Everything You Need to Know About Dry Ice and Its Lifespan

Get to grips with dry ice and learn its lifespan in our informative guide! Discover everything you need to know about this versatile substance here.

Dry ice is the solid form of carbon dioxide, a molecule made up of one atom of carbon and two atoms of oxygen. It's colder than ordinary ice and lasts longer, making it a popular choice for keeping food and drinks cool when transporting them or during a power outage. Learn more about dry ice and how long it will last in this informative guide.

What Is Dry Ice?

Dry ice is the solid form of carbon dioxide. It's usually available in block or pellet form and is colder than regular ice, with a temperature of about -109°F (-78°C). Rather than melting into liquid like ordinary ice, dry ice turns from a solid directly to a gas through the process of sublimation. This makes it great for keeping things cool during transport and outages.

How Long Does Dry Ice Last?

Generally speaking, dry ice lasts anywhere from 18 to 24 hours in most coolers. However, the exact lifespan of dry ice depends on a variety of factors, including the amount of dry ice used, air temperature and humidity levels, and whether the cooler is opened frequently or not. A good way to maximize its lifespan is to use a well-insulated cooler and wrap the dry ice in paper towels or newspapers.

Storage and Handling Safety Precautions

Proper storage and handling of dry ice is essential for safety. When transporting, storing or using dry ice, it’s important to be aware of its dangers so you can avoid potential injury. It's always best to wear gloves when you handle dry ice, as unprotected skin can quickly become frostbitten due to the extreme temperatures. Additionally, never keep dry ice in an airtight container as the carbon dioxide gas emitted as it sublimates can cause the container to burst if not well vented.

How to Use Dry Ice in Different Applications

There are many ways to use dry ice in different applications. AllGas offers dry ice for sale in 10-pound increments at their Goshen, Middletown & Newton locations. The most common use for dry ice is for making fog effects at concerts or parties and for cooling food items, such as perishable produce, during transport. Dry ice can also be used to preserve flowers, keep bait frozen on fishing trips, and store medical specimens that require low temperatures.

Disposing of Dry Ice Safely

It is important to always dispose of dry ice safely. Never dispose of dry ice in a confined area such as your kitchen sink or rubbish bin, as it could cause dangerous levels of carbon dioxide gas build-up. Ideally, the dry ice should be placed in a well-ventilated area exposed to normal atmospheric pressure. Additionally, never place dry ice directly onto your skin or ingest it, as this may lead to frostbite!