When HVAC systems are not the source of indoor air
pollution, they influence contaminant migration
within multi-zone buildings through air
redistribution by ducted networks; or by pressure
differentials across zonal partitions. Current
design, operation and maintenance procedures of HVAC
systems have been unable to deal with this problem
effectively. The issue of weaponized
contaminants also emerges as a new threat to the
health and lives of occupants. This research
investigated the behavior and distribution of indoor
air contaminants in mechanically ventilated multi-
zone buildings; through simulations of a
theoretical building and a case study.
Influencing IAQ parameters were identified and
investigated individually and collectively. Results
showed that even with multiple Air Handling Units,
parameters have varying degrees of influence
depending on the architectural and mechanical
configuration of the building, inter-zonal airflow,
source location, filtration and exhausting.
Guidelines in the form of recommendations were
suggested to assist designers and building operators
in retrofitting existing buildings or in the design
of future buildings.
pollution, they influence contaminant migration
within multi-zone buildings through air
redistribution by ducted networks; or by pressure
differentials across zonal partitions. Current
design, operation and maintenance procedures of HVAC
systems have been unable to deal with this problem
effectively. The issue of weaponized
contaminants also emerges as a new threat to the
health and lives of occupants. This research
investigated the behavior and distribution of indoor
air contaminants in mechanically ventilated multi-
zone buildings; through simulations of a
theoretical building and a case study.
Influencing IAQ parameters were identified and
investigated individually and collectively. Results
showed that even with multiple Air Handling Units,
parameters have varying degrees of influence
depending on the architectural and mechanical
configuration of the building, inter-zonal airflow,
source location, filtration and exhausting.
Guidelines in the form of recommendations were
suggested to assist designers and building operators
in retrofitting existing buildings or in the design
of future buildings.