Dry ice

Dry ice, also known as solid carbon dioxide (CO2), is a fascinating substance. Under normal pressure it sublimates at an extremely low temperature of −78.48 °C. Unlike water, which transitions from solid to liquid to gaseous, dry ice goes directly from a solid to a gaseous state without melting.

In terms of its use, dry ice is similar to normal ice, but with some unique properties. Fine dry ice microparticles are used as a soft blasting medium with a hardness of 2 to 3 on the Mohs scale to gently clean sensitive surfaces. This method is often preferred in order to remove contamination without damaging the surface. When dry ice cleaning injection moulds, for example, scratching, scuffing or the use of chemicals is avoided. Instead, dirt particles are made brittle by the effect of freezing, so that they flake off the surface to be cleaned.

This unique cleaning method is particularly advantageous for sensitive materials and areas, as it is effective without using abrasive or chemical agents that could potentially cause damage.