How to Safely Dispose of a Frozen Soda Can

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the safe disposal of a frozen soda can, specifically a Sierra Mist can that expanded without bursting. Participants confirm that if the can has not burst, it can be safely thawed by placing it in tap water, allowing the contents to return to liquid. They emphasize that the expansion of water when frozen is temporary, and the carbon dioxide will re-dissolve as the ice melts. Overall, the consensus is that the situation is not dangerous if handled properly.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the physical properties of water and carbon dioxide.
  • Basic knowledge of safe handling practices for pressurized containers.
  • Familiarity with the effects of freezing on liquids.
  • Awareness of kitchen safety protocols.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the science behind gas solubility in liquids, particularly carbon dioxide in water.
  • Learn about the properties of materials used in beverage cans, such as aluminum and their reaction to temperature changes.
  • Explore safe methods for handling and disposing of pressurized containers in various states.
  • Investigate the effects of freezing on other carbonated beverages and their safe thawing methods.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for anyone who handles carbonated beverages, including home cooks, beverage enthusiasts, and individuals interested in kitchen safety and science.

Hydrangea
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I joined this group specifically because of this q. I came home and found a can of Sierra Mist at the back of my fridge, in a uniquely expanded orientation. It looks like a double ended bullet.
Of course, I realized what was happening, the thing froze, and I delicately placed it into my stainless steel sink, hoping it has done its worst.
Help! Is there something I need to do to dispose or dispel this safely??
 
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It's not dangerous. If you're really concerned, set it a fair distance away and shoot it.
 
Stick a fork in it.
 
If the can froze without bursting, just put it into some tap water until the contents have melted. Remember, water expands when it freezes, so the extra volume of the ice should vanish when the contents return to a liquid state.
 
Danger said:
It's not dangerous. If you're really concerned, set it a fair distance away and shoot it.

Sigh * of relief. Thank you!
 
AnTiFreeze3 said:
Stick a fork in it.

Because its done?
 
SteamKing said:
If the can froze without bursting, just put it into some tap water until the contents have melted. Remember, water expands when it freezes, so the extra volume of the ice should vanish when the contents return to a liquid state.
Thank you thank you, all. I put it in the sink, winced* and covered it with a cloth. Oy!
I read on a wiki answer that, "freezing causes the CO2 out of solution, and there is no room for the CO2 with the frozen water crystals," taking up space...or something like that. "The CO2 will go back into solution as it melts."
Wow. Weird to open the fridge up to.
Thank goodness I saw it! I was just loading up a few more cans because it was sooo hot today. Thanks all, near disaster (or mess, at least!) avoided.
 
This must be the most exciting thread on PF
 
HomogenousCow said:
This must be the most exciting thread on PF
Could be. Lol. I am just grateful anyone answered! Anyways, I'm no physics genius, so I figured Id throw it out there to the smart peeps.
Besides, it's more fun than some calculus problem. (Maybe).
 
  • #10
Hydrangea said:
Besides, it's more fun than some calculus problem.

Only if you follow the advice in#2
 

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