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Carbon dioxide is a gas that offers a wide range of uses, but it also has its downsides. In the following lines, we will explore what carbon dioxide is, how it is formed, what possibilities it offers for use, and also what its main advantages and disadvantages are.
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a common component of the Earth's atmosphere (0.04%) and, as it is a product of combustion, fermentation, and also human respiration, it is all around us. Normal concentrations of this gas are harmless, but higher concentrations can cause health problems.
Carbon dioxide is composed of one carbon atom and two oxygen atoms. It has roughly 1.5 times the density of air, and at higher concentrations, it accumulates near the ground. It is well soluble in water and is non-flammable. The concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere is significantly increased by human activity. A major source of CO2 emissions is the burning of fossil carbon fuels, while natural reduction of CO2 occurs through absorption by oceans and photosynthesis by green plants.
Industry is a significant source of CO2 emissions.
Due to their similar names, carbon dioxide is often confused with carbon monoxide. Both of these gases are dangerous at certain concentrations. Moreover, they are colourless, odourless gases that cannot be detected by the senses.
Carbon monoxide is produced by the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels, which occurs when there is insufficient air supply during combustion. This gas, sometimes referred to as the silent killer, causes health problems even at low concentrations, and high concentrations can be fatal. In the Czech Republic, more than 1,000 people are poisoned by carbon monoxide each year, so it is recommended to use a carbon monoxide (CO) detector even in the home.
When cooled to -78°C, carbon dioxide changes from a gaseous state to a solid, forming so-called dry ice. Carbon dioxide can also transition to a liquid state at a pressure higher than approximately 500 kPa.
Liquid or solid carbon dioxide is used in the food industry, where it is used as a refrigerant and also in the production of carbonated drinks and soda water. It is sometimes added to beer or sparkling wines. Liquid carbon dioxide is also used as a solvent. Dry ice is also used in the entertainment industry for creating special effects, where it creates a fog-like effect when placed in water.
Since carbon dioxide is non-flammable, it is used in fire extinguishers and also as a compressed gas for inflating boats or vests. It also has applications in medicine and industrial lasers. Additionally, it is used in oil extraction and is even added to greenhouse atmospheres for a few hours to eliminate pests and promote plant growth.
From the above, it is clear that a major advantage of carbon dioxide is that it offers a wide range of uses, for example in the food or pharmaceutical industries. Scientists are also constantly trying to come up with new ways to use this gas. Recently, for example, they discovered a way to convert CO2 emissions into fuel.
An undeniable disadvantage of carbon dioxide is that at higher concentrations it can cause poisoning and health problems. In the natural environment, its concentration is around 400 ppm, and at higher concentrations in enclosed spaces, it can lead to the formation of so-called stale air, causing headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. Very high concentrations can cause convulsions, coma, and even death.
Health risks are also associated with liquid carbon dioxide and dry ice, as direct contact can lead to frostbite. Carbon dioxide also has a negative impact on the environment. This gas contributes to the so-called greenhouse effect, which has a direct impact on global warming. Its impact on the environment is therefore very serious.
High concentrations of CO2 cause health problems.
Since increased concentrations of carbon dioxide cannot be detected by the senses, the CO2 content in the air is measured using a CO2 detector or CO2 sensors.
If the recommended concentration of carbon dioxide in the air is exceeded, the device will alert to this fact visually or acoustically. A carbon dioxide detector is recommended for use not only in homes but everywhere where there is an increased risk of accumulation of this gas, such as in offices, wine cellars, greenhouses, etc.
An effective way to prevent high concentrations of carbon dioxide in the home is regular and adequate ventilation. The exchange of stale air for fresh air can be ensured not only by opening windows but also by a modern air recuperation system.
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