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New Test Methods for Analysis of Residual Solvents in Cannabis Extracts using Head-Space Gas Chromatography (HS-GC)
1. Scope
This test method provides a procedure for analyzing for the presence of residual solvents in cannabis extracts by headspace-gas chromatography (HS-GC). The method is independent of detector type, acknowledging that both mass spectrometers (MS) and flame ionization detectors (FID) are suitable and commonly used for this analysis. This test method outlines procedures for the preparation of calibration and quality control standards, preparation of samples, and parameters necessary for effective headspace sampling and chromatographic separation. Consideration of method adjustments for use of either or both MS and FID detection will be included.
Certain chemical solvents are commonly used to extract cannabinoids and to make them more accessible in manufacturing. While there are a couple of analytical methods available for volatile organic solvents (USP 467 and EPA 8270e) they are not specific to cannabis ingredients, material, or products. They have extended analyte lists of solvents that are not used in cannabis extract production, while typically not including in the method solvents like propane and butane, which are common to cannabis extract production. Like other cannabis analytical methods, standardization would be beneficial to align data across areas that will ensure understanding of values.
