Review of the research status on the transmission and diffusion characteristics of indoor viral aerosol particles

Environ Sci Pollut Res Int. 2024 Mar;31(15):22308-22318. doi: 10.1007/s11356-024-32239-8. Epub 2024 Mar 2.

Abstract

This study reviews the generation and diffusion characteristics of indoor viral aerosol particles, numerical simulation methods for the diffusion process of viral aerosols, and related research on the impact mechanism of different ventilation methods on the diffusion process of viral aerosols. Research has shown that the selection of initial conditions such as exhalation mode, initial airflow velocity, particle size, turbulence model, and calculation method for the generation of aerosol particles by the human body is of great significance for the numerical simulation of the diffusion process of viral aerosol particles. At the same time, on the basis of selecting appropriate ventilation methods, the reasonable setting of ventilation parameters (temperature, speed, height, etc.) can effectively suppress the spread of viral aerosols. This study can provide a theoretical basis for the study of related respiratory diseases, as well as technical and theoretical support for the selection of indoor ventilation methods to reduce the risk of human exposure caused by viral aerosols in the construction field. It also provides guidance and reference for aerosol transport and environmental protection in indoor atmospheric environments.

Keywords: Aerosol diffusion; Indoor; Numerical simulation; Ventilation.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aerosols
  • Air Pollution, Indoor* / analysis
  • Exhalation
  • Humans
  • Lung
  • Particle Size
  • Respiration*
  • Ventilation

Substances

  • Aerosols