CO2 Extraction
Category: Extraction & Processing · Level: Expert
CO2 extraction is a method of producing cannabis concentrates using supercritical or subcritical carbon dioxide as a solvent, resulting in clean, pharmaceutical-grade extracts.
CO2 extraction utilizes carbon dioxide under high pressure and controlled temperature in its supercritical state (acting as both a liquid and gas) to extract cannabinoids and terpenes from cannabis plant material. The process is highly tunable: different pressure and temperature settings selectively extract different compounds. CO2 extraction produces clean extracts with no residual solvents, making it the preferred method for pharmaceutical-grade cannabis production and regulated medical markets. The equipment is expensive and requires technical expertise but offers advantages in consistency, safety, and extract purity. CO2 extracts are widely used in vape cartridges and pharmaceutical formulations.
Also known as
Supercritical CO2 extraction, Carbon dioxide extraction, supercritical CO2 extraction
Usage
- Medical
- Industrial
- Recreational
Related terms
- Distillate — Cannabis distillate is a highly refined extract produced through molecular distillation, typically containing 90%+ cannabinoid purity.
- Full-Spectrum — Full-spectrum cannabis extract contains all naturally occurring cannabinoids, terpenes, and other plant compounds, including trace amounts of THC.
- Extraction — Cannabis extraction is the process of isolating cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds from plant material using solvents or mechanical methods.