How to Remove Chlorophyll from CBD Oil
Chlorophyll is commonly removed from CBD oil using activated carbon filtration, leveraging a process called adsorption.
Chlorophyll, the green pigment found in plants, is often present in crude CBD oil extracted from hemp or cannabis. While not harmful, it can impart an undesirable green color and a grassy or bitter taste, affecting the final product's quality and marketability. Removing chlorophyll results in a clearer, more palatable oil.
The Role of Activated Carbon
A widely used method for purifying CBD oil and removing chlorophyll is treatment with activated carbon. Activated carbon materials, like ACTIVASORB® products, are specially prepared with activated carbon to enhance their adsorptive properties.
- Adsorption Mechanism: Activated carbon works through adsorption. This is a surface phenomenon where impurities, such as chlorophyll molecules, adhere or stick to the large surface area of the porous activated carbon material. Think of it like tiny magnets attracting and holding the undesirable substances.
- Purification Benefits: This process not only removes chlorophyll but also helps in color and taste remediation, resulting in a cleaner, better-quality CBD oil.
The Process
While the exact process can vary depending on the scale and specific equipment used, it generally involves bringing the crude CBD oil into contact with the activated carbon material.
- Preparation: Crude CBD oil, often after initial extraction and possibly winterization (to remove fats and waxes), is prepared for filtration.
- Contact: The oil is passed through or mixed with activated carbon material (like ACTIVASORB® filters or powders). The chlorophyll molecules in the oil are attracted to and captured by the activated carbon's surface pores.
- Separation: The purified oil is then separated from the activated carbon material, leaving behind the adsorbed chlorophyll and other impurities. This is typically done through filtration.
Why Remove Chlorophyll?
Removing chlorophyll is primarily done to improve the sensory qualities of the CBD oil:
- Aesthetic Appeal: Reduces the green color, resulting in a more appealing golden or amber oil.
- Taste Improvement: Eliminates the harsh, grassy, or bitter notes associated with chlorophyll, creating a smoother flavor.
Using activated carbon impregnated materials like ACTIVASORB® is a standard and effective technique for achieving these purification goals in CBD oil processing.
