Dalton’s law of partial pressures states that the overall pressure of a gas mixture is equivalent to the sum of all of its parts. Most gases that we typically interact with are mixtures; only in specialized settings does one typically interact with a single gas. Ambient air is made up of approximately 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen, and trace amounts of other gases like argon, hydrogen, helium, and other hydrocarbons.

Picture thanks to Mr. Jessup at CAL Academy

As scuba divers, oftentimes we manipulate the concentrations of gases within our mixtures for various reasons, whether that may be specialized technical applications, or simply to enhance our diving experience. Commonly used examples of manipulated diving mixtures include Nitrox and Trimix. Nitrox gas mixtures elevate the concentration of oxygen so that the diver can enjoy extended periods of time at specific depths. Trimix gas mixtures add helium as a substitute for nitrogen to reduce the risk of nitrogen narcosis.  When the concentrations of these gases that we breathe are adjusted, partial pressures are adjusted, therefore adjusting the overall pressure of the mixture. Add to that the fact that when we dive, our bodies and the gas mixture within our tanks are affected by large and often extreme pressure and temperature changes, and it is easy to see how critical it really is that the gas mixture in our tank is exactly what we think it is. Both nitrogen and oxygen can become dangerous under extreme pressure if they are not at specific concentrations designated for that particular depth.

Here at TRI Air Testing, we specialize in the ability to analyze whatever type of gas you might be trying to dive with. We can determine the concentrations of oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, helium, and much more within your diving mixtures. In addition to all of this, we can test your compressor and air samples for oil and particulates to ensure that the air you are breathing for each dive is as clean as possible. TRI Air Testing tests to many common diving specifications including PADI, ANDI, CGA Grade E, or any custom standard for your type of scuba diving, and delivers laboratory results to your online MyAir account within 24 hours of receiving your sample at no additional charge for most standard tests.

TRI Air Testing strives to be the best in the industry. We thank all our clients who have trusted us to provide them such an important service over the years and have made us who we are today. Come visit members of our team at Booth 1935 at this year’s DEMA Show to learn more about the compressed air testing services that we can provide your business!