Dry ice is the solid form of carbon dioxide that does not melt but sublimates directly from a solid to a gas at -109.3°F. It was first observed in 1835 and resembles snow or water ice but is extremely cold to the touch. Dry ice should be handled with insulated gloves and used in a well-ventilated area due to the risk of frostbite, burns and reducing oxygen levels as it sublimates.

1. Dry Ice - Facts
 Dry ice is solid carbon dioxide.
 Dry ice is extremely cold (-109.3°F or -78.5°C). At this temperature it sublimates from
the solid state into the gaseous state or undergoes deposition from gas to solid.
 The first published observation of dry ice was in 1835 by French chemist Charles
Thilorier. He noted the formation of dry ice when a container of liquid carbon dioxide
was opened.
 Dry ice resembles snow or water ice.
 Dry ice does NOT melt. Instead of melting it transforms from a solid to a gas though a
process called sublimation.
 Dry ice comes in a few forms including block, standard pellet, blasting pellets, and rice
pellets.
 Dry ice has been discovered in space on planets and comets.
 Dry ice density usually ranges between 1.2 and 1.6 kg/dm 3.
 The molecular weight of dry ice is 44.01 g/mole.
 The specific gravity of dry ice is 1.56 (water = 1).
Dry Ice Safety
 Contact with dry ice can result in frostbite and cold burns. Avoid allowing contact
between dry ice and the skin, eyes, or mouth.
 Use insulated gloves when handling dry ice.
 Although dry ice and carbon dioxide are not toxic, the use of dry ice may present a
respiratory hazard because it can sink and displace air near the ground or when it
mixes with the air, there is more carbon dioxide (less oxygen) in each breath. Use dry
ice in a well-ventilated area.
 Do not eat or swallow dry ice.
 Do not seal dry ice in glass or other closed containers, since the pressure buildup
may result in breakage or bursting.