What does the mesh sizes mean, and what is their difference?
Why am I being told that 90um is the lowest quality?
Shouldn't there be a difference depending on the trichome sizes? 

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Let's dive into these questions by outlining the optimal usage of mesh screens.

Just to clarify, the "sativa" and "indica" mentioned are indications to which size the trichome heads are. Sativa, also known as "narrow-leaf" and indica, also known as "broad-leaf". 

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Mesh Sizes and Their Usage

Understanding mesh sizes is crucial for effectively separating plant materials based on particle size. Mesh size refers to the number of openings per linear inch in a screen or sieve.

The size of these openings determines what particles can pass through:

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• Mesh Size (µm): Measured in micrometers (µm), indicating the size of particles that can pass through the mesh. Smaller mesh numbers have larger openings, allowing larger particles to pass.

• Difference in Mesh Sizes: A 150 µm mesh has larger openings than a 70 µm mesh. Selecting the appropriate mesh size is essential for targeting specific particle sizes, such as trichome heads.​

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Trichome Sizes and Types

Trichomes are tiny hair-like structures on plant surfaces, playing a significant role in plant defense and, in some species, the production of valuable compounds. Visually, they may be compared with the looks of a mushroom, though some elongated:

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1. Capitate-Stalked Trichomes

   • Structure: Feature a stalk topped with a glandular head resembling a mushroom.

   • Size: Glandular heads range from 50 to 120 µm in diameter.

   • Location: Predominantly on flowers and nearby leaves.

   • Function: Primary producers of cannabinoids and terpenes in certain plants.

2. Capitate-Sessile Trichomes

   • Structure: Glandular head sits directly on the plant surface without a stalk.

   • Size: Approximately 25 to 95 µm in diameter.

   • Location: Found on leaves and stems.

   • Function: Contribute to the plant's chemical profile but in lesser amounts than capitate-stalked trichomes.

3. Bulbous Trichomes

   • Structure: Small glandular heads without a stalk.

   • Size: About 10 to 15 µm in diameter.

   • Location: Scattered across the plant surface.

   • Function: Serve protective roles with minimal compound production.

4. Non-Glandular Trichomes

   • Structure: Hair-like and lack glandular heads.

   • Size: Varies widely; generally larger than glandular types.

   • Location: Common on stems and leaves.

   • Function: Physical barrier against pests and environmental stress.

   • Personal observation: These kind of trichomes has been very prevalent in the black market products (herbs) in Denmark, and also in the commercial (hashish).

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Selecting Mesh Sizes Based on Trichome Sizes

When separating trichomes from plant material, mesh sizes should correspond to the trichome head diameters:

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• Primary Separation:

  • Mesh Size: 150 µm

  • Usage: Removes larger plant debris while allowing trichome heads to pass through.

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• Secondary Refinement:

  • Mesh Size: 100 µm

  • Usage: Captures medium-sized trichome heads, refining the material further.

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• High Purity Collection:

  • Mesh Size: 70 µm

  • Usage: Collects the smallest trichome heads for the highest purity.

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Remember there is a difference between purity and quality as well as many other factors to a perfect product.

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Factors Influencing Trichome Size and Mesh Selection

• Genetic Variability: Trichome sizes vary among different plant varieties due to genetics.

• Environmental Conditions: Light, temperature, and cultivation practices affect trichome development.

• Leaf Morphology:

  • Broad-Leaf Varieties: Traditionally have wider leaves; may produce larger trichome heads.

  • Narrow-Leaf Varieties: Traditionally have thinner leaves; may produce smaller trichome heads.

  • Note: Leaf shape is not a definitive indicator of trichome size due to hybridization.

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Working in Cold Environments

• Enhanced Separation Efficiency:

  • Trichome Brittleness: Low temperatures make trichomes more brittle, facilitating separation.

  • Reduced Stickiness: Cold conditions prevent resin from becoming sticky, reducing clogging.

• Recommended Practices:

  • Temperature Range: Near or below freezing (0 °C or 32 °F).

  • Material Handling: Cooling plant material before processing improves results.

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Impact of Plant Contamination

• Potency Reduction: Non-target plant material dilutes the concentration of desired compounds.

• Quality Degradation:

  • Flavor and Aroma: Contaminants introduce unwanted flavors and aromas.

  • Appearance: Increases darkness or cloudiness, indicating lower purity.

  • Melting Properties: Contaminants prevent complete melting, leaving residues.

• Mitigation Strategies:

  • Appropriate Mesh Selection: Using the correct mesh sizes minimizes contaminants.

  • Controlled Environment: Cold temperatures and careful handling reduce unwanted materials.

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Summing up:

• Mesh Sizes: Select mesh sizes based on trichome head diameters to optimize separation.

• Trichome Types: Different trichomes vary in size and function; targeting capitate-stalked trichomes yields the most valuable compounds.

• Environmental Control: Cold conditions enhance separation efficiency by making trichomes brittle.

• Quality Factors: Minimizing plant contamination is crucial for maintaining potency and purity.

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Note on Classification

While broad-leaf and narrow-leaf terms are used to describe plant varieties, modern hybridization has blurred these distinctions. Leaf shape alone is not a reliable indicator of trichome size or plant characteristics.

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