Cannabis Oil Post-Processing for Terpene Retention and THCA Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cannabis oil extraction processes, such as Butane hash oil extraction, often result in products with low terpene retention and a limited spectrum of cannabinoids, which are less effective for medicinal uses.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the post-processing of cannabis oil using techniques like crystallization and activation to achieve a high terpene concentration of at least 4.88% by weight and a full spectrum of cannabinoids, including detectable levels of THC, other cannabinoids, and the inhibition of THCA crystallization to prevent device clogging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional extraction processes like Butane hash oil extraction are used, then extraction efficiency is improved, but terpene retention is low and cannabinoid spectrum is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing post-processing steps after extraction to enhance terpene retention and cannabinoid spectrum. The method involves taking the extracted oil and subjecting it to additional processing steps that convert non-active cannabinoids to active forms and preserve terpene content, thereby resolving the contradiction between extraction efficiency and terpene retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by modifying temperature, time, and chemical environment parameters during post-processing to selectively convert cannabinoids and preserve terpenes. By controlling these parameters, the process achieves high terpene retention while expanding the cannabinoid spectrum, thus resolving the contradiction with conventional extraction methods.
2Speed
If conventional extraction processes are used, then extraction speed is improved, but full spectrum cannabinoid profile is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing post-processing steps after extraction to enhance terpene retention and cannabinoid spectrum. The method involves taking the extracted oil and subjecting it to additional processing steps that convert non-active cannabinoids to active forms and preserve terpene content, thereby resolving the contradiction between extraction efficiency and terpene retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuity of useful action by extending the processing beyond simple extraction to include post-processing steps that continuously transform and enhance the oil's cannabinoid profile. This continuous action converts non-active cannabinoids to active forms and maintains terpene integrity, achieving a full spectrum profile without sacrificing extraction speed.
3Quantity of substance
If THCA is present in the oil formulation, then cannabinoid spectrum is improved, but device clogging occurs due to THCA crystallization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by controlling temperature and chemical environment parameters during post-processing to prevent THCA crystallization. By maintaining specific temperature ranges and using solvents or co-solvents, the process keeps THCA in solution while still achieving a full cannabinoid spectrum, thus preventing device clogging while preserving the desired cannabinoid profile.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs an intermediary substance (such as a solvent or co-solvent) that mediates between THCA and the oil formulation. This intermediary prevents THCA from crystallizing and clogging devices while allowing the full cannabinoid spectrum to be maintained. The intermediary acts as a bridge that keeps THCA in a stable, non-crystallizing state.
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
The method effectively enhances terpene retention and cannabinoid spectrum, resulting in a more effective cannabis oil formulation for medicinal applications with increased yield and scalability, while preventing THCA crystallization issues.
Implementation Method 1
A method involving the post-processing of cannabis oil using techniques like crystallization and activation
Implementation Method 2
activation to achieve a high terpene concentration of at least 4.88% by weight and a full spectrum of cannabinoids, including detectable levels of THC, other cannabinoids, and the inhibition of THCA crystallization to prevent device clogging
Data Source
AI summary
A cannabis oil formulation comprises a level of terpene concentration of at least 4.88% by weight, detectable levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and at least two other cannabinoids, and a level of tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) concentration that is not detectable.