100% Decarb With The NOVA

[Baron23]

Hey we’re glad to see that this thread continues to gain traction and appreciate the discussions and feedback. We also wanted to thank our early adopters for supporting us during this exciting but chaotic startup phase and are really touched that you can see that we are dedicated to making a difference in this industry and pushing for more people to have access to this awesome plant. A few responses to some questions we saw pop up:



You absolutely can ☺ you can also use multiple shot glasses to decarb different strains of kief, rosin, or hash at the same time.



For our initial decarb guide (something that was intended for wide audiences) it was important to present the data in easy to understand and digestible form, hence the illustrated graphs. Of course we have raw data, and since there have been requests here, we are happy to share those testing results. We’ve developed a section of the site that we’ll continue to update as we continue our R&D on Nova and the new products in our pipeline.

Click here to see the data: http://www.ardentcannabis.com/sample-test-results

A summary of what we’ve added so far:

Comparison of Oven, Toaster Oven, and Nova Decarb

Raw Cannabis Max Potential THC: 18.1%
Oven Decarb 240F for 40 minutes Max Potential THC: 15.3%
Toaster Oven Decarb 220 for 60 Min Max Potential THC: 12.2%
Nova Prototype Decarb Max Potential THC: 17.9%

Here we see a significant loss of THC in both the oven and toaster oven decarb. However, the results using the same temp settings in a different oven could just have easily shown a failure to convert all of the THCA. The point is that ovens aren’t constructed to maintain the precision in temp needed for a full and protective decarb but instead easily swing above and under the tight parameters required for complete decarb with no loss. While there may be some folks who are getting good results after trial and error, monitoring, using high-end ovens, temperature probes, who may not care that much if they are experiencing some loss - having an easy, foolproof (and smell proof) way to know the decarb is being done right is exactly what many patients need.

*Also note when reviewing that early Nova prototype achieved 95% decarboxylation. The process was further refined during development to currently deliver full (>97%) decarb each time.

Nova Shatter Decarb (for the concentrate lovers)

Raw Shatter Max Potential THC: 72.2%
Decarbed Shatter Max THC: 79.2%

Shatter can become slightly more concentrated during decarb due to the evaporation of residual solvents.

Nova Flower Decarb 2

Fresh Raw Plant Max Potential THC: 15%
Decarbed Flower Max Potential THC: 16.9%

When decarbed, fresh uncured flower also becomes slightly more concentrated due to the evaporation of moisture during the process.


Nova Flower Decarb 3

Dried and Cured Raw Plant Max Potential THC: 18.8%
Decarbed Flower 1 Max Potential THC: 19.2%
Decarbed Flower 2 Max Potential THC: 17.7%

This third testing set demonstrates the natural plant variation that will be observed in some results. As a natural product, slight variation in the plant material is to be expected, even slight differences within the same bud, depending on which parts of the bud were closer to the light, or whether a small piece of sugar leaf is attached to the bud, just as a few examples. In our observations, variations in the plant usually fall within +/-1.5% of each other. There are also variations that will sometimes display in comparing single testing results. In the lab setting, these standard deviations are accounted for by using multiple testing points.

The testing set above includes variations within the normal range. The raw sample testing at max potential THC of 18.8%, with the first of the two decarbed samples that are also from the same bud as the raw sample (decarbed together in the same device at the same time) testing at slightly higher max potential THC of 19.2% and the second decarbed sample at a slightly lower Max potential THC but with all falling within 1.5% of each other. Large differences, however, (especially reductions) in max THC percentage indicate loss during the process, as well as >1.5% differences that persist over multiple testing points.

Stay tuned for additional results added over the next few days.

Just read the data at the site you linked and this is outstanding and exactly what was needed.

Can you comment on any progress in shipping lead times and product fit/finish/reliability as production ramps up? Really, if I ordered one today, when would I get it and is it in final production configuration?

 

[Krazy]

Even if I see the science, the Nova is too small for my usages as I frequently decarb 30 grams of one strain.

Perhaps a little bigger...a lot cheaper, maybe.

My new Nova is running as I type. It has exactly 2oz of kief and fine ground medical KB in it.

It does have a fair capacity, just not for fluffy bud. I do larger batches for my cooking as well. Multiple, maximum, capacity runs with a MB machine in one afternoon and most to all of that mixed into fudge whilst still hot. In theory I plan on switching to smaller batches with the Nova and making a 1/2oz into oil with an expresso machine.

 

[Ganja O]

Thank you Ganja O for that information. Just a FYI, I was not trying to be derogatory of the comparison information Ardent presented.

Didn't think you were. In the downloadable version of our Decarb guide we had a note at the bottom telling anyone who was interested that we had the raw data available on request. We were really surprised no one did. So we appreciate that the members here have a curiosity and desire to dig deeper and we love it.

I am a licensed medical user as are the guys I help out. With that in mind I'm rather anal about following the minutia of the law. So test number 2 isn't happening as that individual has waaay too much fudge in reserve already and I can't swap around.

Test results from Page Analytical gives 20.2% potential before Nova and 20% after using the Nova. This is especially impressive given that the flowers were stored at low humidity (water cured).

Thanks for sharing!

 

[Baron23]

Didn't think you were. In the downloadable version of our Decarb guide we had a note at the bottom telling anyone who was interested that we had the raw data available on request. We were really surprised no one did. So we appreciate that the members here have a curiosity and desire to dig deeper and we love it.



Thanks for sharing!

Let me try it again, please. Can you comment on any progress in shipping lead times and product fit/finish/reliability as production ramps up? Really, if I ordered one today, when would I get it and is it in final production configuration?

 

[macbill]

The unit I ordered July 6th arrived today, July 27. It was incomplete. The container and lid inside were missing. A total of 4 pieces and they forgot 2 pieces. I've requested a container and lid be sent to me. This is a disappointment: I had hoped to prepare some goodies before my vacation. Ah, well. Got to cut Stoners some slack. Being pissed won't help get it here faster.

 

[Throg]

@macbill , that makes me nervous. Mine is waiting at home right now. I would've seen it earlier, but FedEx ran over an hour later than they stated for the delivery time.

Did you get response from them yet?

 

[macbill]

Not yet. They haven't been good in responding to previous inquiries, but I just sent them (3:50 pm PDT Omari Harebin) within the last hour.

I think they're East Coast, so my email was sent 6:50 pm EDT

 

[Throg]

Okay. So, everything is there for my Lift. However, the base seems just the very slightest askew (it almost feels like it may not be securely fitted to the bottom of the outer container. Since I'm not familiar with how it's constructed, I'm unable to elaborate without disassembling it, which I will not do).

It does turn on when plugged in, and the light does change to red from green when the button is pressed. I'll test it tonight to see if it functions correctly.

Update @2025: it has been going for 40 minutes without issue, as far as I can tell. The outside is very warm-to-hot to touch, which I would say means it's working. I'll check back when the cycle is complete.

Update @2154: Decarb cycle completed approximately 90 minutes, which is as stated by the enclosed product manual. The botanical used came out as expected; light brownish color.

There was no odor! None during, or after, decarb cycle, and no odor once opened up afterwards (I did wait about 15-20 minutes before opening (unintentionally), so that may have helped).

The original botanical smell is quite muted and has a slightly earthier taste from Vaping. Effects are more enhanced, not by much, however I did not expect a significant, if any, change.

Will really be able to test when making a tincture.

 

[sickmanfraud]

Effects are more enhanced, not by much, however I did not expect a significant, if any, change.

Just to be clear, you believe there were enhanced (slightly, but within your expectations) effects when vaping decarbed cannabis??

 

[Throg]

Just to be clear, you believe there were enhanced (slightly, but within your expectations) effects when vaping decarbed cannabis??

Actually, what I said was I didn't expect any increased effects. At the time, I was more focused on if any effects would be diminished, which was not the case.

Reflecting on it, other factors may have caused a difference, such as: being tired, or already being in a happy mood, etc. So, it's indeterminate without further experimentation. Of course, this is all anecdotal, so take what you like from my observations.

Unfortunately, I forgot to weigh my botanical beforehand. That would at least have given somewhat of a metric indicating change. Next time.

 

[Throg]

Here's an update about the base:

It appears the reason the base is "askew" is due to the cord strain relief. The cord has a slight twist in it, which makes the strain relief in the cord's relaxed position appear upside down. So, when the strain relief is properly inserted into its position between the base and body, the cord is applying torque which causes the base to slightly separate the base from the body. The gap is about 2-3mm (~1/8").

Because the strain relief puts a double bend in the cable, I'm going to leave it as is. Especially since it seems to function properly.

 

[macbill]

My second email got a response: they will send me the missing parts.

 

[Hippie Dickie]

ordered on 7/15 ... received today - i got a shipped email today and when i checked the tracking number the package was on the truck and out for delivery ... decarboxylating for the first time as i type.

Appeared proper out of the package and was complete - i.e. all four pieces. Green light when plugged in and went Red light when i pressed the button.

Very discrete packaging, with only <person name>, Boston MA as the return address.

more details to follow ...

[more details]

so after about 90 minutes the green light was on - didn't time it, just put it on a trivet on the counter (it does get hot on the outside) and went back to work.

there was a definite herb odor when i opened it up, but it was still very warm - so maybe less odor when cool - maybe put it in the refrigerator for 10 minutes before opening? i am going to store the Lift in a cabinet, behind a closed door.

herb comes out looking "toasted" - like when it comes out of the glass vial after being vaped in the Bud Toaster - same color, that is.

checking with my 100x scope - the trichomes look intact, despite looking caramelized.

subjectively ... this is a better buzz from this herb.

i will try an edible tomorrow ... this could turn into a party-party weekend.

edit2:

by the way ... the herb vapes just fine - the BT is delivering expected cloudage.

also, easier to load the vial since the herb is thoroughly dried now - just crumble in the fingers and drop into the vial - no tweezers required.

 

[Throg]

Day #2 with Lift:
New thing learned using different herbs; very smelly, stinky herbs will permeate during decarb through the Lift. Initially I thought the odor was from weighing and moving to Lift. But it wasn't; not entirely at least. Though, the odor will be muted and basically goes away after an hour.

So, for tonight decarbed ~10gm herb. After Decarb, weight is ~9.4gm.

 

[cannabis.pro]

by the way ... the herb vapes just fine - the BT is delivering expected cloudage.

also, easier to load the vial since the herb is thoroughly dried now - just crumble in the fingers and drop into the vial - no tweezers required.

How does it taste? Does it seem more potent compared to non-decarbed going into the BT as far as effects?

 

[Hippie Dickie]

How does it taste? Does it seem more potent compared to non-decarbed going into the BT as far as effects?

Taste-wise, i say diminished taste, BUT this herb has been degrading in the heat/humidity over the last month or two, so, the non-decarbed isn't all that tasty ... not a bad taste. Different smell - very non-distinct - not a cannabis smell but herby-ish, this change is probably strain related.

Potent-wise - both gf and i think the decarbed herb is a better buzz ... she still does mostly joints, while i only vape.

 

[macbill]

I'm getting ready for another week-away at session 3 of Guitar Camp. I'm decarbing 1 gram of Jedi Kush concentrate @ 70.1 % THC with 2 grams of clarified butter in the Nova. After decarb I'll add a few grams of liquid sunflower Lecithin, and combine with 3.5 oz (99.22 grams) of dark chocolate, making 7 half-ounce (14 gram) chocolates at 100 mg each. Boo-ya!

 

[macbill]

very smelly, stinky herbs will permeate during decarb

Perhaps if you put aluminum foil and encapsulate the top of the unit, that may decrease any odor.

 

[Vitolo]

would it be possible to use this product instead of vacuum purging bho? if it is, this may be worth purchasing.

The device may be terrific for decarboxylation, if one is uncomfortable using traditional methods like the oven.
True purging would require negative pressure with heat, to pull solvent residues out.
Heat alone can purge small amounts, and they would be more of a shatter than a wax, but would require being heated in open air if there is no vacuum.

 

[sickmanfraud]

Day #2 with Lift:
New thing learned using different herbs; very smelly, stinky herbs will permeate during decarb through the Lift. Initially I thought the odor was from weighing and moving to Lift. But it wasn't; not entirely at least. Though, the odor will be muted and basically goes away after an hour.

So, for tonight decarbed ~10gm herb. After Decarb, weight is ~9.4gm.

If you are worried about smell during decarb (one of the advantages of the NOVA is stealth) I would suggest putting the nova inside a cooking bag during decarb.

 

[macbill]

I'm back from 2 weeks of guitar camp, and I'm presently making a new batch of coconut-cannabis oil in a Magical Butter machine. I decarbed 3 oz (78 grams) in 3 batches in the NOVA, and then placed it with 3 cups virgin oil and 1 cup of a previous coco-canna batch (4 cups total) at 200 F degrees for 4 hrs in the MB. I let it rest an hour (it looked tired). I've added the remains of a experiment gone wrong (1 gram decarbed concentrate [in the NOVA] plus some glycerine) and 4 TBLs of liquid sunflower lecithin, and set the MB at 160 F for 4 hrs.

Vamos a ver........ we shall see........ I feel like Columbus sailing the stony stew.

 

[Ganja O]

Can you comment on any progress in shipping lead times and product fit/finish/reliability as production ramps up? Really, if I ordered one today, when would I get it and is it in final production configuration?

Sorry for the delayed response on this comment. As a new startup, we are still making small production runs now which is why we are at the 2-3 week range for delivery. Once we get to full production (this fall) there will be no lag. As to the configuration, Nova is in its final production setup now, of course we made small changes and adjustments to the little things based on early adopter feedback, some of which were mentioned in this forum (small gap, different cord grommet), cosmetic but not functional items. We appreciate our early adopters more than you know and will always consider them an exclusive set entitled to first access to our new products and special treatment as the first people who believed in us and joined this mission for ease and accuracy and most of all making the use of this plant something that no one is intimidated by. We have a big announcement about an upcoming project and are looking forward to sharing it in the next few weeks.

In the meantime many of you know that we are pushing towards adult use legalization here in Massachusetts. It’s a critical point in our history as the overwhelming scientific and social evidence shows that cannabis is effective and prohibition is the real scourge. We want to share with you our fight for freedom and social justice as we walk towards victory. We’ve put together a video featuring footage from the kickoff to the last three months of the campaign and our official name change to #Yeson4. We also head over to Women Grow Boston to see how women are using cannabis for wellness and to overcome life-threatening illnesses.

 

[Hippie Dickie]

@Ganja O - congratulations on working for legalization ... is there a provision to legalize cannabis paraphernalia, too? Even in legal states it is still not legal to make, advertise nor sell cannabis vaporizers or a cannabis devices, which i assume includes your device - which i really like, by the way.

How about using a glass container to hold the herb, and allowing temperature and time duration control???

 

[cobra505]

If anyone's interested there on sale for 210

 

[PoopMachine]

If anyone's interested there on sale for 210

Using the discount code Decarb2016 brings it down to $180.00 with free shipping. Ive been eyeing this for a while and at that price point,

Ordered!!!!!