How to Transport Dry Ice

Dry ice is frozen carbon dioxide (CO2). It has a much lower freezing temperature than regular ice (-109 degrees Fahrenheit as opposed to 32 F). When CO2 warms, it sublimates (goes from a solid to a gas) and is released. In confined spaces, CO2 will displace oxygen, and asphyxiation will occur. Dry ice is used to cool food and beverages, and the sublimating CO2 makes for a great fog or smoke effect. However, dry ice burns when it comes in contact with the skin, and the product must be transported and used with caution.

Things You'll Need

• Ventilated cooler for transport
• Protective clothing
• Eye protection
• Insulated gloves
• Tongs

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Transport dry ice in a ventilated container. Sublimation of dry ice releases gas that may cause the container to explode if it is not properly ventilated. Do not place the dry ice onto food or canned or bottled beverages. The bottles or cans may explode, and the food will get freezer burn.

• 2

  Place the container in the trunk or on the floor of a car and open the windows to ventilate while driving. Sublimated CO2 may cause asphyxiation in an unventilated car.

• 3

  Place dry ice in the unventilated cargo area of a truck, if all passengers will be confined to the cab. Before removing the dry ice from the cargo area, allow it to ventilate for five minutes to reduce CO2 levels.