Dry ice is the solid form of
carbon dioxide (CO2), a common greenhouse gas. It is produced by rapidly
pressurizing and cooling carbon dioxide gas, causing it to change from a gas to
a solid. Dry ice is extremely cold, with a temperature of -109.3°F (-78.5°C),
and sublimes, or changes from a solid directly to a gas, at atmospheric
pressure.
Dry ice is widely used in a variety of industries
and applications, including:
- Shipping and transportation:
Dry ice is commonly used to transport perishable items, such as food and
medical supplies, due to its extremely low temperature and ability to keep
items frozen for an extended period of time.
- Cleaning and industrial
processes: Dry ice is used in industrial cleaning applications, such as
blast cleaning, due to its ability to remove surface contaminants without
leaving residue or causing damage to underlying surfaces.
- Medical and scientific
research: Dry ice is used in medical and scientific research to store and
transport samples, as well as to maintain low temperatures during
experiments and procedures.
- Entertainment and special
effects: Dry ice is used in entertainment and special effects to create
smoke or fog, as the sublimation of dry ice into carbon dioxide gas
produces a cloud of white, misty fog.
Despite its widespread use, dry ice can be
dangerous if not handled properly. Its extremely low temperature can cause
burns or tissue damage if it comes into direct contact with skin, and its
sublimation into carbon dioxide gas can displace air and lead to asphyxiation
in enclosed spaces.
Therefore, it is important to follow proper safety
procedures and guidelines when handling and storing dry ice, and to take
appropriate precautions to avoid potential hazards and injury.