Cannabis Characterization Using GC and GCxGC with Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry

Significance of the Topic

Cannabis plants produce a diverse portfolio of cannabinoids and terpenes with therapeutic, aromatic and toxicological significance. Precise chemical profiling is critical for quality control, potency assessment and safety evaluation in medical and recreational markets.

Objectives and Overview of the Study

This work demonstrates the application of comprehensive gas chromatography coupled with time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GCxGC-TOFMS) to characterize the chemical complexity of cannabis extracts. The aims are to enhance separation of coeluting compounds, achieve accurate quantification of cannabinoids and terpenes, and enable classification of different hemp samples.

Methodology

A liquid extract of cannabis was analyzed using two approaches:

• One-dimensional GC–TOFMS for general screening of targeted analytes
• Two-dimensional GC×GC–TOFMS to resolve tightly coeluting species and improve dynamic range

Instrumental Setup

• GCxGC-TOFMS system: LECO Pegasus® BT 4D
• Sensitivity down to the low femtogram level and a linear dynamic range of 10^5
• ChromaTOF® software with Tile feature and statistical tools for data processing (Fisher ratio, PCA)

Main Results and Discussion

• GC×GC contour plots revealed clear separation of abundant terpenes (C10, C15) and cannabinoids
• Statistical classification differentiated three hemp samples based on terpene profiles
• Quantitative analysis indicated higher THC concentrations than initially reported in one sample
• Deconvolution with TOFMS enabled identification of minor and coeluting compounds

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Enhanced analytical performance for complex botanical matrices
• Reliable potency determination to support regulatory compliance and product labeling
• Comprehensive profiling assists in breeding, quality assurance and therapeutic research

Future Trends and Possibilities for Use

• Integration of advanced chemometric models for deeper sample classification
• High-throughput screening workflows for industrial manufacturing control
• Real-time monitoring of production processes using GCxGC-TOFMS
• Expansion of spectral libraries to cover emerging cannabinoids and contaminants

Conclusion

GC×GC–TOFMS offers unprecedented separation power and mass spectral resolution for detailed characterization of cannabis extracts. The methodology supports accurate quantification, sample classification and quality control, positioning it as a valuable tool in research and industry applications.