Terpenes
Supra offers analyses for the quantitation of 61 terpenes and total terpenes in plant material.
Terpenes are a class of compounds largely responsible for the smells of plants. Analysis of terpenes produced by aromatic plants can provide insight into the specific source of a desirable or undesirable scent. Essential oils are composed primarily of terpenes that have been steam-distilled or extracted from their respective plants.
Different plants contain varying levels of terpenes. The terpene profile of a plant can often be diagnostic of the plant itself, allowing species identification. In some cases, the terpene profile can provide even more specific information beyond species. For example, there are several known strains of M. alternifolia, the Tea Tree plant, all of which can be differentiated based on the amounts of various terpenes produced by the plants.
At Supra Research and Development, we also have the capability to differentiate between terpene enantiomers (“right-handed” and “left-handed” molecules) providing further specificity in analysis. This is accomplished using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) equipped with a beta-cyclodextrin stationary phase column to allow chiral separation.
Testing Capabilities
- Flexible data packages and report levels
- Solvent extraction and headspace available
Analytical Methods
- In-house developed method
