Strategies for Effective Management of Indoor Air Quality in a Kindergarten: CO(2) and Fine Particulate Matter Concentrations

The educational and play-related activities of children proceed mainly indoors in a kindergarten. High concentrations of indoor PM(2.5) and CO(2) have been linked to various harmful effects on children, considerably impacting their educational outcomes in kindergarten. In this study, we explore different scenarios involving the operation of mechanical ventilation systems and air purifiers in kindergartens. Using numerical models to analyze indoor CO(2) and PM(2.5) concentration, we aim to optimize strategies that effectively reduce these harmful pollutants. We found that the amount of ventilation required to maintain good air quality, per child, was approximately 20.4 m(3)/h. However, we also found that as the amount of ventilation increased, so did the concentration of indoor PM(2.5); we found that this issue can be resolved using a high-grade filter (i.e., a MERV 13 grade filter with a collection efficiency of 75%). This study provides a scientific basis for reducing PM(2.5) concentrations in kindergartens, while keeping CO(2) levels low.