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Cloud point extraction of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol from cannabis resin.

Analytical and bioanalytical chemistry (2013-01-29)
S Ameur, B Haddou, Z Derriche, J P Canselier, C Gourdon
PMID23354583
ABSTRACT

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.% Na2SO4, 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.

MATERIALS
Product Number
Brand
Product Description
T-005
Supelco
(−)-trans-Δ9-THC solution, 1.0 mg/mL in methanol, ampule of 1 mL, certified reference material, Cerilliant®
T-047
Supelco
(±)-Δ9-THC solution, 100 μg/mL in heptane, ampule of 1 mL, Cerilliant®
T4764
Supelco
Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol solution, 1.0 mg/mL in methanol, analytical standard, for drug analysis