Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) refers to the quality of the air within and around buildings and structures, especially as it relates to the health and comfort of the occupants. It is affected by a variety of factors, including the presence of pollutants such as dust, mould, and chemicals, as well as the temperature and humidity of the air.
Poor indoor air quality can lead to various health problems, including respiratory issues, allergies, headaches, and fatigue. It can be caused by various factors, such as inadequate ventilation, the use of certain building materials and furnishings, and the presence of indoor air pollutants such as tobacco smoke, radon, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Regular monitoring and maintenance of indoor air quality can help ensure a healthy and comfortable living and working environment. This may involve measures such as regular cleaning and maintenance of HVAC systems, providing proper ventilation, and avoiding the use of harmful chemicals or materials.
For more information about IAQ in Australia, please click the following NCC Handbook: Indoor Air Quality:
More information is available at the following links:
CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) simulation can help to improve indoor air quality by providing a detailed understanding of how air flows and pollutants disperse within a building or enclosed space.
By using CFD simulation, engineers and designers can analyze the performance of HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems, identify areas of poor air circulation, and evaluate the effectiveness of air filters and other mitigation measures.
CFD simulations can also help to identify potential sources of indoor air pollution, such as emissions from building materials, appliances, or human activity, and evaluate the impact of these pollutants on indoor air quality.
With this information, designers and engineers can optimize the design of HVAC systems, building materials, and other features to ensure adequate ventilation, air filtration, and pollutant mitigation, thereby improving indoor air quality for the occupants.
Overall, CFD simulation provides a valuable tool for improving indoor air quality by enabling detailed analysis and optimization of building ventilation and air circulation systems.
the following short animation generated by CFD shows how pollution (for example odour or smoke) can effects indoor air quality and treat occupants' health and safety: