CO₂ extraction

CO₂ extraction is a method used to isolate and recover certain compounds naturally present in hemp. It involves using carbon dioxide (CO₂) under specific temperature and pressure conditions so that it acts as an extraction agent.

This technique is widely used in the hemp industry, as well as in other sectors such as food processing, cosmetics and perfumery. It makes it possible to extract various plant constituents while providing precise control over production parameters.

The principle of supercritical CO₂

When subjected to certain temperature and pressure conditions, carbon dioxide reaches a state known as supercritical. In this particular state, it has some of the properties of both a liquid and a gas.

Supercritical CO₂ can then pass through plant material and solubilise certain compounds naturally present in the plant. Once extraction is complete, the pressure is changed to separate the CO₂ from the recovered substances.

A method used for cannabinoids and terpenes

CO₂ extraction is frequently used to recover cannabinoids such as CBD, CBG or other compounds present in hemp. Depending on the parameters selected, it can also make it possible to extract some of the terpenes and other aromatic molecules.

Manufacturers can adjust the extraction conditions to obtain different extract profiles depending on the desired result.

A process widely used in industry

One of the main advantages of CO₂ extraction is the precision of the process. Temperature and pressure parameters can be carefully controlled to optimise the recovery of certain compounds.

This method is now used in many laboratories and facilities specialising in the processing of hemp and other plant materials.

An important technology in the world of CBD

Many extracts intended for the production of oils, cosmetics or other hemp-based products are obtained through CO₂ extraction. This technique is one of the best-known and most widely used processes in the modern hemp industry.