Senior Design Project
The purpose of this project was to determine an appropriate alternative extraction method of cannabinoids from hemp according to constraints given by a sponsoring company and general engineering ethics. The sponsoring company Palmetto Harmony's current extraction method utilizes an oil infusion method using MCT oil and asked for a more efficient concentrates method. Three different extraction methods were analyzed: ethanol, n-butane and super critical CO2. Because of the constrains requiring both non alcohol based solvents and a full spectrum extraction n-butane was determined to be the best method. This extraction was implemented and ran. After implementation an efficiency test was run as well as an economic evaluation to ensure the extraction was efficient and also under the $25,000 budget required by Palmetto Harmony. The extraction was found to be 72% efficient and had a total set up cost of just over $19,000. Through this project multiple extraction methods were studied allowing for a diversity of knowledge concerning cannabinoid extractions to be utilized later in our engineering careers. This project allowed us to utilize data analysis techniques as well as implement heat transfer systems and efficient, ethical engineering practices. For further information about this project please view the presentation above or download the final paper.