Analyzing the Bake-Out Effect in Winter for the Enhancement of Indoor Air Quality at New Apartments in UAE

Mahmoud, Naglaa Sami Abdelaziz; Jung, Chuloh

doi:10.3390/buildings13040846

Cited by 6 publications

(1 citation statement)

References 58 publications

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“…Exposure to these compounds can lead to various health issues (Mahmoud et al, 2023b;Jung and Awad, 2023). They can irritate the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, and throat, resulting in dizziness, vomiting, and headaches Abdelaziz Mahmoud and Jung, 2023). In more severe cases, individuals may experience dermatitis and asthma exacerbation due to exposure to these substances (Jung and Mahmoud, 2022).…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Enhancing indoor air quality and sustainable living in newly constructed apartments: insights from Dubai

Jung,

Abdelaziz Mahmoud,

Alqassimi

2023

Front. Built Environ.

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This research paper examines Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) conditions in newly constructed apartments in Dubai to be more sustainable for residents to have healthier lifestyles. Enhanced airtightness and chemical-laden materials contribute to IAQ pollution in these buildings. The study aims to assess pollutant concentrations and variations based on building height. Measurements were conducted in 12 apartment units using the WHO’s IAQ assessment methodology. Most pollutants were within limits, but TVOC exceeded the Dubai Municipality’s standard, measuring at 2634.4 μg/m³, approximately nine times higher than the standard. HCHO (163.4 μg/m³) and toluene (551.4 μg/m³) were identified as significant pollutants with potential health effects. Analysis of pollutant concentrations based on building height revealed higher TVOC levels in upper areas, with 2,828 μg/m³ in the upper area compared to 2,443 μg/m³ in the lower area, indicating more severe indoor air pollution in Ethylbenzene and styrene also highest in upper areas, with ethylbenzene at 122 μg/m³ and styrene at 82 μg/m³ in the upper area, potentially due to elevated sources. Toluene and xylene concentrations were elevated in the middle area, with toluene at 574 μg/m³ and xylene at 321 μg/m³, likely influenced by materials and occupant activities. Benzene concentrations were consistent across all heights at 2.94 μg/m³, suggesting a common source. HCHO concentrations were relatively consistent but slightly higher in the middle and upper areas, with 171 μg/m³ in both, likely influenced by ventilation and emissions. While average pollutant concentrations met WHO standards, many units exceeded recommended limits, requiring targeted interventions. The study highlights the importance of addressing IAQ concerns and implementing strategies to reduce indoor air pollutants and improve ventilation. These findings contribute to IAQ knowledge in Dubai’s residential buildings, guiding policymakers, architects, and developers in effective policies and guidelines. Further research on seasonal variations and other IAQ factors is recommended for better understanding and long-term monitoring. Prioritizing IAQ in newly constructed apartments is crucial for healthier living in Dubai. The residential building sector can protect residents’ health by implementing appropriate measures while delivering upscale living experiences.

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Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Enhancing indoor air quality and sustainable living in newly constructed apartments: insights from Dubai

Jung,

Abdelaziz Mahmoud,

Alqassimi

2023

Front. Built Environ.

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Flushing newly built residential buildings with outdoor air for reducing formaldehyde and VOCs concentrations

Lee,

Park,

Park

2023

Journal of Asian Architecture and Building Engineering

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Mitigating indoor air pollution in UAE's high-rise apartment buildings: a study on eco-friendly materials and adsorbents

Jung,

Ismail,

Arar

et al. 2024

SASBE

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PurposeThis study aims to evaluate the efficiency of various techniques for enhancing indoor air quality (IAQ) in construction. It analyzed the alterations in the concentration of indoor air pollutants over time for each product employed in controlling pollution sources and removing it, which included eco-friendly substances and adsorbents. The study will provide more precise and dependable data on the effectiveness of these control methods, ultimately supporting the creation of more efficient and sustainable approaches for managing indoor air pollution in buildings.Design/methodology/approachThe research investigates the impact of eco-friendly materials and adsorbents on improving indoor air quality (IAQ) in Dubai's tall apartment buildings. Field experiments were conducted in six units of The Gate Tower, comparing the IAQ of three units built with “excellent” grade eco-friendly materials with three built with “good” grade materials. Another experiment evaluated two adsorbent products (H and Z) in the Majestic Tower over six months. Results indicate that “excellent” grade materials significantly reduced toluene emissions. Adsorbent product Z showed promising results in pollutant reduction, but there is concern about the long-term behavior of adsorbed chemicals. The study emphasizes further research on household pollutant management.FindingsThe research studied the effects of eco-friendly materials and adsorbents on indoor air quality in Dubai's new apartments. It found that apartments using “excellent” eco-friendly materials had significantly better air quality, particularly reduced toluene concentrations, compared to those using “good” materials. However, high formaldehyde (HCHO) emissions were observed from wood products. While certain construction materials led to increased ethylbenzene and xylene levels, adsorbent product Z showed promise in reducing pollutants. Yet, there is a potential concern about the long-term rerelease of these trapped chemicals. The study emphasizes the need for ongoing research in indoor pollutant management.Research limitations/implicationsThe research, while extensive, faced limitations in assessing the long-term behavior of adsorbed chemicals, particularly the potential for rereleasing trapped pollutants over time. Despite the study spanning a considerable period, indoor air pollutant concentrations in target households did not stabilize, making it challenging to determine definitive improvement effects and reduction rates among products. Comparisons were primarily relative between target units, and the rapid rise in pollutants during furniture introduction warrants further examination. Consequently, while the research provides essential insights, it underscores the need for more prolonged and comprehensive evaluations to fully understand the materials' and adsorbents' impacts on indoor air quality.Practical implicationsThe research underscores the importance of choosing eco-friendly materials in new apartment constructions for better IAQ. Specifically, using “excellent” graded materials can significantly reduce harmful pollutants like toluene. However, the study also highlights that certain construction activities, such as introducing furniture, can rapidly elevate pollutant levels. Moreover, while adsorbents like product Z showed promise in reducing pollutants, there is potential for adsorbed chemicals to be rereleased over time. For practical implementation, prioritizing higher-grade eco-friendly materials and further investigation into furniture emissions and long-term behavior of adsorbents can lead to healthier indoor environments in newly built apartments.Originality/valueThe research offers a unique empirical assessment of eco-friendly materials' impact on indoor air quality within Dubai's rapidly constructed apartment buildings. Through field experiments, it directly compares different material grades, providing concrete data on pollutant levels in newly built environments. Additionally, it explores the efficacy of specific adsorbents, which is of high value to the construction and public health sectors. The findings shed light on how construction choices can influence indoor air pollution, offering valuable insights to builders, policymakers and residents aiming to promote public health and safety in urban living spaces.

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Analyzing the Bake-Out Effect in Winter for the Enhancement of Indoor Air Quality at New Apartments in UAE

Cited by 6 publications

References 58 publications

Enhancing indoor air quality and sustainable living in newly constructed apartments: insights from Dubai

Enhancing indoor air quality and sustainable living in newly constructed apartments: insights from Dubai

Flushing newly built residential buildings with outdoor air for reducing formaldehyde and VOCs concentrations

Mitigating indoor air pollution in UAE's high-rise apartment buildings: a study on eco-friendly materials and adsorbents

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