Ethanol Extraction

Question 1

Define Ethanol Extraction

Answer 1

It involves the use of ethanol (alcohol) as a solvent to dissolve the desired compounds, followed by evaporation to remove the solvent and isolate the concentrated extract

Question 2

Ethanol Extraction Step 1

Answer 2

Preparation of Cannabis Material

Question 3

Ethanol Extraction Step 2

Answer 3

Grinding or Milling

Question 4

Ethanol Extraction Step 3

Answer 4

Decarboxylation (Optional)

Question 5

Ethanol Extraction Step 4

Answer 5

Extraction Process

Question 6

Ethanol Extraction Step 5

Answer 6

Soaking or Maceration

Question 7

Ethanol Extraction Step 6

Answer 7

Filtration

Question 8

Ethanol Extraction Step 8

Answer 8

Purging and Refinement (Optional)

Question 9

Ethanol Extraction Step 7

Answer 9

Evaporation of Ethanol

Question 10

Ethanol Extraction Step 9

Answer 10

Testing and Quality Control

Question 11

Ethanol Extraction Step 10

Answer 11

Packaging and Storage

Question 12

Describe Decarboxylation

Answer 12

Depending on the desired end product, the ground cannabis material may undergo decarboxylation, a process that converts inactive cannabinoids (e.g., THCA, CBDA) into their active forms (e.g., THC, CBD) through the application of heat. Decarboxylation can be performed before or after extraction, depending on the desired cannabinoid profile and intended use of the extract.

Question 13

Describe the Extraction process

Answer 13

The ground cannabis material is placed in a vessel or extraction chamber, and ethanol is added to cover the plant material completely. The mixture is agitated or stirred to facilitate the extraction process, allowing the ethanol to dissolve the cannabinoids, terpenes, and other desired compounds from the plant material.

Question 14

Describe the Filtration process

Answer 14

Once the extraction is complete, the ethanol solution containing the dissolved cannabinoids and terpenes is separated from the plant material. Filtration methods such as gravity filtration, vacuum filtration, or centrifugation are used to remove solid plant material and impurities from the ethanol extract.

Question 15

Describe the Soaking Process

Answer 15

The cannabis and ethanol mixture is allowed to soak or macerate for a predetermined period, typically ranging from a few minutes to several hours. This soaking period allows the ethanol to extract the desired compounds from the plant material thoroughly.