Types of gas for BHO extractions

BHO (Butane Hash Oil) is a type of extraction that requires the use of gas to carry terpenes, forming a sticky and difficult-to-handle substance. However, the choice of gas to be used is very important because it will influence the quality of the final product obtained. Want to know which types of gas for BHO extractions you should choose? Below, we explain everything you need to know on the topic.

The importance of choosing the right gas for extraction

When it comes to cannabis extraction, selecting the right gas is crucial to ensure safety, product quality, and process efficiency. Extraction methods using gases such as butane (BHO) and propane are popular due to their ability to extract cannabinoids and terpenes efficiently. However, not all gases are the same, and their selection can significantly affect the final result.

The first BHO extractions were carried out with traditional, unrefined bottled gas, which left the extracted oil filled with toxic residues that were very difficult to remove through purging completely. However, nowadays, a wide variety of more refined gases for extractions are available on the market.

In this case, choosing the perfect butane gas involves ensuring that it has been cleaned of harmful substances, is free from taste and odor, and is completely safe for using BHO without any issues.

How to choose the right gas for extraction

Selecting the right gas for extraction can seem complicated as there is a wide variety of solvents available today. However, these solvents have evolved to include refined butane gas that has been purified up to 12 times, containing only 0.0005% impurities.

Key factors when choosing gas for extraction

• Gas purity: Impure gases may contain contaminants such as mercaptans, which not only affect the flavor and aroma of the extract but can also be harmful to health. It is recommended to use food-grade or laboratory-grade gases that guarantee a minimum purity of 99.5%.
• Chemical properties: Each gas has unique chemical properties that affect the extraction process. For example, butane is perfect for preserving terpenes, while propane works better for faster extractions at lower temperatures.
• Handling safety: Extraction gas is highly flammable, so it is essential to work in a well-ventilated environment with equipment specifically designed for this type of process. It is also recommended to carry out the work in certified facilities following local regulations.
• Desired results: Depending on the final product being sought (shatter, wax, live resin, etc.), certain gases or mixtures are more suitable.

How to use gas for extractions

Solvent gases are characterized by their ability to separate terpenes and cannabinoids from the marijuana flowers. This is possible thanks to the polarity of the solvents, which allows them to separate components of the same nature. Most gases are non-polar, enabling the dissolution of terpenes and cannabinoids.

However, some gases, such as DME, have a slight polarity, which allows them to carry other components that non-polar gases cannot, achieving a more complete extraction.

To perform the extraction, an extraction tube is required, into which the material and gas are introduced from one side, producing the extract on the opposite end. This extraction will contain gas residues, so it must be purged before use to remove potentially toxic substances.

For a higher quality result, it is advisable to freeze the flowers and the gas for 24 hours to make the most of all the material.

Types of gas for extraction

There are three main types of gas for extractions. The extraction gas determines the amount of terpenes and cannabinoids obtained at the end.

Butane gas

Before using butane gas, it should be noted that not just any type can be used—only refined butane gas, ideally refined at least 12 times. The most commonly used in these cases is Colibri butane gas, as it leaves the least butane taste in the oil. With this type of gas, different extracts with varying names and textures, such as shatter, budder, or wax, can be obtained. This gas leaves less than 0.05% impurities in the concentrates.

Among others, 0% impurity gas from Clipper can be used for BHO extractions, ensuring pure flavor and maximum quality in the concentrates.

Dimethyl Ether Gas (DME)

Dimethyl ether, or DME, is characterized by dissolving both polar and non-polar substances, offering a much higher yield by being able to be used with more substances than butane. Often, the result is referred to as DHO (Dimethyl Ether Hash Oil).

The advantages of this gas include its higher speed, safety, and purity, which is why it is used in industries such as food and medicine. However, it also decomposes plastic materials, so traditional BHO extraction tubes cannot be used.

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CO₂

Carbon dioxide, or CO₂, is one of the gases that leaves the least residues and is suitable for human consumption in extracts, being a gas commonly used in laboratories. In this case, it reduces the loss of terpenes, making it perfect for edibles.

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Warnings when performing gas for bho extractions

It is important to keep in mind that all gases, to a greater or lesser extent, are highly flammable and can explode upon contact with a heat source. For this reason, it is recommended to carry out extractions outdoors in an open and ventilated space, far from any heat source.

Additionally, during the purging process, gases are emitted, so proper ventilation or turning on the extractor hood is necessary if the process is carried out in a water bath. Safety gloves and goggles are also required.

Finally, the extractor tube reaches very low temperatures, so anti-static gloves, safety goggles, and clothing made of natural fibers are necessary.