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
Guaranteed Food Purity (ISBT): Free from any odors, tastes, and harmful impurities, guaranteeing the quality and natural taste of carbonated beverages and sparkling water.
Inert Protective Atmosphere: Prevents oxidation and the growth of aerobic bacteria in fresh food packaging (MAP).
Cryogenic Cooling Properties: Dry ice at -78.5°C provides a powerful, residue-free source of refrigeration for transporting food and pharmaceuticals.
Welding Shielding Gas (MAG): Mixed with Argon, it creates a stable arc and deep weld penetration in carbon steel welding.
4. Industrial Applications
Food & Beverage Industry: The carbonation of soft drinks and beer, and the packaging of coffee and meat.
Welding: An active gas in the MAG welding process.
Agriculture: Injection into greenhouses to increase the rate of photosynthesis and plant growth.
Extraction: A green, supercritical solvent for extracting caffeine, essential oils, and edible oils.
5. Safety & Handling
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.
Storage Conditions: Store cryogenic tanks or high-pressure cylinders in a cool, well-ventilated environment, away from heat. Avoid confined and low-lying spaces.
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.
