What effect does using Enriched Air Nitrox have on a diver's bottom time?

Using Enriched Air Nitrox increases a diver's bottom time compared to diving with regular air. The primary reason for this is that Enriched Air Nitrox has a higher proportion of oxygen and a lower proportion of nitrogen. This composition reduces the amount of nitrogen that the body absorbs during a dive, which directly affects the no-decompression limits (NDLs) that divers must adhere to.

Since nitrogen is the gas that typically limits bottom time due to the risk of decompression sickness, decreasing nitrogen uptake allows divers to stay at greater depths for longer periods without exceeding safe limits. The higher oxygen content in Enriched Air Nitrox means divers can effectively extend their bottom duration while still maintaining safety.

This effect is particularly noticeable at deeper depths, where nitrogen loading becomes more significant. Therefore, using Enriched Air Nitrox typically enhances a diver's ability to enjoy longer dives within safe limits, making it a popular choice for many divers seeking to maximize their underwater experience.