2 & 3 Component Blends
The importance of 2 and 3-component hydrocarbon gas blends, their impact on extraction performance, and the benefits of instrument-grade (99.5% purity) solvents.
Understanding Hydrocarbon Gas Blends
Hydrocarbon extraction relies on the ability of solvents like butane and propane to dissolve and separate compounds from plant material. The physical properties of these gases, particularly their boiling points and solubility characteristics, determine how well they extract different compounds.
Here’s a breakdown of key hydrocarbon gases and their properties:
•N-Butane (C₄H₁₀): Boiling point of -0.5°C (31°F). Offers high solubility for cannabinoids and lipids, leading to high yields. However, due to its relatively low vapor pressure, it takes longer to purge during post-processing.
•N-Propane (C₃H₈): Boiling point of -42°C (-44°F). Provides a faster extraction due to its higher vapor pressure. It is particularly useful for extracting terpenes, which are more volatile than cannabinoids.
•Isobutane (C₄H₁₀): A structural isomer of N-Butane with a slightly lower boiling point of -11.7°C (10.9°F), making it useful for refining extractions.
By combining these gases in different ratios, extraction operators can fine-tune the process to achieve specific outcomes. Below, we explore common 2 and 3-component hydrocarbon gas blends and their benefits.
2 & 3 Component Gas Blends
Two-component blends are widely used because they offer a balance between butane’s high solubility and propane’s fast extraction and purging properties.
Three-component blends allow for even greater control, combining the benefits of butane, propane, and isobutane.
50% N-Butane / 50% N-Propane
• A balanced mix that provides moderate solubility and fast extraction.
•Suitable for broad-spectrum extracts, preserving both cannabinoids and terpenes.
• Works well for small-batch and artisanal extraction.
60% N-Butane / 40% N-Propane
•Increased butane content enhances cannabinoid solubility, leading to higher yields.
• A good compromise between solubility and extraction speed.
• Useful for full-spectrum extracts with terpene retention.
70% N-Butane / 30% N-Propane
•Higher butane content results in richer cannabinoid extracts.
• Ideal for resinous and high-yield extractions.
• Suitable for thicker extracts.
70% N-Propane / 30% N-Butane
Faster extraction times with a lighter solvent pull.
•Ideal for terpene-rich extractions.
• Reduces waxes and lipids, making it easier to produce high-terpene full-spectrum extracts (HTFSEs).
80% N-Butane / 20% N-Propane
• Maximizes cannabinoid extraction efficiency.
• Works best for stability-focused products.
•Slightly longer purge times due to butane’s lower vapor pressure.
80% N-Propane / 20% N-Butane
• Primarily used for rapid extraction processes.
• Provides excellent terpene retention.
• Often used in cold extraction methods to minimize waxes and lipids.
50% N-Butane / 25% Isobutane / 25% N-Propane
• A well-rounded blend providing the solubility of butane, the speed of propane, and the refinement of isobutane.
• Isobutane helps improve extraction clarity and consistency.
• This blend is particularly good for high-terpene extractions and specialized products.
Need a Gas Blend? You Need CK Supply!
CK Supply provides High Quality Gas Blends with 2 or 3 components with unmatched precision and purity. Contact us today!
Why Use Instrument-Grade Hydrocarbons?
All the blends mentioned above use 99.5% instrument-grade hydrocarbons, ensuring purity, safety, and efficiency in the extraction process. Here’s why purity matters:
1. Fewer Contaminants: Lower risk of residual solvents, heavy metals, or unwanted impurities in the final product.
2. Consistent Performance: High-purity hydrocarbons ensure consistent extractions with predictable results.
3. Better Post-Processing: Cleaner solvents reduce the need for extensive purging, resulting in better product clarity and texture.
4.Safety Assurance: Instrument-grade gases meet industry standards for lab and food-safe applications.
Choosing the Right Blend for Your Extraction Goals
The best hydrocarbon blend depends on your specific extraction goals:
• For terpene-rich, full-spectrum extracts: Opt for higher propane blends (e.g., 70% propane / 30% butane, or 80% propane / 20% butane).
• For stable concentrates like shatter or diamonds: Higher butane blends (70% butane / 30% propane or 80% butane / 20% propane) work best.
• For a well-balanced extract: Use 50/50 or 60/40 blends for a mix of efficiency and high yield.
• For refining and clarity improvements: The 3-component blend (50% butane / 25% isobutane / 25% propane) helps improve extract clarity and consistency.
Contact Our Customer Sales Specialists to Discuss Your Particular Gas Requirement at (314) 644-3500.
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