Dry ice can be useful for many purposes, from preserving food to creating special effects. However, proper storage is essential to prevent accidents and other safety concerns. Dry ice sublimates from solid to gas form when exposed to cold temperatures, which can place a dangerous amount of pressure on the container. When this happens, the container can explode. To avoid this, always store dry ice in an insulated cooler and never in a freezer. Freezers are not designed to handle this kind of pressure, so they can actually damage your dry ice. In addition, if you store it in an airtight container, carbon dioxide will build up to a point where it will eventually burst the container.
Before handling how to store dry ice, put on insulated gloves to protect your skin from frostbite. It’s also a good idea to wear protective eyewear. The super-cold surface temperature can burn bare skin and even penetrate it. If you have sensitive skin, consider wearing a glove liner as well. Never touch dry ice with your bare hands. The vaporized CO2 gas can cause painful blisters and other injuries.
Choose a non-airtight container: If you plan on storing dry ice for more than a few hours, use an insulated cooler made of Styrofoam. This will keep the ice colder for longer and allow you to use it in more applications. When buying dry ice, be sure to buy the size you need. It’s important to buy the right amount so you don’t have to waste any, especially since it has a short shelf life.
Place the towel-wrapped dry ice inside the insulated cooler. Fill the remaining space with crumpled paper, which reduces air space and provides more insulation. Secure the lid tightly, but make sure it is not airtight. This will prevent warm air from entering and causing the ice to melt faster than necessary.
Keep the Cooler in a Cold Place: The cooler should be stored in a cold location, such as outdoors during the winter and in a refrigerator during the summer. This will prevent it from melting quickly and causing a mess. You can also store it in a refrigerator or a chest or bucket that’s been lined with insulating foam, but be sure not to seal it airtight. An airtight container will force the dry ice to convert directly from solid to gas, which can create dangerous levels of pressure and even cause the container to explode.
Store the Cooler in a Ventilated Area: It’s vital to provide adequate ventilation while handling dry ice. Carbon dioxide gas is heavier than air, which means it will naturally move to lower spaces and replace oxygenated air. This can lead to asphyxiation if you accidentally inhale too much of it. To avoid this, always wear a face mask and stay low when you’re working with it.
With these simple tips, you can enjoy the many benefits of dry ice for parties, camping trips and other activities. Just be sure to monitor the condition of your ice and replace it regularly to ensure its cooling power.