Argon/CO2 mix?

[carlisleishere]

hi I was just wondering if using a CO2/Argon mix would be ok for gassing my rats. so far I have used pure CO2, but the mix is easier and cheaper to get. The mix is 25 percent argon and 75 percent CO2. Thanks in advance.

[Gto_402]

Some say it causes some issues but I have used it without any problems. It takes about the same amount of time to put them down as CO2

[carlisleishere]

Thanks for your reply! Out of curiosity, what kind of problems does it supposedly cause?

[jasbus]

Yes it will kill them. The mix is not a problem, but.....
Argon is dangerous, not something I would use myself. Argon poisoning to humans happens alot...

[jasbus]

What are you paying for CO2?
I get my 20# filled for like $15...

[kitedemon]

I can't tell you about killing rats but Argon is no more toxic than C02 both are human asphyxiants, past that to the best of my knowledge it has no ill effects on people we breath it every day.

[jasbus]

less than 1% though. Argon is a heavy gas, that when breathed in, stays in the lungs unlike CO2.

I wouldn't use it...

I used to weld, and our shop took extra efforts to make sure we had venilation just for the argon...

[kitedemon]

Ok, I don't know I bow to your experience. I just know argon is inert 'nobel' gas and is not a poison, that is all I know.

[jasbus]

so is helium and radon.... Wouldn't breathe those either!

Yes, all of these gases are naturally occuring, and in small doses harmless.

[carlisleishere]

Thanks for the replies. To get a tank filled with CO2 is around 70 bucks. I did some research myself, and in humans, argon can harm you, but it's because it replaces oxygen or something like that. Any more input is appreciated.


PS, sorry for the SUPER long delay in a reply.