Development of a Windows-based indoor air quality simulation software package

Abstract

A Microsoft Windows-based indoor air quality (IAQ) simulation software package has been developed and has completed a small-scale beta test and quality assurance review. Tentatively named Simulation Tool Kit for Indoor Air Quality and Inhalation Exposure, or STKi for short, this package complements and supplements existing IAQ simulation packages and is designed mainly for advanced users. STKi Version 1 consists of a general-purpose simulation program and four stand-alone, special-purpose programs. The general-purpose program performs multi-zone, multi-pollutant simulations and allows gas-phase chemical reactions. With a large collection of models for sources, sinks, and air filters/cleaners, it can perform simulations for a wide range of indoor air pollution scenarios. The special-purpose programs implement fundamentally based models, which are often excluded from existing IAQ simulation programs despite their improved performance over statistical models. In addition to performing conventional IAQ simulation, which generates time–concentration profiles, STKi can estimate the adequate ventilation rate when certain air quality criteria are given, a unique feature useful for product stewardship and risk management. STKi will be developed in a cumulative manner. More special-purpose simulation programs will be added to the package. Key numerical methods used in STKi are discussed. Ways to convert the STKi programs into language-independent simulation modules that can be used by multi-pathway exposure models are also being explored.