AIChE makes ice cream with liquid nitrogen

The Stevens chapter of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers explored the wonders of science this past Tuesday by mixing liquid nitrogen and heavy cream to produce ice cream. President Alan Rempel, armed with both a white laboratory coat and a bottle of liquid nitrogen, had attendees pour heavy cream into a Styrofoam cup. After adding a splash of vanilla and a tablespoon of sugar, Rempel poured the liquid nitrogen into the cup, instantly creating a frozen vanilla concoction. Using liquid nitrogen actually creates smoother, creamier ice cream, as it freezes the cream more rapidly, thus producing smaller ice crystals. The smaller the ice crystals, the creamier the ice cream. The only drawback? If liquid nitrogen comes into contact with skin, it can cause frostbite. AIChE members were responsible for pouring the liquid nitrogen; enjoying the frozen treat was left for the attendees!