Dry Ice Blasting for Fire and Smoke Cleanup: Where the Process Fits

Can Dry Ice Blasting Help With Fire Restoration?

Dry ice blasting can be useful for removing soot, smoke residue and certain surface contaminants from suitable materials. It is a cleaning method, not a complete fire-restoration solution.

Where It Can Help

• Soot and loose smoke contamination
• Structural surfaces that can tolerate the process
• Mechanical equipment where water use is undesirable
• Hard-to-reach surfaces where manual wiping is inefficient

Important Boundaries

Dry ice blasting does not restore heat-damaged materials, verify structural integrity, remove all odors by itself or replace hazardous-material remediation. Fire restoration should follow the building, insurance and environmental requirements applicable to the site.

AI30 Operating Reference

The AI30 uses 3 mm or smaller pellets and operates at 87–116 PSI with 71–141 CFM machine air demand. About 80 CFM is a practical indoor minimum and 90–120 CFM is recommended for regular use.

Ventilation and PPE

Dry ice sublimates to CO₂ gas, so ventilation is essential. Removed soot and contamination may be hazardous and must be contained and disposed of appropriately.

Bottom Line

Dry ice blasting can be one tool within a fire-cleanup plan when the material and contamination are suitable. Evaluate the substrate and safety requirements before selecting the process.