New Hampshire Patent of the Month – February 2023
Terpenes are essential oils found in plants, which are commonly used in food flavorings, perfumes, and other scented products. They are also major constituents of hop oil, which can significantly affect beer flavor and quality. In addition, Cannabis sativa contains a wide variety of terpenes, and their profile can affect medical outcomes.
While liquid chromatography is the preferred analytical method for terpenes, it is highly dependent on the preparation of the sample. Many times, the liquid-extraction protocol required to prepare the sample does not provide adequate sensitivity for the liquid chromatography process. Orange Photonics, Inc., analytical instrumentation specialists have developed a novel extraction method that removes this limitation, achieving the required sensitivity in less time.
Their method removes much of the complexity of sample preparation while still achieving efficient and repeatable collection of terpenes for sample analysis. The extraction process takes less time, uses less equipment and allows the terpenes to be directly injected into a liquid chromatography instrument, reducing the chance of contamination.
The method involves combining the sample with a medium which preferentially binds terpenes. The vial is then heated, forcing the extraction solvent through the collection filter so that terpenes collect on the filter. The collected terpenes are then eluted into a vial for direct injection into the liquid chromatography instrument.
Orange Photonics’ method provides sensitivity and separation of non-volatile chemicals from the terpenes to be measured. This can be particularly useful for analyzing terpenes in beer, cannabis, and other plant-based products.
Are you developing new technology for an existing application? Did you know your development work could be eligible for the R&D Tax Credit and you can receive up to 14% back on your expenses? Even if your development isn’t successful your work may still qualify for R&D credits (i.e. you don’t need to have a patent to qualify). To find out more, please contact a Swanson Reed R&D Specialist today or check out our free online eligibility test.
Who We Are:
Swanson Reed is one of the U.S.’ largest Specialist R&D tax advisory firms. We manage all facets of the R&D tax credit program, from claim preparation and audit compliance to claim disputes.
Swanson Reed regularly hosts free webinars and provides free IRS CE and CPE credits for CPAs. For more information please visit us at www.swansonreed.com/webinars or contact your usual Swanson Reed representative.
