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Context: Kenneth Smith, convicted for a 1988 murder, was executed in Alabama (USA) using nitrogen hypoxia, a new method involving inhaling pure nitrogen to induce lethal levels of nitrogen in the body, causing death.

Key Highlights

• Nitrogen hypoxia is a form of asphyxiation where a person is deprived of oxygen by inhaling pure nitrogen. Oxygen deprivation occurs as the concentration of nitrogen in the body increases, squeezing out oxygen from the respiratory system.
  • The individual is fitted with a respirator mask connected to a canister of pressurized nitrogen. As nitrogen is inhaled, oxygen levels decrease, leading to low blood flow and ultimately, death.
• While nitrogen is safe at normal atmospheric levels (about 78% nitrogen), concentrations above 80% can be lethal. Nitrogen is odourless, colourless, tasteless, and inert, making it difficult to detect dangerous levels without special gas detectors.
• Oxygen levels below 10% can lead to convulsions, loss of consciousness, and death. Even at higher levels, such as 12.5% or 14%, individuals may experience severe breathing difficulties and other physiological effects.
• The adoption of nitrogen hypoxia as an execution method has sparked debate among legal experts, medical professionals, and ethicists. Some argue that it provides a more humane alternative to traditional methods, while others question its ethical implications and potential for causing suffering.

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