# Efficient and Sustainable Cleaning: A Comparative Analysis of Cryogenic Technology
## 4 Discussion  
The results reveal the technical performance of the devices, their suitability for different operational challenges, and environmental sustainability. Devices with higher scores in compact dimensions and low weight are more suitable for environments where space is limited and portability is essential. In addition, high scores in energy efficiency and low noise underline a design that is conscious of environmental impact. On the other hand, equipment with a high tank capacity, pressure, and flow performance are more suitable for more intensive cleaning operations. These insights offer valuable guidance for selecting cryo-cleaning equipment that not only meets operational requirements but also promotes sustainable working practices. Across the equipment analysed, the Polartech(r) PT-MINli, AERO2 PLT 60, and PT-PROsi have been identified as a choice that closely aligns with the defined selection parameters. Likewise, the Polartech(r) PT-PROsi stands out for its ability to hybridise dry ice blasting and snow blasting systems, enhancing the versatility of the equipment for analysing the applicability and optimisation of the cryogenic method in specific sectors. Additionally, models like the WL 5000 Robby, AERO2 PCS 60, ATX Nano, ATX25-P, IB 15/120, IB 10/2 L2P, IBL 3000, COB 62+, COB 71P, and COB 71 and the solutions offered by Cryosnow(r) significantly contribute to the applicability of cryo-cleaning in different industrial sectors. Intellblast(r)'s WL 5000 Robby and Cold Jet(r)'s AERO2 PCS 60 models have demonstrated efficiency in dry ice management, reflecting a commitment to environmental sustainability and operational cost optimisation. In terms of practicality, equipment such as Cryoblaster(r)'s ATX Nano and ATX25-P stand out for their compact and lightweight design, which streamlines transportation and reduces logistical costs. In terms of air pressure performance, the IB 15/120 and PT MINli models provide an optimal range for a wide variety of applications. On the other hand, Karcher(r)'s PT-PROsi  
Figure 2: Average scores of cryo-cleaning equipment, taking into account all the evaluation criteria. Source: own analysis, 2024.  
and IB 10/2 L2P models are designed to reach higher pressures and are adapted to intensive cleaning jobs that demand more power. In terms of volumetric air flow, equipment such as Intelblast(r)'s IBL 3000 and Cryoblaster(r)'s AERO2 PLT 60 stand out for their larger ranges, which translates into greater agility and effectiveness in cleaning, particularly in time-critical scenarios. Versatility is also a feature of Polartech(r)'s COMBI 7 and COB 62+, which are capable of switching between dry ice and liquid CO2, giving them the ability to adapt during cleaning operations. Cryosnow(r) and Polartech(r) stand out for their moderate liquid CO2 consumption, ranging between 0.25 and 1.5 kg/min, indicating economical and efficient operation. These brands also feature compact versions that further optimise CO2 consumption, contributing to efficiency and reduced operating costs. Recent studies in the automotive industry compared cryo-cleaning with conventional solvent and water-based cleaning methods, revealing that cryo-cleaning can reduce cleaning time by up to 96.9% [23]. This research, carried out by the Department of Physics, Mechanics and Industrial Engineering at NOVA University in Lisbon, focused on the feasibility of using dry ice in painting processes [8]. Using Cryosnow(r)'s SJ-25 handheld dry ice blasting equipment, the researchers established control parameters such as operating time and CO2 consumption, finding an average CO2 consumption of up to 2 kg/min and an efficiency of 1 min/m2. Compared to the dynamic wash (DW) method, which includes multiple washing and drying stages, cryo-cleaning not only has reduced costs and water consumption but also minimises the space required by implementing a robotised system, taking up only a third of the original space.