How is Delta 8 Made?

By: admin On: Nov. 4, 2023, 11:58 a.m.

female scientist manufacturing delta 8 in a lab

Delta 8 Manufacturing Process Overview

Delta-8-THC, often simply referred to as delta-8, is a cannabinoid that is naturally occurring and can be derived from the hemp or cannabis plant. It is produced through a chemical conversion process, and the most common method for making delta-8 involves the following steps:

1. Extraction of CBD or delta-9-THC: The process often starts with the extraction of CBD (cannabidiol) from hemp plants. It can also begin with delta-9-THC (the more well-known psychoactive compound) extracted from cannabis plants.

2. Isolation of CBD or delta-9-THC: After the extraction, the isolated CBD or delta-9-THC is then subjected to various chemical reactions to convert it into delta-8-THC. This conversion typically involves the use of solvents and reagents.

3. Isomerization: The isolated compound (CBD or delta-9-THC) undergoes a chemical process known as isomerization. In this step, it is transformed into delta-8-THC by changing the arrangement of its atoms. This process can be complex and requires careful control of temperature, time, and other factors.

4. Purification: After the isomerization, the resulting substance needs to be purified to remove any residual chemicals or impurities that may be present. This is usually done through processes like chromatography.

5. Testing and Compliance: The final delta-8-THC product is tested for purity and to ensure that it complies with legal requirements in the region it's produced. In the United States, for example, delta-8 products must contain less than 0.3% delta-9-THC to be considered legal.

It's essential to note that the production of delta-8 can be a sensitive and regulated process, and it's important to obtain delta-8 products from reputable sources to ensure quality and legality. Additionally, the legal status of delta-8 varies by location, so it's crucial to be aware of local regulations and restrictions. Always consult with local laws and regulations before producing or purchasing delta-8 products.

Extraction of CBD or delta-9-THC:

Both CBD (cannabidiol) and delta-9-THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) can be extracted from cannabis or hemp plants using various methods. Here are common extraction techniques for each:

CBD Extraction:

1. Solvent Extraction: This is one of the most widely used methods for extracting CBD. It involves the use of a solvent, typically ethanol, supercritical carbon dioxide (CO2), or hydrocarbons like butane or propane. The plant material (usually hemp) is soaked in the solvent to extract the cannabinoids. Afterward, the solvent is evaporated, leaving behind CBD-rich oil. This oil may undergo further refinement and purification.

2. Supercritical CO2 Extraction: This method uses supercritical CO2 as a solvent, which is pressurized to become a liquid state. It is then passed through the plant material to extract CBD. When the pressure is released, the CO2 reverts to a gas and leaves behind a concentrated CBD extract. This method is known for producing high-quality, pure CBD extracts.

3. Olive Oil Extraction: In this method, olive oil is used as the solvent. The plant material is heated to activate the cannabinoids and then mixed with olive oil. The cannabinoids are extracted into the oil. While this method is safe and simple, the resulting oil is less concentrated than other methods.

Delta-9-THC Extraction:

1. Solvent Extraction: Similar to CBD extraction, delta-9-THC can be extracted using solvents like ethanol, supercritical CO2, or hydrocarbons. The plant material is soaked in the solvent to extract the cannabinoids, including delta-9-THC. The solvent is then evaporated, leaving behind a concentrated delta-9-THC extract.

2. Short-Path Distillation: After extracting the cannabinoids, short-path distillation can be used to further refine the extract. This process separates and purifies delta-9-THC from other compounds based on their boiling points. It's often used to create highly concentrated delta-9-THC distillate.

3. CO2 Extraction: As with CBD, supercritical CO2 extraction can also be used to extract delta-9-THC from the plant material. This method allows for precise control over the extraction process, producing a high-purity delta-9-THC extract.

It's important to note that the choice of extraction method can impact the purity and quality of the final product. Additionally, the legality of delta-9-THC extraction can vary significantly based on regional laws and regulations. Always ensure compliance with local regulations when extracting and handling delta-9-THC.

Isolation of CBD or delta-9-THC:

The isolation of CBD (cannabidiol) and delta-9-THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) typically involves further refining and purifying these cannabinoids after extraction. Here are general methods for isolating these compounds:

Isolating CBD:

1. Chromatography: This is one of the most common methods for isolating CBD. In chromatography, the CBD extract is dissolved in a solvent and then passed through a chromatography column filled with a solid material called the stationary phase. As the solution moves through the column, the different compounds in the extract interact with the stationary phase at different rates. This separation process allows for the isolation of CBD from other cannabinoids and impurities.

2. Crystallization: Another method for CBD isolation is crystallization. The CBD extract is dissolved in a suitable solvent and then cooled or allowed to evaporate slowly. As the solution cools or the solvent evaporates, CBD crystals form. These crystals can be separated and collected, providing a highly pure form of CBD.

Isolating Delta-9-THC:

1. Chromatography: Similar to CBD, delta-9-THC can be isolated using chromatography. The delta-9-THC extract is subjected to chromatographic separation to separate it from other cannabinoids and impurities.

2. Crystallization: Delta-9-THC can also be isolated through crystallization. The delta-9-THC extract is dissolved in a suitable solvent, and then the solution is cooled or allowed to evaporate. As it cools or the solvent evaporates, delta-9-THC crystals form, which can be separated and collected.

3. Distillation: Short-path distillation or fractional distillation is used to isolate delta-9-THC from other compounds based on their different boiling points. This method allows for the separation and purification of delta-9-THC.

It's important to note that the isolation process may vary in complexity and specifics depending on the equipment and techniques used. Additionally, the legality of isolating delta-9-THC varies by region and is subject to local laws and regulations. Always ensure compliance with local regulations when isolating and handling delta-9-THC.

Isomerization:

The isomerization of CBD (cannabidiol) or delta-9-THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) into delta-8-THC (delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol) is a chemical process that involves changing the arrangement of atoms within the molecule. While the exact methods used can vary, here's a simplified overview of how this isomerization process is typically achieved:

delta 8 isomerization

Materials Needed:

CBD or delta-9-THC
An acid catalyst (commonly used is hydrochloric acid or p-toluenesulfonic acid)
A solvent (commonly used are dichloromethane, heptane, or hexane)
A reaction vessel equipped with temperature control and stirring capabilities
A separation funnel for extracting the product
A base (commonly used is sodium bicarbonate or sodium hydroxide) for neutralization
A rotary evaporator for solvent removal

Steps:

1. Dissolution: The starting material, either CBD or delta-9-THC, is dissolved in a suitable solvent. This solvent is typically a non-polar organic solvent like dichloromethane, heptane, or hexane.

2. Acid-Catalyzed Isomerization: An acid catalyst, such as hydrochloric acid or p-toluenesulfonic acid, is added to the solution. The acid catalyst initiates the isomerization process. The mixture is then heated to a specific temperature and kept under controlled conditions. The heat and acidity promote the rearrangement of the molecules, transforming CBD or delta-9-THC into delta-8-THC. This process can take several hours.

3. Extraction: Once the isomerization is complete, the reaction mixture is typically extracted with a separation funnel. This step is crucial to separate the delta-8-THC product from the other reaction components, including the acid catalyst.

4. Neutralization: To remove any remaining acidic compounds, the extracted solution is neutralized using a base like sodium bicarbonate or sodium hydroxide.

5. Solvent Removal: The solution is then evaporated using a rotary evaporator to remove the solvent, leaving behind the purified delta-8-THC.

6. Purification: The resulting delta-8-THC may undergo further purification steps to remove any remaining impurities, if necessary.

It's important to emphasize that this process involves the use of potentially hazardous chemicals, such as strong acids and flammable solvents, and should only be conducted by individuals with the necessary chemical expertise and in compliance with local regulations. Additionally, the legality of delta-8-THC varies by region, so it's important to be aware of and comply with local laws when considering its production and use.

Purification:

After the isomerization of delta-8-THC, the resulting substance may still contain impurities and byproducts that need to be removed to obtain a purified product. Purification is a crucial step in ensuring the quality and safety of delta-8-THC. Here are common methods used for the purification of delta-8-THC:

1. Chromatography: Chromatography is a versatile purification method used in the cannabis industry. It involves passing the delta-8-THC extract through a chromatography column filled with a solid material (stationary phase). As the solution flows through the column, the different compounds in the extract interact with the stationary phase at varying rates. This separation process allows for the isolation of delta-8-THC from other cannabinoids and impurities.

2. Distillation: Short-path distillation or fractional distillation can be used to further purify delta-8-THC. Distillation takes advantage of the differences in boiling points of various compounds. By carefully controlling temperature and pressure, delta-8-THC can be separated from other compounds based on its specific boiling point, leading to a highly purified product.

3. Solvent Removal: If a solvent was used in the extraction or isomerization process, it's essential to remove it to ensure the product's safety. Solvent removal is typically achieved using a rotary evaporator, which evaporates the solvent under controlled conditions.

4. Filtration: Filtration techniques, such as gravity filtration or membrane filtration, can be employed to remove particulate impurities or unwanted solids from the delta-8-THC solution.

5. Crystallization: In some cases, delta-8-THC can be further purified through crystallization. By allowing the delta-8-THC solution to cool or by manipulating solvents, delta-8-THC crystals can form and be separated from the remaining solution.

6. Winterization: Winterization is a process that involves mixing the delta-8-THC extract with a cold solvent, typically ethanol, and then freezing the mixture. This process helps remove unwanted lipids, waxes, and other impurities that are insoluble in cold ethanol.

It's crucial to emphasize that the specific purification methods and the sequence in which they are employed may vary based on the producer's equipment and preferences. Additionally, the legality of delta-8-THC and its purification processes can differ by region and should always comply with local laws and regulations. Proper purification is essential to ensure that the final delta-8-THC product is safe, high-quality, and compliant with legal requirements.

Testing and Compliance:

Once delta-8-THC has been purified, it needs to undergo testing and compliance procedures to ensure it meets safety and legal standards. These tests are essential to confirm the quality and purity of the product. The testing and compliance process typically involves the following steps:

1. Third-Party Testing: Delta-8-THC producers typically send their purified product to an independent third-party laboratory for testing. Third-party testing is crucial to ensure impartial and accurate results. The laboratory should be accredited and recognized for its expertise in cannabinoid analysis.

2. Certificate of Analysis (CoA): The third-party laboratory conducts a series of tests on the delta-8-THC product. These tests may include assessing cannabinoid potency, checking for the presence of delta-9-THC and other cannabinoids, measuring residual solvents (if solvents were used during the extraction process), and examining the product for contaminants such as pesticides, heavy metals, and microbial impurities. The results of these tests are compiled into a Certificate of Analysis (CoA).

3. Regulatory Compliance: The delta-8-THC product is evaluated to ensure that it complies with local, state, and federal regulations. Compliance standards can vary by region, so producers must be well-informed about the specific legal requirements in their area.

4. Labeling and Packaging Compliance: The packaging and labeling of the delta-8-THC product must comply with regulations. This includes providing accurate information about the product's contents, concentration, and intended use. Regulations may also dictate specific warning labels or child-resistant packaging requirements.

5. Batch Identification: Each batch of delta-8-THC should have a unique identification or batch number that corresponds to the CoA for that specific batch. This helps track and verify the testing and compliance for each batch.

6. Quality Control: Producers may conduct in-house quality control procedures to ensure that the product consistently meets their own quality standards. These checks can include visual inspections, organoleptic assessments (sensory evaluation), and other quality control measures.

7. Record Keeping: Producers should maintain detailed records of their testing and compliance procedures, including the results of each batch's CoA, production processes, and packaging information. This documentation helps demonstrate compliance and facilitates traceability.

8. Consumer Transparency: Delta-8-THC brands often make the Certificate of Analysis available to consumers on their website or through other means to provide transparency and assure customers of the product's quality.

It's important to note that compliance requirements can vary from one region to another, so producers must be diligent in understanding and adhering to the specific regulations in their area. This ensures that delta-8-THC products are safe, accurately labeled, and legally available to consumers.