CO₂ extraction is a highly efficient, precise, and solvent-free method of isolating botanical compounds using supercritical carbon dioxide (CO₂). This advanced process allows manufacturers to selectively extract desired components such as terpenes, cannabinoids, flavonoids, and essential oils while leaving behind unwanted plant material, fats, and waxes.
At Terpene Tek, we utilize state-of-the-art CO₂ supercritical extraction technology to produce pure, full-spectrum, and strain-inspired terpene profiles with unmatched precision and consistency.
Step-by-Step:
Breakdown of CO₂ Extraction
1. Pressurizing the CO₂ to Achieve a Supercritical State
CO₂ exists naturally in gas or solid (dry ice) form. To transform it into a supercritical state, it must be exposed to precise temperature and pressure conditions.
At approximately 31.1°C (87.98°F) and 1,071 psi (pounds per square inch), CO₂ reaches a supercritical phase where it behaves as both a gas and a liquid simultaneously.
This unique state allows CO₂ to penetrate plant material like a gas while dissolving and carrying extracted compounds like a liquid.
2. Passing the Supercritical CO₂ Through Botanical Material
Once the CO₂ has reached its supercritical phase, it is pumped into an extraction chamber containing the plant material (e.g., cannabis or botanicals).
The supercritical CO₂ flows through the plant material, dissolving the target compounds such as terpenes, cannabinoids, and essential oils while leaving behind undesirable components.
By adjusting the temperature and pressure, operators can control which compounds are extracted first, allowing for the selective isolation of delicate terpenes before heavier compounds like cannabinoids.
3. Separation of Extracted Compounds
After the CO₂ extracts the desired compounds, the mixture enters a separator chamber, where pressure and temperature are lowered to allow individual components to separate.
Terpenes, cannabinoids, and other extracts condense into a collection vessel, while the CO₂ reverts to a gas and evaporates, leaving behind a pure, solvent-free extract.
Because CO₂ is a clean and non-toxic solvent, it completely dissipates without leaving behind residual solvents like ethanol or butane.
4. Recapturing & Recycling CO₂
One of the many advantages of CO₂ extraction is its sustainability and efficiency.
The CO₂ used in the process is recaptured, cooled, and recycled for future extractions, making it an eco-friendly method with minimal waste.
Why CO₂ Extraction is the Gold Standard
CO₂ extraction is widely regarded as the most advanced and precise method for terpene and cannabinoid isolation due to several key benefits:
✅ Selective Extraction: Fine-tuned pressure and temperature settings allow operators to extract specific compounds without damaging delicate terpenes or cannabinoids.
✅ Solvent-Free & Residue-Free: Unlike ethanol or butane extraction, CO₂ leaves no toxic solvents behind, ensuring a clean and pure final product.
✅ Terpene Preservation: Since terpenes are volatile and sensitive to heat, CO₂ extraction protects their aromatic and therapeutic integrity, resulting in true-to-strain profiles.
✅ Environmentally Friendly: CO₂ is a naturally occurring, renewable, and recyclable solvent, making this process sustainable and non-polluting.
✅ Pharmaceutical-Grade Purity: Because it meets FDA and pharmaceutical industry standards, CO₂ extraction is ideal for producing high-quality cannabis extracts, aromatherapy oils, and food-grade terpenes.
At Terpene Tek, we specialize in CO₂-extracted, strain-inspired terpene profiles that capture the full essence of the plant with unmatched quality and consistency. Our multi-molecular extraction process ensures that each terpene extract delivers authentic, full-spectrum aroma and effects, setting a new standard for purity and precision in the industry.
