Post on 30-Jul-2015
History of THC-O-Acetate
THC-O-Acetate is a derivative of THC which has been found by the DEA as an analogue of THC. It is synthesized from THC from the cannabis plant. In June 1995 in the UK, THC-O-Acetate was classified as a Class A drug. THC-O-Acetate was found by New Zealand police in 1995 being synthesized by acetylation of purified cannabis extracts with acetic anhydride. The acetylation of THC does not change the properties of the molecule to the same extent as with other acetate esters (e.g. morphine vs heroin), as the parent compound is already highly lipophilic, but potency is nonetheless increased. This derivative of THC is interesting because it is one of the few THC analogues to have been encountered as a recreational drug sold and used in a highly pure smokable form.THC-O-Acetate ester was also investigated as a possible non-lethal incapacitating agent, as part of the Edgewood Arsenal experiments.
Rarity of THC-O-Acetate
Besides random forum chatter, there are only 2 relevant Google search results for THC-O-Acetate
Synthesis
Synthesis efficiency varies proportionally to the amount of essential oil used in the reaction. The more oil the less efficient the reaction. The maximum recommended amount of oil for each synthesis is 20g. This reaction is most efficient when performed using catalytic volumes of sulfuric acid and a molar excess of acetic anhydride.
To be performed only by trained chemists using a fume hood and protective equipment.