A dry ice bomb is a simple explosive device consisting of dry ice and water in a sealed container.

Overview

Dry ice bombs are commonly made from a container such as a plastic bottle, water and dry ice. The bottle is partly filled with water. Chunks of dry ice are added and the container is closed tightly. As the solid carbon dioxide warms, it sublimates to gas and the pressure in the bottle increases. Bombs typically rupture within 30 seconds to half an hour, dependent largely on the temperature of the air outside the bottle. A dry ice bomb may develop frost on its exterior prior to explosion. After explosion, it appears to have shattered, with the overall shape of the device intact.

Dangers

Dry ice bombs can explode within seconds due to the rapid sublimation of dry ice, injuring the handler. The abrupt release of high-pressure gas creates a loud noise, which can cause hearing damage even at substantial distances. Fragments thrown at high speeds can cut or puncture. Bombs that fail to go off cannot be safely approached, as they can spontaneously explode. Dry ice bombs can also be unintentionally made, especially if dry ice is left in an airtight container for extended periods of time. Injuries caused by dry ice bombs are common, with glass bottles in particular posing risks of serious injury or death. In one case, the explosive release of carbon dioxide gas ruptured the esophagus of a child, requiring emergency surgery.

Legality

Dry ice bombs are illegal in many jurisdictions. Manufacturing one or using one can lead to imprisonment.