Indoor Air Quality Control

Dear Colleagues,

Most of our time is spent indoors. A better quality of life, a decreased chance of respiratory infections, and a lower risk of developing numerous chronic illnesses can all be attributed to the availability of clean, healthy air to breathe.

The importance of indoor air quality (IAQ) has grown considerably in recent years due to an increasing recognition of its effects on people's well-being and health. This is becoming increasingly relevant as climate change influences air humidity, temperature, and atmospheric pollution. The inadequacy or absence of air filtration and exchange systems (ventilation) in buildings makes the problem even worse. Sick building syndrome (SBS) is a well-known term to describe IAQ’s impact on building residents’ health and well-being, causing unspecific symptoms such as headaches; mental fatigue; nose, throat and eye irritation; the sensation of dry mucous membranes; dry itching and red skin; nausea; and dizziness. Nowadays, SBS is experiencing a new boom because of climate change, increasing ambient air pollution, inefficient building management, etc.

One of the latest trends in IAQ control involves the integration of smart sensors and Internet of Things (IoT) devices. These sensors are capable of continuous monitoring of air quality parameters such as particulate matter (PM), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon monoxide (CO) and carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels. They provide real-time data that can be accessed remotely, allowing homeowners and facility managers to make informed decisions about the essentiality of ventilation and filtration systems. Furthermore, AI-driven algorithms can suggest preventive measures, making IAQ control more proactive.

Innovations in IAQ control have also been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. In many public spaces, high-efficiency air filtration systems with HEPA filters and UV germicidal irradiation have become the norm.

Sustainable building designs are increasingly integrating natural ventilation, green roofs, and materials with low emissions to further enhance IAQ while reducing the environmental impact.

In summation, IAQ control is undergoing a transformation driven by smart sensors and sustainability practices. Innovations contribute to the creation of a healthy atmosphere both inside and outside, but work still must be done to improve their energy efficiency, ecologically sustainable manufacturing, usage, and disposal and make indoor spaces not only healthier but also more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.

Dr. Ilona Pavlovska
Guest Editor

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• indoor air quality (IAQ)
• indoor environmental quality
• indoor air pollutants
• volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
• particulate matter (PM)
• effect of outdoor pollution on IAQ
• continuous IAQ monitoring
• green buildings
• sick building syndrome