Cloud point extraction of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol from cannabis resin

• Published in: Analytical and bioanalytical chemistry 2013-04, Vol.405 (10), p.3117-3123
• Main Authors: Ameur, S., Haddou, B., Derriche, Z., Canselier, J. P., Gourdon, C.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Analytical Chemistry; Biochemistry; Cannabis - chemistry; Characterization and Evaluation of Materials; Chemical Fractionation - methods; Chemical Sciences; Chemistry; Chemistry and Materials Science; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid - methods; Dronabinol - analysis; Dronabinol - isolation & purification; Food Science; Laboratory Medicine; Monitoring/Environmental Analysis; Organic chemistry; Original Paper; Plant Extracts - analysis; Plant Extracts - isolation & purification; Resins, Plant - chemistry
• ISSN: 1618-2642; 1618-2650
• DOI: 10.1007/s00216-013-6743-2

A cloud point extraction coupled with high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC/UV) method was developed for the determination of Δ 9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in micellar phase. The nonionic surfactant “Dowfax 20B102” was used to extract and pre-concentrate THC from cannabis resin, prior to its determination with a HPLC–UV system (diode array detector) with isocratic elution. The parameters and variables affecting the extraction were investigated. Under optimum conditions (1 wt.% Dowfax 20B102, 1 wt.% Na 2 SO 4 , T  = 318 K, t  = 30 min), this method yielded a quite satisfactory recovery rate (~81 %). The limit of detection was 0.04 μg mL −1 , and the relative standard deviation was less than 2 %. Compared with conventional solid–liquid extraction, this new method avoids the use of volatile organic solvents, therefore is environmentally safer.