Thor Options Thor drysuit neck/wrist seals and boots can be changed. This includes a wide range of options, including lightweight swimming boots, wide-fitting boots for static commercial diver operations and safety boots with steel toe caps and mid-sole foil. Neck yokes, additional pockets, dry glove systems and convenience zips are also available. |
Chemical Permeation & Biological Penetration Tests The majority of divers using Thor drysuits in contaminated water require information regarding the drysuit’s protective qualities to be made available. Thor suits underwent permeation testing under worst case scenario conditions – 100% chemical exposure for the entire length of the test. Although these test conditions are unlikely in any chemical diving environment, the results demonstrate the protection offered under most normal circumstances. |
Permeation Test Results The permeation values are based on the time it takes for the chemical to permeate the suit material. The permeation test is performed up to 480 minutes. The reports that indicate greater than 480 minutes means that no chemical was detected above 0.1 mg/ min/cm2 for 8 hours’ duration. |
Actual Breakthrough vs. Normalised Breakthrough Actual breakthrough is reported in minutes and occurs when initial breakthrough is detected. Each chemical tested has unique characteristics and minimal detectable limits. For example: if a chemical has a minimum detectable limit of 0.059 mg/ min/cm2, actual breakthrough is reported when challenge chemical concentrations reach 0.059 mg/ min/ cm2 or greater. Normalized breakthrough occurs when challenge chemical breakthrough concentrations reach 0.1 mg/ min/ cm2 or greater (AaSTMm Ff739). |
Maximum Minimal Detectable Rates This indicates the maximum level of chemical detection using the permeation test system. The minimal detectable rate is the lowest rate of permeation that is detectable with the permeation system. |
Steady State Permeation The constant rate of permeation that occurs after breakthrough when the chemical contact is continuous and all forces affecting permeation has reached equilibrium. |
When Diving in Polluted, Contaminated or Generally Abnormal Environments Northern Diver’s Thor drysuit has been developed and tested for use in these conditions and as such should be regarded as an integral component of your diving plans. Diving in contaminated environments has the potential to be extremely dangerous. |
Decontamination After exposure to a contaminated environment, the Thor drysuit must be decontaminated, ensuring that all contaminants have been removed from the drysuit. Diving in contaminated environments should not be undertaken by those without the highest level of training. All risks should be understood prior to any contaminated environment diving, with all risks carefully planned for and the utmost care taken. |