Why Do I Need Dry Ice?
Dry ice, the frozen form of Carbon Dioxide, is very useful and versatile.
Dry Ice is frozen carbon dioxide. Often, the carbon dioxide is collected during industrial processes and recycled into dry ice. What makes “dry ice” dry is that the frozen carbon dioxide doesn’t melt or liquefy. It goes directly from a solid to a gas, which is what creates that fog that we are used to seeing from dry ice. Dry ice is also extremely cold; with a temperature of around -109°F, it has may uses. Here are just a couple of reasons you might need some dry ice.
Shipping Frozen and Perishable Items
Dry ice is great for shipping things because it can keep them totally frozen. Be sure to ship with high quality insulated containers. Improper insulation decreases the effectiveness of the dry ice. You will need about 5-10 pounds of dry ice for every 24-hour period your items will be shipping. If you’re shipping via air, be sure to check with the airline and see exactly what the regulations are for dry ice use. Remember that the decreased air in an airplane can cause the dry ice to deteriorate faster. When packing your shipping container, be sure to place the frozen items as close to the dry ice as possible. Using wadded up newspaper or Styrofoam packing peanuts to fill any empty space will also help increase the amount of time your items stay frozen. Dry ice can also be used in conjunction with regular (water) ice to help it last longer.
School Science Demonstrations
There are many interesting applications for dry ice in school science experiments.
Cloud Chamber:
Use a clear, glass baking dish that will not break in a freezer. Cover the bottom inside of the dish with black felt or black paper. Cut a piece of cardboard larger than the top of the dish. Pour alcohol on one side of the cardboard. Place the cardboard on the dish with the wet side down. Heat the top cardboard with your hand or something else warm such as an iron. Place the dish on a slab of Dry Ice. The alcohol will form a cloud. Shine a light through the side of the dish to observe vapor trails. Some natural vapor trails can be seen in time although you may have to put alcohol on the cardboard several times. Place an alpha ray source such as an old fashion illuminated watch dial or a camping lantern mantel inside to see more ion trails in the cloud chamber. Use a light source such as a bright flashlight to see the cloud tracks better.
Volcano:
Make sure the bottom is well sealed. Add some VERY hot water and the dry ice will give off a fog that will bubble up and over the sides of your volcano for several minutes. Just keep in mind that volcano projects can be very messy.
Dry Ice for All of Your Needs
Dry Ice Corp is the largest regional supplier of dry ice and related products in the Northeastern United States. Our dry 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 amount 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, Google+, Pinterest, and Twitter.
