Organic Solvent Nanofiltration Membrane

Organic Solvent Nanofiltration (OSN) is a membrane filtration technology used to separate and purify molecules in organic solvents. Unlike traditional filtration processes, which are typically water-based, OSN works with organic solvents, making it especially useful in industries such as pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, and hemp/cannabis extraction.

Key features of OSN include:

• Molecular Separation:
  OSN membranes can filter molecules between 200 and 2,000 Daltons in size, allowing for precise separation of compounds like solvents, solutes, and impurities.
• Energy Efficiency:
  Because OSN operates at lower pressures and doesn't require phase changes (such as evaporation), it uses less energy compared to traditional solvent recovery methods like distillation.
• Solvent Recovery:
  OSN is effective at recovering and reusing organic solvents, reducing waste and operating costs.
• Versatility:
  OSN membranes can be tailored to specific applications, offering flexibility for different types of solvents and solutes.

In industries like hemp and cannabis, OSN is used for processes like ethanol recovery and dewaxing, improving efficiency and reducing energy expenditure.

• Organic Solvent Nanofiltration (OSN) offers a low-energy, low-temperature alternative to traditional solvent recovery and filtration methods in cannabis and hemp processing. Unlike thermal evaporation, OSN systems use membrane-based filtration to selectively remove solvents, waxes, pigments, and other impurities without exposing extracts to high heat. This preserves cannabinoid and terpene integrity while reducing the risk of thermal degradation.

  Key advantages include:

  • Reduced energy consumption compared to falling film evaporators and rotary evaporators

  • In-line dewaxing and color remediation, eliminating the need for winterization

  • Improved extract purity, color, and consistency for higher-value end products

  • Minimized downtime and maintenance by preventing buildup in downstream equipment

  • Scalability and modularity, allowing processors to grow operations efficiently

  By integrating OSN technology into your cannabis or hemp extraction workflow, you can streamline post-processing, lower operational costs, and improve product quality—all while maintaining compliance with GMP and safety standards.

1. What is membrane nanofiltration, and how is it used in cannabis and hemp processing?

Membrane nanofiltration is a low-pressure, low-temperature filtration method that uses semi-permeable membranes to separate molecules based on size. In cannabis and hemp processing, it’s used to refine ethanol-based extracts by removing fats, waxes, pigments, sugars, and residual solvents—resulting in cleaner, more stable oils. This technique improves post-extraction efficiency and extract purity while preserving valuable cannabinoids and terpenes.

2. How does Organic Solvent Nanofiltration (OSN) differ from traditional solvent recovery methods?

Unlike traditional methods like falling film evaporation or rotary evaporation, Organic Solvent Nanofiltration (OSN) uses pressure instead of heat to recover solvents such as ethanol. This significantly reduces energy consumption and avoids thermal degradation of cannabinoids. OSN also enables in-line filtration, combining solvent recovery with dewaxing and color remediation in a single step, streamlining post-processing workflows.

3. What are the benefits of using OSN for dewaxing and depigmentation?

Using OSN for dewaxing and depigmentation allows processors to remove unwanted lipids, chlorophyll, and sugars directly from crude extract without winterization. This results in better extract clarity, color, and consistency, while reducing the risk of clogging or fouling in downstream equipment. It also lowers operational costs and minimizes product loss typically associated with traditional filtration methods.

4. Can membrane nanofiltration replace winterization entirely?

Yes, in many cases membrane nanofiltration can eliminate the need for winterization. By removing waxes, fats, and pigments in-line, OSN systems reduce or eliminate the labor, time, and solvent volume associated with cold ethanol winterization. This not only shortens processing time but also improves overall product quality and consistency.

5. Which cannabinoids and terpenes are preserved during the OSN process?

Because OSN operates at low temperatures and avoids thermal stress, it helps preserve heat-sensitive cannabinoids like THCA and CBDA, as well as volatile terpenes. This makes it ideal for processors aiming to maintain the full-spectrum profile of their cannabis or hemp extracts while still removing unwanted impurities.

6. What solvents are compatible with Root Sciences' nanofiltration systems?

Root Sciences’ membrane nanofiltration systems are primarily designed for use with ethanol, which is widely used in cannabis and hemp extraction. The systems can be configured for compatibility with a range of organic solvents, depending on membrane type and application. Our team can help assess your solvent and process requirements to ensure optimal membrane selection and system performance.

7. Is nanofiltration safe for large-scale cannabis and hemp production?

Yes. Our nanofiltration systems are engineered for industrial-scale cannabis and hemp facilities and meet the safety and performance standards required for commercial operations. Models such as the X-Spiral 4 and X-Spiral 8 are suitable for high-throughput environments and are built with features like Class I Division 2 compliance and customizable filtration modules for safe, continuous operation.

8. How often do the filter membranes need to be replaced?

Membrane lifespan varies depending on usage, solvent type, and material being filtered. On average, membranes used in Root Sciences’ nanofiltration systems last between 6 to 12 months. Routine maintenance and proper operating conditions can help extend membrane life and maintain consistent filtration performance.

9. What are the energy savings compared to falling film evaporators?

Organic Solvent Nanofiltration systems consume significantly less energy than falling film evaporators because they don’t rely on large amounts of heat to separate solvent from extract. By using pressure-driven filtration instead of evaporation, OSN can cut energy usage by up to two-thirds—translating to substantial cost savings over time for cannabis and hemp processing facilities.

10. Which X-Spiral model is right for my operation size and processing goals?

The best X-Spiral model for your facility depends on your daily throughput, extraction method, and refinement goals. The X-Spiral 2.5 is ideal for smaller or pilot-scale operations, while the X-Spiral 4 supports mid-sized facilities aiming to scale efficiently. For high-volume commercial production, the X-Spiral 8 offers maximum throughput and energy savings. Our team can help match your operation to the right system based on your needs.

11. Can Root Sciences assist with system installation and training?

Yes. Root Sciences provides end-to-end support for our membrane nanofiltration systems, including system installation, start-up, and staff training. Our experienced technical team ensures each system is configured correctly and operators are fully trained to run the equipment efficiently and safely.

12. Are your nanofiltration systems GMP-compliant or suitable for licensed facilities?

Root Sciences' equipment is designed with GMP considerations in mind and can be integrated into licensed cannabis and hemp processing facilities. Systems are built using materials and designs that support regulatory compliance, and our team can work with clients to ensure integration into GMP workflows and documentation processes.