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

Environ Pollut. 2023 Jul 15:329:121582. doi: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121582. Epub 2023 Apr 14.

Abstract

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.

Keywords: Educational buildings; Indoor environment; Particulate matters; Renovation; School entrance.

MeSH terms

  • Air Pollutants* / analysis
  • Air Pollution, Indoor* / analysis
  • Child
  • Dust
  • Environmental Monitoring
  • Humans
  • Particle Size
  • Particulate Matter / analysis
  • Schools

Substances

  • Particulate Matter
  • Air Pollutants
  • Dust