Dry Ice –Carbon Dioxide: Where is it being used and how to handle safely?

Carbon dioxide, in its solid form, is colder than ice. It is so cold, in fact, that handling it without protection can cause frostbite. It does not melt, but instead dissipates into a gas that can be dangerous to breathe. This substance is called dry ice, and, when handled properly, has many useful applications.

The most practical use of dry ice is to keep things cold. It can be used to flash freeze anything from biological samples to ice cream. It does not alter the taste of food, but alternatively keeps the fats in food from becoming rancid and preserves flavor over time. When transporting perishable items, even medications, dry ice can be used to insure freshness. With safety precautions, it can be used to ship food in packages, and even be brought on an airplane.

Another common use of dry ice is to create ‘fog’. This can be done for a special effect in a movie, or even in a haunted house or nightclub. When a piece of dry ice is placed in water, sublimation is accelerated. This is the process from which a chemical in a solid state skips over the liquid stage and turns directly into a gas. For dry ice, this process occurs more rapidly in water, allowing a dense cloud of fog to dramatically fill a room. Since carbon dioxide is heavier than air, the fog will stay low to the ground, providing an eerie special effect.

Dry ice may sound enticing, and can even be obtained from your local grocery store, however, it is important to remember to follow safety precautions before and during the handling of this powerful substance. The first thing to consider is how you are going to transport and store the dry ice. It is very important to wear protective gloves while picking up dry ice. It is so cold than it can cause frostbite upon contact. If you will be driving with a large quantity of dry ice, make sure to have your windows down to allow a flow of air so carbon dioxide does not build up inside your car. Also, store dry ice in a cooler so it lasts longer, but make sure it is not airtight so it does not explode under pressure from the sublimation.

As dry ice sublimates and creates ‘fog’, it is slowly filling the room with carbon dioxide. This is not a gas you want to breathe in large quantities. It can replace the oxygen in a room, causing illness and suffocation, so it is very important to have good ventilation in any area in which you are storing or using dry ice. Since carbon dioxide is colorless and odorless, it can be easy not to realize you are having a ventilation problem till it is too late. The absolute safest way to use dry ice is with the use of an OXYGEN METER.

An oxygen meter tests the air in the room to make sure it is safe to breathe. PureAire Monitoring Systems makes an oxygen monitor for just this purpose, and with its 10+ year sensor, it is a smart choice to purchase if you are regularly using dry ice. Chemicals can be useful, and even necessary, to get a job done. It is important to use them safely and correctly to prevent injury, and even death. If the oxygen meter alarm goes off, you are able to evacuate the area before any long term ill effects take place. When using dry ice, remember to have fun, but first and foremost, say safe.

For more information on the PureAire Oxygen Monitor, contact PureAire Monitoring Systems, Inc., 557 Capital Drive, Lake Zurich, Illinois 60047; Phone - (888) 788-8050, Fax - (847) 726-6051.
Find us on the web at www.PureAireMonitoring.com, and www.MonitorOxygen.com.

Long Lasting Safety with PureAire Monitoring Systems’ 10+ year sensors

When it comes to oxygen deficiency monitors, PureAire makes the longest lasting units on the market. They believe your safety should not be taken lightly, and have created a reliable and affordable monitor that will outlast all of their competitors. PureAire Monitoring Systems has broken away from the norm of using disposable sensor cells, and has introduced the groundbreaking technology of a 10+ year maintenance free sensor.

Disposable sensor cells have been an international standard in oxygen monitors for decades, but they are far from ideal. They require frequent maintenance and monthly to quarterly calibration, which can be costly. Without calibration, false alarms will occur, or worse, a failure to alarm in the event of oxygen deficiency. The reliability of these disposable sensors can even be affected by changes in barometric pressure.

PureAire Monitoring Systems has come up with a unique product to solve these problems. Their oxygen deficiency monitors include a Zirconium Oxide sensor, which lasts for 10+ years. This sensor is not affected by barometric pressure, and never needs to be recalibrated. This means that it will continue working without flaw toward keeping you safe over many years.


With over 4,000 units in the field, PureAire’s oxygen deficiency monitors continue to gain popularity and support amongst its users. No maintenance means no hassle, and more time to focus on your work while continuing to stay safe.

For more information on the PureAire Oxygen Monitor, contact PureAire Monitoring Systems, Inc., 557 Capital Drive, Lake Zurich, Illinois 60047; phone 888-788-8050, fax 847-726-6051, or contact us via contact form. You may also visit the company’s website at www.PureAireMonitoring.com, and www.MonitorOxygen.com.

About PureAire Monitoring Systems:

PureAire offers an unbeatable combination of innovation and experience in solving safety and environmental needs of their customers. As a manufacturer, they are capable of handling any size project, which includes working with OEMs and distributors.

PureAire’s proprietary sensor cell technology and leading edge electronics are designed to interface with the latest distributive control systems.

Beginning in 1996, their growth has been a result of their total commitment to supporting their customers. PureAire’s goal is to provide the best service and support in the industry. Safety is their number one priority.