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2. How are ExtendAir Adsorbent cartridges better than granular CO₂ adsorbents?

ExtendAir cartridges are superior to granular adsorbents in many ways. First, the factory-molded channels ensure consistent duration no matter who loads the canister. Duration variability is on the order of +/- 5% for ExtendAir cartridges, compared to +/- 30% for granular adsorbents. Second, ExtendAir cartridges last 2-3 times longer than granules in a given volume. And finally, ExtendAir cartridges do not powder, they come in easy to use single-use packages, and are superior to granules by any performance measure.

1. What is an ExtendAir Adsorbent Cartridge?

Micropore, Inc. manufactures reactive plastics which can contain a variety of reactive powders. When the reactive plastic is formed into a cartridge "geometry ", it is called an ExtendAir adsorbent cartridge. An ExtendAir cartridge contains powders that adsorb carbon dioxide and are used in rebreathing and life support applications.

3. Can I use an ExtendAir Adsorbent Cartridge with my rebreather?

ExtendAir cartridges must be designed to work with a specific rebreather. They are not a drop-in replacement for granules. Micropore works with rebreather manufacturers to have RPC™ technology integrated into their systems. Ask your rebreather dealer for more information on systems that use ExtendAir cartridges technology.

4. Where can I get an ExtendAir Adsorbent Cartridge for my rebreather?

ExtendAir cartridges will be distributed at dive shops where you purchase or rent your rebreather. Later this year they will be available online. You must have a Micropore Customer Number to purchase ExtendAir cartridges.

5. Do I have to be trained to use an ExtendAir Adsorbent Cartridge?

Yes. Training is included in your rebreather certification course. Already rebreather certified? ExtendAir cartridges training is currently available through IANTD , and will also be available online in the future.

6. Are ExtendAir Adsorbent Cartridge easy to use?

Yes,ExtendAir cartridges come in single-use packages, and take less than 10 seconds to load . Ever clean out a granular canister? You'll love our easy clean-up; just remove and rinse.

7. Is an ExtendAir Adsorbent Cartridge canister heavier than a granular canister?

ExtendAir cartridges are 25% denser than granules, so for a given volume are 25% heavier. However, an ExtendAir cartridges can last 2-3 times longer than the same volume of granules, so the ExtendAir canister can be designed to be smaller and lighter yet meet the desired system duration.

8. Can an ExtendAir Adsorbent Cartridge cause "caustic cocktails"?

"Caustic cocktails" are a real concern due to dusting of granular adsorbents. With an ExtendAir cartridges, dusting is dramatically reduced, so there is significantly lower risk of caustic cocktail. However, if an ExtendAir cartridges is kept in contact with water for an extended time (10 to 20 minutes), caustics will diffuse out into the water, and will have the same potential for caustic cocktail as granules.

9. Are there any diving limitations using an ExtendAir Adsorbent Cartridge?

ExtendAir cartridges can be used in the same conditions that granules are used. In either case, you should always observe the manufacturers' system duration limits.

10. Why single-use packaging?

Since we did the hard work for you,
don't carry more than you need,
don't concern yourself with measuring,
don't guess about consistency,
don't worry adsorbent freshness.

11. How long do ExtendAir Adsorbent Cartridge last?

ExtendAir cartridges last 2-3 times longer than granular adsorbents.

12. How do I dispose of an ExtendAir Adsorbent Cartridge?

An exhausted ExtendAir cartridges consists mainly of limestone (calcium carbonate), which is a naturally occurring mineral. Dispose of them the same way you would with granules.

13. How are ExtendAir Adsorbent Cartridge tested?

Independent, unmanned tests are performed on all rebreathers using ExtendAir cartridges. The tests are designed to ensure that minimum rebreather system duration will be achieved 99.7% of the time.