Homogenization is a critical step in many sample preparation processes which influences extraction efficiency and analysis of hemp flower and other cannabis matrices. Revvity and AmeriCanna applied a two-step analytical approach consisting of homogenization and industry-standard organic solvent extraction to quantify 11 cannabinoids in a hemp flower sample. Extracts were analyzed on an Agilent 1220 Infinity HPLC-UV system.
The Omni Bead Ruptor 96 well plate homogenizer is proven a reliable, high-throughput tool for homogenization of cannabis. The below protocol was optimized for use with 1-5 g of hemp and cannabis flower samples using Active Grinding Media. Up to 8 samples can be processed simultaneously and no cleaning or maintenance procedures are required between samples. Up to 192 samples can be processed in 1 hour. Other homogenizers which process only 1-2 samples per cycle and require cleaning of grinding balls can process a maximum of 60 samples in 1 hour. The Omni Bead Ruptor 96 well plate homogenizer is over 3 times more efficient, and reduces hazardous organic solvent use, compared to other systems.
Table 1. The Omni Bead Ruptor 96 well plate homogenizer efficiently processed hemp flower samples. Increased homogenization time results in smaller particle size with narrower particle size distribution.