Where Did Dry Ice Originate From?
Dry ice, a solid form of carbon dioxide, was first recorded by French chemist Thilorier in 1835. Thilorier opened a cylinder containing liquid carbon dioxide, but when some evaporated, it left behind a solid block at the bottom of the container. Since then, dry ice has been used in various applications, such as preserving food, cooling beverages, and creating special effects in the entertainment industry. If you’re interested in learning more about the history and uses of dry ice, keep reading.
Experiments, Experiments, and More Experiments!
After its discovery, dry ice was experimented with and commercialized by others. In 1897, Herbert Samuel Elworthy, a British Army Medical Corps doctor, was granted a patent for solidifying carbon dioxide to create a soda water mix with his whiskey!
Liquid carbon dioxide was adequate, but carrying it in metal cylinders during trips was heavy. A 100-pound liquid carbon dioxide cylinder could only take 50 pounds of gas. This led to the commercialization of dry ice, which became increasingly popular. Many doctors have since utilized it to eliminate warts.
Commercial Uses of Dry Ice
Prest Air Devices was a US-based company that introduced the commercialized solid carbon dioxide invention in 1925. It was located in Long Island City, New York, and was the first to create a carbon dioxide fire extinguisher. The company also attempted to use compressed carbon dioxide for various purposes, such as a tire pump, producing homemade soda water, and powering a grease gun. However, the only successful product in the market was the fire extinguisher.
In 1924, Prest Air Devices tried selling frozen carbon dioxide to railroad companies for cooling purposes instead of regular ice. Due to its cooling power, the railroad companies established a dry ice production plant in 1925. The company was renamed Dry Ice Corporation of America and trademarked “dry ice.”
Dry Ice Corporation’s Journey
In 1932, the newly established Dry Ice Corporation successfully tested insulation for railroad cars to transport solid carbon dioxide. They tried twelve vehicles and found the insulation to be effective. Around 80 cars were designed with mechanical refrigeration, while 180,000 vehicles were designed to use regular ice. However, mechanical refrigeration gained more popularity in the long run.
Order Your Dry Ice Online Today!
Dry Ice Corp is the largest regional supplier of dry ice and related products in the Northeastern United States. Our ice is fresh and delivered right to your doorstep. We are happy to help you determine the best way to ship your goods, whether you have a huge number of cookies or a single pie, and help you select the perfect amount of dry ice for the job. Give us a call at (201) 767-3200, or contact us online for a quote. To connect with us online, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter.
