Carbon dioxide is naturally present in the atmosphere and remains the world's fourth most abundant gas. Both plants and animals are part of the natural carbon cycle that recycles carbon dioxide in the air. Carbon dioxide currently has many uses in commercial and industrial settings.
Properties
Carbon dioxide, or CO2, is a nonflammable, colorless and odorless gas. Depending on various temperatures or pressures, it can exist in several forms, such as solid, liquid or gas, according to the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety. Other names for CO2 include carbon acid anhydride, carbonic acid gas and anhydride carbonique.
Sources
The CCOHS reports that the level of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is 0.035 percent and remains a product of both animal and human metabolism. Living organisms exhale carbon dioxide, which plants then use during photosynthesis to form energy. Other natural sources of carbon dioxide are found in underground gas reservoirs located in the Western United States and Canada.
Industrial Uses
Carbon dioxide has a multitude of uses in many industrial applications. According to Universal Industrial Gases, carbon dioxide is used for refrigeration and cooling in both liquid and solid forms. In its natural gas state, carbon dioxide is commonly used in fire extinguishers and as a shield gas for welding. Carbon dioxide is regularly used in the petroleum industry for extracting oil and maintaining pressure in oil wells. In the medical industry, carbon dioxide is added to oxygen and used as a respiration stimulant.
Food and Beverage Uses
Solid carbon dioxide, also known as dry ice, efficiently maintains cool temperatures during food and beverage transportation. Carbonated soft drinks and alcohol use carbon dioxide to prevent spoilage and contamination, according to Universal Industrial Gases. Carbon dioxide is used in the process of decaffeinating coffee and as a solvent for liquid organic compounds.
Dangers
Carbon dioxide should be used with caution because of its potential dangers to human health. The Interactive Learning Paradigms Incorporated reports that high concentrations of carbon dioxide in a confined room can increase the chances for asphyxiation. Concentrations of carbon dioxide greater than 10 percent in the air can lead to serious health consequences, such as kidney damage, coma or death. Handling dry ice improperly or without protection can lead to blisters or even frostbite. The ILPI recommends avoiding direct contact with carbon dioxide in its compressed gas or solid form.
