Evaluating the Stability of Cannabinoid Extracts Following Different Solvent Evaporation Conditions: A GC-MS/LC-MS Degradation Profiling Study

Abstract

The stability of cannabinoid extracts during solvent evaporation is a critical factor influencing the quality, potency, and chemical fidelity of cannabis-derived products used in pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and analytical applications. This study investigates how variations in evaporation temperature, pressure, and atmospheric conditions affect the degradation pathways of major cannabinoids, including THC, CBD, CBN, THCA, and CBDA. Using a controlled experimental design, extracts were subjected to atmospheric evaporation, vacuum-assisted evaporation, and nitrogen stream drying at temperatures ranging from 25°C to 60°C. Chemical changes were quantified through complementary GC–MS and LC–MS analyses, enabling detection of both volatile degradation markers and thermally sensitive intermediates. Results revealed that elevated temperatures significantly accelerated decarboxylation, oxidation, and isomerization processes, with 60°C producing the highest levels of degradation and impurity formation. Pressure and atmospheric composition further modulated degradation outcomes, with nitrogen-assisted evaporation providing superior preservation of cannabinoid integrity compared to atmospheric and vacuum conditions. GC–MS excelled in identifying volatile thermal degradation products, while LC–MS captured non-volatile acids and early-stage oxidative intermediates, underscoring the necessity of a multi-instrument analytical approach. Overall, the findings demonstrate that optimizing evaporation conditions particularly maintaining low temperatures and using oxygen-limited environments is essential for maximizing extract stability and ensuring accurate chemical profiling. This work provides a framework for refining industrial extraction protocols and highlights key considerations for maintaining cannabinoid integrity in high-value cannabis products.