What is a primary concern regarding enriched air and scuba equipment?

The primary concern regarding enriched air and scuba equipment is related to the potential for fire or deterioration. Enriched air, also known as nitrox, contains higher oxygen levels than regular air. When oxygen concentration increases, the risk of fire hazards increases significantly, especially at elevated pressures. Oxygen is a powerful oxidizer, which means that it can react violently with materials that are not compatible with high-oxygen environments.

Scuba equipment, including tanks, regulators, and O-rings, must be specially designed or maintained to handle the higher oxygen content. If standard scuba gear is used with enriched air without proper considerations, it could lead to equipment failure or deterioration due to the oxidative substances. Thus, divers must always ensure that their equipment is specifically rated for the oxygen concentrations they plan to use, maintaining safety and functionality while diving with enriched air.

While buoyancy changes can occur with different gas mixtures, they are not the primary concern compared to the potential hazards of fire and equipment integrity. The costs of enriched air training and fills, as well as temperature alterations of the gas, are considerations but do not outweigh the crucial issue of safety with fire risks and equipment compatibility.