the-BA : Face it...

SCUBA stands for Self-contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus. It was invented by Frenchman Jacques Cousteau in 1943. He called the apparatus an aqualung. It’s thanks to his invention that we can swim underwater for prolonged periods of time. But there are many other bits of essential kit; for example, it wouldn’t be much fun if it hurt to open your eyes and all you saw were a few blurred shapes – so we also need face masks.

Have you ever wondered what other essential items scuba divers need?

You might like to …

• find out about face masks, wetsuits, snorkels etc.; find out what materials they’re made from and what properties they require
• design and carry out materials tests to find materials suitable for use in various scuba gear. For example, test water resistance and thermal resistivity of wetsuit materials (you could also find out about and test different seams used to manufacture wetsuits)
• design and make a snorkel (and/or face mask).

Further links:
http://www.midlanddivers.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/gear.htm

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