Industrial Dry Ice Pack: How Does It Revolutionize Cold Chain Logistics?
Imagine shipping a box of freshly caught salmon or a life saving vaccine without worrying whether it will stay cold enough. Un industrial dry ice pack offers that peace of mind. This ultra cold pack, made from carbon dioxide frozen at –109 °F, keeps goods colder than water ice and doesn’t melt into water. Its extraordinary coldness protects food, pharmaceuticals and delicate chemicals during transit and, unlike gel or water packs, leaves no wet mess. Dans 2025, reusable versions and smart sensors are making dry ice packs even more efficient. This article explores how industrial dry ice packs work, their pros and cons and what trends are shaping the future of cold chain logistics.
What is an industrial dry ice pack and how does it work?
When should you choose dry ice packs instead of gel packs?
How to use industrial dry ice packs safely and effectively?
Why reusable dry ice packs are game changers in 2025?
What trends will shape the future of dry ice packs and cold chain logistics?
What Is an Industrial Dry Ice Pack and How Does It Work?
Réponse rapide: An industrial dry ice pack is a block, pellet or sheet of dioxyde de carbone solide used to keep products at very low temperatures. Because dry ice doesn’t melt—it Limères soudantes (turns directly from solid to gas)—it maintains temperatures around –109 °F (–78,5 ° C). This ultra cold environment freezes or keeps items frozen during shipping without creating puddles or moisture.
Solid carbon dioxide and sublimation
Dry ice is simply carbon dioxide that has been frozen. Unlike normal ice, it skips the liquid phase and goes straight from solid to gas in a process called sublimation. When a dry ice pack warms up, it releases carbon dioxide gas rather than water. This property makes it ideal for packaging products that are sensitive to water, such as electronics, pharmaceuticals or dry goods. The gas release also means your packages won’t end up soggy—common with gel packs or water ice.
Cooling mechanism
During sublimation, the dry ice absorbs heat from its surroundings. The heat absorption keeps the contents of the package cold. Industrial dry ice packs are typically placed on top of or around the shipment so that cold air sinks and envelops the products. Large blocks sublimate slower and are ideal for long journeys, while pellets or slices offer faster cooling but shorter duration. Proper placement, container design and minimising empty space help extend the cooling duration.
Key properties of dry ice packs
| Propriété | Valeur | Practical meaning |
| Température | ~–109 °F (–78,5 ° C) | Maintains ultra cold conditions suitable for frozen meats, fruit de mer, vaccines and biotech samples. |
| Sublimation | Solid → gas | Leaves no water residue; prevents soggy boxes; requires venting to avoid pressure build up. |
| Efficacité du refroidissement | ~3× greater than water ice | You need less weight to achieve the same cooling effect, Réduire les frais d'expédition. |
| Typical lifespan | 12–24 hours per pack | Additional packs or larger pieces extend hold time; reusable packs can last longer. |
| Statut réglementaire | Classe 9 matières dangereuses (Et 1845) | Requires specific packaging, labeling and training for transport. |
Practical tip: Because dry ice releases CO₂ gas, always use vented containers and avoid sealing the packs in airtight bags. Sans ventilation, internal pressure can build up and rupture the container.
Étude de cas: A seafood exporter found that switching from water ice to dry ice reduced their shipment weight by 30% and eliminated leakage issues. By packing fish fillets with small dry ice slices in pre chilled insulated boxes and leaving ventilation holes, they kept shipments frozen for 48 hours without any liquid damage.
When Should You Choose Industrial Dry Ice Packs Over Gel Packs?
Réponse courte: Choose dry ice packs when you need ultra cold temperatures for frozen goods or longer transit times. Gel packs are better for refrigerated products (2–8 ° C) or when customers may not be familiar with handling dry ice.
Dry ice excels in keeping temperatures extremely low, down to –109 °F. It’s ideal for shipping frozen meats, seafood or ice cream, and it works well in long haul deliveries or warm climates because its sublimation rate is slower than a gel pack’s melt rate. Packs de gel, d'autre part, are reusable and safer to handle; they maintain temperatures closer to freezing (autour 0 °C).
Comparing cooling agents
| Attribut | Packs de gel | Industrial dry ice packs | Impact on you |
| Plage de température | Near 0 °C (32 °F) | –78,5 ° C (–109 °F) | Use gel packs for chilled (pas gelé) aliments; use dry ice for frozen goods. |
| Durée | 12–24 hours for basic gel packs | 12–24 hours per pack; longer with larger blocks | Dry ice can last longer in insulated containers; add more packs for longer journeys. |
| Résidu | Liquefies into water | Sublimer le gaz | Dry ice eliminates soggy packages; gel packs require waterproof packaging. |
| Manutention | Non hazardous, simple | Requires gloves and ventilation | Dry ice is more demanding; choose gel when recipient is unfamiliar with safety. |
| Règlements | Generally not regulated | Classified as a hazardous material (Et 1845) | You must follow packaging, labeling and transport rules for dry ice. |
Consider your product and shipping route
Frozen or ultra cold goods: Viande, fruit de mer, ice cream and some biologics need sub zero storage. Dry ice keeps them safely below freezing during long transit. Par exemple, a 20 pound meat shipment may require about 10 pounds of dry ice to stay frozen for 48 heures. Gel packs may not be sufficient for such low temperatures or long durations.
Temperature sensitive but not frozen: Produce, prepared meals and some pharmaceuticals require a cold (pas gelé) environnement. Gel packs or phase change materials hold a narrower temperature range of 2–8 °C. They’re easier to handle and reuse, making them cost effective for frequent shipments.
Customer handling: If your customers are not trained in handling dry ice, gel packs may be safer. Dry ice requires protective gloves and ventilation. Some shipping carriers limit the amount of dry ice allowed and require hazard labels.
Scénario pratique: A small meal kit company shipped both frozen meats and chilled vegetables. They used a hybrid approach: dry ice packs for the meat compartment and gel packs for the vegetables. This kept the meats frozen and prevented the vegetables from freezing. Customers appreciated the separation and clear handling instructions.
Factors affecting the choice
Product temperature needs: Frozen vs. marchandises réfrigérées.
Shipping distance and duration: Long hauls or warm climates favour dry ice.
Packaging size and weight: Dry ice is more efficient per pound than gel packs.
Conformité réglementaire: Dry ice shipments require hazard labels and training.
End user handling and disposal: Gel packs are simpler to dispose of; dry ice must sublime in ventilated areas.
How to Use Industrial Dry Ice Packs Safely and Effectively?
Idée clé: Safety and packaging design determine whether an industrial dry ice pack will keep products cold without causing harm. Because dry ice sublimates into CO₂ gas, proper handling, container selection and quantity calculation are essential.
Safety precautions
Dry ice is extremely cold and can cause severe frostbite on contact. It also releases large amounts of carbon dioxide gas; one pound of dry ice produces about 250 litres of CO₂. This can lead to asphyxiation in poorly ventilated spaces. To use dry ice safely:
Wear protective gear: Utilisez des gants isolés, goggles and closed toe shoes. Avoid touching dry ice with bare hands.
Assurer la ventilation: Work in well ventilated areas. Do not store dry ice in confined spaces like walk in refrigerators or unventilated rooms. CO₂ gas can accumulate and displace oxygen.
Use vented containers: Never place dry ice in a sealed plastic bag or airtight container. Containers must allow gas to escape to prevent pressure build up and explosion. Styrofoam within a cardboard box works well because it insulates yet vents.
Avoid incompatible materials: Do not use metal, plastic or glass containers unless they are rated for dry ice; extreme cold can cause cracking.
Label packages: Mark packages with “Dry Ice (Dioxyde de carbone solide) UN 1845” and indicate the net weight of dry ice. This is required under DOT and IATA regulations
Educate handlers: Train staff and customers on proper handling, disposal and emergency procedures.
Conseil: Always dispose of dry ice by allowing it to sublimate in a well ventilated area. Never throw dry ice into sinks or trash bins, as extreme cold can damage plumbing.
Calculating the right amount of dry ice
The quantity of dry ice directly determines how long the pack can maintain cold temperatures. Une ligne directrice générale consiste à utiliser 1–2 pounds of dry ice for every 3–4 pounds of product. Par exemple, expédition 20 pounds of meat may require about 10 livres de glace sèche to stay frozen for up to 48 heures. Factors that influence the required quantity include:
Température ambiante: Higher external temperatures cause faster sublimation; shipments in warm climates may need more dry ice.
Shipping duration: Plus le temps de transit est long, the more dry ice you need. For journeys beyond 48 heures, consider at least 20 livres de glace sèche.
Container insulation: Thick, high performance insulation reduces sublimation. Pre chilling containers and minimizing empty spaces can extend hold times.
Product arrangement: Place dry ice above the product so cold air sinks and keeps items frozen. Avoid direct contact with items that could be damaged by extreme cold by using dividers or cushioning.
Packaging and insulation tips
Select robust outer packaging: Use corrugated cardboard, plastic or wooden boxes. Do not use steel drums or sealed plastic jerricans.
Insert a layer of insulation: Styrofoam or vacuum insulated panels help slow heat transfer and support stable temperatures.
Pre condition containers: Pre cool boxes before adding dry ice to reduce the initial thermal shock and slow sublimation.
Minimize void spaces: Fill any gaps with insulating materials (mousse, pellets or padding) to reduce warm pockets.
Allow venting: Ensure there are vents or holes to allow CO₂ gas to escape.
Exemple: A biotech lab shipped cell cultures that must remain at –70 °C. They calculated 15 pounds of dry ice for a 24 hour flight. They used a pre chilled insulated container with minimal void space and placed the dry ice above the payload, separated by a cardboard barrier. Vent holes prevented pressure build up. The samples arrived intact, and data loggers showed no temperature deviations.
Erreurs courantes pour éviter
Sealing the container completely: This traps CO₂ gas and may cause the box to burst.
Underestimating the quantity: Too little dry ice causes premature thawing. Always adjust amounts based on travel time and conditions.
Letting dry ice contact water: Water accelerates sublimation and reduces cooling time. Keep dry ice dry.
Improper disposal: Never throw dry ice into drains or trash; allow it to sublimate in an open space.
Skipping training: Untrained staff may mishandle dry ice, leading to frostbite or asphyxiation.
Why Are Reusable Industrial Dry Ice Packs Changing Cold Chain Logistics in 2025?
Key point: Reusable dry ice packs are transforming cold chain operations by cutting costs, reducing waste and incorporating smart technology. Instead of buying single use dry ice or gel packs for each shipment, reusable packs can be frozen, used and refrozen multiple times, delivering consistent ultra cold performance and sustainability.
How do reusable dry ice packs maintain temperature?
Reusable dry ice packs are filled with solid CO₂ just like standard packs but are housed within durable, insulated containers designed to withstand repeated cycles. They sublimate at –78.5 °C (–109,3 ° F) and provide steady, ultra cold conditions for long durations. Because they remain intact after sublimation, they can be refilled and used again.
Advantages over traditional methods
| Facteur | Traditional ice/gel packs | Reusable industrial dry ice packs | Ce que cela signifie pour vous |
| Temperature stability | Fluctuates, may warm up over time | Remains consistently ultra cold | Keeps vaccines, biologics and frozen food at the right temperature. |
| Water damage | Gel packs melt and create moisture | Dry ice sublimes to gas, leaving no water | Prevents package damage and contamination. |
| Space efficiency | Larger volume per cooling unit | Compact and light | More products fit in each shipment, reducing freight costs. |
| Réutilisabilité | À usage unique; adds waste and cost | Multiple use cycles, durable | Cuts long-term costs; respectueux de l'environnement. |
| Durabilité | High waste (plastique, eau) | Reduced waste and carbon footprint | Supports corporate sustainability goals. |
Cost savings and sustainability benefits
Switching to reusable dry ice packs can save businesses jusqu'à 20% on cooling costs after a few months. Traditional gel packs and single use dry ice require continuous purchases and generate waste. Packs réutilisables, en revanche, can be used hundreds of times. This not only reduces direct material costs but also decreases disposal fees and environmental impact. Companies focused on sustainability will appreciate that fewer disposable materials are required, leading to lower emissions and waste.
Exemple: A pharmaceutical logistics provider adopted reusable dry ice packs and reduced cooling costs by 20% within six months. They also reduced the amount of packaging waste sent to landfills, bolstering their corporate sustainability report.
Key innovations in 2025
Reusable dry ice packs are evolving. According to Tempk’s 2025 industry guide:
Biodegradable coatings: Manufacturers are adding biodegradable or recyclable coatings to dry ice packs, reducing environmental impact and improving disposal.
Capteurs intelligents: Integrated IoT sensors and temperature-sensitive labels provide real-time temperature tracking during transit. Shippers can monitor conditions and intervene if temperatures drift.
Customizable solutions: Companies are offering more flexible shapes and sizes of dry ice packs, allowing for tailored temperature profiles.
Approches hybrides: Combining dry ice with phase change materials (PCMS) or gel packs creates a hybrid system that holds the ideal temperature range for mixed shipments.
Panneaux d'isolation sous vide (Vips): Advanced insulation panels reduce heat transfer, allowing shippers to use fewer dry ice packs while maintaining the same temperature.
These innovations help companies adapt to supply constraints and sustainability pressures. They also enable more precise temperature control and reduce the risk of under or over cooling.
Best practices for reusable dry ice packs
To get the most from reusable dry ice packs:
Proper layering: Position the packs around the product without direct contact. Use dividers to prevent product damage and allow cold air circulation.
Assurer la ventilation: Even reusable packs must vent CO₂ gas. Design packaging with vents to avoid pressure build up.
Surveiller la température: Use smart sensors or data loggers to track internal temperatures throughout transit. Real-time alerts can prevent spoilage.
Hybrid systems: When shipping both frozen and refrigerated items, combine dry ice packs with gel packs or PCMs.
Calculate appropriate weight: Use about 5–10 pounds of dry ice per day of transit as a starting point and adjust for insulation quality and ambient conditions.
What Trends Will Shape Industrial Dry Ice Packs and Cold Chain Logistics Beyond 2025?
Key message: Dry ice remains indispensable for ultra cold logistics, but supply constraints, sustainability demands and new technologies are reshaping the market.
Market dynamics and supply pressures
The global dry ice market is growing at à propos 7.4 % annuellement, from USD 1.54 billion in 2024 to a projected USD 2.73 milliards 2032. This growth is driven by food shipping, biologique, vaccine distribution and industrial uses like blasting. Cependant, CO₂ supply is constrained: demand for dry ice is rising at around 5 % per year, while CO₂ supply is growing at only 0.5 %. The result is periodic shortages and price spikes, with spot prices surging up to 300% during supply crunches.
Sustainability concerns are also driving change. Much of the CO₂ used for dry ice comes from fossil-fuel processes. Les entreprises explorent bio-based CO₂ capture from bioethanol plants, which release high-purity CO₂ as a byproduct. Capturing this CO₂ for dry ice production creates a more circular, low-carbon supply chain. Cependant, geopolitical events and trade policies can disrupt supply, as seen in the UK where bioethanol producers face competition from cheaper imports.
Alternatives and hybrid systems
While dry ice remains essential for ultra cold shipping, alternatives are gaining traction. Gel packs and PCMs hold narrow temperature bands for refrigerated goods, alors que mechanical refrigeration containers are used for extended pharma shipments despite higher costs. Improved insulation materials, such as vacuum panels, reduce the amount of dry ice needed. These options are not replacing dry ice but are being integrated to reduce reliance and meet sustainability goals.
Sector-specific trends
Food and meat processing: Sliced or pelletized dry ice allows rapid cooling on processing lines, while blocks remain popular for bulk transport. Better insulated boxes extend hold times and reduce sublimation.
Pharmaceuticals and laboratories: Pharma companies are testing barrier technologies to slow CO₂ gas release and are using real-time monitoring to ensure payload integrity. For less temperature-critical medicines, reusable PCM shippers gagnent du terrain, reducing total dry ice usage.
Industrial cleaning and welding: Dry ice blasting contractors rely on pellets but face supply volatility. Many are securing long-term contracts or investing in local pelletizing capacity to ensure access.
Innovations in format and packaging
The format of dry ice—blocks, dalles, pellets or sheets—greatly affects performance. Blocks sublimate slowly and work for long shipments; pellets provide rapid cooling but vaporize quickly. Thin slices or custom cuts balance coverage and duration and fit neatly into packaging. To maximize efficiency, shippers must match the right format with container design and layering strategies. Sublimation rates typically range from 3 % à 8 % par jour depending on how the dry ice is packed and environmental conditions.
Sustainability and compliance pressures
Consumers and regulators are increasingly focused on carbon footprints. Companies are expected to measure and reduce emissions from cold chain operations. Reusable dry ice packs and bio-based CO₂ capture help address these concerns. Dans 2025, biodegradable coatings, smart sensors and vacuum insulation panels are helping businesses use fewer resources while ensuring compliance.
Emporter
The future of industrial dry ice packs will blend technologie intelligente, durabilité et flexible supply strategies. Companies that invest in reusable packs, real-time monitoring and hybrid cooling systems will be better equipped to navigate supply constraints and regulatory demands.
Questions fréquemment posées
Q1: How long do industrial dry ice packs last?
Reusable dry ice packs typically maintain ultra cold temperatures for 12–24 heures, depending on the quantity used and external conditions. Pour les expéditions plus longues, add more packs or use larger blocks. Good insulation and pre chilled containers extend hold time.
Q2: How should I dispose of a dry ice pack?
Allow any remaining dry ice to sublimate in a well ventilated area. Never place dry ice in trash, sinks or toilets, as extreme cold can damage pipes.
Q3: Can I use dry ice packs for air shipments?
Oui, but air shipments are regulated. Packages must be labeled with “Dry Ice (Dioxyde de carbone solide) UN 1845,” list the net weight, and include hazard labels. Airlines also limit the amount of dry ice per shipment and may require special documentation.
Q4: How do I calculate the amount of dry ice needed?
Commencer par 1–2 pounds of dry ice per 3–4 pounds of product ou 5–10 pounds per day of shipping. Adjust for shipping duration, insulation quality and external temperatures.
Q5: Are reusable dry ice packs safe for food?
Oui. Dry ice is food grade carbon dioxide, and reusable packs are designed to meet food and pharmaceutical safety standards. Because dry ice sublimes to gas, it leaves no water residue that could cause contamination.
Q6: How do smart sensors improve dry ice logistics?
Smart sensors embedded in reusable dry ice packs provide real-time temperature data during transit. They alert you to temperature deviations so you can take corrective action. Sensors also help optimize the amount of dry ice needed, reducing waste and cost.
Q7: What safety gear should be used when handling dry ice?
Utilisez toujours des gants isolés, protection des yeux, closed toe shoes and, ideally, a lab coat or protective garment. Avoid touching dry ice with bare skin to prevent frostbite.
Q8: Can dry ice be shipped in plastic bags?
Non. Dry ice should never be placed inside sealed plastic bags or airtight containers because CO₂ gas buildup can cause rupture. Plutôt, place the dry ice in vented insulated containers.
Q9: La glace sèche est-elle respectueuse de l'environnement?
Dry ice has a lower environmental impact than water ice when used properly because it eliminates water waste and can be produced from recycled CO₂. Cependant, the CO₂ must be captured from renewable or by product sources to minimize greenhouse gas emissions. Reusable dry ice packs further reduce waste and support sustainability.
Résumé et recommandations
Points clés:
Industrial dry ice packs maintain ultra cold temperatures (~–109 °F) and sublimate directly into gas, preventing water damage. They’re ideal for shipping frozen foods, vaccines and scientific samples.
Dry ice’s cooling efficiency is about three times greater than water ice, allowing more compact packaging and lower shipping costs.
Safety is crucial: Portez des gants isolés, ensure ventilation and avoid airtight containers. Proper labeling and training are mandatory for transport.
Reusable dry ice packs are emerging as a cost effective, sustainable solution, offering consistent temperature control and integrated smart sensors.
Market trends point toward supply constraints, sustainability pressures and innovations like biodegradable coatings, smart sensors and hybrid cooling systems.
Conseils exploitables:
Select the right cooling agent: Use dry ice packs for frozen shipments and gel packs or PCMs for refrigerated goods.
Formez votre équipe: Educate staff on safe handling, packaging and disposal of dry ice.
Invest in insulation: Quality containers and pre chilling can extend dry ice life and reduce the quantity needed.
Adopt reusable packs: Evaluate reusable dry ice packs to reduce costs and waste.
Surveiller les températures: Use smart sensors or data loggers to track conditions during transit and avoid spoilage.
Plan hybrid systems: Combine dry ice with gel packs for mixed-temperature shipments.
Stay updated on regulations: Ensure compliance with DOT and IATA guidelines for hazardous materials and monitor emerging environmental standards.
À propos du tempk
Tempk is a leader in temperature-controlled packaging and cold chain solutions. We develop innovative products like reusable industrial dry ice packs and offer custom insulated containers. Our expertise in cold chain logistics helps clients in food, pharmaceutical and biotech industries maintain product integrity while reducing costs and environmental impact. We continually invest in sustainable materials and smart technology, ensuring that your shipments stay safe, compliant and efficient. Reach out to Tempk’s experts to explore how our solutions can optimize your cold chain operations.
