Publications and Research

Document Type

Poster

Publication Date

5-5-2021

Abstract

The challenge we face in implementing solutions for new HVAC ventilation and filtration design, is to effectively improve air quality for virus mitigation without losing performance efficiency. The purpose of this improvement is to decontaminate the occupied enclosed areas, reducing the transmission of the corona virus aerosol transmission. Our research seeks reliable approaches to mitigate the further spread of aerosol transmission in indoor spaces. The methodology is to examine innovative HVAC engineering solutions that combat epidemiological problems of Covid-19 for the post-pandemic era, by researching scholarly articles and ASHRAE journals. We are achieving the goal of finding highly efficient resolutions by examining technologies such as displacement ventilation systems, installing MERV-13 to MERV-16 rated filters, wall mounted or portable HEPA filtration systems, needlepoint bipolar ionization, and ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI). These solutions are effective because they greatly reduce aerosol droplet nuclei and disease transmission in commercial and residential buildings. (Our key findings of these solutions will help in improving and integrating new and existing technologies in upgrading HVAC-R systems). By better understanding the benefits and disadvantages of these HVAC structural improvements, future innovations and research will require exploration of new ways to retrofit and correct existing design flaws. This will technologically advance ventilation and filtration systems, which will in turn overcome engineering design limitations, by efficiently reducing the risk of infections and destroying airborne pathogens.

Comments

This poster was presented at the 34th Semi-Annual Dr. Janet Liou-Mark Honors & Undergraduate Research Poster Presentation, May 5, 2021. Mentor: Prof. Daeho Kang (Environmental Control Technology).

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