🎓 Decarboxylation: Temperature, Timing & Cannabinoid Conversion

🎓 Decarboxylation: Temperature, Timing & Cannabinoid Conversion

Introduction

Decarboxylation (“decarb”) is the heat-driven chemical reaction that converts acidic cannabinoids (CBDA, CBGA, THCA) into their active forms (CBD, CBG, THC).

For manufacturers, precise decarboxylation ensures predictable potency, consistent performance, and safe downstream processing.


🧬 The Chemistry Behind Decarb

Raw hemp contains cannabinoids in their acidic forms:

  • CBGA → CBG
  • CBDA → CBD
  • THCA → THC

Decarboxylation removes a carboxyl group (COOH) releasing CO₂.

This reaction:

  • Increases potency
  • Enhances bioavailability
  • Enables proper extraction
  • Prevents microbial growth

🔥 Optimal Decarb Temperatures & Times

Cannabinoid Optimal Temp Time Notes
CBDA → CBD 110–120°C 40–60 min Avoid >130°C
CBGA → CBG 105–115°C 30–45 min More heat-sensitive
THCA → THC 120–135°C 30–60 min Risk of degradation >145°C
Terpenes <125°C Volatile—may evaporate

Overheating causes:

  • Cannabinoid degradation
  • Formation of CBN (from THC)
  • Darkened color and off-notes

⚗️ Industrial Decarb SOP

  1. Preheat convection oven/reactor
  2. Spread biomass or crude oil thinly
  3. Use inert atmosphere if possible (nitrogen blanket)
  4. Track internal mass temperature
  5. Stir every 15 minutes
  6. Cool before extraction/refinement

🧠 Analytical Confirmation

Use HPLC to confirm conversion:

  • CBD should represent 70–90% of measurable cannabinoids post-decarb.
  • CBDA should fall below 1%.

Summary

Precise decarboxylation maximizes cannabinoid yield, improves consistency, and reduces risk during refinement.

Use COA-verified ingredients:

https://lowgravityhemp.com/collections/hemp-derived-ingrediants