Cleaning without chemicals sounds risky, doesn't it? We are all accustomed to using strong solvents, alkalis and acids for industrial cleaning. However, the fact is that these substances represent great health risks. A safe, non-toxic and non-chemical method of cleaning is however available – dry ice blasting.
Dry ice is a solid form of carbon dioxide. Dry ice undergoes sublimation, means that it transforms from a solid to gaseous state without changing into a liquid state.
Low temperatures and direct sublimation to a gas make dry ice an effective method of cooling. Its temperature is lower than the temperature of frozen water and it does not leave any moisture behind. One of the uses of dry ice use is cleaning. Small particles of dry ice are blown with compressed air against a surface for cleaning. Residues such as glue, oil, paint and fungi can be removed from industrial equipment. Dry ice blasting is an ecological alternative to sandblasting or cleaning with pressurized water or solvents Dry ice is known to inhibit the growth of bacteria. The dry ice cleaning process also stops the growth of fungi and spores and reduces the presence of other biological contaminants. Dry ice helps reduce the growth of yeasts and other bacteria. It is also non-toxic, odourless and suitable for any surfaces – metal, wood and concrete, even on fine wood grains, glass or textiles.