Work with Cannabis/Hemp Derived Terpenes in Vapes & Other Products

Cannabis or Hemp Derived Terpenes (CDTs/HDTs) are utilized as flavoring extracts in products such as vapes, E-cigs, cigarettes, and therapeutic soaps. Hemp and cannabis share a significant genetic similarity, enabling specially bred hemp varieties to mimic the flavors of cannabis strains without producing THC (THCA), which are regulated substances. The key advantage of CDTs & HDTs lies in their ability to facilitate consistent mass production of vapes with distinct terpene “strains” and large-scale distillate extracts. This contrasts with live resin, which often exhibits batch-to-batch variability influenced by factors like weather, time of year, and geographic location, akin to agricultural produce.

Initially, cannabis-derived terpenes were extracted during cryogenic BHO processes and subsequently subjected to fractional distillation to remove full-spectrum terpenes. However, this approach proved challenging to scale due to inconsistencies in source materials. The passing of the 2019 Farm Bill prompted many hemp farms to cultivate and extract hemp on a commercial scale for CBD production. This led to the development of hemp strains specifically bred to mimic cannabis-like terpene profiles, marking the onset of commercial hemp terpene extraction.

CDTs & HDTs are hydrocarbon terpenes that are thermally labile and susceptible to rapid oxidation under heat or oxidative conditions. Although they are less fragile than live resin, precautions must be taken to prevent spoilage and discoloration. The following sections address various aspects of handling these sensitive terpenes.

Efforts should focus on minimizing hot spots during the heating and mixing of CDT mixtures. Similar to live resin mixtures, achieving uniform formulations requires gentle overhead stirring, water baths, or precision ovens. This approach reduces the risk of localized oxidation reactions and preserves the integrity of the terpenes. Heating devices prone to creating hot spots, such as heat plates, bunsen burners, and dip heaters, should be avoided to prevent terpene denaturation.

During the filling of vapes or the application to hemp cigarettes, it is crucial to avoid overheating the final mixture. Many filling equipment systems can generate localized hot spots and elevated temperatures, which may degrade the terpenes. CDTs can typically withstand temperatures up to 50°C for a limited duration before polymerization occurs, resulting in undesirable burnt plastic flavors and cartridge discoloration. Innovations like the Xylem automated cart filling systems have been developed to mitigate these overheating challenges.

For optimal preservation, CDTs and HDTs should be stored under refrigeration temperatures ranging from 4°C to 8°C, preferably under nitrogen or argon pressure. This environment prevents degradation and allows the materials to be stored for extended periods without losing potency. Care should be taken to shield storage containers from UV exposure, particularly when utilizing biomedical blood refrigerators with transparent doors.

While extract pH does not significantly impact flavor, maintaining a neutral pH (around 7) is advisable. CDTs are prone to discoloration under extreme pH conditions (either acidic or alkaline), which can lead to the formation of unsightly brown layers.

These guidelines underscore the importance of meticulous handling and storage practices to preserve the quality and efficacy of CDTs and HDTs throughout production and distribution.