1. Product Introduction & Main Application
Arnico’s Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) is a colorless, odorless gas, heavier than air, supplied industrially as a pressurized liquid, solid (dry ice), and gas. This multi-purpose product has vital applications in the food industry (beverage carbonation and Modified Atmosphere Packaging – MAP), welding (shielding gas), fire extinguishers, supercritical fluid extraction, and for enhancing plant growth in greenhouses.
2. Technical Specifications
| Technical Parameter | Food / Beverage Grade (ISBT) | Industrial / Welding Grade | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purity (CO₂) | ≥ 99.99 | ≥ 99.9 | % |
| Moisture (H₂O) | ≤ 20 | ≤ 50 | ppm |
| Oxygen (O₂) | ≤ 10 | ≤ 30 | ppm |
| Carbon Monoxide (CO) | ≤ 5 | ≤ 10 | ppm |
| Total Hydrocarbons (as CH₄) | ≤ 20 (No odor/taste) | ≤ 50 | ppm |
| Nitrogen (N₂) | ≤ 20 | ≤ 50 | ppm |
| Vapor Pressure (21°C) | ≈ 5700 | ≈ 5700 | kPa |
3. Features & Benefits
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Guaranteed Food Purity (ISBT): Free from any odors, tastes, and harmful impurities, guaranteeing the quality and natural taste of carbonated beverages and sparkling water.
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Inert Protective Atmosphere: Prevents oxidation and the growth of aerobic bacteria in fresh food packaging (MAP).
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Cryogenic Cooling Properties: Dry ice at -78.5°C provides a powerful, residue-free source of refrigeration for transporting food and pharmaceuticals.
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Welding Shielding Gas (MAG): Mixed with Argon, it creates a stable arc and deep weld penetration in carbon steel welding.
4. Industrial Applications
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Food & Beverage Industry: The carbonation of soft drinks and beer, and the packaging of coffee and meat.
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Welding: An active gas in the MAG welding process.
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Agriculture: Injection into greenhouses to increase the rate of photosynthesis and plant growth.
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Extraction: A green, supercritical solvent for extracting caffeine, essential oils, and edible oils.
5. Safety & Handling
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MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet): This gas is non-toxic and non-flammable but is an asphyxiant (displaces oxygen). The gas and liquid are under high pressure. Contact with the liquid causes severe cryogenic burns. The Arnico MSDS file must be obtained.
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Storage Conditions: Store cryogenic tanks or high-pressure cylinders in a cool, well-ventilated environment, away from heat. Avoid confined and low-lying spaces.
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Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): When handling the liquid and dry ice, the use of cryogenic gloves, goggles, and a face shield is mandatory.
6. Quality Assurance & COA
Arnico CO₂ shipments are supplied with a Certificate of Analysis (COA) confirming compliance with ISBT standards for the food grade.
