Developments in Strategies Used for Natural and Mechanical Ventilation in China

Abstract

Ventilation design has a long history in China. The ancient pioneers used engineering skills to change the indoor environment. In this review, basic natural ventilation design ideas are introduced from both a historical and modern viewpoint. Attention is paid to new natural ventilation system developments, such as the design and testing of natural ventilation inlets and outlets for the stack and solar chimneys. Theoretical aspects of ventilation design are also considered. Today, the use of mechanical ventilation systems in China is growing for both domestic and non-domestic buildings. The use of mixed-mode or hybrid ventilation systems as a response to needs for indoor comfort and energy efficiency is increasing, and such systems are now widely used.