Divers' Body Heat Loss: Describes a Study of the Endurance of Underwater Swimmers Wearing a Variety of Foam Neoprene Wet Suits and Immersed at 30-32F in the Nel Arctic Pool

摘要

A study was made primarily to obtain data applicable to the design of an optimum protective suit for divers in arctic environments. The experimental method employed swimmers who performed shallow dives in the NEL Arctic Pool at 30-32F. Skin temperature was recorded by the use of suitably located thermistors, and other data were obtained from blood samples drawn immediately before and after each dive. Results suggest that a four-piece foam neoprene wet suit consisting of a 1/8-inch tight-fitting inner suit and a 1/4-inch snug-fitting outer suit along with two pairs of neoprene socks and mittens would provide the optimum combination of protection and mobility for divers in arctic waters. (Author)