Cannabinoid Extraction with Inert-Gas Pressure Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cannabinoid extraction methods require multiple solvents and processes, leading to inefficiencies and issues with material movement, particularly when using hydrocarbon solvents like LPG.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an inert gas, such as nitrogen, into the extraction system to manage pressure and facilitate the movement of materials between vessels, allowing for more efficient extraction and purification of cannabinoids.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple solvents and discrete separation processes are used for cannabinoid extraction, then extraction completeness is improved, but device complexity and process inefficiency increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple discrete separation processes into a single integrated extraction system. Instead of using multiple solvents sequentially, the system uses one solvent (such as ethanol or isopropanol) that can extract multiple cannabinoid types simultaneously, merging what were previously separate extraction steps into a unified process that reduces complexity while maintaining extraction completeness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a universal solvent system that can extract various types of cannabinoids (THC, CBD, CBG, CBN) and other plant compounds in a single extraction process. This multi-functional solvent approach replaces the need for multiple specialized solvents, simplifying the overall process while improving productivity.
2Productivity
If hydrocarbon solvents like LPG are used for extraction, then extraction efficiency is improved, but material movement between vessels becomes problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary system for material transfer that resolves the volatility issues of hydrocarbon solvents. Instead of directly moving volatile hydrocarbon solvents between vessels, the system uses a controlled transfer mechanism (such as closed-loop piping with pressure control or evaporation-assisted transfer) that enables safe and efficient material movement while maintaining extraction efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the solvent system to improve handling characteristics. By adjusting temperature, pressure, or solvent composition, the system maintains the high extraction efficiency of hydrocarbon solvents while modifying their physical properties to enable easier and safer material movement between vessels during the extraction process.
3Device complexity
If crude oil extraction is performed with low cannabinoid concentrations (50%), then extraction simplicity is maintained, but product purity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the extraction process into distinct functional stages: an initial extraction phase that maintains simplicity, followed by a separation/purification phase that enhances purity. This segmentation allows the system to achieve both high purity and reasonable process simplicity by dividing the overall process into manageable steps rather than requiring a single complex operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical separation systems with alternative methods such as filtration, centrifugation, or evaporation that can achieve high purity more efficiently. By substituting complex mechanical processing with more streamlined separation techniques, the system maintains high cannabinoid purity while reducing the overall complexity of the extraction process.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances the efficiency of cannabinoid extraction by improving the movement of materials and reducing the need for multiple solvents, thereby increasing purity and yield.
Implementation Method 1
pumping the inert gas to change pressures within the system to aid in the movement of at least one of the solvent, plant extracts, terpenes, and cannabinoids
Implementation Method 2
mixing a solvent with plant extracts having one or more desired compounds to form a mixture
Implementation Method 3
The process then separates the solvent from the mixture, leaving a residual liquid composed of the desired compounds
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes adding an inert gas to a cannabinoid extraction system, mixing a solvent with plant matter having one or more desired compounds to form a mixture, recovering the solvent from the mixture, leaving a residual liquid, and pumping the inert gas to change pressures within the system to aid in the movement of at least one of the solvent, plant extracts, and desired compounds, without removing the inert gas from the system.