Benefits of our test method vs HPLC and GC
The advantages of the AlphaCAT3.0 method based on thin layer chromatography, compared to gas chromatograph (GC) and the High Performance Liquid Chromatograph for testing cannabinoids;
√ Qualitative (test for all cannabinoids present)
√ Quantitative (levels (%) of THC, CBD, CBG, CBC, THCV, CBN and THCA.
√ Fast
√ Cheap
√ Standardized (ISO-NEN pending)
√ Visual colored dots and "one sight" interpretation about the effect after seeing the print (the power of this method) instead of hundreds of peaks in a GC-MS analysis.
The disadvantages of GC and HPLC and the proven superiority of our AlphaCAT3.0 methodology only concern tests for (vulnerable) cannabinoids and all other plant substances. The GC-MS and HPLC must be used for the detection and identification of all other substances.
GC and HPLC require sample dissolution steps, large quantities of liquids (HPLC) and propellant gas (GC). Cannabis is a so-called "dirty sample"; bold and difficult to extract and work up. As a result, evaporation and filtration steps take place. Just as in our method, 1 μl is used in the GC, but in the GC this amount goes through an inlet port of around 210 ºC. Cannabinoids can hereby be converted into others, and this also happens. They oxidize, which can lead to false detection of CBD and CBN, for example.