Ketamine Crystals

Form & Appearance

• Ketamine Crystals: These are the raw, unprocessed crystalline form of ketamine. The crystals vary in size and can be large, chunky, or fine-grained depending on how they are manufactured.
• Ketamine Powder: This is a crushed or finely ground version of ketamine crystals. It is typically white or off-white and has a soft, powdery texture.

Purity & Processing

• Ketamine Crystals: Generally considered purer because they have not been altered or cut with other substances. This form is closer to the original laboratory-grade ketamine before further processing.
• Ketamine Powder: Often made by grinding ketamine crystals into a finer consistency. Depending on the source, it may be cut or mixed with other substances, potentially reducing its purity.

Use & Solubility

• Ketamine Crystals: Can be dissolved in liquid for medical use, injected, or further processed into powder.
• Ketamine Powder: More commonly used for insufflation (snorting) and dissolves faster when mixed with a liquid.

Shelf Life & Storage

• Crystals generally have a longer shelf life because they are less exposed to air and moisture.
• Powder may degrade more quickly, especially if not stored properly in an airtight container.

Which One is Better?

• For purity and long-term storage: Crystals are preferred.
• For ease of use (e.g., insufflation): Powder is more convenient.

Processing & Storage of Ketamine Crystals and Powder

1. Processing Ketamine Crystals into Powder

If starting with ketamine crystals and converting them into powder, the process involves:

• Grinding: Using a mortar and pestle or another fine crushing method.
• Sifting: Running the crushed substance through a fine mesh to ensure a consistent powder.
• Drying: Ensuring no moisture is present to maintain purity and potency.

However, grinding can expose the ketamine to contaminants or degrade its quality, especially if done improperly.

Storage Methods

Proper storage is essential to maintain potency, purity, and prevent degradation.

For Ketamine Crystals:

• Airtight Glass or Plastic Containers – Prevents moisture from affecting the crystals.
• Cool, Dry, and Dark Location – Exposure to heat, humidity, and light can break down the chemical structure.
• Silica Gel Packets – Helps absorb moisture and keeps the crystals dry.

For Ketamine Powder:

• Sealed Vacuum Bags or Containers – Reduces exposure to air.
• Temperature Control (Room Temperature or Below) – Prevents clumping and degradation.
• Avoid Plastic Bags – Over time, ketamine powder may stick to or degrade some plastics.

Shelf Life & Signs of Degradation

• Ketamine Crystals have a longer shelf life, usually years if stored properly.
• Ketamine Powder is more prone to absorbing moisture, which can cause clumping or loss of potency over time.
• Changes in Color or Texture (e.g., yellowing, excessive clumping) can indicate contamination or degradation.