Analysis of Tetrahydrocannabinol Vape Oils Using Pyroprobe by Thermal Extraction

Abstract

This application note demonstrates a multi-step thermal extraction study on Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) vape oils.

Introduction

E-cigarettes have gained popularity in recent years, in conjunction with the legalization of marijuana in many U.S. states. Authentic THC vape oils are not easily distinguishable from the counterfeits, which are poorly regulated and can cause severe lung injuries. There has been a growing national interest in the effective analysis of THC vape oils. One of the challenges is that vape oil comes with a complex solvent that contains a variety of volatile and semi-volatile ingredients. Before analysis via GC or HPLC, the sample needs to be either extracted or diluted before analysis, to avoid saturating the instrument. While these approaches may be adequate, they have limitations related to human error in wet chemistry and high cost through intensive labor. A direct thermal extraction of vape oils using a Pyroprobe can provide a fast and accurate solution.