During World War II, a team of scientists undertook over 600 experiments on themselves to develop breathing support equipment for divers and submariners. Diving in the 1940s was popular, but it required bulky suits and large helmets, as well as constant tethering to boats for air supply. The scientists were aware of decompression sickness, caused by nitrogen bubbles forming in the blood when divers ascended too quickly from deep dives. This condition could be fatal in severe cases.
The sinking of the submarine Thetis in 1939 highlighted the need for better breathing support equipment. An investigation into the tragedy led scientist John Burdon Sanderson Haldane to conduct experiments on himself and colleagues in a high-pressure chamber. Their experiments focused on the effects of different gases and pressure levels on the human body.
Through their research, Haldane and his team discovered the dangers of excess CO2, oxygen toxicity, and nitrogen intoxication in high-pressure environments. They also worked to find the ideal mixture of oxygen and air for divers and submarine crews to breathe without side effects. These experiments led to the development of breathing support equipment used by the British Navy during World War II.
Haldane’s dangerous experiments not only aided in the D-Day campaign but also contributed to the scientific foundations of modern scuba diving. Their work paved the way for advances in underwater breathing technology that continue to save lives today.
In conclusion, Haldane’s group conducted over 600 experiments on themselves during World War II to help divers and submariners breathe safely while underwater. Their work not only saved lives during that time but also laid the foundation for modern scuba diving technology.