A Call to Action
During World War II, London was under siege, and while many citizens rationed food and worked in factories, a small group of scientists took a different path. Led by J.B.S. Haldane at University College London, they experimented with diving physiology to help solve the Allies’ underwater problems.
Experimenting Under Pressure
After several submarine disasters, Haldane and his team realized the Allies needed a better understanding of the effects of underwater pressure. To gather data, they tested on themselves. Edwin Martin Case and Haldane placed themselves inside hyperbaric chambers to study the impact of nitrogen narcosis, breathing compressed air to simulate deep-sea diving conditions.
Drunk on Nitrogen
During one experiment, Haldane and Case reached the equivalent of 300 feet underwater. They became “drunk” on nitrogen, a narcotic effect later known as “Martini’s law,” which impairs divers’ cognitive abilities at depth. The two researchers recorded their muddled thoughts, with Haldane even noting the pain from a pressurized toothache.
Groundbreaking Results
Their work proved the dangerous effects of nitrogen on divers, paving the way for safer diving practices. Haldane’s determination to solve these wartime issues contributed to the success of critical missions like D-Day.
Drunk on Nitrogen: WWII’s Underwater Science Pioneers 🪖
A Call to Action
During World War II, London was under siege, and while many citizens rationed food and worked in factories, a small group of scientists took a different path. Led by J.B.S. Haldane at University College… pic.twitter.com/vDkpQ0N30T— Detective Tiger’s Stories (@TigerDetective) October 19, 2024