Combined Model for IAQ Assessment: Part 1—Morphology of the Model and Selection of Substantial Air Quality Impact Sub-Models

Abstract

Indoor air quality (IAQ) is one of the most important elements affecting a building user’s comfort and satisfaction. Currently, many methods of assessing the quality of indoor air have been described in the literature. In the authors’ opinion, the methods presented have not been collected, systematized, and organized into one multi-component model. The application purpose of the assessment is extremely important when choosing IAQ model. This article provides the state-of-the-art overview on IAQ methodology and attempts to systematize approach. Sub-models of the processes that impact indoor air quality, which can be distinguished as components of the IAQ model, are selected and presented based on sensory satisfaction functions. Subcomponents of three potential IAQ models were classified according to their application potential: IAQ quality index, IAQ comfort index, and an overall health and comfort index. The authors provide a method for using the combined IAQ index to determine the indoor environmental quality index, IEQ. In addition, the article presents a method for adjusting the weights of particular subcomponents and a practical case study which provides IAQ and IEQ model implementation for a large office building assessment (with a BREEAM rating of excellent).