Dry ice is a solid form of carbon dioxide also known as CO2. Dry ice is a solid form of carbon dioxide with temperature around -78.5°C. Dry ice is formed by compressing gaseous state of carbon dioxide until it becomes solid state. This process occurs without passing through the liquid phase and is known as sublimation.
Uses of Dry Ice:
Dry ice is commonly used as cooling agent. Dry ice is used in various application due to cooling agent. Dry ice is not like ice that first converts into liquid, dry ice is direct process from gaseous to solid state of carbo dioxide. There are several uses of dry ice. Let’s dive in.
Cooling agent and Refrigeration: Dry ice is commonly used for cooling purposes. Dry ice is used for preserving food items and it is used in transportation too. Dry ice is very effective during shipping of the food items.
Pharmaceuticals and Medical: Dry ice are also used for preserving pharmaceuticals and maintaining the medicines during shipping and transportation etc.
Entertainment Industry: Dry ice is used to create special foggy effects in the entertainment industry. Producers and directors use this method to create special foggy effects to their films and dramas. Dry ice is used in theaters, concerts and haunted houses.
Cleaning purposes: Dry ice is also used in cleaning purposes like cleaning surfaces rapidly.
Scientific Applications: Dry ice is also used in many laboratories for scientific purposes.
How is Health affected by Dry Ice?
Dry ice can be harmful for human beings. There are several effects of dry ice on human health. Dry ice is very harmful for human health if it handled improperly and not with precautionary measurements.
Cold Burn: Direct contact with the dry ice can cause burning effects due to its extremely low temperature -78.5°C which is -109.3°C.
Ventilation: When dry ice sublimates it releases carbon dioxide gas which can replace the Oxygen gas. So, it is risky for health in this way also.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several benefits of dry ice as well as health effects. There is also a chance of danger if not taken any precautionary measures.