Liquid Carbon Dioxide (CO₂)

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Category:Specialty Gases   MOQ:100KG  Shipped directly from China

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Introduction

Liquid carbon dioxide (CO₂) is a versatile and widely used cryogenic liquid, known for its unique properties and diverse applications. This article provides a comprehensive overview of liquid CO₂, including its properties, production methods, applications, and safety considerations.

 

Properties of Liquid Carbon Dioxide

Liquid CO₂ is produced by cooling and compressing gaseous CO₂ to a temperature below -78.5°C (-109.3°F) at a pressure of approximately 5.1 atmospheres. At this state, CO₂ transitions from a gas to a liquid. It has the following key properties:

Boiling Point: -78.5°C (-109.3°F) at atmospheric pressure.

Freezing Point: -56.6°C (-69.8°F) at 5.1 atm.

Density: Liquid CO₂ is denser than its gaseous form, making it suitable for storage and transportation.

Non-Flammable: CO₂ is non-flammable and does not support combustion.

Solubility: CO₂ is soluble in water, forming carbonic acid (H₂CO₃).

 

Production of Liquid Carbon Dioxide

Liquid CO₂ is primarily produced through the following methods:

Industrial Capture

CO₂ is captured as a byproduct of industrial processes such as the production of ammonia, ethanol, and natural gas processing. The captured CO₂ is then purified and liquefied through compression and cooling.

Direct Air Capture

In some cases, CO₂ is captured directly from the atmosphere using specialized technologies. This method is still relatively new but holds promise for reducing atmospheric CO₂ levels.

Biomass Fermentation

CO₂ is produced during the fermentation process in industries such as brewing and winemaking. This CO₂ can be captured, purified, and liquefied for various applications.

 

Applications of Liquid Carbon Dioxide

Food and Beverage Industry

Carbonation: Liquid CO₂ is used to carbonate beverages such as soda, beer, and sparkling water. It provides the fizz and enhances the taste.

Refrigeration: Dry ice (solid CO₂) is used for cooling and preserving perishable items during transportation and storage.

Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP): CO₂ is used to extend the shelf life of packaged foods by displacing oxygen, reducing spoilage and oxidation.

Medical Uses

Cryotherapy: Liquid CO₂ is used in cryotherapy to freeze and remove abnormal tissues, such as warts and skin lesions.

Medical Imaging: CO₂ is used in certain medical imaging procedures, such as contrast agents in MRI scans.

Industrial Uses

Fire Suppression: Liquid CO₂ is used in fire extinguishers and fire suppression systems. It displaces oxygen and extinguishes flames without leaving residue.

Welding: CO₂ is used as a shielding gas in welding processes to protect the weld area from oxidation.

Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR): Liquid CO₂ is injected into oil reservoirs to increase oil production by reducing the viscosity of crude oil.

 

Scientific Research

Analytical Instruments: CO₂ is used in gas chromatography and mass spectrometry as a carrier gas.

Cryogenic Applications: Liquid CO₂ is used in cryogenic experiments to create low-temperature environments.

 

Safety Considerations

Handling liquid CO₂ requires strict adherence to safety protocols due to its extreme cold and potential to cause severe frostbite. Additionally, CO₂ can displace oxygen in the air, leading to asphyxiation. Key safety considerations include:

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear insulated gloves, face shields, and eye protection when handling liquid CO₂.

Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation in areas where liquid CO₂ is used or stored to prevent oxygen displacement.

Storage and Handling: Store liquid CO₂ in well-insulated containers or Dewar flasks. Avoid overfilling containers and ensure they are properly sealed.

Emergency Procedures: Be prepared for emergencies, such as spills or leaks, and have appropriate safety equipment and procedures in place.

 

Comparison of Liquid CO₂ Cylinder Sizes

Cylinder Size Capacity (Liters) Weight (Empty Cylinder) Operating Pressure (psi) Typical Duration (Hours)
Small Cylinder 10-20 liters 15-25 kg 20-50 psi 8-12
Medium Cylinder 50-100 liters 50-75 kg 50-100 psi 24-48
Large Cylinder 200-500 liters 150-250 kg 100-200 psi 72-120

 

Conclusion

Liquid CO₂ is a versatile and essential resource used across multiple industries and scientific fields. Its unique properties make it ideal for applications requiring low temperatures and inert atmospheres. However, handling liquid CO₂ requires careful attention to safety protocols to prevent accidents and ensure its effective use. With proper management, liquid CO₂ remains a valuable and indispensable resource in modern technology and industry.

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