Ice Packs vs. Ice Gel Packs: Exploring Differences and Applications
Ice packs and ice gel packs play a crucial role in the packaging industry, enabling the safe transportation of temperature-sensitive goods. Both options are designed to maintain the desired colder temperature ranges to effectively preserve goods during transit.
However, ice packs and gel ice packs are different packaging products. Each possesses distinct characteristics, which both positively and negatively impact their packaging suitability. This article explores the key differences between ice packs and ice gel packs to help you choose the best option for your needs.
Difference Between Ice Packs and Ice Gel Packs
Ice packs and ice gel packs both feature an outer plastic cover and interior liquid. Each can also be frozen for use in packaging and other applications. However, while they function and look similar, ice packs and ice gel packs aren’t the same.
1. Composition and Structure Of Ice Packs and Ice Gel Packs
Ice packs rely on cooling agents to extend their cold temperature and maintain effectiveness over time. In contrast, ice gel packs leverage a semi-solid gel composition to provide more flexibility, leak resistance, and superior cold retention.
| Product | Properties |
| Ice Pack | Ice packs come in many forms, including ones for household usage – ice packs for cooler boxes, for example – or for commercial packaging. The interior liquid is 100% water. However, in the event longer cold retention or flexibility is required, freeze-resistant agents like propylene glycol (which lowers the freezing point) are added.
This mixture is carefully formulated to freeze at lower temperatures than pure water. While seemingly counterintuitive, this also allows the ice packs to melt slower, letting them remain colder for longer. At lower temperatures, the freeze-resistant agent stabilises, preventing the water from fully crystallising, thus maintaining the pack’s integrity.
However, propylene glycol in some ice packs can be toxic if ingested in large amounts (25 milligrams or more per kg of body weight). This ingredient and similar anti-freeze substances (diethylene glycol or ethylene glycol) can also be found in some ice gel packs. If you want to be safe, look for non-toxic, food-grade, or 100% water formulations.
The outer layer of ice packs is usually made of puncture-resistant, durable plastic, safeguarding against potential leaks. However, it’s important to note that due to their rigid structure, the placement of the ice pack or packs within the packaging is important. Improper positioning or rough handling could lead to unintentional damage to delicate or fragile items they’re packed with. |
| Ice gel packs | Ice gel packs usually feature a pliable plastic cover containing a unique gel-like substance made of water and a polymer. This polymer is chosen for its ability to freeze while maintaining a semi-solid, pliable form. The gel’s composition allows it to retain its flexibility, even at freezing temperatures. So, ice gel packs can better conform to the shape of the packaged products.
This flexibility also ensures optimal surface contact with packaged goods, enhancing cooling efficiency. Furthermore, the gel’s structure reduces the risk of leakage. The gel doesn’t melt into a liquid state as readily as the liquid in ice packs, adding an extra layer of safety and protection to the items being transported. |
2. Temperature Retention and Cooling Duration Of Ice Packs and Ice Gel Packs
| Product | Properties |
| Ice Pack | While effective at providing immediate cooling, ice packs have a limitation – they struggle to retain their coldness over extended periods. As the ice within the pack melts from exposure to ambient temperatures, the pack gradually loses its cooling effectiveness. As a result, it may be necessary to frequently add new ice packs to the packaging to maintain the desired low temperature. |
| Ice Gel Pack | In comparison, ice gel packs can maintain a lower temperature for longer because of their gel composition. This unique characteristic ensures that ice gel packs continue to provide effective cooling throughout shipping or storage, reducing the need for frequent replacement.
The prolonged cooling effect of ice gel packs also makes them well-suited for applications beyond packaging, such as pain relief and therapy. Ice gel packs designed for these uses can offer extended relief from pain, inflammation, and injuries.
As they require less frequent replacement, they’re especially valuable in scenarios when continuous cooling is necessary for optimal recovery. Some gel packs can also be heated for medical and therapeutic usage.
One issue with both ice packs and ice gel packs is that the melting ice or gel inside the packs can cause the formation of condensation and excess moisture outside the pack, due to the temperature difference between the cold pack and the surrounding air. This moisture accumulation could be problematic in packaging scenarios where a dry environment is preferred. For example, if you are transporting electronics or sensitive materials where humidity could adversely affect the components. |
3. Weight and Volume Efficiency For Shipping
| Product | Properties |
| Ice Pack | One of the considerations when using ice packs for packaging is their weight and bulk.
Ice packs tend to be relatively heavy and occupy significant space within the packaging. This can negatively impact shipping costs, especially if charges are determined by weight or dimensions. The weight and volume of ice packs can also influence the overall logistics and handling of packages. Heavier packages may require special handling and could be more prone to damage or mishandling during transit.
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| Ice Gel Pack | However, ice gel packs offer a solution to ice packs’ weight and volume concerns due to their unique properties.
Ice gel packs’ flexible and pliable nature allows them to contour to the shape of packaged items and the available packaging space. As a result, ice gel packs are often lighter and more space-efficient than their more rigid ice pack counterparts.
Ice gel packs’ ability to fit snugly around packaged products means that there’s less unused space within the package. This optimisation of packaging space can reduce shipping costs, especially if shipping charges are influenced by package size or dimensions. Furthermore, the weight and volume reduction of packages from using ice gel packs over ice packs can positively affect overall logistics. It makes handling and storage more manageable and potentially minimises the risk of damage during transit.
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Advantages and Benefits of Ice Gel Packs Over Ice Packs
As we can see, ice gel packs are a top choice for packaging because they offer many advantages and benefits. Some other benefits of ice gel packs include:
- Ice gel packs can be made to last even longer during transportation and storage when placed in a well-insulated container. At conditions of optimum insulation, an ice gel pack can last about 24–36 hours but only approximately 2–3 hours at room temperature.
- Ice gel packs are reusable, and some can work well for years. A durable plastic outer layer keeps the gel intact even after exposure to higher temperatures. If you arrange collection of gel ice packs from customers, you can also help reduce your carbon footprint.
- Ice gel packs are easy to store. They don’t need to be frozen when not in use and can be stored at room temperature until needed.
As a result, ice gel packs are used in many industries, including in the cold chain, sports, fitness, and medicine.
Applications and Usage of Ice Gel Packs
1. Cold Chain Packaging
Ice gel packs are used in to protect sensitive goods from temperature changes. They’re often used in the packaging of temperature-sensitive products like:
- Perishable foods, including produce, meat, fish, eggs, and dairy
- Biological and blood samples for testing and scientific purposes
- Plasma, blood, and organs for life-saving medical procedures
- Medicines and pharmaceuticals like vaccines and supplements
- Chemicals
- Some electronics, devices, and medical equipment
- Art, collectables, and antiques
To ensure safety, always opt for food-grade ice gel packs, which are non-toxic, for consumable items like food and medicines.
For the best results, cold chain containers should also ideally be made from a high-quality insulating material, which reduces the heat entering from the package surroundings. Specific items may also require different packaging and containers. For example, liquids might require packaging with a top seal to prevent leakage.
Overall, ice gel packs are an excellent packaging solution. However, the efficacy of and the amount of ice gel packs required for cold chain transportation depend on various factors, such as the amount of food or items, the container volume, and the temperature requirements of the packaged items.
It’s also advisable to use temperature labels and data loggers to monitor and track temperatures during transportation.
2. Medical Uses
Ice gel packs are ideal for treating common ailments such as bruises, pain, or swelling. As such, they’re commonly used by medical associates and practitioners in medical facilities like hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes. Additionally, they’re often used for medical purposes in other non-medical facilities like schools, army camps, and offices. Besides their versatility, ice gel packs are also a cost-effective option because they aren’t expensive to manufacture.
Applying ice gel packs to a wounded area is known as icing, ice therapy, or cold therapy. Upon getting injured, the body launches an inflammatory response to tissue damage, which results in swelling. Applying an ice gel pack to an injured area helps reduce swelling by constricting blood flow.
Both acute (24–48 hours) and chronic (beyond 48 hours) injuries can be treated using ice gel packs. When applying an ice gel pack on the skin, wrap it in a thin towel to help it stay cold longer. This will also prevent skin irritation or frostbite if the ice gel pack is placed on the skin for an extended period.
Heated gel ice packs can also be applied to painful areas to reduce symptoms, and this is called heat therapy.
3. Fitness and Sports Uses
Fitness and sports training often result in fatigue, muscle pain, spasms, swelling, bruising, and tendon and muscle damage. These injuries are widespread in fitness facilities, gyms, and martial arts training centres.
As a result, ice gel packs are commonly used in these locations and the fitness and sports industry in general. The fantastic pain-relieving properties and pliability that ice gel packs offer make them an ideal treatment for professional athletes who go through intense training, such as bodybuilders, martial arts fighters, and footballers.
Conclusion
The choice between ice packs and ice gel packs ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. Each pack type comes in various shapes and sizes designed for a range of different uses, from packaging to medical.
Additionally, the differences – in composition, temperature retention, application convenience, and targeted efficacy – of the two pack types make them better suited for particular situations. Awareness of these distinctions ensures you select the most appropriate option.
Stream Peak produces quality ice gel packs using advanced Japanese technology and materials. Our production is ISO 9001 and 140001 certified to ensure the highest environmental and quality standards.
Engage with our engineering experts to learn more about our cold chain packaging solutions and ice gel packs.