What to Breath

Introduction

Scuba diving is an exhilarating activity that allows us to explore the wonders of the underwater world. As divers, we have the option to dive on regular air or use a gas mixture called nitrox. In this article, we will provide a detailed comparison between scuba diving on air and nitrox, highlighting their differences, benefits, and considerations.

Air Composition and Nitrox

Regular air, which is what we breathe on the surface, is composed of approximately 21% oxygen and 79% nitrogen. Nitrox, on the other hand, is a gas mixture that contains a higher percentage of oxygen and a lower percentage of nitrogen.

Nitrox Oxygen Content

Nitrox comes in various mixtures, commonly known as EANx (Enriched Air Nitrox). The oxygen content in nitrox can range from 22% to 40%. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits and maximum depths for each type of nitrox:

• EANx22: This nitrox mixture contains 22% oxygen. It allows for longer bottom times and shorter surface intervals compared to diving on air. The maximum depth limit for EANx22 is 40 meters (130 feet).
• EANx32: With 32% oxygen, EANx32 provides even longer bottom times and shorter surface intervals. The maximum depth limit for EANx32 is 34 meters (112 feet).
• EANx36: Nitrox with 36% oxygen content offers extended bottom times and shorter surface intervals. The maximum depth limit for EANx36 is 29 meters (95 feet).
• EANx40: This nitrox mixture contains 40% oxygen, allowing for significantly longer bottom times and shorter surface intervals. The maximum depth limit for EANx40 is 24 meters (80 feet).

Pros and Cons of Air and Nitrox

Air:

• Pros: Widely available, less expensive, suitable for most recreational dives.
• Cons: Limited bottom time, longer surface intervals, increased risk of decompression sickness.

Nitrox:

• Pros: Longer bottom times, shorter surface intervals, reduced risk of decompression sickness.
• Cons: Limited availability, additional training required, increased risk of oxygen toxicity at deeper depths.

Training Requirements for Nitrox

Using nitrox requires specialized training to understand the risks and benefits associated with diving with higher oxygen levels. Most scuba certification agencies offer Nitrox Diver courses, which cover topics such as gas analysis, oxygen exposure limits, and dive planning with nitrox.

Summary and FAQ

In summary, diving on air and nitrox each have their advantages and considerations. Nitrox allows for longer bottom times and shorter surface intervals, but it requires additional training and careful planning. It is important to choose the appropriate nitrox mixture based on the planned dive depth. Here are answers to some commonly asked questions:

1. Is nitrox suitable for all types of diving?
2. Can I use nitrox with my current dive computer?
3. How do I analyze the oxygen content in a nitrox tank?
4. What are the signs of oxygen toxicity?
5. Can I switch between air and nitrox during a dive?
6. What precautions should I take when diving with nitrox?
7. Can I get nitrox fills at any dive shop?
8. Is nitrox more expensive than air?
9. Can I use nitrox for technical diving?
10. Is nitrox beneficial for shallow dives?