Dry ice is something that everyone knows exists, but few people know how it can be used to make everyday life easier. Dry ice is the solid form of carbon dioxide (Co2) which exists at a temperature of -78.6 degrees Celsius. It comes in a wide range of forms and can be used for many different applications. It is a colourless, odourless, tasteless component that also has bacteriostatic characteristics.
The main characteristic of dry ice is that it sublimates, which means that it turns directly from its solid form to Co2 gas without leaving any wet residue.
With dry ice being used more often in common household chores, knowing suppliers that offer dry ice for sale should be considered.
What can dry ice be used for?
Dry Food Storage
This is a popular use for dry ice and involves using dry ice which is placed at the bottom of dry food storage containers to fumigate and store dry goods for long periods of time. When using this, it is important to make sure that the dry ice is not frost-covered, as this will add moisture. Place the needed amount of dry ice at the bottom of the container and pour the dry food in.
As the dry ice sublimates, it will subsequently replace the oxygen in the container with carbon dioxide. The lid can be secured but it should not be sealed until the dry ice has completely sublimated. Once complete, the lid can be sealed and if there is any building, you must lift the lid to vent the remainder of Co2 and close it once more.
A Mosquito Trap
Dry ice can be used to attract mosquitos away from people and pets and towards where the dry ice is placed. It can easily be used for outdoor activities and camping by placing a few pieces of dry ice a reasonable distance away from where people gather to attract mosquitos.
Dry ice can also be used to attract mosquitos towards mosquito traps as a bait.
To Clean Mold
Dry ice blasting can be used to effectively clean mold from hard-to-reach surfaces, ceilings, nooks, crannies, and equipment. It is easy, safe, fast, and cost-effective and dry ice will not damage equipment, surfaces, or negatively impact health.
To Give Plants a Boost
When dry ice is applied to plants in very small amounts, it can help with effective plant growth. All that you need to do, is place some dry ice near the plants and allow it to sublimate for between 10 to 15 minutes a day. Be careful not to let the dry ice touch the plants directly as it will cause damage and the plants could die.
To Carbonate Drinks
This is one of the easiest ways, especially for those who want to take on craft brewing at home, especially considering that most sodas these days contain a lot of sugar.
Co2 is a critical component that provides soda with the gas that will make it bubbly. However, care should be taken in the handling of dry ice and the necessary protective gear must be worn to prevent contact with skin.
Swallowing dry ice can also cause serious harm.
