Cannabis Potency Testing and Terpene Profiling with GCxGC Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry

This webinar, presented by Dr. David Alonso, focuses on cannabis potency testing and terpene profiling using comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GCxGC) coupled with time-of-flight mass spectrometry (TOF-MS). Cannabis is a highly complex matrix containing cannabinoids, terpenes, fatty acids, sterols, and other compounds that contribute to both its therapeutic effects and regulatory classification. The webinar emphasizes that modern cannabis analysis must go beyond simple THC/CBD measurement to include broader chemical profiling, as terpene composition and cannabinoid ratios play a key role in defining cannabis chemotypes, effects, and product consistency.

A major focus is overcoming analytical challenges associated with cannabis, including its wide concentration range, complex composition, and the instability of certain compounds such as acidic cannabinoids that can convert to neutral forms during analysis. The presentation outlines effective sample preparation techniques—such as microwave-assisted and ultrasound-assisted extraction—and the use of GCxGC-TOF-MS instrumentation to achieve enhanced separation, sensitivity, and compound identification. This approach enables detection of hundreds to thousands of compounds, far exceeding traditional GC capabilities, and allows accurate potency determination, including THC quantification relative to regulatory limits (e.g., 0.3% THC for hemp classification).

The webinar also demonstrates how advanced data analysis workflows support both targeted and non-targeted applications. Non-targeted processing allows grouping of compound classes (e.g., monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, cannabinoids) to compare samples and assess characteristics such as freshness or composition. Targeted analysis enables precise quantification of specific cannabinoids and terpenes using calibration curves, supporting regulatory compliance and product validation. Through examples comparing multiple hemp samples, the workflow illustrates how comprehensive chemical “fingerprinting” can determine legality, detect anomalies, and reveal deeper insights into cannabis quality and composition. Overall, the session highlights GCxGC-TOF-MS as a powerful tool for comprehensive, data-rich cannabis analysis.

Dave Alonso explores GCxGC TOFMS analysis of cannabis samples for understanding of terpene and cannabinoids among cannabis cultivars.