Synergistic approaches to elevate indoor air quality: A holistic examination of classroom refinement, air exchange optimization, and flooring material impact.

This research endeavors to elevate indoor air quality within aging school environments by concentrating on refining interior finishing materials and windows. Renovations, encompassing window and floor remodeling in classrooms, aim to mitigate particulate matter (PM) infiltration and enhance air exchange rates. Utilizing SPS30 sensors for the analysis of 0.3-2.5 µm particles, with a focus on their implications for human health, the study evaluated air exchange rates, deposition rates, infiltration rates, and particle generation during classroom activities. Post-renovation results demonstrated a noteworthy decrease in air exchange rates, indicating an enhancement in airtightness. The investigation delves into particle generation with various flooring materials, accentuating the importance of opting for durable and low-particle-generating alternatives. Health risk assessments, considering multiple exposure routes (inhalation, dermal contact, and ingestion), revealed reduced risks post-renovation, particularly for children. To further optimize indoor air quality, the study suggests the implementation of air purification systems. Examination of PM generation during student activities showcased a substantial reduction post-renovation. This study underscores the positive influence of architectural enhancements on indoor air quality while acknowledging the necessity for holistic solutions and continuous research.

Evaluation of particle generation due to deterioration of flooring in schools.

Particulate matter is harmful to humans. An important indoor source of such particles is the deterioration of floor materials brought about by occupants walking. Accordingly, an experiment was conducted to simulate the deterioration of floor material spacing. Considering a school schedule with repeated semesters and vacations, the experiment was conducted by repeating heat-and-rest cycles. Similar results were obtained for particle emission rates under each condition during the first and second deterioration periods. The PVC tiles generated more particles under aged conditions than under non-aged conditions, whereas the wood generated fewer particles under aged conditions. In addition to the quantitative results, a study was conducted on the characteristics of the generated particles, and the particulate matter found in plastic was confirmed in the PVC tiles. Schools where children are present for more than 6 h a day may be exposed to more particulate matter. Therefore, replacing plastic-based materials with eco-friendly building materials is expected to have long-term health benefits for children.

Particulate matter in school buildings: Influence of influx control of outdoor PM particles and building renovation in summer.

The hazardous effects of air pollution on the human body are of grave concern, particularly the rising levels of 2.5 µm-particulate matter. Children are more susceptible to the lethal effects of particulate matter (PM) than adults. In this study, a case study of architectural renovation (ARCH-R) and facility renovation (FAC-R) was conducted in a school by focusing on the exit and entrance gates. In addition, the PM influx rate was evaluated. To evaluate the influx rate of PM, opening/closing recognition equipment and particle sensors were utilized. Following the renovation, the result was evaluated. During the daytime, the air curtain led to a reduction in the influx rate of PM of approximately 8% when the door was open. During the nighttime, it was confirmed that the fine dust influx rate was reduced through reinforcement of the door. However, regarding using these two measures in combination, it was confirmed that the concentration of PM increased in the corridor when the air curtain was operated while the door was closed. It was confirmed that both ARCH-R and FAC-R are necessary for controlling the influx of fine dust from the outdoor air. Appropriate operating guidelines should be provided for school operators.

Microplastic: A particulate matter(PM) generated by deterioration of building materials.

Particulate matter (PM), an inhalable material, is generated from various sources, including building materials. To maintain indoor air quality, it is necessary to analyze harmful substances and establish a method for their remediation. The purpose of this study is to identify the particles generated during the deterioration of building materials and analyze the composition of fine dust particles with respect to the degree of deterioration. The concentration of particles generated was analyzed using an SPS30 PM sensor in the built chamber. PM10 and PM2.5 levels of the maximum of 41.95 mg/m3 and 20.63 mg/m3, respectively, were generated from the tested building materials. The components of the collected PM were carbon, hydrogen, and silicon, among others, which are high-molecular-weight compounds. Particles of size 2.5 µm or less were detected, and the possibility of generating nanoplastics was investigated.