Plant extraction has been around for many years, especially the extraction of compounds from the species of cannabis plants. As of late, the demand for products that consist of these extracted compounds such as CBD edibles, hemp seed oils, and other cannabis-related products has increased greatly. With the increase of the need to extract cannabinoids, manufacturers are always looking for a solvent to help make the process quick, efficient, and even green. But with Ethanol or Isopropyl alcohol, which solvent is the best?
Ethanol and isopropyl alcohol are two of the most common solvents that are synonymous with extraction. In this article, we’ll analyze the properties and characteristics of each to determine which one is best for plant extraction. Afterward, we’ll look into how you can buy solvents for professional use in an affordable and eco-friendly way.
Ethanol vs. Isopropyl Alcohol
Each of these chemical compounds have their own properties and intended purposes, let’s take a look at the most defining characteristics of each one.
Ethanol
- Food-grade: Yes – ethanol is most commonly used as a food additive and is preferable for extracting compounds that consumers will ingest.
- Concern for safety: Yes – this compound is highly flammable and volatile. As long as manufacturers take proper safety precautions when handling, it is safe to use.
- Eco-friendly: Yes – ethanol is a reusable compound that makes for a great cost-effective solvent.
- Speed of extraction: Quick – this compound yields a high amount of extracted compounds in a short amount of time.
- Examples of everyday use: Ethanol is a grain alcohol that is the substance found within alcoholic beverages such as beer and wine that are intoxicating when ingested. Besides its presence in alcoholic drinks, it’s also present in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, plastics, and more.
Isopropyl Alcohol
- Food-grade: It depends – isopropyl is not meant for human ingestion but is okay to consume in minimal amounts. Ingesting it regularly can lead to several negative side effects such as headaches, nausea, inflammation, and in more serious cases: death.
- Concern for safety: Yes – this compound is highly flammable and volatile. As long as manufacturers take proper safety precautions when handling, it is safe to use.
- Eco-friendly: No – isopropyl is hazardous to the environment and not reusable.
- Speed of extraction: Long – this compound is most often used for at-home extraction processes and is not ideal for extracting cannabinoids and other compounds in large amounts.
- Examples of everyday use: Isopropyl alcohol is most commonly used in disinfectants such as rubbing alcohol. Manufacturers may also use it in cosmetics, drugs, and lotions.
Conclusion
When choosing between ethanol and isopropyl alcohol to use as solvents for extraction, go with ethanol. Not only is it a great cost-effective and eco-friendly solution, but it’s more ideal for ingestion. If you are in the business of manufacturing edibles and other products intended for ingestion, then it’s your best choice.
The Best Place to Buy Ethanol
Extraction Grade Solvents sells ethanol and other high-quality chemical compounds for professional purposes. Available to buy in bulk, our products are an affordable and environmentally-conscious option for your company. Contact us today to learn more about our products and company.