CO2 vs Steam Distillation for Terpene Retention

Terpenes are **aromatic compounds** found in **cannabis, essential oils, and herbal extracts**. This article compares **supercritical CO2 extraction** and **steam distillation** for **terpene retention and quality**.

1. Volatility and Heat Sensitivity

• Supercritical CO2 Extraction: Uses **low temperatures**, preventing terpene evaporation.
• Steam Distillation: High heat can cause **terpene degradation**, reducing aromatic intensity.

2. Efficiency in Capturing Terpenes

• CO2 Extraction: Preserves a **full-spectrum terpene profile**.
• Steam Distillation: Extracts **some terpenes**, but may alter **their molecular structure**.

3. Industrial Use Cases

• CO2 Extraction: Used in **cannabis oils, natural perfumes, and high-quality essential oils**.
• Steam Distillation: More common for **bulk herbal extracts**, but less effective for terpene-rich products.

4. Case Study: CO2 Extraction in Cannabis Industry

A cannabis producer **increased terpene preservation by 50%** after switching to CO2 extraction.

5. Conclusion

For **maximum terpene retention**, **supercritical CO2 extraction** is the preferred method. Companies like **SHANGHAI NORTH BROOKS** provide **CO2 SUPERCRITICAL EXTRACTION MACHINE** solutions for **high-terpene extractions**.

READ MORE：

• CO2 vs Steam Distillation for Food-Grade Extracts
• Supercritical CO2 vs Steam Distillation Temperature Control
• CO2 vs Steam Distillation for Fragrance Industry
• CO2 vs Steam Distillation for Heat-Sensitive Compounds
• Supercritical CO2 vs Steam Distillation for Peppermint Oil
• CO2 vs Steam Distillation for Lavender Oil Extraction
• Supercritical CO2 vs Steam Distillation Process Efficiency
• CO2 vs Steam Distillation Environmental Sustainability
• Supercritical CO2 vs Steam Distillation Purity Level