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Atmospheric changes and physiological responses during a 6-day "disabled submarine" exercise
Jan Risberg1, Christina Ostberg, Torbjørn Svensson
1Norwegian Armed Forces Medical Services and NUI a.s., Bergen, Norway. jri@nui.no
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine
|February 13, 2004
Summary
Submarine escape simulations show that atmospheric conditions can be maintained safely for over six days using emergency systems. This study monitored air quality and physiological responses during a simulated disabled submarine scenario.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Submarine Engineering
- Human Physiology
Background:
- Submarine survival depends on atmospheric control during emergencies.
- Investigating atmospheric changes and physiological responses in a disabled submarine (SUBSUNK) trial is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the viability of emergency atmospheric control systems in a simulated submarine disaster.
- To monitor physiological and environmental parameters during a prolonged submerged trial.
Main Methods:
- 18 volunteers were confined in a submarine compartment for 6 days, 18 hours in 8°C seawater.
- Emergency procedures were used for CO2 absorption (soda lime, lithium hydroxide) and O2 replenishment (chlorate candles).
- Atmospheric composition, temperatures, and physiological data were continuously monitored.
Main Results:
- Atmospheric temperature dropped to 14.1°C; subjects experienced significant cold stress.
- CO2 levels remained within acceptable limits, with high absorption capacities noted for soda lime and lithium hydroxide.
- Oxygen and CO2 partial pressures were managed, with mean O2 consumption of 23.8 L STP/man/h and CO2 production of 19.8 L STP/man/h.
Conclusions:
- Emergency atmospheric control systems are effective for maintaining acceptable conditions in a submarine compartment for extended periods (6 d, 18 h).
- The study validates the use of specific emergency procedures for SUBSUNK scenarios.