Developing a Comprehensive Terpenes Analysis Method Using Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry

The purpose of the project was to provide a straightforward way to develop analytical methods for terpene analysis. Terpene analysis can be a difficult proposition and having a basic understanding of common issues and pitfalls can be hugely beneficial. There is a growing interest in terpene analysis as research expands into the exciting aspect of cannabis science. Terpenes are widespread throughout nature with thousands of individual compounds being present in nature. There are several hundred terpenes that have been found in cannabis flower. Terpenes are built from repeating units of isoprene and their designation is dependent on the number of isoprene units present. Due to the nature of these compounds, gas chromatography coupled with a mass spectrometer is the preferred method of analysis.

Learning Objectives:

1. Learn how to develop a analytical method for analyzing terpenes using gas chromatography

2. Learn how prepare samples for analysis and understand common pitfalls