Potential effects of permeable and hygroscopic lightweight structures on thermal comfort and perceived IAQ in a cold climate.

Unlabelled: In this study, we simulated and measured the effect of permeable and hygroscopic lightweight structures on indoor air quality (IAQ) and thermal comfort in a cold climate. The potential effect of hygroscopic mass was assessed with the simulation of extreme cases, where permeable and hygroscopic lightweight structures with unfinished surfaces were compared with impermeable and non-hygroscopic ones. Measurements were conducted in 78 rooms of 46 newly built detached timber-framed houses and analyzed according to hygroscopic surface materials and envelope permeability.

Reduction potential of urban PM2.5 mortality risk using modern ventilation systems in buildings.

Unlabelled: Urban PM2.5 (particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter smaller than 2.5 microm) is associated with excess mortality and other health effects.

Performance and costs of particle air filtration technologies.

This paper predicts the reductions in the indoor mass concentrations of particles attainable from use of filters in building supply airstreams and also from use of stand-alone fan-filter units. Filters with a wide efficiency range are considered. Predicted concentration reductions are provided for indoor-generated particles containing dust-mite and cat allergen, for environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) particles, and for outdoor air fine-mode particles.