Dry ice is a powerful chilling agent that is widely employed in a variety of industries, including food transportation, medical storage, entertainment, and cleaning. Unlike conventional ice, which melts into water, dry ice sublimates, which means it goes straight from a solid to a gas (carbon dioxide) without passing through a liquid phase. But one of the most commonly asked questions is, "How long does dry ice last?" More importantly, how do you make it last longer?
In this article, we will look at how long dry ice lasts under different conditions, what factors influence its longevity, and how to use it more effectively.
How long does dry ice last?
The duration of dry ice is determined by a number of parameters, including the quantity utilised, storage method, ambient temperature, and application. Here's the broad breakdown:
In the cooler:
- 5 to 10 pounds of dry ice can survive 12 to 24 hours in a conventional insulated cooler, depending on the outside temperature and how frequently it is opened.
Inside a Styrofoam Box:
- Smaller quantities can last between 18 and 36 hours if stored correctly in a high-quality Styrofoam container.
Exposed to open air:
- Dry ice sublimates quickly in open air, with 1 pound disappearing in 2 to 3 hours depending on ambient temperature and circulation.
In the deep freezer (not recommended):
- Although it may appear sensible to keep dry ice in a freezer, most household freezers are not intended to handle dry ice. It will continue to sublimate and may damage the device if not aired.
What Affects Dry Ice's Lifespan?
Several environmental and physical factors have a significant impact on how long dry ice lasts:
Storage material
Better insulation in containers (such as thick Styrofoam or commercial-grade coolers) extends the life of dry ice by reducing heat transfer.
amount of dry ice
The rate of sublimation per pound decreases as the amount of dry ice stored increases. This is due to thermal mass: more dry ice means less exposure to ambient heat.
Airflow and ventilation
Increased airflow accelerates sublimation. That is why dry ice evaporates faster in open places than in enclosed coolers.
Ambient temperature
Higher ambient temperatures hasten sublimation. Dry ice will not stay as long in hot climates like the UAE or in vehicles that lack insulation.
Container usage
Frequent opening of the cooler or container introduces warm air, shortening the life of the dry ice inside.
How Can You Make Dry Ice Last For Longer?
Follow these expert tips to maximise dry ice's efficiency and duration:
Use a High-Quality Cooler.
Choose a cooler with substantial insulation and low air leakage. Dry ice performs best in a sealed but ventilated container that minimises exposure to warm air.
Pre-chill the container.
Before adding dry ice, chill the container with ice or frozen gel packs. This lowers the temperature difference between the dry ice and the container, which slows sublimation.
Limit openings.
Avoid repeatedly opening the cooler. Plan ahead of time to only open it as necessary, preventing warm air from entering and maintaining a consistent indoor temperature.
Wrap Dry Ice in Paper or Towels.
Wrapping the blocks or pellets in newspaper or cloth provides an added layer of insulation. It also prevents direct contact with air, which speeds up sublimation.
Use Larger Blocks for Longevity
If you want the dry ice to last as long as possible, use huge blocks instead of pellets. Blocks have a smaller surface area relative to volume, which slows sublimation.
Store it in a cool, shaded area.
Store your dry ice in a cool spot away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Even indoors, positioning it near air conditioning or in a shaded area makes an impact.
Avoid Airtight Containers.
Dry ice creates gas when it sublimates, and the pressure buildup can cause explosions. Never store it in completely sealed containers. Use containers with unfastened lids or built-in vents.
Bonus: Safety Tips for Handling Dry Ice
- Wear gloves: Dry ice is extremely cold (-78.5°C), and direct skin contact might result in frostbite.
- Ensure Proper Ventilation: Place in well-ventilated places. Sublimated CO₂ can displace oxygen and pose a problem in enclosed places.
- Never Ingest or Seal Tightly: Always adhere to handling instructions, particularly for storage and transportation.
How Dry Ice Dubai Can Help You Get More Out of Your Supply
Dry Ice Dubai provides premium-grade dry ice in blocks, pellets, and sheets in a variety of sizes to meet your unique purpose. Our items are transported in insulated packaging that minimises loss and extends usability, even in the UAE's harsh climate.
Whether you're a restaurant in need of dry ice for food preservation or a logistics company transporting temperature-sensitive goods, our team will ensure you get the right amount with the best packaging and usage advice.
In Conclusion
So, how long can dry ice last? That depends on how you store and utilise it but with wise practices like insulated storage, minimising air exposure, and selecting the appropriate format, you may extend its life significantly. Whether you're organising an event, running a food business, or organising medical transport, understanding how to maximise dry ice efficiency can save you time, money, and product loss.
Do you need help deciding on the best type or quantity of dry ice for your needs? Contact the specialists at Dry Ice Dubai for specialised advice and speedy delivery throughout the UAE.