I need to sparge CO2 for my biorreactor, but I'm afraid the excess CO2 coming out from it will build up inside the laboratory. Is there any solution to this problem that doesn't involve expensive material? Or need I realy need to be afraid of this CO2 build up?
I'll will be continuously sparging with a CO2 flow rate of 0.1 L/min in a relatively small laboratory, with approximately 10 cubic meters.
CO2 should not be permitted to be accumulated in lab. Either it has to be absorbed or adequate ventilation should be made. If natural ventilation is not possible, you can use exhaust fan as stated by Dr Panka jkumar
The excess CO2 may be dangerous in a closed room if there is not a good ventilation but this risk depends on the accumulation rate or on the bubbling time. CO2 is heavier than air, therefore it will be accumulated near the floor while the air will be pushed up to the top. Large accumulations of CO2 in a small room without ventilation may cause air displacement with consequences of asphyxiation. To reduce the risk of CO2 build-up, it can be partially retained by absorption in an alkaline solution. Also, room ventilation must be ensured if the sparging time is long, since a volume of ca.144 L CO2 /day will be accumulated indoor if not neutralized by alkaline absorbtion.
Agree with Carmen Mateescu,
I faced the same problem while working with bioreactor, it smell stench, can cause headache and irritation in eyes. So always use exhaust fan.
Take care of you.
CO2 accumulation in a closed room may lead to dangerous environment. Please find a way to ventilate your lab. Maybe open some windows or doors should be find, no cost needed. High concentration of CO2 can make you feels dizzy and more severe damage if exposed longer.
CO2 should not be permitted to be accumulated in lab. Either it has to be absorbed or adequate ventilation should be made. If natural ventilation is not possible, you can use exhaust fan as stated by Dr Panka jkumar
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