WO2022195591A1 - Vaporizing assembly and method - Google Patents

Abstract

The present disclosure relates substantially to the field of aerosol generation devices, and more particularly to a vaporizing assembly and method.

Description

VAPORIZING ASSEMBLY AND METHOD

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates substantially to the field of aerosol generation devices, and more particularly to a vaporizing assembly and method.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Electronic cigarettes typically function as condensation aerosol generators, which operate by vaporizing a liquid into a vapor such as a nicotine-based composition via heat applied by a heat source. Upon cooling, the vapor condenses to form an aerosol comprising droplets of liquid or particles which can be inhaled by a user through a mouthpiece.

[0003] The heated liquid in electronic cigarettes usually includes a composition or mixture of nicotine with humectants, having relatively low latent heat of vaporization, such as propylene glycol (PG) or vegetable glycerin (VG). This composition is typically referred to as “e-juice”. The liquid mixture is typically drawn into a wicking material that is in contact with a heating element.

[0004] In some e-cigarettes, nicotine is provided as a propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerin formulation, and evaporated together with said solvents. The condensation of nicotine vapor is facilitated by formation of nucleation sites comprising condensed PG and/or VG. Thus, in this type of e-cigarettes PG and/or VG provides the necessary nucleation centers for nicotine condensation.

[0005] One particular drawback stems from the fact that such products, while carrying a smaller risk than that associated with conventional cigarettes, still present health risks due to the evolution of hazardous compounds arising from heating propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin to elevated temperatures, as well as pyrolysis products of over-heated nicotine.

[0006] Condensation of nicotine vapor is facilitated by formation of nucleation sites. Vegetable glycerin used in liquid mixtures of electronic cigarettes provides the nucleation centers for nicotine condensation. [0007] What is desired is a vaporizing assembly which can be used to provide an e-cigarette capable of generating nicotine/THC containing aerosol, which is substantially devoid of hazardous compounds, such as those stemming from the decomposition of PG and VG.

SUMMARY

[0008] Accordingly, it is a principal object of the present invention to overcome at least some of the disadvantages of prior art vaporizing assemblies. This is provided in one embodiment by a vaporizing assembly comprising: a heater arranged to generate heat at a predetermined temperature; a liquid transfer element in fluid communication with the heater; and a pressure application component in fluid communication with the heater and the liquid transfer element, wherein, responsive to the heater, the pressure application component is arranged to apply a predetermined back pressure to the liquid transfer element.

[0009] In one embodiment, the heater is positioned between the liquid transfer element and the pressure application component. In another embodiment, the pressure application component comprises a first porous structure.

[0010] In one embodiment, the heater surrounds the first porous structure. In another further embodiment, the heater and the first porous structure each exhibit a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0011] According to some embodiments, the first porous structure exhibits a thickness of at least 0.1mm, at least 0.2mm, at least 0.3mm, at least 0.4mm, at least 0.45mm, at least 0.5mm or at least 0.55mm. Each possibility represents a separate embodiment of the invention. In another embodiment, the first porous structure exhibits a thickness of 0.5-lmm. In another further embodiment, the first porous structure exhibits a thickness of 0.6 - 0.9mm.

[0012] Thus, according to some embodiments, there is provided a vaporizing assembly comprising: a heater arranged to generate heat at a predetermined temperature; a liquid transfer element in fluid communication with the heater; and a pressure application component in fluid communication with the heater and the liquid transfer element, wherein the pressure application component comprises a first porous structure surrounded by the heater and exhibiting a thickness of at least 0.25mm, wherein, responsive to the heater, the pressure application component is arranged to apply a predetermined back pressure to the liquid transfer element. [0013] In another further embodiment, the first porous structure exhibits a plurality of pores, the plurality of pores of the first porous structure exhibiting an average cross-section diameter of 10 - lOOpm. According to some embodiments, the plurality of pores, the plurality of pores of the first porous structure exhibiting an average cross-section diameter of l-50pm, l-20pm or 4-50pm. Each possibility represents a separate embodiment of the invention.

[0014] In one further embodiment, the first porous structure exhibits a porosity of 40 - 60%. According to some embodiments, the first porous structure exhibits a porosity of 10- 40%, 10-20% or 25-40%. Each possibility represents a separate embodiment of the invention.

[0015] In one further embodiment, the liquid transfer element is arranged to draw liquid therethrough at a predetermined drawing pressure, wherein the predetermined back pressure is greater than, or equal to, the predetermined drawing pressure. In another embodiment, the applied back pressure prevents liquid from being drawn through the liquid transfer element.

[0016] In one further embodiment, the pressure application component consists essentially of the first porous structure. In another further embodiment, the first porous structure is substantially flush with the heater.

[0017] According to some embodiments, the heater is a coil heater. According to some embodiment, the heater is in contact with the first porous structure. According to some embodiments, the heater is a coil heater, which is in contact with the first porous structure.

[0018] In one further embodiment, the first porous structure comprises a first porous ceramic material.

[0019] In one further embodiment, the first porous structure exhibits a first face and a second face opposing the first face, the first face defining an enclosure having a space therein, and wherein the first face faces the heater.

[0020] In one embodiment, the vaporizing assembly further comprises a first barrier extending from a first end of the heater to a first end of the liquid transfer element, the first barrier arranged to prevent vapor from passing therethrough. In one further embodiment, the vaporizing assembly further comprises a second barrier extending from a second end of the heater to a second end of the liquid transfer element, the second barrier arranged to prevent vapor from passing therethrough, wherein the second end of the heater opposes the first end thereof and the second end of the liquid transfer element opposes the first end thereof.

[0021] In another embodiment, the vaporizing assembly further comprises a second porous element between the heater and the liquid transfer element. In one further embodiment, the second porous element exhibits a substantially cylindrical shape. In another further embodiment, a first face of the second porous element is substantially flush with the heater and a second face of the second porous element is substantially flush with the liquid transfer element, wherein the second face of the second porous element opposes the first face thereof.

[0022] According to some embodiments, first face of the second porous element is substantially flush with the first porous structure and a second face of the second porous element is substantially flush with the liquid transfer element, wherein the second face of the second porous element opposes the first face thereof.

[0023] According to some embodiments, the first porous structure exhibits a substantially cylindrical shape, and the heater is a helical coil heater at least partially embedded within the first porous structure.

[0024] According to some embodiments, the second porous element exhibits a thickness of at least 0.2mm, at least 0.4mm, at least 0.6mm, at least 0.8mm, at least 0.9mm, at least 1mm or at least 1.1mm. Each possibility represents a separate embodiment of the invention. In another embodiment, the second porous element exhibits a thickness of l-2mm. In another further embodiment, the second porous element exhibits a thickness of 1.2 - 1.8mm.

[0025] In one further embodiment, the second porous element exhibits a plurality of pores, each of the plurality of pores of the second porous element exhibiting a cross-section diameter of 1 to 100 micrometers. In one further embodiment, the second porous element exhibits a plurality of pores, each of the plurality of pores of the second porous element exhibiting a cross- section diameter of 1 to 50, 4 to 50 or 1 to 20 micrometers. Each possibility represents a separate embodiment of the invention. In another further embodiment, the second porous element comprises a second porous ceramic material.

[0026] According to some embodiments, the second porous element exhibits a porosity of 10-40%, 10-20% or 25-40%. Each possibility represents a separate embodiment of the invention [0027] According to some embodiments, the second porous element and the first porous structure are made of the same type of material. According to some embodiments, the second porous element and the first porous structure are made of the same material.

[0028] According to some embodiments, the thickness of the first porous structure is smaller than the thickness of the second porous element. According to some embodiments, the second porous element is at least 50% thicker than the first porous structure. According to some embodiments, the second porous element is at least 5%, at least 15%, at least 25%, at least 35%, at least 45%, at least 55%, at least 65%, at least 75%, at least 85%, at least 90% or at least 95% thicker than the first porous structure. [0029] According to some embodiments, the first porous structure exhibits: thickness in the range of 0.6-0.9mm, porosity in the range of 10-20% and pore cross-section diameter in the range of 1-20 micrometer; and the second porous element exhibits: thickness in the range of 1.2-1.8mm, porosity in the range of 25-40% and pore cross-section diameter in the range of 4-50 micrometer. [0030] According to some embodiments, the first porous structure exhibits: thickness in the range of 0.6-0.9mm, porosity in the range of 25-40% and pore cross-section diameter in the range of 4-50 micrometer; and the second porous element exhibits: thickness in the range of 1.2-1.8mm, porosity in the range of 25-40% and pore cross-section diameter in the range of 4-50 micrometer. [0031] According to some embodiments, the first porous structure exhibits: thickness in the range of 0.6-0.9mm, porosity in the range of 10-20% and pore cross-section diameter in the range of 1-20 micrometer; and the second porous element exhibits: thickness in the range of 1.2-1.8mm, porosity in the range of 10-20% and pore cross-section diameter in the range of 1-20 micrometer. [0032] In one embodiment, the liquid transfer element comprises a wick. In another embodiment, the heater comprises a third porous structure.

[0033] According to some embodiments, the heater is a helical coil heater, which is at least partially embedded within the second porous element, the first porous structure, or within both. [0034] In one embodiment, the vaporizing assembly further comprises: a housing; and a liquid reservoir in fluid communication with the liquid transfer element, the liquid reservoir containing an aqueous composition, wherein the liquid reservoir, the liquid transfer element, the heater and the pressure application component is disposed within the housing. In one further embodiment, the aqueous composition comprises a cannabinoid and/or nicotine. In one yet further embodiment, the predetermined temperature of the heater is greater than the boiling point of the cannabinoid and/or nicotine.

[0035] According to some embodiments, there is provided an electronic cigarette cartridge comprising the vaporizing assembly of the present invention.

[0036] According to some embodiments, the housing extends longitudinally between a first end and a second end, wherein the electronic cigarette cartridge comprises an aerosol outlet at the housing first end and a connection means configured to connect the electronic cigarette cartridge to an electronic cigarette actuator at the second end, wherein the housing comprises at least one wall extending longitudinally between the housing first end and the housing second end.

[0037] In one independent embodiment, a vaporizing method is provided, the method comprising: drawing liquid through a liquid transfer element; applying heat at a predetermined temperature to the drawn liquid such that the drawn liquid is vaporized; and responsive to the applied heat, applying a predetermined back pressure to the liquid transfer element.

[0038] In one embodiment, the drawing is at a predetermined drawing pressure, and wherein the predetermined back pressure is greater than, or equal to, the predetermined drawing pressure. In another embodiment, the applied back pressure prevents liquid from being drawn through the liquid transfer element.

[0039] In one embodiment, the method further comprises maintaining at least a portion of the vaporized liquid within a predefined area, the back pressure applied responsive to the at least the portion of the vaporized liquid being maintained within the predefined area. In one further embodiment, the maintaining the at least a portion of the vaporized liquid within the predefined area comprises disrupting a dispersion of the at least the portion of the vaporized liquid in a first direction, wherein the heat is applied by a heater, the liquid transfer element positioned in a second direction in relation to the heater, the second direction opposing the first direction. [0040] In one yet further embodiment, the method further comprises preventing a dispersion of the at least the portion of the vaporized liquid from the predefined area in a third direction, the third direction substantially orthogonal to the first and second directions. In another yet further embodiment, the disrupting the dispersion is responsive to a first porous structure positioned in the first direction in relation to the heater.

[0041] In one yet even further embodiment, the first porous structure exhibits a plurality of pores, the plurality of pores exhibiting an average cross-section diameter of 10 - lOOpm, 1- 50pm, l-20pm or 4-50pm. Each possibility represents a separate embodiment of the invention.

[0042] In another yet even further embodiment, the first porous structure exhibits a porosity of 40-60%, 10-40%, 10-20% or 25-40%. Each possibility represents a separate embodiment of the invention.

[0043] In another yet even further embodiment, the first porous structure exhibits a thickness of at least 0.1mm, at least 0.2mm, at least 0.3mm, at least 0.4mm, at least 0.45mm, at least 0.5mm or at least 0.55mm. Each possibility represents a separate embodiment of the invention. In another embodiment, the first porous structure exhibits a thickness of 0.5-lmm. In another further embodiment, the first porous structure exhibits a thickness of 0.6 - 0.9mm.

[0044] In one embodiment, the drawing is responsive to capillary action. In another embodiment, the liquid comprises an aqueous mixture, the aqueous mixture comprising a cannabinoid and/or nicotine. In another embodiment, the liquid comprises an aqueous solution, the aqueous solution comprising a cannabinoid and/or nicotine. In one further embodiment, the predetermined temperature is greater than the boiling point of the cannabinoid and/or nicotine.

[0045] Additional features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following drawings and description.

[0046] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, governs. As used herein, the articles "a" and "an" mean "at least one" or "one or more" unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. As utilized herein, “and/or” means any one or more of the items in the list joined by “and/or”. As an example, “x and/or y” means any element of the three-element set {(x), (y), (x, y)}. In other words, “x and/or y” means “x, y or both of x and y”. As another example, “x, y, and/or z” means any element of the seven-element set {(x), (y), (z), (x, y), (x, z), (y, z), (x, y, z)}.

[0047] Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary, “or” refers to an inclusive or and not to an exclusive or. For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by anyone of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).

[0048] In addition, use of the “a” or “an” are employed to describe elements and components of embodiments of the instant inventive concepts. This is done merely for convenience and to give a general sense of the inventive concepts, and “a” and “an” are intended to include one or at least one and the singular also includes the plural unless it is obvious that it is meant otherwise.

[0049] The following embodiments and aspects thereof are described and illustrated in conjunction with systems, tools and methods which are meant to be exemplary and illustrative, but not limiting in scope. In various embodiments, one or more of the above-described problems have been reduced or eliminated, while other embodiments are directed to other advantages or improvements.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS [0050] For a better understanding of the invention and to show how the same may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, purely by way of example, to the accompanying drawings in which like numerals designate corresponding sections or elements throughout.

[0051] With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of the preferred embodiments of the present invention only, and are presented in the cause of providing what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood description of the principles and conceptual aspects of the invention. In this regard, no attempt is made to show structural details of the invention in more detail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding of the invention, the description taken with the drawings making apparent to those skilled in the art how several forms of the invention may be embodied in practice. In the accompanying drawings:

[0052] FIGs. 1A-E and 2 illustrate various high-level perspective views of a vaporizing assembly, in accordance with some embodiments; [0053] FIG. 3A illustrates a cut-away high-level perspective view of the vaporizing assembly of FIGs. 1A-E and 2 within an assembly housing, in accordance with some embodiments;

[0054] FIG. 3B illustrates a cut-away high-level perspective view of the assembly housing of FIG. 3A, in accordance with some embodiments; [0055] FIGs. 4A - 4B illustrate various cut-away high-level perspective views of an electronic cigarette cartridge, in accordance with some embodiments;

[0056] FIG. 5 illustrates a high-level flow chart of a vaporizing method, in accordance with some embodiments; and

[0057] FIGs. 6A - 6B illustrate various high-level graphs describing the operation of the vaporizing assembly and vaporizing method of FIGs. 1A - 5, in accordance with some embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS

[0058] In the following description, various aspects of the disclosure will be described. For the purpose of explanation, specific configurations and details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the different aspects of the disclosure. However, it will also be apparent to one skilled in the art that the disclosure may be practiced without specific details being presented herein. Furthermore, well-known features may be omitted or simplified in order not to obscure the disclosure. In the figures, like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout. In order to avoid undue clutter from having too many reference numbers and lead lines on a particular drawing, some components will be introduced via one or more drawings and not explicitly identified in every subsequent drawing that contains that component. [0059] FIG. 1 A illustrates a cut-away high-level perspective view of a vaporizing assembly 10; FIG. IB illustrates a cut-away high-level perspective view of a more detailed embodiment of vaporizing assembly 10; FIG. 1C illustrates a high-level perspective view of vaporizing assembly 10; FIG. ID illustrates a cut-away high-level perspective view of vaporizing assembly 10; FIG. IE illustrates a cut-away high-level perspective view of a vaporizing assembly 10, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0060] Vaporizing assembly 10 comprises: a heater 20; a liquid transfer element 30; and a pressure application component 40. In one embodiment, liquid transfer element 30 comprises: a liquid drawing member 50 and a separation member 60. In another embodiment, vaporizing assembly 10 further comprises one or more barriers 70.

[0061] According to some embodiments, the heater 20 is a coil heater. The embodiments related to coil heater 20 are shown in FIG. IE.

[0062] According to some embodiment, coil heater 20 is in contact with pressure application component 40. According to some embodiments, coil heater 20 is at least partially embedded within pressure application component 40. According to some embodiments, coil heater 20 is at least partially inserted into pressure application component 40. According to some embodiments, coil heater 20 at least partially penetrates pressure application component 40.

[0063] According to some embodiments, pressure application component 40 exhibits a substantially cylindrical shape, and coil heater 20 is a helical coil heater at least partially embedded within pressure application component 40. According to some embodiments, pressure application component 40 exhibits a substantially cylindrical shape, and coil heater 20 is a helical coil heater at least partially inserted into pressure application component 40. According to some embodiments, pressure application component 40 exhibits a substantially cylindrical shape, and coil heater 20 is a helical coil heater at least penetrating pressure application component 40.

[0064] In one embodiment, heater 20 comprises a metal, a metal alloy or a combination thereof. In one further embodiment, heater 20 comprises titanium, nickel and/or nickel- chromium. In another embodiment, heater 20 comprises a heating coil, a heating film or other heating component. In one embodiment, heater 20 exhibits a first face 21 and a second face 22, second face 22 opposing first face 21. In another embodiment, heater 20 extends from a first end 23 to a second end 24, second end 24 opposing first end 23. In one embodiment, heater 20 exhibits a substantially cylindrical shape. The term "cylindrical shape", as used herein, is not meant to be limited to a cylinder with a circular base, and the bases of a cylindrical shape can be of any shape, without exceeding the scope of the disclosure. In another embodiment, the thickness of heater 20, i.e., the distance between first face 21 and second face 22, is about 0.5 pm to about 1.5 pm, preferably about 0.8 pm to about 1 pm.

[0065] In one embodiment, heater 20 exhibits a porous structure and is at least partially permeable to fluids. The embodiments related to porous heater 20 are shown in FIGs 1A-D. The term "porous structure", as used herein, means a structure exhibiting a plurality of pores. In another embodiment, each of the pores of the porous structure exhibits a cross-section diameter of about 5 pm to about 30 pm. The term "cross-section diameter", as used herein, is not limited to the diameter of a circular shape and particularly includes the maximal distance between any two points in any 2-dimensional geometric shape.

[0066] In another embodiment, heater 20 comprises a porous heating film formed on a face of separation member 60 by vapor deposition, such as: chemical vapor deposition; and/or a physical vapor deposition method, such as evaporation and/or sputtering. In another embodiment, heater 20 comprises a mixed woven tube composed of flexible heating strips and heating resistant fibers.

[0067] In one embodiment (not shown), heater 20 comprises one or more electrodes, in electrical communication with a control circuitry and a power source, the power source arranged to provide power to the one or more electrodes responsive to the control circuitry and the one or more electrodes arranged to operate heater 20 responsive to the power provided thereto.

[0068] In one embodiment, liquid drawing member 50 comprises a wick. In another embodiment, liquid drawing member 50 comprises fabric, cloth, wool, felt, sponge, foam, cellulose, yarn, microfiber or any combination thereof. In another embodiment, liquid drawing member 50 comprises a tubular liquid absorbing sponge, a tubular porous ceramic body, or a combination of the tubular porous ceramic body and the liquid absorbing sponge enclosing the porous ceramic body. In another embodiment (not shown), liquid drawing member 50 comprises a pump, or other type of injection unit, arranged to draw liquid from a reservoir. In one embodiment, liquid drawing member 50 exhibits a first face 51 and a second face 52, second face 52 opposing first face 51. In another embodiment, liquid drawing member 50 extends from a first end 53 to a second end 54, second end 54 opposing first end 53. In one embodiment, liquid drawing member 50 exhibits a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0069] In one embodiment, separation member 60 exhibits a porous structure. According to some embodiments, the separation member 60 is also referred herein as a second porous element.

[0070] According to some embodiments, the separation member 60 exhibits a thickness of at least 0.1mm. According to some embodiments, the separation member 60 exhibits a thickness of at least 0.2mm. According to some embodiments, the separation member 60 exhibits a thickness of at least 0.25mm. According to some embodiments, the separation member 60 exhibits a thickness of at least 0.3mm. According to some embodiments, the separation member 60 exhibits a thickness of at least 0.4mm. According to some embodiments, the separation member 60 exhibits a thickness of at least 0.5mm. According to some embodiments, the separation member 60 exhibits a thickness of at least 0.6mm. According to some embodiments, the separation member 60 exhibits a thickness of at least 0.8mm. According to some embodiments, the separation member 60 exhibits a thickness of at least 0.9mm. According to some embodiments, the separation member 60 exhibits a thickness of at least 1mm. According to some embodiments, the separation member 60 exhibits a thickness of at least 1.1mm. According to some embodiments, the separation member 60 exhibits a thickness of no more than 2 mm. According to some embodiments, the separation member 60 exhibits a thickness of no more than 1.75 mm. According to some embodiments, the separation member 60 exhibits a thickness of no more than 1.5 mm. According to some embodiments, the separation member 60 exhibits a thickness of no more than 1.4 mm. According to some embodiments, the separation member 60 exhibits a thickness of no more than 1.3 mm. According to some embodiments, the separation member 60 exhibits a thickness of no more than 1.25 mm. In another embodiment, the separation member 60 exhibits a thickness of 1- 2mm. In another further embodiment, the separation member 60 exhibits a thickness of 1.2 - 1.8mm.

[0071] In one further embodiment, the pores of the porous structure of separation member 60 each exhibit a cross-section diameter of about 1 pm to about 100 pm. According to some embodiments, each pore exhibits a cross-section diameter of 1 to 50 pm. According to some embodiments, each pore exhibits a cross-section diameter of 1 to 20 pm. According to some embodiments, each pore exhibits a cross-section diameter of 4 to 50 pm.

[0072] According to some embodiments, the separation member 60 exhibits a porosity of 10-60%, including subranges thereof. According to some embodiments, the separation member 60 exhibits a porosity of 10-40%, including subranges thereof. According to some embodiments, the separation member 60 exhibits a porosity of 10-40%. According to some embodiments, the separation member 60 exhibits a porosity of 10-20%. According to some embodiments, the separation member 60 exhibits a porosity of 25-40%.

[0073] In another embodiment, the cross-section diameters of the pores of the porous structure of separation member 60 are greater than the thickness of heater 20. In one embodiment, separation member 60 exhibits a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0074] In one embodiment, vaporizing assembly 10 comprises a pair of barriers 70. In another embodiment, each barrier 70 is substantially ring shaped. In one embodiment, each barrier 70 is substantially impermeable to water vapor. In another embodiment, each barrier 70 is impermeable to air, i.e., airtight. In one embodiment, each barrier 70 is composed of: ceramic; metal; plastic, such as a high-temperature plastic, or any combination thereof. Each possibility represents a separate embodiment of the invention.

[0075] In one embodiment, pressure application component 40 comprises a porous structure 80. In one embodiment, porous structure 80 comprises a porous ceramic material. In one further embodiment, pressure application component 40 consists essentially of porous structure 80. In another embodiment, porous structure 80 exhibits a first face 81 and a second face 82, second face 82 opposing first face 81. In another embodiment, porous structure 80 extends from a first end 83 to a second end 84, second end 84 opposing first end 83. In one embodiment, porous structure 80 exhibits a substantially cylindrical shape. In another embodiment, first face 81 defines an enclosure having a space 90 therein.

[0076] In another embodiment, porous structure 80 exhibits a plurality of pores, the plurality of pores exhibiting an average cross-section diameter of 10 - 100 pm. According to some embodiments, the plurality of pores exhibiting an average cross-section diameter of 1- 50pm. According to some embodiments, the plurality of pores exhibiting an average cross- section diameter of l-20pm. According to some embodiments, the plurality of pores exhibiting an average cross-section diameter of 4-50pm. [0077] In one embodiment, porous structure 80 exhibits a porosity of 40 - 60%, optionally 45 - 55%, and further optionally about 50%. According to some embodiments, porous structure 80 exhibits a porosity of 10-40%. According to some embodiments, porous structure 80 exhibits a porosity of 10-20%. According to some embodiments, porous structure 80 exhibits a porosity of 25-40%.

[0078] According to some embodiments, the porous structure 80 exhibits a thickness of at least 0.1mm. According to some embodiments, the porous structure 80 exhibits a thickness of at least 0.2mm. According to some embodiments, the porous structure 80 exhibits a thickness of at least 0.3mm. According to some embodiments, the porous structure 80 exhibits a thickness of at least 0.4mm. According to some embodiments, the porous structure 80 exhibits a thickness of at least 0.45mm. According to some embodiments, the porous structure 80 exhibits a thickness of at least 0.5mm. According to some embodiments, the porous structure 80 exhibits a thickness of at least 0.55mm. In another embodiment, porous structure 80 exhibits a thickness of 0.5-lmm. In another further embodiment, porous structure 80 exhibits a thickness of 0.6 - 0.9mm.

[0079] In general, it is to be understood by the person having ordinary skill in the art that variables such as the thickness, the porosity and the pore cross-section diameter of porous structure 80 and separation member 60 dictate the flow rate of fluids (e.g., liquids and/or vapor) therethrough. According to some principles of the present invention the flow of fluids through porous structure 80 is easier and faster than the corresponding flow rate through separation member 60. This, according to some embodiments, enables flow in the direction from liquid drawing member 50 towards space 90, so that from the space vapor can be inhaled be a user of the vaporizing assembly 10. Thus, the combination of thickness, porosity and pore diameter is determined such that the desired relative flow rate between porous structure 80 and separation member 60 is achieved. Also, it is understood that lower thickness and greater porosity and pore diameter allow easier and faster flow through these porous bodies.

[0080] Thus, according to some embodiments, the thickness of the porous structure 80 is smaller or equal to the thickness of separation member 60. According to some embodiments, the thickness of the porous structure 80 is smaller than the thickness of separation member 60. According to some embodiments, the porosity of the porous structure 80 is greater or equal to the porosity of separation member 60. According to some embodiments, the porosity of the porous structure 80 is greater than the porosity of separation member 60. According to some embodiments, the pore cross-section diameter of the porous structure 80 is greater or equal to the porosity of separation member 60. According to some embodiments, the pore cross-section diameter of the porous structure 80 is greater than the porosity of separation member 60.

[0081] Lastly, it is to be understood that although the flow through porous structure 80 should be faster than through separation member 60, the porous structure 80 should still be able to produce the required back-pressure, according to some embodiments. Thus, the thickness of porous structure 80 is at least as thick as detailed below. Similarly, the porosity of porous structure 80 is not absolute (i.e., 100%) and its pore diameter may also be moderate, according to some embodiments.

[0082] According to some embodiments, separation member 60 and porous structure 80 are made of the same type of material. According to some embodiments, the separation member 60 and the porous structure 80 are made of the same material.

[0083] According to some embodiments, the thickness of porous structure 80 is smaller than the thickness of separation member 60. According to some embodiments, the separation member 60 is at least 50% thicker than the porous structure 80. According to some embodiments, the thickness of the separation member 60 is at least 5% greater than the thickness of the porous structure 80. According to some embodiments, the thickness of the separation member 60 is at least 10% greater than the thickness of the porous structure 80. According to some embodiments, the thickness of the separation member 60 is at least 15% greater than the thickness of the porous structure 80. According to some embodiments, the thickness of the separation member 60 is at least 20% greater than the thickness of the porous structure 80. According to some embodiments, the thickness of the separation member 60 is at least 30% greater than the thickness of the porous structure 80. According to some embodiments, the thickness of the separation member 60 is at least 40% greater than the thickness of the porous structure 80. According to some embodiments, the thickness of the separation member 60 is at least 50% greater than the thickness of the porous structure 80. According to some embodiments, the thickness of the separation member 60 is at least 60% greater than the thickness of the porous structure 80. According to some embodiments, the thickness of the separation member 60 is at least 70% greater than the thickness of the porous structure 80. According to some embodiments, the thickness of the separation member 60 is at least 80% greater than the thickness of the porous structure 80. According to some embodiments, the thickness of the separation member 60 is at least 90% greater than the thickness of the porous structure 80. According to some embodiments, the thickness of the separation member 60 is at least 100% greater than the thickness of the porous structure 80. According to some embodiments, the thickness of the separation member 60 is at least 110% greater than the thickness of the porous structure 80. According to some embodiments, the thickness of the separation member 60 is at least 120% greater than the thickness of the porous structure 80. According to some embodiments, the thickness of the separation member 60 is at least 130% greater than the thickness of the porous structure 80. According to some embodiments, the thickness of the separation member 60 is at least 140% greater than the thickness of the porous structure 80. According to some embodiments, the thickness of the separation member 60 is at least 150% greater than the thickness of the porous structure 80.

[0084] According to some embodiments, the thickness of the separation member 60 is no more than 400% greater than the thickness of the porous structure 80. According to some embodiments, the thickness of the separation member 60 is no more than 300% greater than the thickness of the porous structure 80. According to some embodiments, the thickness of the separation member 60 is no more than 200% greater than the thickness of the porous structure 80.

[0085] According to some embodiments, porous structure 80 exhibits: thickness in the range of 0.6-0.9mm, porosity in the range of 10-20% and pore cross-section diameter in the range of 1-20 micrometer; and separation member 60 exhibits: thickness in the range of 1.2- 1.8mm, porosity in the range of 25-40% and pore cross-section diameter in the range of 4-50 micrometer.

[0086] According to some embodiments, the porous structure 80 exhibits: thickness in the range of 0.6-0.9mm, porosity in the range of 25^4-0% and pore cross-section diameter in the range of 4-50 micrometer; and separation member 60 exhibits: thickness in the range of 1.2- 1.8mm, porosity in the range of 25-40% and pore cross-section diameter in the range of 4-50 micrometer.

[0087] According to some embodiments, porous structure 80 exhibits: thickness in the range of 0.6-0.9mm, porosity in the range of 10-20% and pore cross-section diameter in the range of 1-20 micrometer; and separation member 60 exhibits: thickness in the range of 1.2- 1.8mm, porosity in the range of 10-20% and pore cross-section diameter in the range of 1-20 micrometer. [0088] In one embodiment, the distance between first face 81 and second face 82, i.e. the thickness of porous structure 80, is less than the thickness of separation member 60. In another embodiment, the thickness of porous structure 80 is less than the thickness of liquid drawing member 50.

[0089] In one embodiment, second face 82 of porous structure 80 faces first face 21 of heater 20. In one further embodiment, second face 82 of porous structure 80 is substantially flush with first face 21 of heater 20. The term "substantially flush", as used herein, means that there are essentially no spaces therebetween. Embodiment relating to second face 82 of porous structure 80 being substantially flush with first face 21 of heater 20 are described in FIGs 1A- D

[0090] In another embodiment, heater 20 surrounds porous structure 80.

[0091] According to some embodiments, first face 61 of separation member 60 is substantially flush with the second face 82 of porous structure 80. According to some embodiments, second face 62 of separation member 60 is substantially flush with first face 51 of liquid drawing member 50. Embodiments directed to separation member 60 being substantially flush with porous structure 80 are shown in Figure IE. According to some embodiments, heater 20 is a helical coil heater. According to some embodiments, helical coil heater 20 is at least partially embedded within porous structure 80, separation member 60 or within both. Each possibility represents a separate embodiment of the invention. Figure IE shows the embodiment wherein helical coil heater 20 is partially embedded within porous structure 80 and partially embedded within separation member 60. According to some embodiments, helical coil heater 20 is at least partially embedded within porous structure 80. According to some embodiments, helical coil heater 20 is at least partially embedded within separation member 60.

[0092] In one embodiment, second face 22 of heater 20 faces first face 61 of separation member 60. In one further embodiment, second face 22 of heater 20 is substantially flush with first face 61 of separation member 60. In another embodiment, separation member 60 surrounds heater 20. In one further embodiment, separation member 60 surrounds heater 20 and porous structure 80.

[0093] In one embodiment, second face 62 of separation member 60 faces first face 51 of liquid drawing member 50. In one further embodiment, second face 62 of separation member 60 is substantially flush with first face 51 of liquid drawing member 50. In another embodiment, liquid drawing member 50 surrounds separation member 60. In one further embodiment, liquid drawing member 50 surrounds separation member 60, heater 20 and porous structure 80. Thus, in one embodiment, separation member 60 separates liquid drawing member 50 from heater 20.

[0094] In one embodiment, each barrier 70 covers a respective end of heater 20, liquid drawing member 50 and separation member 60. In one further embodiment, a first barrier 70 covers first end 23 of heater 20, first end 53 of liquid drawing member 50 and first end 63 of separation member 60. In another embodiment, a second barrier 70 covers second end 24 of heater 20, second end 24 of liquid drawing member 50 and second end 64 of separation member 60. In another embodiment (not shown), a single barrier 70 is provided. In another embodiment (not shown), barrier/s 70 further cover the respective ends of porous structure 80.

[0095] Although FIGs. 1A - ID illustrate each of heater 20, liquid drawing member 50, separation member 60 and porous structure 80 as being cylindrical with circular shaped bases, this is not meant to be limiting in any way. In another embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 2, each of heater 20, liquid drawing member 50, separation member 60 and porous structure 80 exhibit rectangular shaped bases. In such an embodiment, space 90 also exhibits rectangular shaped bases.

[0096] In operation, liquid transfer element 30 transfers liquid to heater 20. In one embodiment, liquid drawing member 50 draws in the liquid which then flows through separation member 60 to heater 20. In another embodiment (not shown), liquid drawing member 50 is not provided, and liquid is provided to heater 20 via separation member 20 responsive to gravity and/or an externally applied pressure. In one embodiment, liquid transfer element 30 draws liquid therethrough at a predetermined drawing pressure. In another embodiment, liquid drawing member 50 draws liquid therethrough at the predetermined drawing pressure. In one further embodiment, where liquid drawing member 50 draws liquid by capillary action, the predetermined drawing pressure is the pressure generated by the capillary action.

[0097] In one embodiment, as will be described below, the liquid comprises an aqueous composition. In one further embodiment, as will be described below, the aqueous composition comprises a cannabinoid and/or nicotine. [0098] Heater 20 generates heat at a predetermined temperature and the generated heat vaporizes the liquid into vapor. The term "vaporizes", as used herein, means that the liquid is heated such that at least a portion of the liquid is converted from a liquid state to a gaseous state, optionally at least 50%%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 75%, at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, least 97%, least 98%, least 99%, least 99.5% or least 99.9% thereof. In one embodiment, the predetermined temperature is greater than the boiling point of the nicotine and/or cannabinoid present in the liquid. In another embodiment, the predetermined temperature is about 200 - 250 degrees Celsius. In another embodiment, the predetermined temperature is about 200 - 350 degrees Celsius. In another embodiment, the predetermined temperature is about 200 - 400 degrees Celsius.

[0099] In one embodiment, responsive to heater 20, pressure application component 40 applies a predetermined back pressure to liquid transfer element 30. The term "back pressure", as used herein, means pressure in a direction opposing the direction of liquid flow to heater 20. In one further embodiment, the predetermined back pressure is greater than, or equal to, the predetermined drawing pressure of liquid transfer element 30. As a result, liquid transfer element 30 ceases transferring any more liquid towards heater 20. In one embodiment, where liquid drawing member 50 draws liquid by capillary action, the back pressure overcomes the pressure generated by the capillary action and prevents any more liquid from being drawn by liquid drawing member 50. In another further embodiment, the predetermined back pressure is less than the predetermined drawing pressure. In such an embodiment, the back pressure does not prevent more liquid from being drawn and transferred to heater 20, however it does reduce the amount of liquid being drawn.

[00100] In one embodiment, the predetermined back pressure is generated by maintaining at least a portion of the vaporized liquid within a predetermined area. In one further embodiment, the predetermined area comprises porous structure 80, heater 20 and/or separation member 60. In one further embodiment, the release of the vapor through space 90 is significantly slowed by the pores of porous structure 80, thereby generating the predetermined back pressure towards liquid drawing member 50. Thus, the dispersion of the vapor in a first direction, i.e., in the direction of space 90, is disrupted. As described above, liquid transfer member 30, comprising liquid drawing member 50, is positioned in a second direction in relation to heater 20, the second direction opposing the first direction, i.e. away from space 90. In another embodiment, the predetermined back pressure is further maintained by barriers 70, which prevent the release therethrough of the vaporized liquid and the generated back pressure. In one embodiment, barriers 70 prevent dispersion of the vaporized liquid from the predefined area in directions orthogonal to the first and second directions.

[00101] The vaporized liquid continues to be heated by heater 20, thereby allowing the cannabinoid and/or nicotine to be vaporized. Particularly, in an embodiment where the liquid comprises an aqueous composition comprising a cannabinoid and/or nicotine, the water in the aqueous composition vaporizes at a significantly lower temperature than the cannabinoid/nicotine. Advantageously, by preventing the dispersion of the vapor, and by preventing more liquid from reaching heater 20, the temperature of the vapor keeps rising such that a temperature high enough to vaporized the cannabinoid/nicotine can be reached. When the vapor is inhaled by a user, as will be described below, the back pressure is released, allowing more liquid to transferred to heater 20. Additionally, as the vapor gradually disperses through porous structure 80, the back pressure is reduced, thereby allowing liquid to be transferred to heater 20.

[00102] Without wishing to be bound by any theory or mechanism of action, when aqueous solutions of nicotine/cannabinoid(s) are loaded into the 'soaking' liquid deposition mechanisms of the known devices, the heat transfer from the heating element to the formulation maintains the formulation temperature at around the boiling point of water. Since the boiling temperature of water (100°C) is not sufficient for effective evaporation of nicotine or THC, the liquid deposition mechanisms known to date fail to efficiently evaporate aqueous nicotine/cannabinoid formulations .

[00103] Advantageously, by preventing the immediate release of the vaporized liquid, and by generating back pressure towards the liquid source, the aqueous nicotine/cannabinoid formulations can be efficiently evaporated.

[00104] Although vaporizing assembly 10 is described and illustrated herein as comprising a single heater 20, a single liquid drawing member 50, a single separation member 60 and a single porous structure 80, this is not meant to be limiting in any way. In another embodiment (not shown), any of heater 20, liquid drawing member 50, separation member 60 and porous structure 80 can be provided with multiple components, without exceeding the scope of the disclosure. [00105] FIG. 3A illustrates a cut-away high-level perspective view of vaporizing assembly 10 positioned within an assembly housing 100 and FIG. 3B illustrates a cut-away high-level perspective view of assembly housing 100, in accordance with some embodiments. In one embodiment, assembly housing 100 exhibits a first face 101 and a second face 102, second face 102 opposing first face 101. In another embodiment, assembly housing 100 extends from a first end 103 to a second end 104, second end 104 opposing first end 103. In another embodiment, assembly housing 100 exhibits a substantially cylindrical shape. In one embodiment, assembly housing 100 exhibits one or more opening 105, each opening 105 respectively extending from first face 101 to second face 102. In another embodiment, housing 100 comprises a housing extension 110, extending from second end 104. In one further embodiment, housing extension 110 exhibits an opening 115, opening 115 extending through housing extension 110 in the direction of first end 103.

[00106] The terms "electronic cigarette" and "e-cigarette" as used herein, are interchangeable and refer to a device configured to produce a vapor or aerosol from a liquid or solid composition and comprises at least a heating unit for heating the composition, and an outlet for delivering out the formed aerosol composition for a user to inhale, typically through a mouthpiece. Most aerosol generating devices designed for consumption of cannabis products are conventionally referred as vaporizers and/or vaping devices, which are similarly under the definition of e-cigarettes.

[00107] FIG. 4A illustrates a cut-away high-level perspective view of a first embodiment of an electronic cigarette cartridge 200 and FIG. 4B illustrates a cut-away high-level perspective view of a second embodiment of an electronic cigarette cartridge 200. In one embodiment, electronic cigarette cartridge 200 comprises: a cartridge housing 210; a liquid reservoir 220 comprising an aqueous composition 230, liquid reservoir 220 defined by cartridge housing 210 and an inner wall 240; a space 245 defined by inner wall 240; a mouthpiece 250 defining an outlet 255; and a cartridge connection member 260.

[00108] In one embodiment, aqueous composition 230 comprises at least one cannabinoid. In another embodiment, aqueous composition 230 comprises nicotine. In one further embodiment, aqueous composition 230 comprises at least one cannabinoid and nicotine. In one embodiment, the at least one cannabinoid is a cannabinoid acid or a salt thereof. In another embodiment, the at least one cannabinoid is selected from the group consisting of tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, cannabidiolic acid and salts thereof. In one embodiment, the aqueous composition 131 has a pH higher than 9.

[00109] In one embodiment, each of cartridge housing 210 and inner wall 240 are substantially cylindrical shaped, such that space 245 is also cylindrical, however this is not meant to be limiting in any way. In another embodiment, vaporizing assembly 10 is positioned within electronic cigarette cartridge 10 such that outer face 52 of liquid drawing element 50 faces liquid reservoir 220, and space 90 opens to space 245. In one embodiment, where vaporizing assembly 10 is positioned within assembly housing 100, as illustrated in FIG. 4A openings 105 of assembly housing 100 face respective openings of inner wall 240, such that liquid drawing element 50 is in fluid communication with aqueous composition 230. In another embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 4B, a majority of liquid drawing element 50, or all of liquid drawing element 50, is in fluid communication with aqueous composition 230.

[00110] In one embodiment, mouthpiece 250 extends from a respective end of cartridge housing 210 and outlet 255 forms and extension of space 245. Thus, vapor released to space 90 can reach outlet 255. In another embodiment, cartridge connection member 260 extends from a respective end of cartridge housing 210, optionally opposing mouthpiece 250.

[00111] In operation, electronic cigarette cartridge 200 is in one embodiment connected to an electronic cigarette base (not shown), via cartridge connection member 260. As described above, aqueous composition 230 is drawn to heater 20, thereby being vaporized. As further described above, in one embodiment the vaporized liquid generates back pressure which prevents further liquid from being drawn to heater 20, thereby allowing an increase in temperature such that the cannabinoid/nicotine can also be vaporized. Although some of the water vapor has already reached outlet 255, the aerosols of the vaporized cannabinoid/nicotine exit vaporizing assembly 10 and mix with the already released water vapor. When a user inhales vapor via mouthpiece 250, the vaporized aqueous composition is released through outlet 255. This releases any generated back pressure, as described above.

[00112] FIG. 5 illustrates a high-level flow of a vaporizing method, in accordance with some embodiments. In stage 1000, liquid is drawn through a liquid transfer element. In one embodiment, the liquid is drawn at a predetermined drawing pressure. In another embodiment, the liquid is drawn by capillary action. In stage 1010, heat is applied at a predetermined temperature to vaporize the drawn liquid of stage 1000. [00113] In stage 1020, responsive to the applied heat of stage 1010, a predetermined back pressure is applied to the liquid transfer element of stage 1000. In one embodiment, the applied back pressure is greater than, or equal to, the drawing pressure of stage 1000, thus preventing additional liquid from being drawn. In another embodiment, at least a portion of the vaporized liquid of stage 1010 is maintained within a predefined area, the back pressure being applied responsive to the vaporized liquid being maintained within the predefined area. In one embodiment, maintaining at least a portion of the vaporized liquid within the predefined area is performed by disrupting the dispersion of the vaporized liquid in a first direction. In one further embodiment, the liquid transfer element is displaced from the heater in a second direction, the second direction opposing the first direction.

[00114] In another further embodiment, disrupting the dispersion of the vaporized liquid is responsive to a porous structure juxtaposed with the heater. In one embodiment, the porous structure exhibits a porosity of 10-20% or 25^40. Each possibility represents a separate embodiment of the invention. In another embodiment, the plurality of pores of the porous structure exhibits an average cross-section diameter ofl-20pm or 4-50pm. Each possibility represents a separate embodiment of the invention. In another embodiment, the thickness of the porous structure is about 0.5-1 millimeter. As described above, the applied back pressure allows the vaporized liquid to continue heating, thereby reaching a temperature high enough to vaporize cannabinoids and/or nicotine.

[00115] In optional stage 1030, dispersion of the vaporized liquid in a third direction is further prevented, the third direction being substantially orthogonal to the first and second directions. In one embodiment, the applied back pressure of stage 1020 is further responsive to the prevention of the dispersion of the vaporized liquid in the third direction.

[00116] Although the above has been described in relation to a passive structure for generating the back pressure, this is not meant to be limiting in any way. In another embodiment not shown), one or more mechanisms are provided to generate pressure towards the liquid transfer element. These mechanisms can include, without limitation: a controllable barrier arranged to alternately prevent and allow dispersion of the vaporized liquid; and/or a dedicated mechanism for applying pressure to the liquid transfer element.

[00117] FIG. 6A illustrates a high-level graph 300 of the back pressure of vaporizing assembly 10 and of stage 1020, where the x-axis represents time and the y-axis represents pressure. When the liquid is vaporized, as described above, the back pressure begins to rise. As illustrated by graph 300, initially the back pressure is less than the drawing pressure that draws the liquid into vaporizing assembly 10, such as the capillary pressure, as described above. This is illustrated as pressure area 310. The drawing pressure is shown by line 320. As illustrated, graph 300 continues to rise, until reaching pressure area 330. Pressure area 330 is separated from pressure area 310 by drawing pressure line 320. As described above, when the back pressure rises to a value greater than, or equal to, the drawing pressure, additional liquid is prevented from reaching the heater, thereby allowing the temperature of vaporizing assembly to rise above 100 degrees Celsius and vaporize the cannabinoid and/or nicotine. The back pressure then gradually decreases until dropping below the drawing pressure, thereby allowing additional liquid to reach the heater.

[00118] FIG. 6B illustrates graph 300 described above, and additionally illustrates a high- level graph 340 of the temperature within the vaporizing assembly, wherein the x-axis represents time and the additional y-axis represents temperature. Graph 340 is illustrated in relation to an aqueous solution containing nicotine, however this is not meant to be limiting in any way. The boiling point of nicotine is shown by line 350 and the boiling point of water is shown by line 360. Line 360 is lower than line 350 since the boiling point of nicotine is significantly higher than the boiling point of water, as described above. At time Tl, the heater is switched on, thereby heating the liquid. As the temperature rises above the boiling point of water, the water in the liquid begins to vaporize thereby creating back pressure, as described above. Area 370 represents the portion of time where water-rich aerosol is produced and area 380 represents the portion of time where nicotine-rich droplets are formed. The change from area 370 to area 380 is at a point of time after the temperature rises above the boiling point of nicotine and the back pressure is greater than the drawing pressure, as shown by area 390, area 390 representing the conditions that allow nicotine-rich droplets to form since the heater is fluidly disconnected from the liquid reservoir and isn't cooled down by additional liquid.

[00119] It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination. In particular, the invention has been described with an identification of each powered device by a class, however this is not meant to be limiting in any way. In an alternative embodiment, all powered devices are treated equally, and thus the identification of class with its associated power requirements is not required.

[00120] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings as are commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although methods similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, suitable methods are described herein.

[00121] All publications, patent applications, patents, and other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will prevail. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

[00122] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to what has been particularly shown and described hereinabove. Rather the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and includes both combinations and subcombinations of the various features described hereinabove as well as variations and modifications thereof which would occur to persons skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing description.

Claims

1. A vaporizing assembly comprising: a heater arranged to generate heat at a predetermined temperature; a liquid transfer element in fluid communication with the heater; and a pressure application component in fluid communication with the heater and the liquid transfer element, wherein the pressure application component comprises a first porous structure surrounded by the heater and exhibiting a thickness of at least 0.25mm, wherein, responsive to the heater, the pressure application component is arranged to apply a predetermined back pressure to the liquid transfer element.

2. The vaporizing assembly of claim 1, wherein the liquid transfer element is arranged to draw liquid therethrough at a predetermined drawing pressure, and wherein the predetermined back pressure is greater than, or equal to, the predetermined drawing pressure.

3. The vaporizing assembly of claim 1 or 2, wherein the applied back pressure prevents liquid from being drawn through the liquid transfer element.

4. The vaporizing assembly of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the heater is positioned between the liquid transfer element and the pressure application component.

5. The vaporizing assembly of claim 1, wherein the pressure application component consists essentially of the first porous structure.

6. The vaporizing assembly of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the heater is a coil heater, which is in contact with the first porous structure .

7. The vaporizing assembly of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first porous structure exhibits a substantially cylindrical shape, and the heater is a helical coil heater at least partially embedded within the first porous structure.

8. The vaporizing assembly of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first porous structure comprises a first porous ceramic material.

9. The vaporizing assembly of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first porous structure exhibits a plurality of pores, the plurality of pores of the first porous structure exhibiting an average cross-section diameter of l-20pm or 4-50pm.

10. The vaporizing assembly of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first porous structure exhibits a porosity of 10-20% or 25-40%.

11. The vaporizing assembly of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the first porous structure exhibits a thickness of 0.5-1 millimeters.

12. The vaporizing assembly of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the first porous structure exhibits a first face and a second face opposing the first face, the first face defining an enclosure having a space therein, and wherein the first face faces the heater.

13. The vaporizing assembly of any one of claims 1 to 12, further comprising a first barrier extending from a first end of the heater to a first end of the liquid transfer element, the first barrier arranged to prevent vapor from passing therethrough.

14. The vaporizing assembly of claim 13, further comprising a second barrier extending from a second end of the heater to a second end of the liquid transfer element, the second barrier arranged to prevent vapor from passing therethrough, wherein the second end of the heater opposes the first end thereof and the second end of the liquid transfer element opposes the first end thereof.

15. The vaporizing assembly of any one of claims 1 to 14, further comprising a second porous element between the heater and the liquid transfer element.

16. The vaporizing assembly of claim 15, wherein the second porous element exhibits a substantially cylindrical shape.

17. The vaporizing assembly of claim 15 or 16 wherein a first face of the second porous element is substantially flush with the first porous structure and a second face of the second porous element is substantially flush with the liquid transfer element, wherein the second face of the second porous element opposes the first face thereof.

18. The vaporizing assembly of any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the second porous element exhibits a plurality of pores, each of the plurality of pores of the second porous element exhibiting a cross-section diameter of 4 to 50 or 1 to 20 micrometers.

19. The vaporizing assembly of any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein the second porous element comprises a second porous ceramic material.

20. The vaporizing assembly of any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein the second porous element exhibits a thickness of l-2mm.

21. The vaporizing assembly of any one of claims 15 to 20, wherein the second porous element exhibits a porosity of 10-20% or 25-40%.

22. The vaporizing assembly of any one of claims 15 to 21, wherein the second porous element and the first porous structure are made of the same material.

23. The vaporizing assembly of any one of claims 15 to 22, wherein the second porous element is at least 50% thicker than the first porous structure.

24. The vaporizing assembly of any one of claims 15 to 23, wherein the first porous structure exhibits: thickness in the range of 0.6-0.9mm, porosity in the range of 10-20% and pore cross-section diameter in the range of 1-20 micrometer; and the second porous element exhibits: thickness in the range of 1.2-1.8mm, porosity in the range of 25-40% and pore cross-section diameter in the range of 4-50 micrometer; or the first porous structure exhibits: thickness in the range of 0.6-0.9mm, porosity in the range of 25-40% and pore cross-section diameter in the range of 4-50 micrometer; and the second porous element exhibits: thickness in the range of 1.2-1.8mm, porosity in the range of 25-40% and pore cross-section diameter in the range of 4-50 micrometer; or the first porous structure exhibits: thickness in the range of 0.6-0.9mm, porosity in the range of 10-20% and pore cross-section diameter in the range of 1-20 micrometer; and the second porous element exhibits: thickness in the range of 1.2-1.8mm, porosity in the range of 10-20% and pore cross-section diameter in the range of 1-20 micrometer.

25. The vaporizing assembly of any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein the heater is a helical coil heater, which is at least partially embedded within the second porous element, the first porous structure, or within both.

26. The vaporizing assembly of any one of claims 1 to 25, wherein the liquid transfer element comprises a wick.

27. The vaporizing assembly of any one of claims 1 to 26, further comprising: a housing; and a liquid reservoir in fluid communication with the liquid transfer element, the liquid reservoir containing an aqueous composition, wherein the liquid reservoir, the liquid transfer element, the heater and the pressure application component is disposed within the housing.

28. The vaporizing assembly of claim 27, wherein the aqueous composition comprises a cannabinoid and/or nicotine.

29. The vaporizing assembly of claim 28, wherein the predetermined temperature of the heater is greater than the boiling point of the cannabinoid and/or nicotine.

30. An electronic cigarette cartridge comprising the vaporizing assembly of any one of claims 27 to 29.

31. The electronic cigarette cartridge of claim 30, wherein the housing extends longitudinally between a first end and a second end, wherein the electronic cigarette cartridge comprises an aerosol outlet at the housing first end and a connection means configured to connect the electronic cigarette cartridge to an electronic cigarette actuator at the second end, wherein the housing comprises at least one wall extending longitudinally between the housing first end and the housing second end.

32. A vaporizing method, the method comprising: drawing liquid through a liquid transfer element; applying heat at a predetermined temperature to the drawn liquid such that the drawn liquid is vaporized; and responsive to the applied heat, applying a predetermined back pressure to the liquid transfer element.

33. The method of claim 32, wherein the drawing is at a predetermined drawing pressure, and wherein the predetermined back pressure is greater than, or equal to, the predetermined drawing pressure.

34. The method of claim 32 or 33, wherein the applied back pressure prevents liquid from being drawn through the liquid transfer element.

35. The method of any one of claims 32 to 34, further comprising maintaining at least a portion of the vaporized liquid within a predefined area, the back pressure applied responsive to the at least the portion of the vaporized liquid being maintained within the predefined area.

36. The method of claim 35, wherein the maintaining the at least a portion of the vaporized liquid within the predefined area comprises disrupting a dispersion of the at least the portion of the vaporized liquid in a first direction, wherein the heat is applied by a heater, the liquid transfer element positioned in a second direction in relation to the heater, the second direction opposing the first direction.

37. The method of claim 36, further comprising preventing a dispersion of the at least the portion of the vaporized liquid from the predefined area in a third direction, the third direction substantially orthogonal to the first and second directions.

38. The method of claim 36, wherein the disrupting the dispersion is responsive to a porous structure positioned in the first direction in relation to the heater.

39. The method of claim 38, wherein the porous structure exhibits a plurality of pores, the plurality of pores exhibiting an average cross-section diameter of l-20pm or 4-50pm.

40. The method of claim 38 or claim 39, wherein the porous structure exhibits a porosity of 10-20% or 25-40%.

41. The method of any one of claims 38 to 40, wherein the first porous structure exhibits a thickness of at least 0.25 millimeters.

42. The method of any one of claims 32 to 41, wherein the drawing is responsive to capillary action.

43. The method of any one of claims 32 to 42, wherein the liquid comprises an aqueous mixture, the aqueous mixture comprising a cannabinoid and/or nicotine.

44. The method of claim 43, wherein the predetermined temperature is greater than the boiling point of the cannabinoid and/or nicotine.