What is hydrocarbon extraction?
Hydrocarbon extraction is a method used to extract cannabinoids (such as THC and CBD) and terpenes from cannabis plant material. Hydrocarbons (such as propane and butane) are utilized as solvents when combined with plant material.
A significant number of cannabis products can be created from a single extraction without any additional refinement. If the extraction is done correctly, there are no residual substances left.
Cannabis extraction is performed because the final product is much more potent and concentrated than the fresh plant, making it easier to determine the dosage.
Butane and Propane
Butane is a solvent that preserves temperature-sensitive terpenes since it can boil at a colder temperature. It is often mixed with propane for extraction, as it is more efficient than using butane alone and also separates additional terpenes.
Using only propane, various cannabinoids and waxes are extracted without affecting terpenes, but it is more common to use a combination of both.
Hydrocarbon Extraction Process
- Material preparation: The initial material must be dry and stored free from light and temperature variations. Preferably in vacuum-sealed bags filled with nitrogen.
- Loading of the material: The plant material is placed into a container designed to hold the solvent.
- Extraction: The hydrocarbon passes through the plant material, dissolving the terpenes and cannabinoids. The resulting solution can be directly captures or processed.
- Solvent recovery: The mixture of solvent and extracted compounds is collected in another container. Subsequently, a purification process is employed to remove the solvent, leaving the cannabinoids and terpenes in a concentrated form.
- Purification (optional): Depending on the desired final product, an additional purification step may be performed to remove impurities or adjust the concentration of certain compounds.
- Residual evaporation: It ensures that any remaining solvent residue evaporates completely.
- Producto final: A concentrated extract is obtained that can be used to manufacture a variety of cannabis products, such as oils and tinctures, concentrates, and edibles.
*NOTE: Our information is based on scientific studies or outreach; if you are considering using cannabis, please consult with a specialized medical professional.
