Peak Exposure-Based Assessment Method for Sustainable Indoor Air Quality Management

Fine particulate matter is one of the most harmful pollutants in indoor air, causing more than two million deaths annually. Despite these health risks, exposure in current research is often not accurately represented, and the role of peak concentrations is neglected, leading to an underestimation of health impacts.

This research addresses these gaps by developing a dynamic model for fine particulate matter exposure in residential buildings at population scale. The parametric, multi-zone, archetype-based model provides a detailed and large-scale representation of exposure. These estimates are integrated into a disease burden calculation based on Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALY).

By comparing the health impacts of different peak impact scenarios, this approach promotes the evaluation and optimization of indoor air quality management strategies in European residential environments. Additionally, the influence of these strategies on energy consumption is examined.

By focusing on peak concentrations and improving exposure representation, this research contributes to the shift towards health-based assessments within the built environment and regulations. The aim is to promote a holistic, health-oriented approach to indoor air systems in diverse residential environments, thereby supporting energy-efficient management of healthy indoor air.

Project Info

Research group: Building Physics
Duration: from 01-11-2025 to 31-10-2029
Researcher: Lisa Corneillie
Academic supervisors: Jelle Laverge and Klaas De Jonge