Microtextured liquid transport element for aerosol delivery device

An aerosol delivery device, comprising:

• a reservoir containing a liquid aerosol precursor composition;
• and
• an atomizer comprising:
• a nonfibrous liquid transport element in fluid communication with the reservoir;
• a heating zone proximate the nonfibrous liquid transport element;
• a heating element proximate the heating zone;
• a microtextured surface adapted for surface wicking of the liquid aerosol precursor composition across the surface to direct the liquid aerosol precursor composition toward the heating element;
• and
• a protective layer arranged over the heating element,
• wherein the heating element is formed as a film arranged in direct contact with the microtextured surface.