How Dry Ice Pellets Keep Items Cold in Transit
Transporting commodities that are susceptible to temperature changes is more important than ever in the current global economy. Numerous products, ranging from electronics and medical samples to frozen foods and medications, rely on trustworthy cold chain logistics to preserve quality and safety while in transit. Dry ice pellets are one of the best options for cold transportation since they are a small, strong, and effective chilling agent.
The science behind dry ice pellets’ ability to keep goods cold during transportation is examined in this article, along with the reasons why businesses all over the world depend on them to safeguard their goods.
What Are Dry Ice Pellets?
The solid form of carbon dioxide (CO₂) is called dry ice pellets, and they are usually formed into tiny, cylindrical pieces that range in diameter from 3 to 16 mm. They are created by rapidly expanding gaseous CO₂ to create dry ice “snow,” which is then compacted into solid pellets after being cooled and crushed until it liquefies.
Dry ice is special because it can sublimate, which means it goes straight from a solid to a gas without turning into a liquid. Dry ice pellets are an incredibly cold and uncluttered choice for cold storage and transit because of the sublimation process, which takes place at -78.5°C (-109.3°F).
The Science Behind Cold Transit
Thermodynamics and sublimation’s capacity to absorb heat determine how well dry ice pellets keep goods cool during transportation. Dry ice pellets absorb a lot of heat from their environment during the sublimation process. By removing heat from the objects they come into touch with, this endothermic process keeps the container’s temperature low.
Dry ice sublimates into innocuous CO₂ gas as opposed to melting into liquid like water-based ice does. This makes it perfect for carrying things like medications, electronics, or papers that need to stay totally dry.
Why Use Dry Ice Pellets for Shipping?
1. Extreme Cold Temperatures
Dry ice pellets offer much colder temperatures than traditional ice, making them ideal for transporting goods that need to stay frozen or below zero. The sub-zero environment slows down microbial growth and chemical reactions that can compromise product quality.
2. No Liquid Residue
Since dry ice turns into gas instead of water, there’s no mess, moisture, or risk of contamination. This is particularly beneficial for shipping food, lab specimens, or electronics that could be damaged by moisture.
3. Compact and Space-Saving
Pellets are small and uniform, allowing for even distribution throughout shipping containers. Their compact size provides efficient packing and optimal temperature control across the entire shipment.
4. Long-Lasting Cold Source
Dry ice pellets can keep items cold for 24 to 72 hours or more, depending on the amount used and the insulation of the container. This is especially useful for long-distance or international shipping.
Industries That Rely on Dry Ice Pellets for Transit
1. Food and Beverage
From frozen meats to ice cream and fresh produce, the food industry uses dry ice pellets to maintain temperature and freshness during shipping. Pellets are ideal for home delivery services, online grocery orders, and food exports.
2. Pharmaceuticals and Healthcare
Vaccines, insulin, blood samples, and medical specimens require strict temperature control. Dry ice pellets are widely used in pharmaceutical logistics and cold chain medical supply shipping because of their consistent and reliable cooling performance.
3. E-commerce and Meal Kit Deliveries
Online businesses shipping perishable goods use dry ice to ensure quality upon delivery. Companies that deliver meal kits or frozen products depend on dry ice to avoid spoilage and customer dissatisfaction.
4. Laboratories and Research Facilities
In scientific research, maintaining sample integrity during transit is critical. Dry ice pellets offer the necessary cold chain support to transport lab samples, cultures, or reagents without compromising their usability.
How to Use Dry Ice Pellets in Transit
To effectively use dry ice pellets for cold shipping:
- Use an insulated container: High-quality styrofoam or vacuum-insulated containers work best.
- Avoid airtight sealing: As dry ice sublimates, it releases CO₂ gas. Containers should allow for venting to prevent pressure build-up.
- Handle with gloves: Dry ice is extremely cold and can cause burns or frostbite if handled without protection.
- Calculate the right amount: The amount of dry ice needed depends on the transit time, the volume of goods, and insulation quality.
For example, shipping frozen seafood across the country may require 5 to 10 kg of dry ice pellets per 24 hours, while a smaller shipment of lab samples may need less.
Environmental and Safety Considerations
Since dry ice is generated from recycled CO₂ and produces no waste, it is a non-toxic, eco-friendly product. It must, however, be used in well-ventilated places to prevent the possible buildup of CO₂ in enclosed spaces because it releases carbon dioxide gas.
Labeling correctly is also crucial. Packages containing dry ice must be marked as “Dry Ice” with the relevant UN number (UN1845) and the weight of the dry ice, according to several shipping carriers.
Conclusion
Pellets of dry ice are a crucial component of contemporary cold chain logistics. They are the preferred option for long-distance transportation of temperature-sensitive goods due to their strong cooling capacity, dependable operation, and clean sublimation. Dry ice pellets are still essential in international supply chains for everything from preserving vaccinations to transporting fresh frozen food.
Businesses and consumers alike can rely on dry ice pellets to keep things cool—literally—as the need for quick, fresh, and secure deliveries grows.