What does EAN32 signify in diving?

EAN32 signifies a mixture of 32 percent oxygen and 68 percent nitrogen, which is a common gas blend used in recreational diving known as Enriched Air Nitrox. This specific mix allows divers to breathe a higher concentration of oxygen compared to the standard atmospheric air, which is composed of roughly 21 percent oxygen and 79 percent nitrogen.

Using EAN32 can extend the no-decompression limits for divers and reduce the risk of nitrogen narcosis, as it decreases the amount of nitrogen absorbed by the body during a dive. This is particularly beneficial for dives where longer bottom times are desired or in situations where the risk of decompression sickness must be minimized.

Thus, EAN32 is named solely based on its oxygen concentration, marking an important aspect of nitrox diving certifications which focus on the benefits of using gas mixtures with different oxygen levels. Understanding these gas blends is crucial for safe diving practices.