Explore the industrial applications of carbon dioxide (CO2): a vital resource for modern industries.
An efficient gas
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a naturally occuring substance that is non-flammable, colourless, odourless, and slightly acidic.
CO2 is a versatile material available as high-pressure cylinder gas, relatively low pressure refrigerated liquid (LIC) or as dry ice. It can be used in many processes and applications across a wide range of industries from water and pharma to food and beverage.
Applications for CO2
Food Industry Applications
Carbon dioxide (CO2) plays a crucial role in various food industry processes:
- Controlled atmosphere stunning of pigs and poultry
- Cooling of manufactured food products, including crusting of food
- Modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) for extended shelf life
- Carbonation of beverages, including soft drinks, beer, and sparkling wine
- pH regulation in food processing
Medical and Health Applications
CO2 finds important uses in medical treatments and health-related processes:
- Respiratory stimulant when mixed with oxygen
- Cryotherapy for removing skin lesions
- Insufflation gas for minimally invasive surgeries
Water Treatment and pH Control
Liquid CO2 is widely used for water treatment and pH adjustment:
- Drinking water pH regulation
- Wastewater treatment processes
- pH control in paper manufacturing
Refrigeration and Cleaning
The solid form of CO2, known as dry ice, has various applications:
- Refrigerant for food transport and storage, including airline catering
- Dry ice blasting for industrial cleaning
- Special effects in entertainment industry
Chemical Manufacturing
CO2 serves as a raw material in the production of various chemicals:
- Synthesis of methanol and other organic compounds
- Production of urea for fertilizers
- Manufacturing of polycarbonate plastics
Welding and Metal Fabrication
Carbon dioxide is an essential component in welding processes:
- Shielding gas in MIG/MAG welding
- Mixture with argon for improved weld quality
- Cooling agent in certain welding applications
- Laser cutting of sheet metal
Supply and Storage
CO2 is supplied in various forms to meet different industrial needs:
- Compressed gas cylinders
- Liquid CO2 in insulated tanks
- Bulk delivery via tanker trucks
- On-site generation systems for large-scale users
As industries continue to innovate, the applications for carbon dioxide are expanding, making it an increasingly valuable resource in modern industrial processes.
Supply options
Pharma and Biotech industries.
