Color remediation cartridges (CRC) are also called color remediation columns. A CRC is an additional column that gets added to a closed-loop extraction system. It can be used in hydrocarbon and ethanol extraction. It is used as a secondary filtration method that happens after extraction and before extra collection.
CRC equipment is added in between a material column and the collection container. Once the extract has been extracted, it then moves through the CRC that is full of filtration media. The purpose of the CRC can be altered by using different filtration media, like T5 clay, Magnesol, or silica. [1] This extra step is intended to purify the final extract but there are some concerns to be considered.
The Dangers of CRC
There are a few dangers of CRC. First, the method can be used to lighten the color of low-grade concentrates. Removing the darker color can trick consumers into thinking it’s a high-quality extract. Although, extract color is not a good indicator of extract quality.
CRC is a complicated process. If the filtration media becomes oversaturated it can present several problems. Over-saturation causes impurities to pass through the filtration system. This results in the final extract being contaminated with things like residual solvents, pesticides, and herbicides.
When CRC uses activated carbon there are additional risks. Activated carbon breaks down over time and can release heavy metals into the final extract. If not properly maintained, the activated carbon in CRC can produce carcinogenic compounds that contaminate the final product.
The Benefits of CRC
The biggest benefit of CRC is advanced filtration. CRC is commonly used to remove dark colors from extracts. Even though extract color doesn’t indicate quality, it’s still a belief held by consumers who are using it as a rule when buying concentrates. Because consumers are looking for lighter concentrates, extract sales benefit from having lighter colors.
The advanced filtration that CRC offers go beyond just color remediation. Depending on what filtration media is used, all sorts of impurities can be removed during this process. This includes things like lipids, chlorophyll, and a wide range of residual toxins.
As long as extractors are using the proper CRC techniques, the filtration benefits outweigh any dangers of CRC. Extracts that have been processed using CRC are considered a more purified final extract.
References:
- A Color Remediation Cartridges (CRC) for BHO Concentrates. Luna Technologies. 2022. https://blog.lunatechequipment.com/color-remediation
