A Theory on BHO/Rosin Decarboxylation with Natural Terpene Preservation

[406_Chemabis]

@Anonymouse

In a closed vessel, the decarb action will require more energy input over time because the pressure created in the headspace by decarboxylated CO2 gas. I also think the solution will become saturated with dissolved CO2 gas (carbonation) during the process. So, as decarb begins, the CO2 gas fills the head space in a semi controlled process with a fixed amount of energy input. As the pressure increases it should require more energy for the new CO2 gas molecules to percolate through the solution to occupy that head space. I think the solution will hold a certain amount of dissolved CO2 gas under heat and pressure, which may also slow the decarb process.

I ran into this logic too a few times, however, it is the surface area of your input material that is affecting the rate of decarboxylation. Think of it as every molecule of THCa getting the same exposure to the applied energy.

Pressure most certainly plays a role in chemical kinetics with respect to GASES ONLY. Hence why we do not want any oxygen in the closed system during this process. Inert or inert behaving gases such as N2, CO2, Helium introduced into your headspace will help with this.

Keep in mind, even with a full vac pulled on the system, once heat is applied, can have unwanted side reactions with the terpenes (even without oxygen being present if sufficient heat and pressure are present).

Best way to decarb live resin

I go ~18-24hrs. Most of that we are at home. no need to watch it boil. Set it up and leave. Done in the morning… We can decarb up to 40kg at a time. Run right around 100C

@cyclopath and other fellows have gone 100C and also lower in temperatures such as 80C which in my opinion goes a long way for the final integrity of the product.