Development of a novel Δ⁹-THC-specific color test reagent

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Forensic Science
• Pharmacognosy

Background:

• Existing on-site cannabis color tests lack specificity, particularly in differentiating Δ9-THC from other cannabinoids.
• The need for a precise and rapid method for identifying Δ9-THC at the point of need is critical.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel color test reagent with high specificity for Δ9-THC.
• To evaluate the performance of this new reagent in distinguishing Δ9-THC from other major cannabinoids like CBD and CBN.

Main Methods:

• A novel reagent utilizing 2-hydroxybenzaldehyde was developed for cannabinoid analysis.
• Samples were prepared by dissolving standards or extracting herbal material, followed by reaction with the reagent and hydrochloric acid.
• Chloroform extraction was used to visualize colorimetric results, with observations made on the lower layer.

Main Results:

• The reagent produced a distinct bluish color for Δ9-THC and an orangish color for cannabidiol (CBD).
• Cannabinol (CBN) did not produce a visible color change.
• The test demonstrated sensitivity for Δ9-THC levels of 0.14% and above in herbal cannabis samples.

Conclusions:

• The newly developed colorimetric reagent exhibits excellent specificity for Δ9-THC.
• This reagent holds significant potential as a superior replacement for current on-site cannabis testing methods.