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A novel method for extracting and purifying cannabinoids (such as CBD) from hemp biomass using supercritical CO2 (scCO2) or other solvents in combination with mesoporous materials
About
This patented method provides a highly efficient, scalable, and environmentally friendly approach to cannabinoid extraction. By combining supercritical CO2 extraction with mesoporous material adsorption, it enhances purity, safety, and efficiency while reducing the need for hazardous solvents.
Key Steps in the Method:
1. Extraction of Cannabinoids
- A primary solvent (such as supercritical CO2 or hexane) is used to extract cannabinoids from hemp or cannabis biomass.
- This solvent efficiently dissolves hydrophobic compounds (like CBD or THC) while leaving behind unwanted plant material.
2. Selective Adsorption Using Mesoporous Material
- The cannabinoid-containing extract is passed through a mesoporous material (e.g., Starbon®).
- The material selectively adsorbs cannabinoids while filtering out undesirable components such as lipids, chlorophyll, and other contaminants.
3. Desorption & Purification
- A secondary solvent (such as ethanol) is used to release the purified cannabinoids from the adsorbent material.
- The cannabinoids are then collected in a concentrated form.
4. Final Processing & Isolation
- The purified cannabinoids undergo additional removal of residual solvents through evaporation or distillation.
- This results in a high-purity CBD or THC product suitable for pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, or industrial applications.
Key Benefits
Higher Purity & Yield – The method efficiently isolates cannabinoids (CBD, CBDA, etc.) with minimal contaminants like waxes, sterols, and terpenes, ensuring pharmaceutical-grade purity.
Eco-Friendly & Solvent Reduction – By using supercritical CO₂ instead of hazardous solvents like hexane, the process minimizes environmental impact and reduces chemical residues in the final product.
Faster & Cost-Effective Processing – The "one-pot" system combines extraction and purification in a single step, eliminating labor-intensive processes like winterization and chromatography, saving time and operational costs.
Scalability for Industrial Production – The technology is adaptable for large-scale operations, making it viable for pharmaceutical, food, beverage, and cosmetic applications.
Preservation of Acidic Cannabinoids – Unlike high-heat extraction methods, this process maintains cannabinoid acid forms (CBDA, THCA, etc.), which have unique therapeutic properties.
Regulatory Compliance & Market Readiness – Producing high-purity extracts with lower impurities helps companies meet GMP, FDA, and EU Novel Foods standards, improving market access.
Applications
1. Pharmaceutical Industry (CBD & THC for Medical Use)
- The method allows for high-purity cannabinoid extraction with fewer impurities, making it ideal for producing medical-grade CBD or THC for:
- Pain relief medications
- Anxiety & epilepsy treatments (e.g., Epidiolex)
- Anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective drugs
- Industrial Benefit: Pharmaceutical companies can use this method to ensure consistent, high-purity cannabinoid extracts suitable for regulatory approval.
2. Cannabis & Hemp Processing Industry
- Hemp and cannabis processors can use this method to:
- Extract full-spectrum CBD oil with minimal contaminants.
- Create THC-free CBD isolates for wellness products.
- Industrial Benefit: This method allows for more efficient extraction with reduced use of hazardous solvents (e.g., hexane), making it a safer and greener alternative.
3. Food & Beverage Industry (CBD-Infused Products)
- The method can be used to produce food-grade CBD extracts for:
- CBD-infused beverages (e.g., sparkling waters, teas)
- CBD gummies, chocolates, and edibles
- Nutraceutical supplements for general wellness
- Industrial Benefit: The process ensures pure extracts that comply with food safety regulations, avoiding contaminants that could affect taste or safety.
4. Cosmetics & Skincare Industry
- The high purity of extracted cannabinoids makes them suitable for:
- CBD-based skincare products (lotions, balms, anti-aging creams)
- Anti-inflammatory beauty products for sensitive skin
- Haircare formulations incorporating CBD for scalp health
- Industrial Benefit: The method helps cosmetic brands produce high-quality, consistent cannabinoid extracts without unwanted impurities like plant waxes and chlorophyll.
5. Alternative to Traditional Solvent Extraction
- Many current extraction processes use hexane or ethanol, which require extensive post-processing to remove residual solvents.
- Using supercritical CO₂ (scCO₂) instead:
- Reduces toxic solvent residues in the final product.
- Improves extraction efficiency and cannabinoid selectivity.
- Makes the process more environmentally friendly.
- Industrial Benefit: Companies aiming for organic and clean-label products can adopt this method to eliminate concerns over solvent contamination.