Naked Science Forum
Non Life Sciences => Chemistry => Topic started by: TimothyKiz on 03/02/2019 02:14:04
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hi Ive had a request for dry ice does anyone know if and where you can get it from?
Thanks.
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A number of years ago we needed dry ice (solid carbon dioxide) because we needed to run a test at lower temperatures than we could reach with our temperature-controlled chamber.
There was a liquid gas supply depot near our work, and they were happy to supply us with dry ice chips (for a price).
I've also seen it in the form of blocks, and these might last longer (smaller surface area for the mass).
Just be aware that:
- you need to purchase it just before you need it, as you can't store it in an ordinary freezer - it just evaporates ("sublimes": turns directly from solid to gas).
- You need to hold it with tongs, oven gloves or similar non-conductive materials, as it will burn your fingers (instant frostbite)
- You need to let the gas escape, so don't store it in an airtight container
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A number of years ago we needed dry ice (solid carbon dioxide) because we needed to run a test at lower temperatures than we could reach with our temperature-controlled chamber.
There was a liquid gas supply depot near our work, and they were happy to supply us with dry ice chips (for a price).
I've also seen it in the form of blocks, and these might last longer (smaller surface area for the mass).
Just be aware that:
- you need to purchase it just before you need it, as you can't store it in an ordinary freezer - it just evaporates ("sublimes": turns directly from solid to gas).
- You need to hold it with tongs, oven gloves or similar non-conductive materials, as it will burn your fingers (instant frostbite)
- You need to let the gas escape, so don't store it in an airtight container
I will add--don't be in small, poorly ventilated spaces with it for any substantial period of time (more than a few minutes). As it sublimes, the gaseous CO2 will displace the air, and can cause suffocation.
This means, don't put it in your car and then drive home (keep it in the trunk unless you have a hatchback, in which case, get a friends to help you), and don't carry it on an elevator.