Biodegradable dry ice block for medicine transport: how does it change the cold chain?
Perkenalan: Transporting life saving medicines often feels like a balancing act: keep them ultra cold without creating waste or breaking regulations. A biodegradable dry ice block delivers both sub zero performance and sustainable materials. It maintains –78.5 °C cold for hours while its outer casing decomposes by 92% dalam empat tahun. With consumer demand and new packaging bans reshaping the market, understanding this technology is critical. In this guide you’ll learn what makes these blocks different, how to pack medicines safely, the latest regulations and emerging trends, all through the lens of your operational needs.
Why biodegradable dry ice blocks provide an eco friendly alternative to traditional dry ice, with key performance and environmental benefits.
How to pack medicines with biodegradable dry ice blocks using step by step SOPs that meet regulatory requirements and minimize risk.
Peraturan apa (Ini PI954, DOT 49 CFR) apply to dry ice shipments and how to label and document them correctly.
How sustainable packaging trends, consumer sentiment and market forecasts for 2025 affect decision making.
Frequently asked questions such as shelf life, disposal and compatibility with different medicines.
Apa yang membuat balok es kering biodegradable berbeda??
Biodegradable dry ice blocks combine ultra cold performance with materials designed to break down responsibly. Traditional dry ice comes in pellets or blocks made of solid carbon dioxide; it sublimates at –78.5 °C, tidak meninggalkan kelembapan. Biodegradable blocks encapsulate the dry ice in a casing made from biodegradable EPS resin that decomposes 92% in four years in a wet landfill environment. The packaging uses plant based or recyclable films and super absorbent polymer (GETAH) cells to hold CO₂ pellets. Sebagai akibat, you get the same cooling power as standard dry ice without persistent plastic waste.
The environmental benefits are significant. By May 2025, at least twelve U.S. states and two territories had banned expanded polystyrene (EPS) busa, spurring demand for biodegradable alternatives. Konsumen semakin menilai perusahaan berdasarkan praktik lingkungannya, so switching to sustainable coolants strengthens your brand.
Performance compared to gel packs and phase change materials
| Metode pendinginan | Kisaran suhu & Lamanya | Regulatory Status | Kasus Penggunaan Terbaik | Manfaat praktis |
| Balok es kering yang dapat terbiodegradasi | –78.5 °C to –50 °C; maintains ultra cold temperatures for 24 72 h | Classified as UN 1845 (Kelas 9 bahan berbahaya); packaging must allow venting | Vaksin beku (mRNA), Biologi, hidangan laut, es krim | Sangat dingin, tidak ada residu, compostable casing, consumer friendly |
| Paket gel | 2–8 °C for up to 48 H | Tidak berbahaya; lebih mudah untuk ditangani | Makanan dingin, pharmaceuticals requiring refrigerated (tidak beku) kondisi | Tidak berbahaya, dapat digunakan kembali, but heavier and leaves liquid residue |
| Bahan perubahan fase (PCM) | Specific melting point (–20 °C hingga +25 ° C.); duration depends on PCM type | Tidak berbahaya; beberapa memerlukan penanganan khusus | Makanan khusus, vaccines requiring +2–8 °C or +15–25 °C | Dapat digunakan kembali; targeted temperature; heavier and often expensive |
These blocks deliver sub zero temperatures that gel packs and most PCMs cannot achieve. The biodegradable casing gives them a sustainability edge over traditional EPS shells. Saat memilih cairan pendingin, consider the product’s temperature requirement, transit time and regulatory classification.
Features you should look for
Temperature precision and duration: Aim for blocks that maintain consistent –78.5 °C to –50 °C temperature for 24–72 h. Some high performance sheets reach 120 h cold duration.
Biodegradability and material safety: The casing should degrade significantly within a few years and comply with food contact standards.
Kemudahan penggunaan: SAP cells prevent CO₂ pellets from scattering, reducing handling risk. Flexible sheets conform to different box sizes; blocks provide a solid slab for stacking.
Siklus penggunaan kembali: High quality products offer more than 100 siklus kembali, reducing cost per shipment and waste.
Pemantauan digital: Integrated sensors allow real time temperature tracking, which helps meet Good Distribution Practice (PDB) persyaratan.
Kasus praktis: A pharmaceutical distributor switched to nano coated dry ice sheets and, by reusing them over 100 siklus, saved about US$38 000 in annual coolant costs. The same cost efficiencies apply to biodegradable blocks with similar reuse capability.
How to pack medicines using biodegradable dry ice blocks
Panduan pengepakan langkah demi langkah
Prepare your medicine: Pre condition the medicines to their optimal temperature before packaging. If shipping frozen vaccines, ensure they are at –50 °C or colder to minimize thermal shock.
Choose the right insulated container: Select an insulated foam or biodegradable container validated for dry ice shipping. Avoid airtight glass or plastic containers because sublimation gas can create pressure and cause rupture.
Determine dry ice quantity: Follow the rule of thumb that 5–10 lb (2.3–4.5 kg) of dry ice will sublimate every 24 H. Untuk blok yang dapat terbiodegradasi, match the block weight to the product weight at a 1:1 ratio and adjust for transit time (12 mm thickness for 24 H; 18 mm untuk 48 H; 24 mm untuk 72 H).
Vent and layer appropriately: Place cushioning at the bottom of the container, then add a separator board. Position the biodegradable dry ice block around or over the product without direct contact to avoid freezing damage. Ensure there is a vent path for CO₂ gas; never seal the container airtight.
Fill voids and secure: Use crumpled paper or biodegradable peanuts to restrict movement. The inner package should be wedged so that when the dry ice sublimates there’s minimal shifting.
Label dan dokumen: Mark the box with “Carbon Dioxide, padat, UN1845” and the net weight of dry ice. Tempelkan Kelas 9 hazard label on two opposite sides. Include shipper/consignee addresses, and add a note on the airway bill stating “Dry ice, UN1845, net weight X kg” when shipping by air.
Rencanakan penundaan: Add extra block weight to account for potential delays (another 24 H). Arrange with carriers for dry ice replenishment if transit extends beyond 72 H.
Calculating block size and transit time
Choose biodegradable dry ice blocks based on product weight and transit duration. The table below summarizes recommended pairings:
| Durasi transit | Block Thickness | Block Weight Guideline | Arti Praktis |
| 24 H | 12 mm | 1:1 rasio berat (1 kg block per 1 kg produk) | Suitable for overnight shipments or domestic flights. Blocks fit snugly in small coolers. |
| 48 H | 18 mm | 1.5:1 rasio berat | Provides a safety buffer for two day shipping with moderate ambient temperatures. |
| 72 H | 24 mm | 2:1 rasio berat | Ideal for international or remote shipping where delays are possible; ensures medicines remain ultra cold for three days. |
Tips and tricks
Separate items: Use inner boxes or pouches to keep medicines from touching dry ice directly.
Hindari mengisi secara berlebihan: More dry ice than necessary can freeze products that only need refrigeration. Consider combining smaller blocks with gel packs when shipping goods requiring 2–8 °C.
Suhu monitor: Attach a temperature logger to ensure compliance with GDP requirements. Some biodegradable blocks incorporate RFID sensors for real time monitoring.
Mendidik staf: Berikan pelatihan tentang penanganan es kering; it can cause frostbite and burns. Gunakan sarung tangan, goggles and protective clothing.
Kasus aktual: A field lab transporting blood samples across state lines followed the 1.5:1 ratio for a 48 h trip, using biodegradable blocks and a validated cooler. The package arrived with samples still at –70 °C, and no water residue or packaging waste was generated. This practice streamlined compliance and reduced disposal costs.
Understanding regulations and safety requirements
Shipping dry ice is regulated because sublimation gases can displace oxygen and build up pressure. Here are the key rules to follow:
Klasifikasi bahaya: Es kering diklasifikasikan sebagai Kelas 9 hazardous material with proper shipping name “Carbon Dioxide, solid” and UN 1845. It is regulated in air and ocean transport but exempt from U.S. ground regulations when packages comply with 49 CFR 173.217.
Package venting: Packages must allow gas to escape to prevent rupture. Hindari wadah tertutup atau kedap udara; use purpose built coolers with vent holes or loosely applied tape.
Menandai dan memberi label: Paket luar harus menampilkan nama pengiriman yang benar, Nomor PBB dan berat bersih es kering. Kelas Afiks 9 hazard labels on two sides and ensure the shipper and consignee addresses are visible.
Dokumentasi: Untuk transportasi udara, include a notation “Dry Ice, UN1845, X kg” pada air waybill; a Shipper’s Declaration is not required for non dangerous goods. When dry ice is used to cool dangerous goods, you must prepare a Shipper’s Declaration and include the proper description for each component.
Batas kuantitas: IATA Packing Instruction 954 memungkinkan hingga 200 kg es kering per bungkus. Federal guidelines recommend 5–10 lb (2.3–4.5 kg) es kering per 24 h transit.
Training requirements: Staff who handle or prepare dry ice shipments must receive training in hazardous materials handling. IATA and DOT training programs cover proper packaging, labeling and emergency procedures.
Catatan pengaman: Dry ice can cause burns and oxygen displacement. Always handle with gloves and never store in airtight containers or confined spaces.
Environmental benefits and market context
How biodegradable blocks support sustainability
Biodegradable dry ice blocks address two major environmental concerns: plastic waste and carbon emissions. Traditional EPS foam takes centuries to break down, whereas the biodegradable casing decomposes by 92% dalam waktu empat tahun. The dry ice itself is often produced from recovered CO₂, mengurangi emisi secara keseluruhan. Flexible sheets or blocks reduce packaging volume and weight, decreasing fuel consumption during transport. Some products achieve more than 100 siklus kembali, meminimalkan limbah.
Regulations and consumer sentiment reinforce the shift. By mid 2025, twelve U.S. states and two territories had banned EPS foam packaging. Consumers expect eco friendly shipping solutions and are more likely to buy from brands that use sustainable packaging. Retail research shows the global sustainable packaging market was valued around $270 miliar masuk 2024 dan bisa mencapai $490 miliar oleh 2034. Sustainable healthcare packaging, a subset relevant to medicine transport, grew from US$97.80 billion in 2023 to US$104.37 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach US$197.65 billion by 2033.
Trends and innovations in 2025
Perluasan pasar: The biodegradable packaging market is expected to grow from US$527.51 billion in 2025 to US$921.95 billion by 2034, reflecting a shift toward compostable materials across industries. In healthcare, bioplastics now account for about 39.7% of sustainable packaging revenue.
Tekanan regulasi: European Union packaging directives, KITA. FDA guidance and Asian regional mandates require recyclability and reduction of single use plastics. Manufacturers like Amcor and Berry Global are releasing recyclable laminates and bio based blister packs to meet these rules.
Integrasi teknologi: AI driven design tools optimize packaging size, minimize waste and ensure recyclability. Sensors integrated into biodegradable blocks provide real time temperature and location data, enabling proactive interventions if shipments deviate from safe zones.
Adopsi industri: North America leads the sustainable healthcare packaging market with roughly 43.8% of revenue because of its robust healthcare infrastructure and regulatory frameworks. Asia–Pacific is the fastest growing region (18.7% share) thanks to expanding healthcare infrastructure and growing environmental awareness.
Innovative example: A major vaccine distributor in Europe replaced EPS boxes with plant based biodegradable containers lined with SAP cells. Equipped with smart sensors, these boxes monitored temperature and CO₂ levels during transport. The company reduced packaging waste by 85% and improved shipment visibility. Such innovations will become standard as regulatory and consumer pressures grow.
Industry applications and customer benefits
Farmasi dan bioteknologi
Pharmaceuticals require strict adherence to temperature ranges and Good Distribution Practice (PDB). Biodegradable dry ice blocks deliver the ultra cold environment necessary for mRNA and viral vector vaccines. Selama pandemi COVID 19, vaccines like Pfizer’s needed storage at –70 °C, a condition achievable only with dry ice. Blocks encapsulate solid CO₂ to maintain this temperature for days without leaving moisture or residue. For insulin and biologics requiring –20 °C to –50 °C, a combination of smaller blocks and gel packs achieves the desired range while reducing risk of product freezing.
Laboratory samples and clinical trials
Darah, tissue and organ samples degrade quickly at higher temperatures. Dry ice blocks preserve sample integrity by absorbing heat during sublimation. For long distance shipments—such as global clinical trials—biodegradable blocks ensure that sensitive samples arrive intact and without the packaging waste that typically accompanies single use EPS containers. Proper handling protocols, such as using absorbent materials and avoiding airtight seals, prevent dangerous gas buildup and maintain sample viability.
Telemedicine and home care
Remote healthcare services have surged, increasing demand for direct to patient medicine delivery. Biodegradable dry ice blocks allow specialty pharmacies to ship frozen medications to patients’ homes safely and sustainably. Lightweight packaging reduces shipping costs, while the eco friendly casing appeals to environmentally conscious consumers. Combining blocks with small gel packs enables shipments of medicines that only require refrigeration, optimizing cost and reducing waste.
Food and other industries
Although this article focuses on medicines, the same technology applies to frozen foods, hidangan laut, and specialty desserts. High end meal kit providers use biodegradable dry ice blocks to deliver frozen meals without EPS waste. They benefit from the blocks’ no residue sublimation, which prevents soggy packaging and reduces cleanup. The same packaging can then be reused or composted, aligning with corporate sustainability goals.
Key takeaways for industry adoption
Umur simpan yang diperpanjang: Dry ice blocks maintain ultra cold temperatures that extend product shelf life and reduce spoilage.
Kepatuhan Pengaturan: Biodegradable casings meet food contact guidelines and do not compromise drug purity.
Pengurangan limbah: The casing degrades quickly and is often compostable, supporting corporate ESG goals and reducing landfill burden.
Consumer trust: Sustainable packaging resonates with customers and can improve brand loyalty.
Efisiensi biaya: Reuse cycles lower per shipment costs, while lighter weight reduces freight fees.
An example of a biodegradable dry ice block placed in an insulated container with medicine vials and eco friendly cues.
2025 trends and future outlook
The intersection of sustainability and cold chain logistics will dominate the next decade. Here are the key predictions:
Sustainability mandates will tighten. Governments worldwide are expanding single use plastics bans and implementing extended producer responsibility (EPR) schemes. Healthcare manufacturers will need packaging that meets recyclability and compostability standards.
Smart packaging will become standard. Real time monitoring devices will track temperature, location and CO₂ levels, enabling predictive interventions. Expect more integration of IoT sensors and blockchain for traceability.
Customizable modular blocks. Manufacturers will offer modular biodegradable blocks that snap together to fit various container sizes, optimizing space and reducing material waste.
Growth of bioplastics. Bioplastic materials like PLA and PHA will dominate sustainable healthcare packaging, representing nearly 40% pendapatan.
Circular supply chains. Companies will design take back programs for packaging, allowing casings to be collected, composted or recycled into new products.
The future belongs to businesses that integrate sustainability into every step of their supply chain—from selecting biodegradable dry ice blocks to educating customers about proper disposal.
FAQ
Q1: How long does a biodegradable dry ice block last?
Blocks provide ultra cold temperatures for 24–72 h depending on thickness. Memilih 12 mm for a 24 h trip, 18 mm untuk 48 h and 24 mm untuk 72 H. Always add extra weight for delays and monitor temperature.
Q2: Is biodegradable dry ice safe for vaccines?
Ya. Blocks maintain –78.5 °C and use food grade materials that meet contact safety standards. They’re ideal for mRNA vaccines requiring ultra low temperatures. Follow packing guidelines to avoid direct contact with vials.
Q3: How should I dispose of the biodegradable casing?
Most casings decompose by 92% dalam waktu empat tahun. Check local composting rules; some facilities accept biodegradable EPS, while others require landfill disposal. The dry ice itself sublimates into CO₂.
Q4: Can I use biodegradable dry ice blocks for ground shipping?
Ya. Dry ice is generally unregulated for ground transport when packages meet the venting requirements of 49 CFR 173.217. Namun, always label and follow carrier policies.
Q5: What if my products only require refrigeration (2–8 ° C.)?
Use a combination of smaller dry ice blocks and gel packs or PCMs. Dry ice can be overkill for moderate temperatures. Monitor to avoid freezing products.
Ringkasan
Poin -poin penting: Biodegradable dry ice blocks deliver ultra cold performance while addressing environmental concerns. The casing decomposes rapidly compared with traditional EPS foam, and the blocks maintain temperatures as low as –78.5 °C for up to 72 H. When packing medicines, follow proper venting, labeling and weight guidelines to ensure safety and compliance. Market trends and regulations for 2025 highlight growing demand for sustainable packaging and the rise of bioplastics.
Panduan yang dapat ditindaklanjuti: To adopt biodegradable dry ice blocks successfully, audit your current shipping profiles and categorize shipments by temperature and duration. Calculate dry ice requirements using the 1:1 weight ratio and choose thickness based on transit time. Train staff on handling and labeling to meet IATA PI954 and DOT regulations. Engage suppliers that provide certified biodegradable materials and integrated temperature monitoring. Akhirnya, communicate your sustainability efforts to customers and partners; it can strengthen trust and support your ESG goals.
Tentang Tempk
Tempk adalah spesialis dalam solusi pengemasan rantai dingin. We offer biodegradable dry ice blocks, reusable ice sheets and temperature monitoring coolers designed for medicines, vaccines and sensitive foods. Our products maintain precise temperatures (±0.5 °C) and have been validated for 100 + siklus kembali. We continuously innovate with plant based resins and smart sensors to improve sustainability and compliance.
If you need help selecting the right cooling solution or want a customized cold chain plan, we invite you to reach out to our expert team. We’re committed to helping you protect your products and the planet.
