all system FAQ

What is Organic Solvent Nanofiltration (OSN)?

OSN is a membrane filtration method using 1-10nm pores to separate molecules in organic solvents, positioned between ultrafiltration and reverse osmosis.

How does OSN apply to Botanicals??

OSN can be used for solvent recovery (Desolvation). OSN is essentially an FFE/WFE/Roto killer. It eliminates the need for one of these systems except perhaps on the very largest of operations. It can be used for in-line, continuous "winterization" at ambient temperature. In this application, "Winterization" is a misnomer since OSN can remove not only lipids, fats, and waxes, but also degums and removes phosphatides and phospholipids. It also removes some chlorophyll and carotenoids and removes sugars and water-soluble compounds. We refer to these membranes as "Remediation" membranes since it more accurately describes the function. OSN Membranes can also do Terpene isolation, doing so delicately without thermal degradation. This process is much more gentle than steam distillation or stripping terpenes from crude via other thermal methods.

How does OSN benefit botanical processing?

Three key applications:

• Solvent recovery - Replaces rotary evaporators/falling film evaporators
• Winterization - Removes lipids/waxes at room temperature
• Terpene isolation - Gentle separation without heat degradation

What's the lifespan of OSN membranes?

Typically 6-18 months depending on:

• Care/maintenance
• Operating conditions
• Feed stream composition

Why do OSN membranes last longer than other filters?

Tangential flow design continuously cleans membrane surfaces by:

• Maintaining high crossflow velocity
• Preventing particle buildup
• Being self-cleaning during operation

Can OSN machines perform remediation and desolvation simultaneously?

Can I use third-party membranes?

Yes, most commercial membranes are compatible. Some brands may require adapters.

Is it practical to swap OSN membranes daily for desolvation and remediation on the same machine?

No. It is not recommended due to the possibility of membrane damage. 2.5" housings are very challenging to open, and the operation is cumbersome. 4" and 8" housings are less complicated to open. If necessary, elements can be swapped though we don't encourage it. We can offer systems that have 2 sets of housings that allow duplex functions.

What is the life expectancy of OSN Membrane Modules?

The life of elements varies based on care, usage, and application. Manufacturers currently do not have data to support any claims on membrane life. Customers report life spans of 9+ months and counting. It is realistic to expect life spans of 6-18 months.

How is it possible that OSN membranes last such a long time?

Membrane elements work on a different principle than other filtration methods such as filter paper or lenticular modules which are classified as "dead end" filtration. Membrane elements work on a "Tangential" flow where there is a strong current of fluid moving across the membrane surface (crossflow) as well as some molecules permeating through the membrane. When a particle clogs to the membrane surface, the crossflow dislodges those particles and cleans that pore. Thus, these elements are self-cleaning and provide long element life.

Can I use any brand of OSN Membranes?

Yes. Most commercial elements are compatible, or an adapter can be obtained to work with the membranes. There are a few companies that make elements with proprietary adapters but in general, most membranes are compatible. It is important to note that you have the freedom to use elements from other manufacturers, as eventually more companies will introduce specialized membranes that perform better than the current technology. More than likely you will be able to upgrade your system by switching to those membranes without changing systems.

Is pre-processing required before using Membrane Filters?

Yes. Pre-filtration of the miscella stream is necessary to avoid fouling or scratching the membrane surface.

What solvents are compatible?

Ethanol, methanol, isopropanol, pentane, hexane, heptane (Viton seals standard)

Is pre-filtration required?

Yes - recommend 10μm pre-filtration using:

• Candle filters
• Filter presses
• Depth filtration

What recovery rates can I expect?

~90% solvent recovery, adjustable based on:

• Membrane selection
• Operating parameters
• Feed composition

What throughput can I expect?

What's the largest available size?

800mm diameter (5.41 sq ft filtration area)

How does it compare to competitors?

Key advantages:

• 691% more surface area than Buchner funnels
• 100% leak-proof design
• FDA-compliant materials
• Integrated pump included

What filtration rates can I expect?

How often must I change paper?

When flow drops to 10-20% of initial rate. Factors affecting lifespan:

• Wax content
• Filter aid use
• Pre-filtration

How to clean after use?

Recommended methods:

1. Limonene wipe-down
2. Solvent rinse (ethanol/IPA)
3. Acid wash (nitric/hydrochloric)

What consumables are needed?

• Filter papers (1.5-45μm)
• Filter cloths
• Diatomaceous earth/perlite

What size press do I need?

How much wax can it remove?

95-99% removal in 1-3 passes depending on:

• Winterization protocol
• Solvent ratios
• Operating temperature

How does it compare to centrifuges?

Advantages:

• Higher throughput
• Drier cakes (5-12% moisture)
• Lower solvent loss
• Less labor intensive

What pressure does it operate at?

Up to 100 PSI (7 bar) - much faster than vacuum filtration

What are the model differences?

What's the primary use?

Solventless separation of trichomes from biomass using electrostatic principles

Can I use for commercial production?

• R&D: No (development only)
• V1/V2: Yes (designed for production)

How dry does it get biomass?

5-12% residual moisture (compared to 15-25% with centrifuges)

What solvents are compatible?

All except pentane (minimum 45°F operating temp)

How much can I process?

• Small unit: 50lb batches (400lb/day)
• Industrial: 5-ton batches

Labor requirements?

1 operator (vs. 3-4 for centrifugal systems)