Cleaning the Floor with Liquid Nitrogen

When liquid nitrogen is poured onto a hard floor, it rapidly boils and skims across the surface because of the Leidenfrost Effect. As it moves, it pushes dust and debris out of the way and can even clear dust from under furniture.

1. Select a smooth, hard floor surface such as linoleum, tile, or polished concrete.
2. Ensure the area is free of obstacles and tripping hazards.
3. Using insulated gloves and a cryogenic-safe container, pour a small amount of liquid nitrogen onto the floor.
4. Observe as the nitrogen races across the surface, propelled by a thin vapor cushion.
5. Watch how the moving vapor cloud sweeps dust and light debris away, including from under furniture.

Cleaning the Floor with Liquid Nitrogen- hashi856:

• Try pouring nitrogen on different surfaces (tile, wood, metal) and compare how far it travels.
• Place light objects like tissue or confetti on the floor to watch them be swept aside.

• Safety glasses required.
• Wear cryogenic gloves when handling liquid nitrogen.
• Use only in a well-ventilated area to prevent nitrogen buildup.
• Do not pour large amounts that may pool and cause frost damage to flooring.
• Keep clear of the flowing nitrogen to avoid contact with skin or footwear.

• Why does liquid nitrogen “skate” across the floor instead of soaking in?
• What role does the Leidenfrost effect play in this demonstration?
• How does the rapid vaporization of nitrogen move dust and debris?
• Why does the nitrogen vapor travel under furniture instead of staying in place?
• Could this principle be applied to other cleaning or industrial processes?