Numerical Study of Indoor Air Quality in a University Professor’s Office

Abstract

Indoor air conditioning is currently a topic of much interest, not only to save energy but also due to public health issues such as pandemics. This study focuses on the thermal comfort and air quality of a closed, air-conditioned space located in an extremely hot climate. Due to noise and weather conditions, the door and window of the space are kept closed at all times. The study uses computational fluid dynamics techniques and the finite element method. Average temperatures and CO2 concentrations, as well as effectiveness for temperature and concentration distribution, are calculated for the analysis. Results indicate that supplying air away from hot walls improves air quality and thermal comfort. Furthermore, there is an optimal Reynolds number that depends on the number of people inside the space. Due to the above, it is possible to find an ideal configuration that simultaneously allows for efficient energy use, helps to avoid the adverse effects of CO2 on daily activities such as working or studying, and supports people’s health and comfort.