Closed-Loop CO2 Extraction Process for Hemp

Closed-Loop CO2 Extraction Process for Hemp

As the global CBD market surges past $22 billion, hemp processors are under pressure to deliver high-quality, solvent-free extracts at scale. One technology stands out as the industry gold standard: the closed-loop CO2 supercritical extraction machine.

This article unpacks the closed-loop process offered by Shanghai North Brooks Co.,ltd., and how it ensures safety, sustainability, and maximum yield for hemp-derived CBD oil extraction.

1. What is Closed-Loop CO2 Extraction?

Closed-loop CO2 extraction refers to a self-contained system where CO2 is continuously recycled and reused during extraction, with no atmospheric release. The system operates in a cycle:

1. Liquid CO2 is pressurized and heated into supercritical form

2. It is passed through hemp biomass to dissolve cannabinoids and terpenes

3. Extract-laden CO2 moves into separators

4. CO2 is depressurized and returned to a storage tank for reuse

This results in zero solvent loss, no flammable materials, and minimal environmental footprint — making it ideal for CBD producers and GMP-certified facilities.

2. Key Advantages of Closed-Loop Systems

• Environmental safety – CO2 is non-toxic and fully contained

• Cost-efficiency – 95%+ CO2 recovery rate cuts operating expenses

• Purity – No risk of solvent contamination

• GMP-ready – Batch traceability and automation integration

• Low odor, low noise – Suitable for urban processing facilities

The co2 supercritical extraction machine from Shanghai North Brooks Co.,ltd. exemplifies these advantages, offering systems that are scalable, modular, and compliant with global standards.

3. North Brooks' Closed-Loop Hemp CO2 System

All parts in contact with product are made of SUS316 stainless steel, with internal piping TIG-welded and passivated for pharmaceutical-grade cleanliness.

4. Case Study: CBD Processor in Hungary

Client: BioCann Central Europe
Objective: Expand from ethanol-based hemp extraction to CO2 closed-loop operation
Challenges:

• Avoid solvent contamination

• Meet EU GMP standards

• Improve terpene retention

Solution: Installed NB-300CL from Shanghai North Brooks Co.,ltd.

Results:

• Yield: 4.1% CBD extract from biomass (vs. 2.7% with ethanol)

• CO2 savings: $4,800/month via internal recycling

• Compliance: Passed EU GMP inspection in 2024

• Post-processing time: Reduced by 38%

“We’ve cut our production cost while improving quality. The closed-loop co2 supercritical extraction machine is not just efficient — it’s environmentally responsible.”
— Director, BioCann Hungary

5. Automation & CO2 Reclamation Technology

North Brooks systems include:

• Automated pressure cycling

• PID-controlled temperature regulation

• Real-time CO2 volume sensors

• Integrated recovery tank with pressure safety controls

• Programmable logic control (PLC) + remote operation module

Operators can customize extraction protocols for different hemp strains and cannabinoid profiles.

6. Sustainability in Focus

In an era of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) reporting, hemp extractors are increasingly measured by their environmental impact. Closed-loop CO2 systems:

• Reduce carbon footprint

• Eliminate flammable solvents

• Reuse CO2 for thousands of cycles

• Lower VOC emissions to near zero

This makes North Brooks' closed-loop systems a sustainable investment for serious CBD producers.

Conclusion

Whether you're scaling up or upgrading your facility, a closed-loop co2 supercritical extraction machine from Shanghai North Brooks Co.,ltd. is the smart path forward. With unmatched safety, sustainability, and yield performance, it’s engineered for the future of CBD extraction.