Which Nitrox mixture is typically recommended for shallow recreational dives?

EAN32 is typically recommended for shallow recreational dives because it provides a good balance of oxygen content and nitrogen, allowing for safer, longer bottom times while minimizing the risk of nitrogen narcosis. This mixture contains 32% oxygen and 68% nitrogen, which allows divers to experience generally acceptable levels of both oxygen and nitrogen at recreational depths.

For shallow dives, having a higher percentage of oxygen decreases the amount of nitrogen absorbed during the dive, which is beneficial for reducing the risk of decompression sickness on ascent. At typical recreational depths, EAN32 provides ample oxygen for increased breathing efficiency without exceeding the safe limits for partial pressure of oxygen, thus allowing divers to safely enjoy their dives while also maximizing safety.

Other mixtures, such as EAN36, EAN28, and EAN40, have limitations at shallow depths. EAN36, while it increases safety by lowering nitrogen exposure, may lead to higher partial pressures of oxygen at even moderate depths, which can pose risks. EAN28 is less common for shallow dives as it provides less oxygen than EAN32, and divers might miss out on benefits associated with a slightly higher oxygen content. EAN40 carries a significant risk for oxygen toxicity at shallower depths due to its high percentage of