Gas Information5 min read

About Carbon Dioxide (CO₂)

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a colorless, odorless gas that occurs naturally in Earth's atmosphere. It's composed of one carbon atom bonded to two oxygen atoms. While CO2 makes up only about 0.04% of the atmosphere, it plays a crucial role in both natural processes and commercial applications.

What is CO₂?

Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) is a gas used in many applications including soft drink and soda fountain carbonation. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a colorless, odorless gas that occurs naturally in Earth's atmosphere.

Overview

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a colorless, odorless gas that occurs naturally in Earth's atmosphere. It's composed of one carbon atom bonded to two oxygen atoms. While CO2 makes up only about 0.04% of the atmosphere, it plays a crucial role in both natural processes and commercial applications.

Chemical Information:

  • Name:Carbon Dioxide
  • Symbol:CO₂
  • Formula:CO2

Applications

Beverage Carbonation & Dispensing

  • Soft drink and soda fountain carbonation
  • Draft beer dispensing systems
  • Sparkling water production
  • Wine preservation and dispensing
  • Cocktail carbonation

Food Service & Food Processing

  • Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) to extend shelf life
  • Dry ice for flash freezing and cold shipping
  • pH control in food processing
  • Coffee decaffeination
  • Stunning livestock (humane slaughter)

Industrial & Manufacturing Applications

  • Welding (as shielding gas, often mixed with argon)
  • Metal fabrication and manufacturing
  • Water treatment (pH adjustment)
  • Fire suppression systems
  • Chemical production
  • Enhanced oil recovery

Cannabis & Extraction Industries

  • Cannabis oil extraction
  • Terpene extraction
  • Essential oil production
  • Botanical extraction

Other Commercial Uses

  • Greenhouse agriculture (CO2 enrichment for plant growth)
  • Aquariums and aquaculture (pH control, plant growth)
  • Laboratory and research applications
  • Dry ice blasting (cleaning method)
  • Medical applications (laparoscopic surgery, cryotherapy)
  • Entertainment (stage fog effects, pneumatic systems)

Key Facts

Molecular Formula
CO2
Molecular Weight
44.01 g/mol
Density
1.98 kg/m³ (heavier than air)
Sublimation Point
-78.5°C (-109.3°F)
Appearance
Colorless and odorless
Flammability
Non-flammable

Safety Considerations

Important Safety Information

CO2 is heavier than air and can displace oxygen in enclosed spaces. High concentrations can cause asphyxiation. Always ensure proper ventilation in areas where CO2 is stored or used.

CO2 cylinders contain gas under high pressure. Never tamper with cylinder valves, regulators, or fittings. Use only approved equipment and follow proper handling procedures.

Liquid CO2 and dry ice are extremely cold and can cause cold burns (frostbite) on contact with skin. Always use proper protective equipment when handling.

CO2 storage areas should be well-ventilated. Consider CO2 monitors in enclosed spaces where significant amounts of CO2 are stored or used.

Store cylinders in well-ventilated areas, keep cylinders upright and secured, protect from extreme temperatures, and separate full and empty cylinders.

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