The Many Uses for Mixed Gases: CO2 and Nitrogen Blends
Mixed gases are a wide and diverse group of products developed for use in specific industries for customized applications. A gas mixture is defined in either a molar gas fraction, by percentage, parts per thousand or parts per million. Though gas mixtures are used in many industries, they are most common in the medical, food and beverage, and welding sectors.
CO2/nitrogen blends have several intriguing applications beyond their traditional use in the beverage industry. This versatile mixture offers unique properties that make it valuable in various fields.
CO2/Nitrogen Blend Uses
A CO2/nitrogen mixture can be tailored to specific needs in many industries, from food preservation, industrial cleaning, welding and manufacturing, to fire suppression, greenhouses, and medical uses, offering benefits such as extended shelf life, improved process efficiency, and enhanced safety.
Food Preservation:
CO2/nitrogen blends are increasingly used in modified atmospheric packaging (MAP) for food products. The mixture helps extend shelf life by inhibiting bacterial growth and oxidation. Different ratios of CO2 to nitrogen can be tailored for specific food types, such as meats, fruits, and vegetables, to maintain freshness and quality.
Cryogenic Cleaning:
In industrial cleaning processes, CO2/nitrogen blends are employed for cryogenic cleaning. The mixture is cooled and propelled at high speeds onto surfaces, effectively removing contaminants without leaving residues. This method is particularly useful for sensitive equipment or in industries where water-based cleaning is not feasible.
Welding and Metal Fabrication:
The blend serves as a shielding gas in certain welding applications. It can provide better arc stability and weld quality compared to pure gases, especially for materials like stainless steel. The mixture helps reduce oxidation and improve the overall finish of the weld.
Fire Suppression Systems:
CO2/nitrogen blends are utilized in advanced fire suppression systems. The mixture can effectively displace oxygen and cool the fire, making it extremely useful in areas where water-based systems are unsuitable, such as data centers or electrical installations.
Greenhouse Atmosphere Enhancement:
In controlled agriculture environments, CO2/nitrogen blends can be used to optimize plant growth. By increasing CO2 levels during daylight hours, photosynthesis rates can be enhanced, potentially leading to improved crop yields.
Pharmaceutical Manufacturing:
The blend finds applications in pharmaceutical production, especially in tablet coating processes. It can create an inert atmosphere, preventing oxidation and ensuring product stability during manufacturing.
3D Printing:
In certain additive manufacturing processes, CO2/nitrogen blends are used to create an inert atmosphere. This prevents oxidation of materials during printing, especially for metals, and can improve the quality of the final product.
Laser Cutting:
In industrial laser cutting applications, CO2/nitrogen blends can serve as assist gases. The mixture helps prevent oxidation of the cut edges, resulting in cleaner cuts and improved finish quality.
Tire Inflation:
Some high-performance vehicles use CO2/nitrogen blends for tire inflation. This mixture can offer benefits such as improved pressure stability over a range of temperatures and reduced moisture content compared to compressed air.
Medical Applications:
In certain medical procedures, CO2/nitrogen blends are used to create specific atmospheric conditions. For instance, in laparoscopic surgeries, the blend can be used to insufflate the abdominal cavity, providing better visibility for surgeons.
As research continues, new applications for CO2/nitrogen blends are likely to emerge. The versatility of this mixture, combined with its relatively inert nature and controllable properties, makes it a valuable tool for a variety of applications. From enhancing food safety to improving industrial processes, the potential uses of CO2/nitrogen blends continue to expand, driving innovation in multiple areas.
Mixed Gases in the Rocky Mountain Region
Whether you use nitrogen, carbon dioxide, or a blend, we can supply you with the gas you need, when you need it. Rocky Mountain Air is a PurityPlus provider with locations in Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, Utah, and Nebraska. This PurityPlus partnership allows us to provide the perfect mixture of any certified specialty gas your business requires, along with on-time deliveries, customizable solutions, and peace of mind.
Contact your local Rocky Mountain Air branch today for any questions regarding mixed gases or specialty gas blending. We look forward to serving you with flawless dependability!
