Impact of co2 concentration on indoor air quality and correlation with relative humidity and indoor air temperature in school buildings in Serbia

Abstract

Previous studies have shown that poorly ventilated classrooms can have negative impact on the health of children and school staff. In most cases, schools in Serbia are ventilated naturally. Considering their high occupancy, classroom air quality test determines the level of air pollution, after which it is possible to implement corrective measures. The research presented in this study, was conducted in four schools which are located in different areas and have different architecture designs. Measurements in these schools have been performed during the winter (heating season) and spring (non-heating season) and the following results were presented: indoor air temperature, relative humidity, and carbon dioxide concentration. These results show that the classroom average concentration of carbon dioxide often exceeds the value of 1500 ppm, during its full occupancy, which indicates inadequate ventilation. Measurement campaigns show that carbon dioxide concentration increased significantly from non-heating to heating season in three of the four schools. Analysis of measurements also determined high correlation between relative humidity and carbon dioxide concentration in all schools in winter season. This fact may constitute a solid basis for the fresh air supply strategy.