AEROSOLIZABLE PRODUCT

There is provided an aerosolizable product comprising an aerosol forming material; and a substrate material, wherein the substrate material is at least calcium carbonate; wherein the total surface area of the calcium carbonate present in the aerosolizable product is at least 25 m2 per gram of aerosol forming material present in the aerosolizable product. There is also provided an aerosolizable product comprising an aerosol forming material; and a solid substrate material, wherein the solid substrate material is at least calcium carbonate wherein the aerosolizable product is a solid form. There is also provided an aerosolizable product comprising an aerosol forming material; and a substrate material, wherein the substrate material is at least calcium carbonate; wherein the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 80 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product.

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Description
PRIORITY CLAIM

The present application is a National Phase entry of PCT Application No. PCT/GB2018/052893, filed Oct. 18, 2018, which claims priority from GB Patent Application No. 1716708.1, filed Oct. 12, 2017, each of which is hereby fully incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to an aerosolizable product, containers in which are contained the aerosolizable product and to electronic aerosol provision systems such as electronic aerosol delivery systems (e.g. e-cigarettes) incorporating said product.

BACKGROUND

Electronic vapor provision systems such as e-cigarettes generally contain a reservoir of liquid which is to be vaporized, typically containing nicotine. When a user inhales on the device, a heater is activated to vaporize a small amount of liquid, which is therefore inhaled by the user.

The use of e-cigarettes in the UK has grown rapidly, and it has been estimated that there are now almost three million people using them in the UK.

Current vaping products use liquids which are wicked to a heater that generates an aerosol, and this aerosol delivers nicotine and flavor. Current e-cigarette formulations typically utilize glycerol and/or propylene glycol as the liquid. In these systems, liquid can leak both in the device and in the bottles during storage and handling. Additionally, users of combustible cigarettes are accustomed to “punctuated” patterns of use, whereby successive sessions are punctuated by the exhaustion of the combustible cigarette. Consumers wishing to transition to using liquid based systems may experience a more continuous profile of use since such liquid based systems typically provide a longer lasting substrate source which spans the period associated with many conventional punctuated sessions. As a result, users may struggle to transition to the non-punctuated session of use which long lasting liquid systems deliver.

SUMMARY

In one aspect there is provided an aerosolizable product comprising an aerosol forming material; and a substrate material, wherein the substrate material is at least calcium carbonate;

wherein the total surface area of the calcium carbonate present in the aerosolizable product is at least 25 m2 per gram of aerosol forming material present in the aerosolizable product.

The present invention further provides an aerosolizable product comprising

(a) an aerosol forming material; and

(b) a solid substrate material, wherein the solid substrate material is at least calcium carbonate,

wherein the aerosolizable product is a solid form.

The present invention further provides an aerosolizable product comprising

(a) an aerosol forming material; and

(b) a substrate material, wherein the substrate material is at least calcium carbonate;

wherein the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 80 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product.

The present invention further provides a dosage form of an aerosolizable product, wherein the dosage form comprises

(a) active agent in an amount of 0.001 to 1 grams;

(b) an aerosol forming material; and

(c) a substrate material, wherein the substrate material is at least calcium carbonate;

wherein the total surface area of the calcium carbonate present in the aerosolizable product is at least 25 m2 per gram of aerosol forming material present in the aerosolizable product.

The present invention further provides a dosage form of an aerosolizable product, wherein the dosage form comprises

(a) active agent in an amount of 0.001 to 1 grams;

(b) an aerosol forming material; and

(c) a solid substrate material, wherein the solid substrate material is at least calcium carbonate;

wherein the aerosolizable product is a solid form.

The present invention further provides a dosage form of an aerosolizable product, wherein the dosage form comprises

(a) active agent in an amount of 0.001 to 1 grams;

(b) an aerosol forming material; and

(c) a substrate material, wherein the substrate material is at least calcium carbonate;

wherein the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 80 wt. % based on the aerosolizable nicotine product.

The present invention further provides a process for forming an aerosol, the process comprising the steps of:

(i) providing an aerosolizable product comprising

    • (a) an aerosol forming material; and

(b) a substrate material, wherein the substrate material is at least calcium carbonate; wherein the total surface area of the calcium carbonate present in the aerosolizable product is at least 25 m2 per gram of aerosol forming material present in the aerosolizable product;

(ii) heating the aerosolizable product.

The present invention further provides a process for forming an aerosol, the process comprising the steps of:

(i) providing an aerosolizable product comprising

    • (a) an aerosol forming material; and
    • (b) a solid substrate material, wherein the solid substrate material is at least calcium carbonate;

wherein the aerosolizable product is a solid form;

(ii) heating the aerosolizable product.

The present invention further provides a process for forming an aerosol, the process comprising the steps of:

(i) providing an aerosolizable product comprising

    • (a) an aerosol forming material; and
    • (b) a substrate material, wherein the substrate material is at least calcium carbonate;
    • wherein the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 80 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product;

(ii) heating the aerosolizable product.

The present invention further provides a process for preparing an aerosolizable product, the process comprising the steps of:

(i) contacting an aerosol forming material and a substrate material, wherein the substrate material is at least calcium carbonate, to form an initial mixture, wherein the total surface area of the calcium carbonate present in the aerosolizable product is at least 25 m2 per gram of aerosol forming material present in the aerosolizable product; and

(ii) processing the initial mixture to form the aerosolizable product.

The present invention further provides a process for preparing an aerosolizable product, the process comprising the steps of:

(i) contacting an aerosol forming material and a solid substrate material, wherein the solid substrate material is at least calcium carbonate, to form an initial mixture; and

(ii) processing the initial mixture to form the aerosolizable product

wherein the aerosolizable product is a solid form.

The present invention further provides a process for preparing an aerosolizable product, the process comprising the steps of:

(i) contacting an aerosol forming material and a substrate material, wherein the substrate material is at least calcium carbonate, to form an initial mixture, wherein the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 80 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product; and

(ii) processing the initial mixture to form the aerosolizable product.

The present invention further provides a process for preparing an aerosolizable product, the process comprising the steps of:

(i) contacting an aerosol forming material and a solid substrate material, wherein the solid substrate material is at least calcium carbonate, to form an initial mixture; and

(ii) compressing the initial mixture to form an aerosolizable product comprising

    • (a) an aerosol forming material; and
    • (b) a substrate material, wherein the substrate material is at least calcium carbonate wherein the total surface area of the calcium carbonate present in the aerosolizable product is at least 25 m2 per gram of aerosol forming material present in the aerosolizable product.

The present invention further provides a process for preparing an aerosolizable product, the process comprising the steps of:

(i) contacting an aerosol forming material and a solid substrate material, wherein the solid substrate material is at least calcium carbonate, to form an initial mixture; and

(ii) compressing the initial mixture to form an aerosolizable product comprising

    • (a) an aerosol forming material; and
    • (b) a solid substrate material, wherein the solid substrate material is at least calcium

wherein the aerosolizable product is a solid form.

The present invention further provides a process for preparing an aerosolizable product, the process comprising the steps of:

(i) contacting an aerosol forming material and a solid substrate material, wherein the solid substrate material is at least calcium carbonate, to form an initial mixture; and

(ii) compressing the initial mixture to form an aerosolizable product comprising

    • (a) an aerosol forming material; and
    • (b) a substrate material, wherein the substrate material is at least calcium carbonate;
    • wherein the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 80 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product.

The present invention further provides a contained aerosolizable product comprising

(a) a container; and

(b) an aerosolizable product comprising

    • (i) an aerosol forming material; and
    • (ii) a substrate material, wherein the substrate material is at least calcium carbonate

wherein the total surface area of the calcium carbonate present in the aerosolizable product is at least 25 m2 per gram of aerosol forming material present in the aerosolizable product.

The present invention further provides a contained aerosolizable product comprising

(a) a container; and

(b) an aerosolizable product comprising

    • (i) an aerosol forming material; and
    • (ii) a solid substrate material, wherein the solid substrate material is at least calcium carbonate

wherein the aerosolizable product is a solid form.

The present invention further provides a contained aerosolizable product comprising

(a) a container; and

(b) an aerosolizable product comprising

    • (i) an aerosol forming material; and
    • (ii) a substrate material, wherein the substrate material is at least calcium carbonate;
    • wherein the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 80 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product.

The present invention further provides an electronic aerosol provision system comprising:

(i) an aerosolizer for aerosolizing an aerosolizable product for inhalation by a user of the electronic aerosol provision system;

(ii) a power supply comprising a cell or battery for supplying power to the aerosolizer; and

(iii) an aerosolizable product comprising

    • (a) an aerosol forming material; and
    • (b) a substrate material, wherein the substrate material is at least calcium carbonate;

wherein the total surface area of the calcium carbonate present in the aerosolizable product is at least 25 m2 per gram of aerosol forming material present in the aerosolizable product.

The present invention further provides an electronic aerosol provision system comprising:

(i) an aerosolizer for aerosolizing an aerosolizable product for inhalation by a user of the electronic aerosol provision system;

(ii) a power supply comprising a cell or battery for supplying power to the aerosolizer; and

(iii) an aerosolizable product comprising

    • (a) an aerosol forming material; and
    • (b) a solid substrate material, wherein the solid substrate material is at least calcium carbonate

wherein the aerosolizable product is a solid form.

The present invention further provides an electronic aerosol provision system comprising:

(i) an aerosolizer for aerosolizing an aerosolizable product for inhalation by a user of the electronic aerosol provision system;

(ii) a power supply comprising a cell or battery for supplying power to the aerosolizer; and

(iii) an aerosolizable product comprising

    • (a) an aerosol forming material; and
    • (b) a substrate material, wherein the substrate material is at least calcium carbonate;

wherein the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 80 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As discussed herein the present invention provides an aerosolizable product comprising

(a) an aerosol forming material; and (b) a solid substrate material, wherein the solid substrate material is at least calcium carbonate, wherein the total surface area of the calcium carbonate present in the aerosolizable product is at least 25 m2 per gram of aerosol forming material present in the aerosolizable product.

In this regard, the term “aerosolizable product” refers to a combination of one or more materials, at least one of which is capable of forming a condensation aerosol following heating to an appropriate temperature. Thus, it is not necessary for all components of the aerosolizable product of the present invention to be “aerosolized”.

The solid products of the present invention and the substrate materials of the present invention can substantially sustain their physical shape when unsupported by external means, e.g. packaging etc. Thus, they are considered to be solid, solid-like, in solid form or in solid-like form.

We have found that by use of a calcium carbonate substrate such that the total surface area of the calcium carbonate present in the aerosolizable product is at least 25 m2 per gram of aerosol forming material present in the aerosolizable product, it is possible to form a substrate having a substantially solid form which is able to hold aerosol forming materials such as glycerol. As a result, problems associated with leakage and user acceptance of the prior art may be overcome. The substrate may also be used to hold an active agent, such as nicotine, and flavor which are released using heating along with the visible vapor from the aerosol forming material (e.g. glycerol or other humectants). By controlling the surface area of the calcium carbonate relative to the amount of aerosol forming material present in the aerosolizable product it is possible to avoid the issues of leakage and also create a single session for vaping which ends when the aerosolizable product runs out of aerosol forming material (since this then necessitates a change of the entire aerosolizable product).

Due to the material properties, it is possible through compression and if required the addition of binders (such as CMC) to form a consumable which may be handled as a solid in a pill/pellet/small particle (balls/agglomerated) form.

Due to the size required for a single session of vaping (8-10 puffs), a consumable may be formed into a small solid <1 g. Due to the size of the solid, this may be loaded into a device which may have a much smaller heater (oven) than currently known in the art. A small oven is advantageous since it reduces the power consumption compared to a larger oven and also reduces the size requirement of the device. Further, since the aerosolizable product being heated is a discrete unit, rather than being part of a generally continuous bulk, it liquid, less power may be required to generate a vapor. Also, after use, the substrate used to hold the aerosol generating material will comprise chalk waste which will be easy to dispose of with little worry of environmental impact.

For ease of reference, these and further aspects of the present invention are now discussed under appropriate section headings. However, the teachings under each section are not necessarily limited to each particular section.

Calcium Carbonate

As discussed herein the present invention provides an aerosolizable product comprising (a) an aerosol forming material; and (b) a substrate material, wherein the substrate material is at least calcium carbonate, wherein the total surface area of the calcium carbonate present in the aerosolizable product is at least 25 m2 per gram of aerosol forming material present in the aerosolizable product. In this aspect of the present invention, the calcium carbonate may be present in the product in any suitable amount, provided of course that the total surface area of the calcium carbonate present in the aerosolizable product is at least 25 m2 per gram of aerosol forming material present in the aerosolizable product.

In this regard, it is noted that calcium carbonate can have a range of specific surface areas. For example, typical calcium carbonate can have a specific surface area (according to the BET method) of around 7 to 9 m2/g. However, it is possible to “functionalize” the calcium carbonate such that its surface area is increased. Indeed, functionalized calcium carbonates may have a specific surface area (according to the BET method) of around 70 m2/g. Therefore, in one aspect, the calcium carbonate used in the aerosolizable product has a specific surface area of at least 5 m2/g based on the weight of the calcium carbonate.

As discussed herein the present invention provides an aerosolizable product comprising (a) an aerosol forming material; and (b) a solid substrate material, wherein the solid substrate material is at least calcium carbonate, wherein the aerosolizable product is a solid form. In this aspect of the present invention, the calcium carbonate may be present in the product in any suitable amount, provided of course that a solid substrate material is formed.

In one aspect the substrate is present in an amount of at least 10 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the substrate is present in an amount of at least 20 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the substrate is present in an amount of at least 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the substrate is present in an amount of at least 40 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the substrate is present in an amount of at least 50 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the substrate is present in an amount of at least 60 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the substrate is present in an amount of at least 70 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the substrate is present in an amount of at least 80 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the substrate is present in an amount of at least 85 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the substrate is present in an amount of at least 90 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the substrate is present in an amount of at least 95 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product.

In one aspect the substrate is present in an amount of no greater than 99 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the substrate is present in an amount of no greater than 95 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the substrate is present in an amount of no greater than 90 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the substrate is present in an amount of no greater than 85 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the substrate is present in an amount of no greater than 80 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product.

In one aspect the substrate is present in an amount of from 10 to 90 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the substrate is present in an amount of from 20 to 90 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the substrate is present in an amount of from 30 to 90 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the substrate is present in an amount of from 40 to 90 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the substrate is present in an amount of from 50 to 90 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the substrate is present in an amount of from 60 to 90 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the substrate is present in an amount of from 70 to 90 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the substrate is present in an amount of from 80 to 90 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product.

The substrate may be formed wholly or in part from calcium carbonate. In one aspect calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 50 wt. % based on the substrate. In one aspect calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 60 wt. % based on the substrate. In one aspect calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 70 wt. % based on the substrate. In one aspect calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 80 wt. % based on the substrate. In one aspect calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 85 wt. % based on the substrate. In one aspect calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 90 wt. % based on the substrate. In one aspect calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 95 wt. % based on the substrate. In one aspect calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 99 wt. % based on the substrate. In one aspect the substrate material consists essentially of calcium carbonate. In one aspect the substrate material consists of calcium carbonate.

In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 10 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 20 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 40 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 50 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 60 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 70 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 80 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 85 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 90 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 95 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product.

In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of no greater than 99 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of no greater than 95 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of no greater than 90 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of no greater than 85 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of no greater than 80 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product.

In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of from 10 to 90 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of from 20 to 90 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of from 30 to 90 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of from 40 to 90 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of from 50 to 90 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 90 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 95 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product.

In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of no greater than 99 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of no greater than 95 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of no greater than 90 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of no greater than 85 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of no greater than 80 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product.

In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of from 10 to 90 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of from 20 to 90 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of from 30 to 90 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of from 40 to 90 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of from 50 to 90 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of from 60 to 90 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of from 70 to 90 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of from 80 to 90 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product.

As discussed herein the present invention further provides an aerosolizable product comprising (a) an aerosol forming material; and (b) a substrate material, wherein the substrate material is at least calcium carbonate; wherein the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 80 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. Each of the above embodiments which require the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 80 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product, equally apply to this aspect of the invention.

Aerosol Forming Material

The one or more aerosol forming materials may be present in any suitable amount in the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the one or more aerosol forming materials is present in a total amount of at least 1 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the one or more aerosol forming materials is present in a total amount of at least 5 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the one or more aerosol forming materials is present in a total amount of at least 10 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the one or more aerosol forming materials is present in a total amount of at least 15 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the one or more aerosol forming materials is present in a total amount of at least 20 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the one or more aerosol forming materials is present in a total amount of at least 25 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product.

In one aspect the one or more aerosol forming materials is present in a total amount of from 1 to 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the one or more aerosol forming materials is present in a total amount of from 5 to 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the one or more aerosol forming materials is present in a total amount of from 10 to 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the one or more aerosol forming materials is present in a total amount of from 15 to 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the one or more aerosol forming materials is present in a total amount of from 20 to 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the one or more aerosol forming materials is present in a total amount of from 25 to 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product.

As discussed herein, the aerosolizable product comprises an aerosol forming material. As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, that the aerosolizable product comprises an aerosol forming material means that the aerosolizable product contains at least one aerosol forming material. References herein to an aerosol forming material may be read to relate to at least one aerosol forming material.

The aerosol forming material may be selected from water, polyhydric alcohols, such as glycerol, propylene glycol and triethylene glycol, for example, or esters such as triethyl citrate or triacetin, or high boiling point hydrocarbons, or non-polyols, such as glycols, sorbitol or lactic acid, for example. The aerosol forming material may be selected from polyhydric alcohols, such as glycerol, propylene glycol and triethylene glycol, for example, or esters such as triethyl citrate or triacetin, or high boiling point hydrocarbons, or non-polyols, such as glycols, sorbitol or lactic acid, for example. In one aspect, the aerosol forming material is selected from polyhydric alcohols (such as glycerol, propylene glycol and triethylene glycol), esters (such as triethyl citrate and triacetin), high boiling point hydrocarbons, non-polyols (such as glycols, sorbitol and lactic acid), and mixtures thereof [preferably wherein the aerosol forming material is selected from glycerol, propylene glycol, and mixtures thereof].

The aerosol forming material may be selected from water, triethylene glycol, triethyl citrate, triacetin, glycols, sorbitol, lactic acid, glycerol, propylene glycol, and mixtures thereof. The aerosol forming material may be selected from triethylene glycol, triethyl citrate, triacetin, glycols, sorbitol, lactic acid, glycerol, propylene glycol, and mixtures thereof.

In one aspect, the aerosol forming material is selected from water, glycerol, propylene glycol, and mixtures thereof. In one aspect, the aerosol forming material is selected from glycerol, propylene glycol, and mixtures thereof.

In one aspect the aerosol forming material is at least water. In this aspect, a further aerosol forming material may be present or may not be present. In a further aspect, the aerosol forming material comprises water and at least one aerosol forming material other than water. In one aspect, the one or more aerosol forming materials is mixture of (a) water and (b) glycerol, propylene glycol or a mixture thereof.

The aerosol forming material(s) may be present in any suitable amount in the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the aerosol forming material is present in a total amount of at least 5 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the aerosol forming material is present in a total amount of at least 10 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the aerosol forming material is present in a total amount of at least 15 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the aerosol forming material is present in a total amount of at least 20 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the aerosol forming material is present in a total amount of at least 25 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the aerosol forming material is present in a total amount of at least 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product.

In one aspect the aerosol forming material is present in a total amount of from 5 to 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the aerosol forming material is present in a total amount of from 10 to 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the aerosol forming material is present in a total amount of from 15 to 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the aerosol forming material is present in a total amount of from 20 to 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the aerosol forming material is present in a total amount of from 25 to 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the aerosol forming material is present in a total amount of from 5 to 25 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the aerosol forming material is present in a total amount of from 5 to 20 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the aerosol forming material is present in a total amount of from 5 to 15 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the aerosol forming material is present in a total amount of from 5 to 10 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product.

As discussed herein, in one aspect the aerosol forming material is at least glycerol. The glycerol may be present in any suitable amount in the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of at least 5 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of at least 10 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of at least 15 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of at least 20 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of at least 25 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of at least 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product.

In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of from 5 to 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of from 10 to 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of from 15 to 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of from 20 to 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of from 25 to 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of from 5 to 25 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of from 5 to 20 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of from 5 to 15 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the glycerol is present in a total amount of from 5 to 10 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product.

As discussed herein, in one aspect the aerosol forming material is at least propylene glycol. The propylene glycol may be present in any suitable amount in the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of at least 5 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of at least 10 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of at least 15 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of at least 20 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of at least 25 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of at least 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product.

In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of from 5 to 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of from 10 to 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of from 15 to 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of from 20 to 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of from 25 to 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of from 5 to 25 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of from 5 to 20 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of from 5 to 15 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the propylene glycol is present in a total amount of from 5 to 10 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product.

As discussed herein, in one aspect the aerosol forming material is at least water. The water may be present in any suitable amount in the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the water is present in a total amount of at least 5 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the water is present in a total amount of at least 10 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the water is present in a total amount of at least 15 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the water is present in a total amount of at least 20 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the water is present in a total amount of at least 25 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the water is present in a total amount of at least 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product.

In one aspect the water is present in a total amount of from 5 to 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the water is present in a total amount of from 10 to 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the water is present in a total amount of from 15 to 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the water is present in a total amount of from 20 to 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the water is present in a total amount of from 25 to 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the water is present in a total amount of from 5 to 25 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the water is present in a total amount of from 5 to 20 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the water is present in a total amount of from 5 to 15 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the water is present in a total amount of from 5 to 10 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product.

Surface area of solid substrate per gram of aerosol forming material

As has been explained above, it has been found that by controlling the surface area of the calcium carbonate relative to the amount of aerosol forming material present in the aerosolizable product it is possible to avoid the issues of leakage (since a substantially solid aerosolizable product is formed) and also create a single session for vaping which ends when the aerosolizable product runs out of aerosol forming material.

In one aspect, the calcium carbonate has a specific surface area (according to the BET

[Brunauer-Emmett-Teller] method) of at least 5 m2/g. In one aspect the calcium carbonate has a specific surface area (according to the BET method) of at least 7 m2/g. In one aspect the calcium carbonate has a specific surface area (according to the BET method) of 7 to 9 m2/g.

In one aspect the calcium carbonate has a specific surface area (according to the BET method) of at least 70 m2/g. In one aspect the calcium carbonate has a specific surface area (according to the BET method) of at least 72 m2/g. In one aspect the calcium carbonate has a specific surface area (according to the BET method) of at least 80 m2/g. In one aspect the calcium carbonate has a specific surface area (according to the BET method) of at least 85 m2/g. In one aspect the calcium carbonate has a specific surface area (according to the BET method) of at least 90 m2/g. In one aspect the calcium carbonate has a specific surface area (according to the BET method) of at least 95 m2/g. In one aspect the calcium carbonate has a specific surface area (according to the BET method) of at least 100 m2/g.

The specific surface area of the calcium carbonate may be measured in accordance with ISO 9277:2010(en) “Determination of the specific surface area of solids by gas adsorption—BET method”

Aerosolizable Product

The aerosolizable product of the present invention may contain one or more further components. These components may be selected depending on the nature of the formulation. In one aspect, the aerosolizable product further comprises an active agent. By “active agent” it is meant an agent which has a biological effect on a subject when the vapor is inhaled. The one or more active agents may be selected from nicotine, botanicals, and mixtures thereof. The one or more active agents may be of synthetic or natural origin. The active could be an extract from a botanical, such as from a plant in the tobacco family. An example active is nicotine.

In one aspect, the active agent is at least nicotine. Nicotine may be provided at any suitable amount depending on the desired dosage to be inhaled by the user. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of no greater than 6 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.4 to 6 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.8 to 6 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 1 to 6 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable vproduct. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 1.8 to 6 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.4 to 5 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.8 to 5 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 1 to 5 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 1.8 to 5 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of no greater than 4 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.4 to 4 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.8 to 4 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 1 to 4 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 1.8 to 4 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of no greater than 3 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.4 to 3 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.8 to 3 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 1 to 3 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 1.8 to 3 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of no greater than 1.9 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of no greater than 1.8 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.4 to 1.9 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.4 to 1.8 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.5 to 1.9 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.5 to 1.8 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.8 to 1.9 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.8 to 1.8 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 1 to 1.9 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 1 to 1.8 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of less than 1.9 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of less than 1.8 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.4 to less than 1.9 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.4 to less than 1.8 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.5 to less than 1.9 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.5 to less than 1.8 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.8 to less than 1.9 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 0.8 to less than 1.8 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 1 to less than 1.9 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product. In one aspect nicotine is present in an amount of from 1 to less than 1.8 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product.

In one aspect, the product includes tobacco and/or a tobacco extract.

When the product is in a solid form, it may be formed into any suitable shape. For example, solid forms may be provided to allow for different surface areas and more airflow paths through/around the material. Such shapes may be hollow centers (single or multiple holes), surface textures/channels/ridges (for less contact to hot surfaces of ovens and increased airflow around the consumable) and loose spheres/agglomerated particles which could fill different heating apparatus e.g. different shaped ovens.

When the product is in a solid form, the product is typically prepared by combining calcium carbonate with one or more liquids such as the aerosol forming material to form a material capable of being compressed into multiple solid forms. Alternatively, a solid form of calcium carbonate may be prepared into which the liquids are introduced. In either aspect, the present invention allows for the material to be compressed into a suitable form such as a pellet or pill form.

Alternatively, when higher levels of liquids are required, a paste like or putty like material (for example containing a liquid loading between 20-30%) may be prepared. This semi solid material may be delivered in any suitable manner. For example, it may be added to an aerosol generation system as a paste or putty from a tube. The semi solid systems of the present invention allow for higher aerosol formation and the ability to fill different shapes. The solid systems of the present invention have the advantage that they allow for clear airflow paths for drawing the vapor generated and reduce the amount of system cleaning required.

As will be understood by one skilled in the art, a putty is malleable. A putty may deform but not be free flowing under gravity. A putty may change shape under its own mass but under its own mass should not change shape dimensionally in any orientation by more than 10 percent over a 24 hour period.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the aerosolizable product may be delivered in a form which is then further contained to provide a discreet product. For example, solid product such as loose powder, particles, agglomerates, spheronized material, pills or pellets may be contained within a perforated or porous wrap. This wrap is typically constructed of materials suitable for exposure to temperature ranges up to 300° C. Suitable materials are perforated metal foil, metal mesh, porous or perforated papers and fiber constructed fleece materials. The use of a porous outer wrap is advantageous since it minimizes direct contact with the aerosolizable product. Additionally the use of a porous outer wrap minimizes the risk of dust being released and potentially being inhaled.

In one aspect, the aerosolizable product further comprises a binder. The binder agents may be selected from Microcrystalline cellulose (MCC), Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and mixtures thereof.

The binder may be provided at any suitable amount depending on the product. In one aspect the binder is present in a total amount of from 0.01 to 5 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the binder is present in a total amount of from 0.1 to 5 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the binder is present in a total amount of from 0.1 to 3 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the binder is present in a total amount of from 0.5 to 3 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the binder is present in a total amount of from 0.5 to 2 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product. In one aspect the binder is present in a total amount of from 1 to 2 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product.

Dosage Form

As discussed herein, the present invention further provides a dosage form of an aerosolizable nicotine product, wherein the dosage form comprises (a) active agent, such as nicotine, in an amount of 0.001 to 1 grams; (b) an aerosol forming material; and (c) a solid substrate material, wherein the solid substrate material is at least calcium carbonate wherein the total surface area of the calcium carbonate present in the aerosolizable product is at least 25 m2 per gram of aerosol forming material present in the aerosolizable product.

As discussed herein, the present invention further provides a dosage form of an aerosolizable product, wherein the dosage form comprises

(a) active agent in an amount of 0.001 to 1 grams;

(b) an aerosol forming material; and

(c) a solid substrate material, wherein the solid substrate material is at least calcium carbonate;

wherein the aerosolizable product is a solid form.

As discussed herein, the present invention further provides a dosage form of an aerosolizable nicotine product, wherein the dosage form comprises (a) active agent, such as nicotine, in an amount of 0.001 to 1 grams; (b) an aerosol forming material; and (c) a substrate material, wherein the substrate material is at least calcium carbonate; wherein the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 30 wt. % based on the aerosolizable nicotine product.

In one aspect the active agent, such as nicotine, is present in an amount of 0.001 to 0.8 grams. In one aspect the active agent, such as nicotine, is present in an amount of 0.001 to 0.8 grams. In one aspect the active agent, such as nicotine, is present in an amount of 0.001 to 0.6 grams. In one aspect the active agent, such as nicotine, is present in an amount of 0.001 to 0.4 grams. In one aspect the active agent, such as nicotine, is present in an amount of 0.001 to 0.2 grams. In one aspect the active agent, such as nicotine, is present in an amount of 0.001 to 0.1 grams. In one aspect the active agent, such as nicotine, is present in an amount of 0.02 to 0.1 grams. In one aspect the active agent, such as nicotine, is present in an amount of 0.03 to 0.1 grams. In one aspect the active agent, such as nicotine, is present in an amount of 0.04 to 0.1 grams. In one aspect the active agent, such as nicotine, is present in an amount of 0.05 to 0.1 grams. In one aspect the active agent, such as nicotine, is present in an amount of 0.01 to 0.09 grams. In one aspect the active agent, such as nicotine, is present in an amount of 0.01 to 0.08 grams. In one aspect the active agent, such as nicotine, is present in an amount of 0.01 to 0.07 grams. In one aspect the active agent, such as nicotine, is present in an amount of 0.01 to 0.06 grams.

The dosage form may be prepared from an aerosolizable product as defined herein.

Process

The present invention further provides a process for forming an aerosol, the process comprising the steps of:

(i) providing an aerosolizable product comprising

    • (a) an aerosol forming material; and

(b) a substrate material, wherein the substrate material is at least calcium carbonate; wherein the total surface area of the calcium carbonate present in the aerosolizable product is at least 25 m2 per gram of aerosol forming material present in the aerosolizable product;

(ii) heating the aerosolizable product.

The present invention further provides a process for forming an aerosol, the process comprising the steps of:

(i) providing an aerosolizable product comprising

    • (a) an aerosol forming material; and
    • (b) a solid substrate material, wherein the solid substrate material is at least calcium carbonate;

wherein the aerosolizable product is a solid form;

(ii) heating the aerosolizable product.

The present invention further provides a process for forming an aerosol, the process comprising the steps of:

(i) providing an aerosolizable product comprising

    • (a) an aerosol forming material; and
    • (b) a substrate material, wherein the substrate material is at least calcium carbonate;
    • wherein the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 80 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product;

(ii) heating the aerosolizable product.

The present invention further provides a process for preparing an aerosolizable product, the process comprising the steps of:

(i) contacting an aerosol forming material and a substrate material, wherein the substrate material is at least calcium carbonate, to form an initial mixture, wherein the total surface area of the calcium carbonate present in the aerosolizable product is at least 25 m2 per gram of aerosol forming material present in the aerosolizable product; and

(ii) processing the initial mixture to form the aerosolizable product.

The present invention further provides a process for preparing an aerosolizable product, the process comprising the steps of:

(i) contacting an aerosol forming material and a solid substrate material, wherein the solid substrate material is at least calcium carbonate, to form an initial mixture; and

(ii) processing the initial mixture to form the aerosolizable product

wherein the aerosolizable product is a solid form.

The present invention further provides a process for preparing an aerosolizable product, the process comprising the steps of:

(i) contacting an aerosol forming material and a substrate material, wherein the substrate material is at least calcium carbonate, to form an initial mixture, wherein the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 80 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product; and

(ii) processing the initial mixture to form the aerosolizable product.

The present invention further provides a process for preparing an aerosolizable product, the process comprising the steps of:

(i) contacting an aerosol forming material and a solid substrate material, wherein the solid substrate material is at least calcium carbonate, to form an initial mixture; and

(ii) compressing the initial mixture to form an aerosolizable product comprising

    • (a) an aerosol forming material; and
    • (b) a substrate material, wherein the substrate material is at least calcium carbonate wherein the total surface area of the calcium carbonate present in the aerosolizable product is at least 25 m2 per gram of aerosol forming material present in the aerosolizable product.

The present invention further provides a process for preparing an aerosolizable product, the process comprising the steps of:

(i) contacting an aerosol forming material and a solid substrate material, wherein the solid substrate material is at least calcium carbonate, to form an initial mixture; and

(ii) compressing the initial mixture to form an aerosolizable product comprising

    • (a) an aerosol forming material; and
    • (b) a solid substrate material, wherein the solid substrate material is at least calcium

wherein the aerosolizable product is a solid form.

The present invention further provides a process for preparing an aerosolizable product, the process comprising the steps of:

(i) contacting an aerosol forming material and a solid substrate material, wherein the solid substrate material is at least calcium carbonate, to form an initial mixture; and

(ii) compressing the initial mixture to form an aerosolizable product comprising

    • (a) an aerosol forming material; and
    • (b) a substrate material, wherein the substrate material is at least calcium carbonate;
    • wherein the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 80 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product.

The process of the present invention may comprises additional steps either before the steps listed, after the steps listed or between one or more of the steps listed.

In one aspect, configurations are envisaged in which the aerosolizable product of the present invention can be heated in line with flavor matrices such as flavor capsules or tobacco. The aerosol may be passed from the aerosolizable product through the flavor or tobacco matrix which may also be heated in an independent zone. As discussed herein, it is also possible to include the tobacco (or other organic media) within the calcium carbonate containing solid substrate material of the present invention.

Further Aspects

The c product may be contained or delivered by any means. In one aspect the present invention further provides a contained aerosolizable product comprising

(a) a container; and

(b) an aerosolizable product comprising

    • (i) an aerosol forming material; and
    • (ii) a substrate material, wherein the substrate material is at least calcium carbonate

wherein the total surface area of the calcium carbonate present in the aerosolizable product is at least 25 m2 per gram of aerosol forming material present in the aerosolizable product.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a contained aerosolizable product comprising

(a) a container; and

(b) an aerosolizable product comprising

    • (i) an aerosol forming material; and
    • (ii) a solid substrate material, wherein the solid substrate material is at least calcium carbonate

wherein the aerosolizable product is a solid form.

In a further aspect the present invention provides a contained aerosolizable product comprising

(a) a container; and

(b) an aerosolizable product comprising

    • (i) an aerosol forming material; and
    • (ii) a substrate material, wherein the substrate material is at least calcium carbonate;
    • wherein the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 80 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product.

The container may be any suitable container, for example to allow for the storage or delivery of the aerosolizable product. For example, the container may be a single dose pack or may be a multi dose pack. The container may be a blister pack or may be a dispenser. In one aspect the container is configured for engagement with an electronic vapor provision system. The container may be configured to become fluidly in communication with an electronic vapor provision system so that aerosolizable product may be delivered to the electronic vapor provision system. As described above, the present disclosure relates to a container which may be used in an electronic vapor provision system, such as an e-cigarette. Throughout the following description the term “e-cigarette” is used; however, this term may be used interchangeably with electronic vapor provision system.

As discussed herein, the container of the present invention is typically provided for the delivery of an aerosolizable product to or within an e-cigarette. The aerosolizable product may be held within an e-cigarette or may be sold as a separate container for subsequent use with or in an e-cigarette. As understood by one skilled in the art, e-cigarettes may contain a unit known as a detachable cartomiser which typically comprises a reservoir of aerosolizable product, a wick material and a device for vaporizing the aerosolizable product. In some e-cigarettes, the cartomiser is part of a single-piece device and is not detachable. In one aspect the container is a cartomiser or is part of a cartomiser. In one aspect the container is not a cartomiser or part of a cartomiser and is a container, such as a tank, which may be used to deliver aerosolizable product to or within an e-cigarette.

In one aspect the container is part of an e-cigarette. In one aspect the present invention further provides an electronic aerosol provision system comprising:

(i) an aerosolizer for aerosolizing an aerosolizable product for inhalation by a user of the electronic aerosol provision system;

(ii) a power supply comprising a cell or battery for supplying power to the aerosolizer; and

(iii) an aerosolizable product comprising

    • (a) an aerosol forming material; and
    • (b) a substrate material, wherein the substrate material is at least calcium carbonate;

wherein the total surface area of the calcium carbonate present in the aerosolizable product is at least 25 m2 per gram of aerosol forming material present in the aerosolizable product.

In a further aspect the present invention provides an electronic aerosol provision system comprising:

(i) an aerosolizer for aerosolizing an aerosolizable product for inhalation by a user of the electronic aerosol provision system;

(ii) a power supply comprising a cell or battery for supplying power to the aerosolizer; and

(iii) an aerosolizable product comprising

    • (a) an aerosol forming material; and
    • (b) a solid substrate material, wherein the solid substrate material is at least calcium carbonate

wherein the aerosolizable product is a solid form.

In a further aspect the present invention provides an electronic aerosol provision system comprising:

(i) an aerosolizer for aerosolizing an aerosolizable product for inhalation by a user of the electronic aerosol provision system;

(ii) a power supply comprising a cell or battery for supplying power to the aerosolizer; and

(iii) an aerosolizable product comprising

    • (a) an aerosol forming material; and
    • (b) a substrate material, wherein the substrate material is at least calcium carbonate;
    • wherein the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 80 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product.

The invention will now be described with reference to the following non-limiting example.

Examples

Samples of aerosolizable product were prepared in accordance with the details of Table 1.

Materials Used were

Calcium Carbonate (CC): Pumex Calcitec, Calcitec Puro v/100 99%<500 micron

Microcrystalline cellulose (MCC): Avicel® PH Microcrystalline Cellulose

Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC): Carboxymethyl cellulose sodium

Functionalised Calcium Carbonate (FCC): a Calcium Carbonate product having the following properties

Property Test Method Values Unit Calcium carbonate XRF(0014) 52.5 % Particle-size distribution D50 Malvern MS 2000 6.7 μm Particle-size distribution D98 Malvern MS 2000 19 μm Specific Surface Area (BET) ISO 9277 70 m2/g Blancheur CIE L• ISO 11664-4 97.1 Sieve residue at 45 μm ISO 787/7 0.00 %

The specific surface area of the calcium carbonate may be measured in accordance with ISO 9277:2010(en) “Determination of the specific surface area of solids by gas adsorption—BET method”

TABLE 1 CC Surface area Glycerol Glycerol Binder Binder Nicotine Nicotine Flavor Flavor surface area Sample per g of Sample Ingredients/Description CC (%) CC (g) (%) (g) (%) (g) Water (%) Water (g) (%) (g) (%) (g) QTzY (g) (m2/g) CC area aerosol  S16 MCC test 65.04 8 26.83 3.3 8.13 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 12.3 8 64 19.39 (Avicel PH-102)  S15 MCC test 66.67 8 25 3 8.33 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 12 8 64 21.33 (Avicel PH-102)  S14 MCC test 66.67 8 24.5 2.94 8.33 1 0 0 0 0 0.5 0.06 12 8 64 21.77 (Avicel PH-102) plus Zamony flavor S3 25% Glycerol, 75 7.5 25 2.5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 8 60 24 75% CC  S17 Dual binder 65 6.5 20 2 10 1 5 0.5 0 0 0 0 10 8 52 26 test 50% MCC/50% CMC  S12 CMC binder test 70 7 20 2 10 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 8 56 28 (7H3SF)-no water  S19 MCC/CMC/CC/Vype 70.07 7.02 19.95 2 9.98 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 10.01 8 56.12 28.1 blended Tobacco 12 mg S1 20% Cirro Currant 80 8 20 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 8 64 32 Affairs 70/30 Glycerol/Propylene glycol (6 mg/ml nic), 80% CC Calcium Carbonate  S18 Dual binder test 70 7 15 1.5 10 1 5 0.5 0 0 0 0 10 8 56 37.33 50% MCC/50% CMC  S25 FCC/CMC/Glycerol 30 0.3 50 0.5 20 0.2 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 70 21 42  S26 FCC/CMC/Glycerol 40 0.4 55 0.55 5 0.05 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 70 28 50.91  S27 FCC/CMC/Glycerol 40 0.4 50 0.5 10 0.1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 70 28 56 S8 CMC Binder 70 7 10 1 20 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 8 56 56  S28 FCC/CMC/Glycerol 40 0.4 45 0.45 15 0.15 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 70 28 62.22  S11 CMC binder 66.67 8 8.33 1 8.33 1 16.67 2 0 0 0 0 12 8 64 64 test (7H35F)  S13 MCC test 61.54 8 7.69 1 7.69 1 23.08 3 0 0 0 0 13 8 64 64 (Avicel PH-102) S6 10% Glycerol, 88 88 10 10 0 0 0 0 2 2 0 0 100 8 704 70.4 88% Calcium Carbonate, 2% Nicotine S5 10% Glycerol, 89 89 10 10 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 100 8 712 71.2 89% CC Calcium Carbonate 1% nicotine, S2 10% Glycerol, 90 9 10 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 8 72 72 90% CC Calcium Carbonate S4 10% Glycerol, 90 90 10 10 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 100 8 720 72 90% CC Calcium Carbonate S7 5 g S5, 5 g S4, 0.2 g 88.61 8.95 8.91 0.9 0 0 0 0 0.5 0.05 1.98 0.2 10.1 8 71.6 79.56 Gluhan Flavor

Each of the samples was visually assessed and based on this assessment, a potential delivery form was selected and this form was tested. The results are shown in Table 2.

TABLE 2 Assessment Sample (Pass/Fail) Visual observations Form testing Potential form Device testing S16 Fail - Difficult to Worked by hand until form dough consistent dough formed, glycerol visible on gloves while working S15 Fail - Difficult to Worked by hand until form dough consistent dough formed S14 Fail - Difficult to Worked by hand until form dough consistent dough formed S3  Fail Paste like Testing for Paste/viscous liquid Glycerol layer consistency/thick separation, visible on top of liquid solution sample maintained for 2 21 Nov. 2016 days, ongoing S17 Pass Loose mix, pellets Hollow pellets form and hold form, slightly soft S12 Pass Dough not formed, material stays loose when compressed by hand S19 Pass Loose when mixed, pressed into hollow pellets. Break easily immediately after pressing S1  Pass Clumpy and damp Pill press, forms Loose large particles/ Pax 2 oven outer when shook, dry hard pellet with pill compressible vaporizer, max when re-mixed some liquid on (wet and soft) temperature surface. setting. Loose particles tested with vapor generated, lower than cig- alike delivery but consistent aerosol generated over 20-30 puffs. Some flavor noted in aerosol S18 Pass Harder pellet formed Hollow pellets Compressed/extruded Vicod 5 g, than s17 hollow pellet form. Output form very hard. Softened when left over time S25 Pass Able to thoroughly mix. Produced large granules. Successfully formed a pill in press. No signs of liquid escaping the solid matrix. After heating, appearance changed to brown speckles. Consumable was strong and springy after heating S26 Pass Formed large granules. Experienced shear thinning when under pressure of the pill press S27 Pass Formed small free flowing granules. Successfully formed a pill. Pill structure was strong. No signs of liquid escaping the solid matrix. Lightly speckled after heating S8  Pass Hollow 6 mm Pellet/extrusion pellets with 3 mm hollow core made, pellets held shape but were notably softer and break Powder when mixed down easily. stayed free flowing When left over night in ambient conditions the solid form became softer but with robust structure S28 Pass Formed a fine powder once thoroughly mixed. Free flowing. Formed a solid pill. Dry in appearance. Formed a strong and dry pill. No signs of liquid leakage S11 Pass Dough made, rollable Hollow pellet Drying process Vicod 5g, and soft formed, soft for would be required hollow pellet pelletising but in manufacturing form. Output mimics extrusion. process form very hard Flattened by and not hand and left to possible to dry break by hand. Softened when left over time S13 Pass With no water material is loose and brittle if formed into pellet. Dough made after water added S6  Pass Dry free flowing, Pills made with Powder/pill Pax oven hold shape when pill press, device, temp on compressed compressible high, nicotine and holds form, level too high easy to impact in auto loader S5  Pass Dry free flowing, Pills made with Powder/pill Pax oven hold shape when pill press, device, temp on compressed compressible half, nicotine and holds form, high with high easy to impact in impact auto loader S2  Pass Dry free flowing, Pellets made Powder/pill Half of one hold shape when with hand punch pellet loaded compressed and die. Pills into pax, vapor made with pill generated. One press, pill loaded into compressible pax, vapor and holds form, generated, light easy to impact in be consistent auto loader delivery. Pill hot to handle on exit and breaks easily when handled. S4  Pass Dry free flowing, hold Paste/viscous liquid shape when compressed. Flakes visible in mixing need time to homogenise S7  Pass Dry free flowing, hold Powder/pill shape when compressed, clumping after mixing

Delivery

Pellets were prepared according to Samples S19 and S20 and were placed in an oven based vaporizer (Vicod 5G, http://www.atmosrx.com/Vicod-5G.html) to assess the ability of each product to generate an aerosol. Three repetitions were carried out for each sample. Two tests were run whereby for the first test, pellets were inserted into the device with the oven already at 200° C. (results of Table 3), and for the second test, pellets were inserted into the device and then the oven was heated to 200° C. Airflow was drawn through the device whilst it was turned on and any resulting aerosol captured on a Cambridge Filter Pad (CFP). The CFP (and holder) was weighed before and after the test to check the mass change which is indicative of aerosol formation from the aerosolizable product.

It can be noted from the information in Tables 3 and 4 that heating the aerosolizable product inside the device 200° C. led to an aerosol being generated (due to the various mass changes). Accordingly, it is clear that the present invention allows the preparation of the aerosolizable products which are less prone to leakage (owing to their solid-like nature) and which can provide users with a more punctuated experience compared to liquid based systems.

TABLE 3 Pellet inserted at 200° C. CFP + Device Device Holder CFP + Holder Difference Weight Weight Difference Pellet Pellet Difference Sample Weight (g) Weight after (g) (g) (g) after (g) (g) (g) after (g) (g) Notes s19-1 64.328 64.361 0.034 99.701 99.639 −0.062 0.459 0.370 −0.089 Cream to Brown color change s19-2 64.995 65.026 0.030 99.744 99.678 −0.066 0.485 0.400 −0.085 Cream to Brown color change s19-3 63.834 63.864 0.030 99.710 99.652 −0.058 0.434 0.351 −0.084 Cream to Brown color change s20-1 63.924 63.944 0.020 99.708 99.664 −0.044 0.504 0.451 −0.053 No Color Change s20-2 63.574 63.599 0.025 99.767 99.724 −0.043 0.555 0.486 −0.069 Part of the pellet broke as it left device s20-3 64.593 64.617 0.024 99.764 99.718 −0.046 0.560 0.497 −0.063 No Color Change CFP—Cambridge Filter Pad

TABLE 4 Pellet inside for heating up to 200° C. CFP + Device Device Holder CFP + Holder Difference Weight Weight Difference Pellet Pellet Difference Sample Weight (g) Weight after (g) (g) (g) after (g) (g) (g) after (g) (g) Notes S19-1 64.6806 64.7088 0.028 99.6748 99.6148 −0.060 0.4666 0.3797 −0.087 Cream to Brown color change S19-2 64.8805 64.9140 0.034 99.7001 99.6330 −0.067 0.4589 0.3723 −0.087 Cream to Brown color change S19-3 63.4928 63.5243 0.031 99.6947 99.6353 −0.059 0.4350 0.3521 −0.083 Cream to Brown color change S20-1 64.0401 640627 0.023 99.7789 99.7338 −0.045 0.5749 0.5076 −0.067 No Color Change S20-2 63.5779 63.6011 0.023 99.7422 99.3178 −0.424 0.5020 0.4683 −0.034 No Color Change S20-3 64.5976  6.6191 0.022 99.7677 99.7181 −0.050 0.5460 0.4865 −0.060 Device charging 20 min break, No Color Change

Various modifications and variations of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Although the invention has been described in connection with specific preferred embodiments, it should be understood that the invention as claimed should not be unduly limited to such specific embodiments. Indeed, various modifications of the described modes for carrying out the invention which are obvious to those skilled in chemistry or related fields are intended to be within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. An aerosolizable product comprising: wherein the total surface area of the calcium carbonate present in the aerosolizable product is at least 25 m2 per gram of the aerosol forming material present in the aerosolizable product.

(a) an aerosol forming material; and
(b) a substrate material, wherein the substrate material includes at least calcium carbonate;

2. An aerosolizable product according to claim 1 wherein the calcium carbonate has a specific surface area (according to the BET method) of at least 5 m2/g

3. An aerosolizable product according to claim 1 wherein the calcium carbonate has a specific surface area (according to the BET method) of from 7 to 9 m2/g.

4. An aerosolizable product according to claim 1 wherein the calcium carbonate has a specific surface area (according to the BET method) of at least 70 m2/g.

5. An aerosolizable product comprising

(a) an aerosol forming material; and
(b) a substrate material, wherein the substrate material includes at least calcium carbonate;
wherein the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 80 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product.

6. An aerosolizable product according to claim 1 wherein the aerosol forming material is selected from the group consisting of water, triethylene glycol, triethyl citrate, triacetin, glycols, sorbitol, lactic acid, glycerol, propylene glycol, and mixtures thereof, or selected from triethylene glycol, triethyl citrate, triacetin, glycols, sorbitol, lactic acid, glycerol, propylene glycol, and mixtures thereof.

7. An aerosolizable product according to claim 1 wherein the aerosol forming material is selected from glycerol, propylene glycol and mixtures thereof.

8. An aerosolizable product according to claim 1 wherein the aerosol forming material is a combination of glycerol and propylene glycol.

9. An aerosolizable product according to claim 8 further comprising water.

10. An aerosolizable product according to claim 1 wherein the aerosol forming material is present in an amount of 1 to 15 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product.

11. An aerosolizable product according to claim 1 wherein the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 85 wt. % based on the aerosolizable product.

12. An aerosolizable product according to claim 1 wherein the substrate material consists of calcium carbonate

13. An aerosolizable product according to claim 1 further comprising nicotine.

14. An aerosolizable product according to claim 13 comprising nicotine in an amount of no greater than 2 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product.

15. An aerosolizable product according to claim 14 comprising nicotine in an amount of no greater than 1.8 wt % based on the total weight of the aerosolizable product.

16. A dosage form of an aerosolizable product, wherein the dosage form comprises:

(a) an active agent in an amount of 0.001 to 1 grams;
(b) an aerosol forming material; and
(c) a substrate material, wherein the substrate material includes at least calcium carbonate;
wherein the total surface area of the calcium carbonate present in the aerosolizable product is at least 25 m2 per gram of the aerosol forming material present in the aerosolizable product.

17. A dosage form according to claim 16 wherein the aerosolizable nicotine product is an aerosolizable product as defined in claim 2.

18. A dosage form of an aerosolizable nicotine product, wherein the dosage form comprises

(a) nicotine in an amount of 0.001 to 1 grams;
(b) an aerosol forming material; and
(c) a substrate material, wherein the substrate material is at least calcium carbonate;
wherein the calcium carbonate is present in an amount of at least 80 wt. % based on the aerosolizable nicotine product.

19. A dosage form according to claim 16 wherein the aerosolizable nicotine product is an aerosolizable product as defined in claim 6.

20. A process for forming an aerosol, the process comprising the steps of:

(i) providing an aerosolizable product as defined in claim 1; and
(ii) heating the aerosolizable product.

21. A process for preparing an aerosolizable product as defined in claim 1, the process comprising the steps of:

(i) contacting an aerosol forming material and a solid substrate material, wherein the solid substrate material is at least calcium carbonate, to form an initial mixture; and
(ii) compressing the initial mixture to form the aerosolizable product.

22. A contained aerosolizable product comprising

(a) a container; and
(b) an aerosolizable product as defined in claim 1.

23. A contained aerosolizable product according to claim 22 wherein the container is configured for engagement with an electronic aerosol provision system.

24. An electronic aerosol provision system comprising:

(i) an aerosolizer for aerosolizing an aerosolizable product for inhalation by a user of the electronic aerosol provision system;
(ii) a power supply comprising a cell or battery for supplying power to the aerosoliser; and
(iii) an aerosolizable product as defined in claim 1.
Patent History
Publication number: 20210219595
Type: Application
Filed: Oct 10, 2018
Publication Date: Jul 22, 2021
Applicant: BRITISH AMERICAN TOBACCO (INVESTMENTS) LIMITED (London)
Inventors: Richard HEPWORTH (London), Colin DICKENS (London), Walid ABI AOUN (London)
Application Number: 16/755,511
Classifications
International Classification: A24B 15/167 (20060101); A24C 5/01 (20060101); A24F 40/20 (20060101);