard.
  • the hollow tubular cooling segment 22 defines an internal cavity that extends all the way from an upstream end of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 to an downstream end of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 .
  • the internal cavity is substantially empty, and so substantially unrestricted airflow is enabled along the internal cavity.
  • the hollow tubular cooling element 22 may not substantially contribute to the overall RTD of the aerosol-generating article 201 .
  • the length of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 is about 25 mm.
  • the wall thickness of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 is about 250 micrometres ( ⁇ m).
  • the aerosol-generating article 202 shown in FIG. 7 is similar to the aerosol-generating article 201 shown in FIG. 6 and differs only in that it further comprises a downstream hollow tubular element 27 .
  • the downstream hollow tubular element 27 abuts the downstream end of the downstream filter segment 24 .
  • the downstream filter segment 24 is therefore located between the hollow tubular cooling element 22 and the downstream hollow tubular element 27 .
  • the downstream end 19 of the article 202 is defined by the downstream end of the downstream hollow tubular element 27 .
  • the downstream hollow tubular element 27 is provided in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube made of cellulose acetate.
  • the downstream hollow tubular element 27 defines an internal cavity that extends all the way from an upstream end of the downstream hollow tubular element 27 to an downstream end of the downstream hollow tubular element 27 .
  • the internal cavity is substantially empty, and so substantially unrestricted airflow is enabled along the internal cavity.
  • the downstream hollow tubular element 27 may not substantially contribute to the overall RTD of the aerosol-generating article 202 .
  • the length of the downstream hollow tubular element 27 is about 5 mm.
  • the wall thickness of the downstream hollow tubular element 27 is about 1 mm.
  • the aerosol-generating article 30 shown in FIG. 8 comprises a rod 12 of aerosol-generating substrate and a downstream section 14 located downstream of the rod 12 of aerosol-generating substrate. Further, the aerosol-generating article 30 comprises an upstream section 16 located upstream of the rod 12 of aerosol-generating substrate. The distal end 18 of the article 30 is defined by the upstream end of the upstream section 16 .
  • the downstream section 14 of the aerosol-generating article 30 shown in FIG. 8 comprises a hollow tubular cooling element 22 and a downstream filter segment 24 .
  • the hollow tubular cooling element 22 is located immediately downstream of the rod 12 of aerosol-generating substrate. In other words, the hollow tubular cooling element 22 abuts the downstream end of the rod 12 .
  • the downstream filter segment 24 abuts the downstream end of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 .
  • the hollow tubular cooling element 22 is therefore located between the rod 12 and the downstream filter segment 24 .
  • the downstream end 19 of the article 30 is defined by the downstream end of the downstream filter segment 24 .
  • the length of the rod 12 of aerosol-generating substrate is about 25 mm.
  • the hollow tubular cooling element 22 is provided in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube made of cardboard or cellulose acetate.
  • the hollow tubular cooling segment 22 defines an internal cavity that extends all the way from an upstream end of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 to an downstream end of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 .
  • the internal cavity is substantially empty, and so substantially unrestricted airflow is enabled along the internal cavity.
  • the hollow tubular cooling element 22 may not substantially contribute to the overall RTD of the aerosol-generating article 30 .
  • the length of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 is about 21 mm.
  • the wall thickness of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 is about 250 micrometres ( ⁇ m).
  • the downstream filter segment 24 comprises a cylindrical plug of cellulose acetate tow.
  • the length of the downstream filter segment 24 is about 7 mm.
  • the upstream section 16 comprises an upstream element 341 abutting the upstream end of the rod 12 .
  • the upstream element 341 is provided in the form of a cylindrical plug of cellulose acetate tow.
  • the length of the upstream element 341 is about 5 mm.
  • the aerosol-generating article 30 comprises a ventilation zone 36 provided at a location along the hollow tubular cooling element 22 .
  • the ventilation zone 36 comprises at least one circumferential row of perforations extending through the peripheral wall of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 and any wrapper (not shown) circumscribing the hollow tubular cooling element 22 .
  • the ventilation zone 36 is provided at about 2 millimetres from the downstream end of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 .
  • the aerosol-generating article 301 shown in FIG. 9 is similar to the aerosol-generating article 30 shown in FIG. 8 and differs only in that the rod 12 is shorter and the hollow tubular cooling element 22 is longer.
  • the length of the rod 12 of aerosol-generating substrate is about 12 mm and the length of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 is about 45 mm.
  • the aerosol-generating article 302 shown in FIG. 10 is similar to the aerosol-generating article 301 shown in FIG. 8 and differs in that the rod 12 is shorter and the hollow tubular cooling element 22 is longer, and that the article 302 further comprises a downstream hollow tubular element 27 .
  • the length of the rod 12 of aerosol-generating substrate is about 12 mm and the length of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 is about 40 mm.
  • the downstream filter segment 24 is therefore located between the hollow tubular cooling element 22 and the downstream hollow tubular element 27 .
  • the downstream end 19 of the article 302 is defined by the downstream end of the downstream hollow tubular element 27 .
  • the downstream hollow tubular element 27 is provided in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube made of cellulose acetate.
  • the downstream hollow tubular element 27 defines an internal cavity that extends all the way from an upstream end of the downstream hollow tubular element 27 to an downstream end of the downstream hollow tubular element 27 .
  • the internal cavity is substantially empty, and so substantially unrestricted airflow is enabled along the internal cavity.
  • the downstream hollow tubular element 27 may not substantially contribute to the overall RTD of the aerosol-generating article 302 .
  • the length of the downstream hollow tubular element 27 is about 5 mm.
  • the wall thickness of the downstream hollow tubular element 27 is about 1 mm.
  • the aerosol-generating article 304 shown in FIG. 11 is similar to the aerosol-generating article 302 shown in FIG. 10 and differs in that the ventilation zone 36 is instead provided along the downstream hollow tubular element 27 .
  • the ventilation zone 36 is provided at about 2 millimetres from the upstream end of the downstream hollow tubular element 27 .
  • the ventilation zone 36 comprises at least one circumferential row of perforations extending through the peripheral wall of the downstream hollow tubular element 27 and any wrapper (not shown) circumscribing the downstream hollow tubular element 27 .
  • the aerosol-generating article 40 shown in FIG. 12 comprises a rod 12 of aerosol-generating substrate and a downstream section 14 located downstream of the rod 12 of aerosol-generating substrate. Further, the aerosol-generating article 40 comprises an upstream section 16 located upstream of the rod 12 of aerosol-generating substrate. The distal end 18 of the article is defined by the upstream end of the upstream section 16 .
  • the downstream section 14 of the aerosol-generating article 40 shown in FIG. 3 comprises a hollow tubular support element 28 , a hollow tubular cooling element 22 , and a downstream filter segment 24 .
  • the hollow tubular support element 28 is located immediately downstream of the rod 12 of aerosol-generating substrate. In other words, the hollow tubular support element 28 abuts the downstream end of the rod 12 .
  • the hollow tubular cooling element 22 abuts the downstream end of the hollow tubular support element 28 and the downstream filter segment 24 abuts the downstream end of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 .
  • the hollow tubular cooling element 22 is therefore located between the hollow tubular support element 28 and the downstream filter segment 24 .
  • the downstream end 19 of the article 40 is defined by the downstream end of the downstream filter segment 24 .
  • the length of the rod 12 of aerosol-generating substrate is about 20 mm.
  • the hollow tubular support element 28 is provided in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube made of cellulose acetate.
  • the hollow tubular support element 28 defines an internal cavity that extends all the way from an upstream end of the hollow tubular support element 28 to an downstream end of the hollow tubular support element 28 .
  • the internal cavity is substantially empty, and so substantially unrestricted airflow is enabled along the internal cavity.
  • the hollow tubular support element 28 may not substantially contribute to the overall RTD of the aerosol-generating article 40 .
  • the length of the hollow tubular support element 28 is about 8 mm.
  • the wall thickness of the hollow tubular support element 28 is about 1.5 mm.
  • the hollow tubular cooling element 22 is provided in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube made of cardboard or cellulose acetate.
  • the hollow tubular cooling segment 22 defines an internal cavity that extends all the way from an upstream end of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 to an downstream end of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 .
  • the internal cavity is substantially empty, and so substantially unrestricted airflow is enabled along the internal cavity.
  • the hollow tubular cooling element 22 may not substantially contribute to the overall RTD of the aerosol-generating article 40 .
  • the length of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 is about 8 mm.
  • the wall thickness of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 is about 250 micrometres ( ⁇ m).
  • the downstream filter segment 24 comprises a cylindrical plug of cellulose acetate tow.
  • the length of the downstream filter segment 24 is about 12 mm.
  • the upstream section 16 comprises an upstream element 341 abutting the upstream end of the rod 12 .
  • the upstream element 341 is provided in the form of a cylindrical plug of cellulose acetate tow.
  • the length of the upstream element 341 is about 5 mm.
  • the aerosol-generating article 40 comprises a ventilation zone 36 provided at a location along the hollow tubular cooling element 22 .
  • the ventilation zone 36 comprises at least one circumferential row of perforations extending through the peripheral wall of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 and any wrapper (not shown) circumscribing the hollow tubular cooling element 22 .
  • the ventilation zone 36 is provided at about 2 millimetres from the downstream end of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 .
  • the aerosol-generating article 40 comprises an elongate susceptor element 44 located within the rod 12 of aerosol-generating substrate.
  • the susceptor element 44 is arranged substantially longitudinally within the rod 12 , such as to be approximately parallel to the longitudinal direction of the rod 12 .
  • the aerosol-generating substrate is heated by the susceptor element 44 , when the susceptor element 44 is inductively heated when located within a fluctuating electromagnetic field.
  • the susceptor element 44 is positioned in a radially central position within the rod and extends effectively along the longitudinal axis of the rod 12 .
  • the susceptor element 44 extends all the way from an upstream end to a downstream end of the rod 12 .
  • the susceptor element 44 has substantially the same length as the rod 12 of aerosol-generating substrate.
  • the susceptor element 44 is provided in any form described in the present disclosure and has a length substantially equal to the length of the rod 12 .
  • the upstream section 16 advantageously prevents the susceptor element 44 from being dislodged. Further, this ensures that the consumer cannot accidentally contact the heated susceptor element 44 after use.
  • the aerosol-generating article 401 shown in FIG. 13 is similar to the aerosol-generating article 40 shown in FIG. 12 and differs only in that the rod 12 is shorter and the hollow tubular cooling element 22 is longer.
  • the length of the rod 12 of aerosol-generating substrate is about 12 mm and the length of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 is about 25 mm.
  • the aerosol-generating article 402 shown in FIG. 14 is similar to the aerosol-generating article 40 shown in FIG. 12 and differs in that the rod 12 is shorter and the hollow tubular cooling element 22 is longer, and in that the article 402 further comprises a downstream hollow tubular element 27 .
  • the length of the rod 12 of aerosol-generating substrate is about 12 mm and the length of the hollow tubular cooling element 22 is about 20 mm.
  • the downstream filter segment 24 is therefore located between the hollow tubular cooling element 22 and the downstream hollow tubular element 27 .
  • the downstream end 19 of the article 402 is defined by the downstream end of the downstream hollow tubular element 27 .
  • the downstream hollow tubular element 27 is provided in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube made of cellulose acetate.
  • the downstream hollow tubular element 27 defines an internal cavity that extends all the way from an upstream end of the downstream hollow tubular element 27 to an downstream end of the downstream hollow tubular element 27 .
  • the internal cavity is substantially empty, and so substantially unrestricted airflow is enabled along the internal cavity.
  • the downstream hollow tubular element 27 may not substantially contribute to the overall RTD of the aerosol-generating article 402 .
  • the length of the downstream hollow tubular element 27 is about 5 mm.
  • the wall thickness of the downstream hollow tubular element 27 is about 1 mm.
  • the aerosol-generating article 403 shown in FIG. 15 is similar to the aerosol-generating article 402 shown in FIG. 14 and differs in that the ventilation zone 36 is provided along the downstream hollow tubular element 27 .
  • the ventilation zone 36 is provided at about 2 millimetres from the upstream end of the downstream hollow tubular element 27 .
  • the ventilation zone 36 comprises at least one circumferential row of perforations extending through the peripheral wall of the downstream hollow tubular element 27 and any wrapper (not shown) circumscribing the downstream hollow tubular element 27 .
  • FIG. 16 illustrates an aerosol-generating system 1 comprising an exemplary aerosol-generating device 50 and an aerosol-generating article according to any one shown in FIGS. 1 to 15 and described above.
  • FIG. 16 illustrates a downstream, mouth end portion of the aerosol-generating device 50 where the device cavity is defined and the aerosol-generating article can be received.
  • the aerosol-generating device 50 comprises a housing (or body) 4 , extending between a mouth end 2 and a distal end (not shown).
  • the housing 4 comprises a peripheral wall 6 .
  • the peripheral wall 6 defines a device cavity for receiving an aerosol-generating article 10 .
  • the device cavity is defined by a closed, distal end and an open, mouth end.
  • the mouth end of the device cavity is located at the mouth end of the aerosol-generating device 1 .
  • the aerosol-generating article 10 is configured to be received through the mouth end of the device cavity and is configured to abut a closed end of the device cavity.
  • a device air flow channel 5 is defined within the peripheral wall 6 .
  • the air-flow channel 5 extends between an inlet 7 located at the mouth end of the aerosol-generating device 1 and the closed end of the device cavity. Air may enter the aerosol-generating substrate 12 via an aperture (not shown) provided at the closed end of the device cavity, ensuring fluid communication between the air flow channel 5 and the aerosol-generating substrate 12 .
  • the aerosol-generating device 1 further comprises a heater (not shown) and a power source (not shown) for supplying power to the heater.
  • a controller (not shown) is also provided to control such supply of power to the heater.
  • the heater is configured to controllably heat the aerosol-generating article during use, when the aerosol-generating article is received within the device 1 .
  • the heater is preferably arranged to externally heat the aerosol-generating substrate of the aerosol-generating article for optimal aerosol generation.
  • the ventilation zone of an aerosol-generating article is arranged to be exposed when the aerosol-generating article is received within the aerosol-generating device 1 .

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  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • General Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Manufacture Of Tobacco Products (AREA)
  • Catching Or Destruction (AREA)
  • Cigarettes, Filters, And Manufacturing Of Filters (AREA)
  • Physical Or Chemical Processes And Apparatus (AREA)
  • Containers And Packaging Bodies Having A Special Means To Remove Contents (AREA)
  • Detergent Compositions (AREA)
US18/853,469 2022-04-12 2023-04-12 Aersol -generating article with relatively short rod of aersol -generating substrate Pending US20250212941A1 (en)

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EP4696155A1 (en) 2026-02-18
EP4507527B1 (en) 2025-12-31
PL4507527T3 (pl) 2026-03-02
EP4635316A3 (en) 2026-03-11
EP4635316A2 (en) 2025-10-22
CN118973412A (zh) 2024-11-15
WO2023198764A1 (en) 2023-10-19
EP4507527C0 (en) 2025-12-31
JP2025511826A (ja) 2025-04-16
JP2026035654A (ja) 2026-03-04

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