An Alabama inmate would be the test subject for the “experimental” execution method of nitrogen hypoxia, his lawyers argued, as they asked judges to deny the state’s request to carry out his death sentence using the new method.
In a Friday court filing, attorneys for Kenneth Eugene Smith asked the Alabama Supreme Court to reject the state attorney general’s request to set an execution date for Smith using the proposed new execution method. Nitrogen gas is authorized as an execution method in three states but it has never been used to put an inmate to death.
Smith’s attorneys argued the state has disclosed little information about how nitrogen executions would work, releasing only a redacted copy of the proposed protocol.
The human body can only detect a buildup of carbon dioxide in the lungs, not a lack of oxygen. This is why it’s uncomfortable to hold your breath for a long time. If you inhale pure nitrogen while being able to exhale, there is no build up of CO2 and therefore little to no discomfort.
Wikipedia cites a USAF text, saying: “Some individuals experience headache, dizziness, fatigue, nausea and euphoria, and some become unconscious without warning.”
If you want to try it at home, try inhaling the air inside a soda bottle
over holding your breath because they are both co2???
That just doesn’t sound practical
yes. thus my confusion.
Better yet, try inhaling Nitrous oxide from whipped creme propellant.