RB-(r)evolution in focus at Tech-Diving 2012
Recent years revolution in Rebreather systems has enabled closed systems (mCCR and eCCR) and some semi-closed rebreather systems not only for the hard core tech diver but also for a much broader audience. One main focus on the Tech-diving 2012 conference will be the challenges of rebreather diving.
Dr Simon Mitchell, wreck diver and researcher of inner ear decompression illness and CO2 monitoring, from University of Auckland thinks the next major breakthough in technical diving will be the development of solid state non-consuming PO2 and PCO2 monitors that require low power and are small enough to be deployed in a rebreather mouthpiece.
- The accurate, reliable real time measurement of PO2 without using galvanic fuel cells in a rebreather loop is one of technical diving's "holy grails", says Simon Mitchell. Similarly, the accurate measurement of inhaled and exhaled PCO2 at the mouth will give the diver definitive warning of both CO2 breakthrough at the scrubber and CO2 retention respectively. The technology for both of these functions currently exists, but refinement is ongoing.
Jill Heinerth, underwater explorer and film maker believes that the greatest challenge in technical diving will be to hold the reigns tightly in CCR diving and foster a change in how people approach their CCR dives. We need a social/cultural change where teammates encourage their diving partners to be meticulous, using check sheets and never diving with a rig that is not fully operational.
- If the casual behaviors and high level risk taking do not cease, then I fear that CCRs could be banned from sites or regulated out of the marketplace, says Jill Heinerth.
Dr Simon Mitchell and Jill Heinerth are two of the speakers of Tech-Diving 2012 and were asked to share their views on the greatest challenge or major breakthrought to come within the world of technical diving in the near future. Other topics at Tech-Diving 2012 will be: What are the manufacturers doing to move Tech-Divers from OC to RB? Will closed systems dominate? Which system is right for me?
Tech-Diving 2012
