Dynamic formulation builder with molecular weight precision
Cannabis isolates are pure, crystalline forms of individual cannabinoids extracted from the plant. Common isolates include THCa, THC, CBD, CBN, and CBG crystals. They are typically 95-99% pure and contain minimal plant material, making them ideal for precise dosing and formulation.
Isolates offer several advantages for cartridge production:
Precision: Exact cannabinoid ratios without plant variability
Consistency: Batch-to-batch uniformity
Purity: Minimal contaminants or unwanted compounds
Customization: Ability to create specific formulations
Solubility: Often better solubility in carrier oils
THCa isolates must be decarboxylated to convert to THC:
The conversion ratio is 0.87723 (87.723%), meaning 1g THCa produces 0.87723g THC with 0.12277g CO₂ loss. Optimal temperature is 220-240°F (104-116°C) for 30-60 minutes.
THCa Isolate: Acidic precursor form, non-psychoactive. Requires decarboxylation to become THC. Often appears as white crystals or diamonds.
THC Isolate: Decarboxylated form, psychoactive. Ready to use without heating. More expensive due to the decarboxylation process.
Use THCa for formulations requiring decarboxylation control, THC for pre-decarboxylated products.
The calculator uses a parts-based system that's automatically normalized to 100%:
Example: 85 parts THC + 10 parts Terpenes + 5 parts CBN = 100 parts total
Final percentages: THC: 85%, Terpenes: 10%, CBN: 5%
This ensures your formulation adds up correctly regardless of the numbers you enter. The calculator then converts these ratios to actual weights based on your batch size.
Terpenes are aromatic compounds that give cannabis its scent and flavor. In isolate-based cartridges:
Flavor Enhancement: Restore natural taste profiles
Entourage Effect: May enhance cannabinoid effects
Product Appeal: More enjoyable user experience
Terpenes are typically added as essential oils. The calculator accounts for terpenes in total weight but excludes them from decarboxylation calculations since they don't require heating.
For formulations with both THC and THCa, use partial decarboxylation:
Process: Start with calculated THCa input, heat until target conversion is reached
Monitoring: Use the decarb tracker tool for precise control
Formula: Target % = (THC needed / 0.87723) ÷ Total THCa input × 100
This creates products with specific THC:THCa ratios for different effects or legal requirements.
Handling: Wear gloves and eye protection when working with isolates
Temperature: Avoid overheating (above 250°F) to prevent THC degradation to CBN
Dosage: Start with low concentrations and test products thoroughly
Storage: Keep isolates in cool, dark places away from light and moisture
Legal: Ensure compliance with local regulations regarding cannabinoid concentrations