With summer looming with its promise of 30 degree days, wouldn’t it be a dream to move underwater for good. It’s so unfair that we lack the physiological equipment to extract the precious O from the extraneous H, whilst our fishy friends have gills to perform the task.

Well, good news! Gill-envy may be facing its last gasp.

Scientists at the Tokyo’s Waseda University are perfecting an artificial gill designed to allow divers to stay under water for as long as their heart’s desire. The device’s exterior is woven from silicone strands which protect a membrane filled with haemoglobin solution. The liquid draws oxygen through the membrane while keeping out the superfluous hydrogen. When heated, the haemoglobin releases its cargo, which can then be funnelled into the swimmer’s windpipe through a scuba mouthpiece.

The only problem is extracting the breathable amount of oxygen out of the haemoglobin solution. They are still brainstorming on this minor detail.

Swimming for hours on end is almost possible. Just beware of those wrinkly fingers and toe tips!

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