Unlocking safety: a mathematical model and selective extraction for Δ9-THC removal from hemp seed husks

Among the myriad components found in marijuana, cannabis, and hemp, cannabidiol (CBD), delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), cannabinol (CBN), cannabigerol (CBG), and other cannabinoids have long been utilized. However, controversies persist regarding the addictive and hallucinogenic effects of Δ9-THC, CBN, and hexahydrocannabihexol (HHCH) in various countries, contrasting with the positive attributes associated with CBD and CBG. Ongoing debates and sudden regulatory shifts pose challenges for the medical and industrial utilization of hemp, despite the UN's favorable stance persisting in many countries. Despite the widespread use of hemp seeds or oils in the food and medical sectors, many countries also negatively evaluate hemp product use due to the ambiguity of the Δ9-THC content analysis methods and corresponding standards. These difficulties arise from concerns regarding economic viability, regulatory restrictions on Δ9-THC levels, and the lack of stable processing and analysis techniques. To address these issues, a mathematical model based on hemp seed density was initially proposed. This model aims to analyze husk thickness and Δ9-THC concentration, thereby improving the stability and production efficiency of hemp seeds and making their utilization economically feasible. By expanding upon the mechanical peeling model, chemical extraction was conducted to control cannabinoids in hemp seeds using oil roasting and aqueous solutions such as ethanol based on the difference in the solubility of cannabinoids in hydrophilic and hydrophobic solutions. Different techniques were examined within a mathematical framework. THC removal was confirmed through repeated experiments and analysis of the residual THC content. PK-16 analysis revealed that the husk components contained 300 mg/kg THC, and the nut kernels contained 2 mg/kg THC. THC was selectively removed without physically eliminating husks, establishing a simplified, efficient, and economically viable method for future hemp seed oil production and analysis.