English

An exposure chamber for testing passive dosimeters suitable for measuring indoor air pollutant concentrations has been designed. A simplified version of the chamber was constructed and formaldehyde passive sampling devices were exposed within this chamber. Both CSC prototype and AQRG dosimeters were tested, and an attempt was made at calibrating the devices by verifying their theoretical sampling rates. The sampling rate for CSC devices was found to behigher than expected.

Tests were performed in 3 homes for 1) carbon monoxide, 2) nitrogen dioxide, 3) nitric oxide, 4) total hydrocarbons and 5) formaldehyde. Total particulate matter, by a numerical counting method, was also measured in Homes 1 and 2.

A study was conducted to determine the air leakage rates in Skymark 1, a high rise condominium in Toronto, particularly air leakage rates of the exterior walls of "Florida Rooms" which were constructed by the enclosure of original open balconies.

A test method for determination of air flow resistance of exterior membranes and sheathings is described. The test specimen is placed between two chambers with different air pressures and the volumetric air flow rate through it at a steady state is determined. The relevant experimental quantities can presently be measured with precision better than 0.5% and with an accuracy of 2 to 3%, using commercial instruments. However, the instrumental precision does not mean much, due to the uncertainty introduced by material variability normally occurring in commercial products.

The multiple tracer gas technique of I'Anson et al. has been improved, in order to increase the rate at which samples can be taken. Using parallel gas chromatographic separation columns and an electron capture detector, it is now possible to take an air/tracer gas sample every thirty seconds in the case of a two-zone ventilation and air movement test. Rapid sampling enables a new,simplified analysis of the air movement between two connected zones to be employed. This analysis derives ventilation rates and intercell airflows simultaneously.

A large proportion of heated rooms depend primarily on natural convection for the distribution of heat within the occupied zone. A method of predicting air temperature variations with height is presented. Using the heat and mass flow rates of the driving convection plume, along with the corresponding parameters of downward flowing air streams at cool surfaces, an estimation of the maximum (upper) temperature and the minimum (lower) temperature can be made. Incoming air entry points can also be taken into account.

Explains the principles involved in condensation and the conditions producing condensation, both atmospheric and other sources of moisture. The behaviour of absorbent materials and surfaces is described. Interstitial condensation is explained. Designing to avoid condensation, taking account of the characteristics of the building fabric and the environment, is necessary. A worked example of estimating condensation risk is given.

Reports results of studies of concentrations of carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, respirable suspended particulate matter and volatile hydrocarbons in houses in the Netherlands. Carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide were studied in about 300 homes in Arnhem and Enschede in October-December 1980. Respirable suspended particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide and volatile hydrocarbons were measured in 175 houses in Ede in winter 1981-82. Indoor air pollution was often much higher than the common outdoor levels. In several houses existing or proposed standards for ambient air were exceeded.

Describes the influence of gas geisers on carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide production in 254 houses in the Netherlands. It was shown that burner type and maintenance system were the main factors influencing the carbon monoxide levels in the flue gases. The nitrogen dioxide concentration in the kitchen was greatly influenced by the presence of a flue for the geiser and by use of a cooker hood. Associations were also found with type of space heating, use of shower and socioeconomic status of the occupants.