Dry ice lifespan varies significantly depending on storage conditions, quantity, and environment:
- In an insulated cooler, a whole 5-pound block of dry ice typically lasts about 18 to 24 hours
. Using a high-quality insulated cooler that is pre-chilled and kept closed as much as possible can extend this duration, sometimes up to several days depending on cooler quality and how often it is opened
- Outdoors, exposed to ambient air, dry ice lasts roughly 3 to 5 hours before sublimating completely
- When submerged in liquid, dry ice lasts much shorter, about 15 to 45 minutes
- Larger blocks last longer because they sublimate more slowly than smaller pieces or pellets
- For longer durations (e.g., multiple days), thicker insulation and larger quantities are necessary. For example, 10 pounds of dry ice can last up to 24 hours in a 25-quart cooler, and increasing the amount and cooler size can extend this time further
- Typical sublimation rates are about 5 to 10 pounds of dry ice every 24 hours in a well-insulated container
In summary, dry ice lasts from a few hours outdoors to about a day in a good cooler, with the potential to last several days if stored in high-quality insulated containers and with sufficient quantity. Planning to buy dry ice as close as possible to the time of use maximizes its effective lifespan
