Equipment designed for separating cannabinoids, like tetrahydrocannabinol, from cannabis plant material typically employs solvents or mechanical processes, yielding a concentrated oil product. Closed-loop systems, for instance, utilize solvents like butane or ethanol to dissolve the target compounds, which are then separated and purified. Alternatively, solventless methods like rosin presses employ pressure and heat to extract the desired oils directly from the plant material.
This specialized apparatus plays a critical role in producing various cannabis concentrates for diverse applications, impacting industries ranging from medical and recreational cannabis to research and development. Historically, extraction methods were rudimentary and often unsafe, but advancements in technology have led to safer, more efficient, and precise equipment, allowing for higher yields and purer products. This evolution has been instrumental in standardizing and regulating the cannabis industry.