Estimate how fast your dry ice (solid CO₂) will sublimate based on insulation type, mass, and ambient temperature. Find out how long it will last.
Adjust insulation to see how it affects the sublimation speed
Note: This tool provides theoretical estimates. Real-world rates vary based on exact cooler dimensions, airflow, and shape of the dry ice.
Enter your dry ice details to find out how long it will last.
The most critical factor. Heat transfer occurs from the warmer surroundings to the cold dry ice (-109.3°F / -78.5°C). Thick styrofoam coolers trap cold air and severely restrict heat flow, extending lifespan by days.
A single solid block of dry ice lasts much longer than the equivalent mass of dry ice pellets. Pellets have vastly more surface area exposed to ambient heat, causing them to sublimate rapidly.
The rate of heat transfer is directly proportional to the temperature difference between the environment and the dry ice. A hot summer day (90°F) will cause faster sublimation than a cold winter day (30°F).
Dead air space inside a cooler increases sublimation. The dry ice must cool the air around it. For maximum lifespan, fill empty space in your cooler with newspaper or towels.