Unveiling the Hidden: Affordable Particles Plus Water-based CPC Explores Ultrafine Particles in Office Buildings with Central HEPA Filtration
ANIL NAMDEO, Adam Giandomenico, Northumbria University and Particles Plus Inc.
Abstract Number: 62
Working Group: Indoor Aerosols
Abstract
High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filtration systems are often seen as the gold standard for indoor air quality. However, their effectiveness can be deceptive when it comes to Ultra Fine Particles (UFPs). This study explores the ability of affordable Particles Plus Condensation Particle Counter (CPC) 15000-OEM, to detect the presence of UFPs in office environments equipped with HEPA filtration.
The paper highlights how human activities within an office building can generate UFPs, particles small enough to bypass HEPA filters and potentially compromise indoor air quality. By utilizing affordable CPC technology, the research demonstrates a cost-effective method for uncovering this hidden threat. This newfound awareness can empower building managers to take appropriate actions to ensure a truly healthy workplace environment.
It is clear from the measurements that during high occupancy and traffic in certain rooms and activities, the number of UFPs rises exponentially. Restroom activities can pose a severe impact on indoor air quality as the flushing of water in the toilets generates a lot of nanoparticles that can linger for a longer time in the breathable air, but when the occupants close the restroom door the surroundings rooms are safer.
The evaluation measurements started on April 2024 and ended on May 2024. The sampling site is Particles Plus headquarters (42.1317301, -71.125625) in a suburban area south of Boston. Although the measurements were taken in a suburban area, the roads around the building experience high traffic from heavy duty internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Indoor relative humidity was below 40% indoors and around 50% outdoors.
The instrument was in operation to acquire the total particle number of aerosols in the size range from 5 to 3000 nm.
This work was supported by the Particles Plus, Inc. internal funding.