Ventilation Effect on the Particulate Concentration in Educational Buildings

Ensuring optimal indoor air quality (IAQ) in educational institutions remains a paramount concern for safeguarding the health and well-being of students. Within classroom environments, elevated concentrations of various pollutants, including particulate matter (PM), are commonly observed. Extensive research underscores the detrimental impact of PM on student’s health, particularly those susceptible to respiratory conditions such as asthma. This study endeavors to assess PM concentrations through an experimental investigation conducted in two comparable classrooms, matched in terms of size, orientation, and occupancy. The sole disparity between the classrooms lies in the ventilation strategy, with one being ventilated with fresh air while the other remains unventilated. Utilizing two GRIMM measurement devices, indoor PM levels were monitored over a span of two days. Results indicate the efficacy of the ventilation system, particularly in mitigating larger PM (PM10) concentrations, whereas comparable outcomes were observed for smaller particles (PM1). A notable reduction in PM concentration, averaging between 10% to 15% in mean values, was calculated. These findings affirm the multifaceted benefits of implementing proper ventilation systems in educational settings for enhancing IAQ.