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Dry ice: solid CO₂ that sublimates directly
Dry ice consists of solid carbon dioxide and has a temperature of approximately −78.5 °C. Under normal ambient conditions, it transitions directly from a solid to a gaseous state. This process is called sublimation. Unlike ordinary ice made from water, no liquid phase is formed during this process.
This characteristic is particularly important in dry ice blasting: The pellets are propelled onto the surface by compressed air, where they transfer momentum and cold before sublimating. As a result, no additional solid abrasive media is left behind. However, loosened contaminants must still be removed or collected.
Dry ice pellets for cleaning
Pellets of various diameters are used in dry ice blasting machines. Dry Ice Energy offers, among other things, 1.5-mm and 3-mm pellets for its systems; the Champ Ultra is also designed for larger pellet sizes. The appropriate size depends on the machine, the nozzle, the surface, and the desired cleaning effect.
Finer pellets are often chosen when working on delicate surfaces or areas with fine details. Larger pellets can provide a stronger mechanical effect in other applications. The specifications of the respective equipment are always decisive.
Use dry ice as fresh as possible
Dry ice continuously loses mass from the moment it is produced. Even in a well-insulated container, sublimation can only be slowed, not stopped. For blasting work, the required amount should therefore be procured as close to the time of use as possible.
As storage time increases, it’s not just the weight that changes. Pellets can shrink in size and lose quality for the blasting process. To ensure consistent results, short storage times and a suitable storage container are therefore recommended.
Storing Dry Ice Properly
Well-insulated dry ice containers or thermoboxes are suitable. These reduce heat transfer from the outside and thus sublimation losses. However, a container must never be sealed completely airtight: the CO₂ gas produced must be able to escape; otherwise, dangerous pressure can build up.
Safe Storage and Handling
✅ Use an insulated dry ice box
✅ Never seal containers airtight
✅ Store and use only in well-ventilated areas
✅ Avoid direct skin contact
✅ Use cold-protection gloves and appropriate eye protection
✅ Plan quantities and delivery times as close as possible to the date of use
CO₂ Gas and Ventilation
During sublimation, solid dry ice turns into gaseous carbon dioxide. CO₂ is colorless and odorless and can displace oxygen at high concentrations. This can create a hazardous atmosphere, particularly in basements, pits, vehicles, or other poorly ventilated areas. Dry ice should therefore only be stored and used with adequate ventilation; depending on the risk assessment, CO₂ monitoring may be required.
Do not confuse dry ice with ice made from water
A standard freezer is not suitable for long-term storage of dry ice. Even at typical freezing temperatures around −18 °C, the environment is very warm compared to the dry ice, causing it to continue sublimating. Professional insulated boxes usually reduce heat transfer more effectively than a standard freezer.
Dry Ice for Cleaning and Cooling
In addition to dry ice blasting, solid CO₂ is used for cooling and for temperature-sensitive shipments. It is always crucial to ensure that the application is suitable for the extreme temperature and that the resulting CO₂ can be safely vented.
Current store status for this category
The Dry Ice category is set up in the store as a separate section within the dry ice blasting technology category. Currently, no products are assigned to this collection. Therefore, the page primarily provides technical information on pellet sizes, storage, sublimation, and safe handling.
