The CO2 Cannabis Extraction Method
CO2 cannabis extraction uses carbon dioxide to pull CBD oils from the plant. Carbon dioxide acts as a solvent in this situation and works at certain temperatures, but its dangers are not manifested in this case. CO2 extraction equipment is safe but at the same time very expensive. The machine compresses CO2 into a cold liquid.
After you have gotten the liquid CO2 the next step is to increase the pressure and temperature up to a point where the liquid becomes supercritical. At this stage, CO2 can work as both liquid and gas. Remember we said that CO2 used during extraction of the CBD oils is not harmful to humans, and this happens after it has turned to a supercritical state. At this point, it is safe for use and does not cause any damages whatsoever to humans.
For the extraction of CBD oil, the process starts with liquid CO2 which is put in a compressor to increase its pressure after which temperature is increased using a heat. After that, the CO2 is passed through high-quality cannabis in an extractor pulling out the required oils from the plant.
The oil extracts are passed through a separator where different parts of the oil are separated. The good parts are sent to the collection container, and by now the supercritical CO2 turns back into a liquid. To understand more about CO2 extraction, check co2 oil extraction kit for sale.
Subcritical Extraction
As opposed to supercritical, subcritical extraction involves low pressure and low temperature. The process takes longer and produces a smaller yield. It retains essential oils, sensitive materials, and the terpenes but it does not extra-large molecules. In many cases, this procedure damage terpenes. There are some companies which combine both supercritical and subcritical extraction methods.
Pros of co2 Extraction
- The process is safe. CO2 is used as a food additive and in the production of soft drinks
It is effective. CO2 has been used for years now by many food companies. It is used to remove caffeine from coffee for example, and it is as well used in the production of essential oils.
The produced oils are pure. The oils produced are free of chlorophyll and potent with minimal risks of contaminants.
Cons
The procedure is costly. The process can only be completed if you have all the equipment’s which can cost you as much as $39,000.
- The process can only be carried out by experts. This means that you will incur the expenses of hiring a specialist.