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Total Time
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THC Retained
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CO₂ Mass Lost
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Mason jars with relief valves naturally create a protective CO₂ atmosphere. As THCA converts to THC, CO₂ is released, building pressure until the valve "burps" at 10 psi. This expelled gas is mostly CO₂, leaving minimal oxygen for THC oxidation.
THC retention is 100% in low-oxygen environments at ≤110°C.
Relief valve jars achieve this through CO₂ displacement: decarboxylation produces CO₂ that pushes out oxygen through the valve. After 2-3 "burps", O₂ levels drop to <0.1%, preventing THC→CBN conversion.
Quality risk indicates potential terpene/flavor changes at higher temperatures, not THC loss.
For optimal results, use lab-verified starting material potency, maintain consistent temperature throughout the process, and consider small test batches first.
Terpene Volatility
Even at 90-110°C, volatile terpenes (myrcene, limonene) slowly evaporate. A 24-hour hold bleeds these compounds into headspace, dulling aroma over time.
Thermal Isomerization
Minor cannabinoids (CBC, CBG) can slowly convert or degrade at 90°C over tens of hours, subtly shifting the entourage effect.
Repeated Jar Burping
Each vent draws fresh air. Hourly venting over 12 hours accumulates O₂, driving THC→CBN conversion, especially near the lid.
Micro-Leaks
Even "sealed" jars may have gasket leaks. Over long runs, this trickle supports slow oxidative degradation.
Residual Solvents/Water
Trace ethanol or moisture can hydrolyze compounds during long heating, affecting clarity and shelf stability.
pH Shifts
Acidic residues from older plant material or solvents can catalyze unwanted side-reactions over extended heat holds.
Thermal Gradients
In thick, un-agitated masses, cores run cooler while walls run hotter. Hot spots locally degrade cannabinoids while cool zones remain under-decarbed.
External Heat Sources
Uneven stir-plate contact or non-uniform heat tape can exacerbate hot/cold regions. Frequent stirring minimizes this risk.
Transparent Lids
Clear jar lids under bright shop lights can photo-degrade THC during multi-hour runs. While minor compared to heat/oxygen, it's another loss channel.
Prevention
Use opaque insulation or a dark enclosure to eliminate photo-degradation risk during processing.
Quality degradation is cumulative. Each factor alone may seem minor, but combined over extended runs, they significantly impact your final product. Monitor and minimize all risk factors for optimal results.