Plastic bottles of soda typically do not explode when left in the freezer due to the unique properties of water and the way carbonation works in the beverage.
Carbon dioxide solubility: Soda is carbonated, which means it contains dissolved carbon dioxide gas. When the soda is bottled and sealed, the carbon dioxide remains in solution under pressure. The plastic bottle is designed to withstand this pressure. As the temperature decreases in the freezer, the solubility of carbon dioxide in water increases. This means that the gas remains dissolved in the soda even at lower temperatures.
Plastic bottle flexibility: Plastic bottles are more flexible than glass bottles or aluminum cans. When the pressure inside the bottle increases due to the carbon dioxide remaining in solution, the plastic bottle can expand slightly to accommodate the increased pressure, reducing the risk of rupture.
However, while plastic bottles are less likely to explode compared to glass bottles or aluminum cans, there are still some risks associated with freezing soda in plastic bottles:
Expansion: Even though the plastic bottles can expand slightly, they do have limits. If the soda freezes solid, it can cause enough expansion to rupture the bottle, especially if the bottle is overfilled.
Taste and texture changes: Freezing soda can also affect its taste and texture. The freezing process can alter the carbonation level, making the soda go flat when it thaws. Additionally, the sugar content in the soda can crystallize, giving the liquid a different texture.
To avoid any potential issues, it's generally best to avoid freezing carbonated beverages in plastic bottles. If you want to chill your soda quickly, it's better to place it in the refrigerator or use a bucket of ice water, which won't risk altering the beverage's taste or texture.