Air Contaminants in an Underwater Vehicle Cabin During Navigation

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to study the air contaminants in the cabins of underwater vehicle. The basic data help for the better research of the underwater vehicle cabin environment standard and the control strategy. Pretreatment and analysis method of volatile organic compounds was preconcentration combined with gas chromatography under the condition of liquid nitrogen and detected by chromatography-mass spectrometry. The pollution of particles, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide during the underwater vehicle voyage were monitored by online monitoring instrument. Altogether 34 kinds of pollution components were detected, most of which were low in concentration. Some are low olfactory threshold or high toxic components, such as dimethyldisulfide, benzene, carbon disulfide, trichloromethane, and several reached to ppm level. The contamination of the particles was mainly fine particles and part cabins exceeded the national standard of indoor air quality. The highest concentration of carbon dioxide in accommodation space exceeded the permissible concentration of atmosphere composition aboard diesel underwater vehicle compartments. The increase submerged time made the environment in the cabins deteriorate. The concentration of trace contaminants may close to or beyond the relevant standards with the prolonged time. The volatile organic compounds, particles, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide aggravated the air circumstance in the cabins. It should be determined the permissible concentration of air contaminants in underwater vehicle as soon as possible.