How to make dry ice at home

Most people believe that dry ice can only be used in industry, but this is a misconception. The technology of preparation of the product is considered to be quite simple, the substance is not toxic and is allowed for use at home. The advantage of dry ice is the ability for rapid evaporation, the composition in a short period of time passes from a solid mass to a gaseous state. Due to this technology, a large amount of cold evaporates, which greatly expands the boundaries of use.

What is “dry ice”

The production of dry ice is usually massive, as a result of which there are some difficulties with its storage and manufacture at home. In order for the product to retain its properties, it requires special isothermal containers. And for the preparation of the composition it is worth getting raw materials and familiarize yourself with the precautions.

Dry ice application area

• cleaning surfaces without the use of abrasive particles;
• freezing vegetables, berries and fruits;
• long storage of mushrooms, fish, meat;
• the preparation of carbonated beverages, in particular, cocktails;
• transportation of products in large quantities;
• branding of horses and cattle;
• food safety on board the aircraft;
• growing vegetables, fruits and plants in the greenhouse environment;
• the manufacture of bakery products due to the slowing down of yeast bacteria;
• food storage in dry form;
• creating special effects for entertainment purposes (shows, concerts);
• funeral services;
• rodent control through expulsion from a burrow;
• long preservation of flowers in an unopened state;
• dismantling of ceramic tiles and metal parts due to compression and cooling;
• the medicine;
• computer industry, in particular, the cooling of rapidly heating parts;
• safety of prey and catch.

How to make dry ice at home

The main task that you will encounter in the cooking process will be the search for raw materials. For dry ice, carbon dioxide is required in the liquid phase, which is difficult to obtain. One of the most accessible sources is the fire extinguisher with the mark “ОУ” (carbon dioxide). Powder and foam fire extinguishers do not fit, they have completely different components.

You will also need adhesive tape, wide goggles (welding), a tight bag or pillowcase, thick gloves (you can woolen) and a container for storing dry ice that is already prepared.The tank must have thermal insulation, due to which the composition will retain its properties longer. Such a move will help to deliver it to its destination in proper form.

Precautionary measures

1. Carry out the procedure in a well-ventilated area, keep children and animals away. With an overdose of carbon dioxide there is a risk of poisoning, dizziness, general weakness, and an increase in blood pressure may begin.
2. Observe safety precautions when working with a fire extinguisher. Do not push the lever too abruptly; first remove the protective gasket.

Dry Ice Technology

1. Wear a medical gown or other protective clothing, gloves, glasses.
2. Take the pillowcase (bag), insert the socket of the fire extinguisher into it and roll it up with tape to eliminate the possibility of gas escape.
3. Release the feed lever from the fuse. Press the gas release button on the fire extinguisher so that under pressure it starts filling the pillowcase. Wait 3-4 seconds, then turn off the tap. Important! Over a short period of time, the ice will begin to fall to the bottom of the canvas, which you will not see.You will notice only that carbon dioxide will shine through the fabric, the phenomenon itself is safe. However, it is necessary to prepare the composition in a well-ventilated area or in the open air.
4. Grasp the gloved hand by the socket of the fire extinguisher, grabbing the edges of the pillowcase that has been wound. Unwind the tape, remove the hose, carefully removing the remaining ice from it and dropping them in the pillowcase. In the cavity you will notice a handful of dry ice, which as it will resemble foam.
5. Now you need to shift the composition to a more suitable tank. Depending on the size of the finished piece of ice depends on the time of its evaporation. The monolithic composition, the longer it will retain the original form.

Important!
Do not make too much ice, since most of it will evaporate to nowhere. Hold the bag upright. You can safely touch the ice in thick gloves, but hold it in your hands for not too long, because the cold will quickly reach the surface of the skin.

What to keep dry ice

Before cooking, make sure you have a dry ice storage container at hand.Neglecting this advice, you will reduce your own efforts to "no", because the composition will instantly evaporate.

1. An excellent option is a special container for storing frozen products. As a rule, it consists of cold-resistant plastic, which is not hermetic in its properties. Also suitable for the usual form of ice, but they need something to cover the top.
2. You can also use a thermos, but it can not be tightly twisted. During the volatilization of ice, a large amount of carbon dioxide is formed, as a result of which it will quickly rip off the lid or completely blow the thermos. If you choose this method, cover the container, leaving a small gap.
3. In the absence of ready-made dishes, prepare the storage tank yourself. Take a small cardboard box, wrap tape on all sides, so that it has a characteristic glossy glow. Such a move will preserve the properties of the product. Then lay the bottom, walls and top opening lids with dense foam. Attach them with glue or use all the same tape.

Important!
Do not use glass or ceramic containers for ice storage.if they do not have sufficient heat resistance. Under the influence of temperature, the dishes will crack or split into several pieces. As for metal tanks, their use is not prohibited, but the container may be deformed upon contact with cold.

Prepare dry ice at home is possible. Take care of protective clothing, gloves and glasses. In advance, take care of the storage capacity of the composition, carry out the procedure in the open air. Work with a fire extinguisher carefully, hold the device firmly in your hands so that it does not fall out after the crane is lifted.

Video: how to get dry ice with your own hands