Change of Use Challenges: Unveiling Indoor Air Quality in Converted Kindergarten Buildings

• 发表在: International Journal of Environmental Research
• 主要作者: 2-s2.0-85219189360
• 格式: 文件
• 语言: English
• 出版: Springer Science and Business Media Deutschland GmbH 2025
• 在线阅读: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85219189360&doi=10.1007%2fs41742-025-00756-0&partnerID=40&md5=50ed823ba5a5046acd91f344bf56a09c
• ISSN: 17356865
• DOI: 10.1007/s41742-025-00756-0

The study of indoor air quality (IAQ) in kindergartens is crucial due to the increased susceptibility of children to air pollution resulting from prolonged exposure, especially when located in non-educational buildings. This study aims to address limited studies specifically focusing on IAQ in kindergartens located within shop office buildings by assessing and proposing an optimized air control system to improve the IAQ of kindergartens located in shop office buildings. Indoor measurements were performed in several classrooms, common areas, and kitchens in six kindergartens around Selangor, Malaysia. The indoor air parameters namely, temperature, relative humidity (RH), air velocity, carbon dioxide (CO2), and particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) on different indoor microenvironments of kindergarten in shop office buildings were evaluated. Results showed significant IAQ challenges. Classrooms, kitchens, and common areas exhibited high temperatures (exceeding 26 °C in all cases) and RH, primarily due to building orientation, inadequate ventilation, and limited window openings. Classrooms with solely air conditioning systems showed poor air circulation. High CO2 levels (exceeding 1000 ppm in 11 out of 14 classrooms) were observed, particularly in classrooms with closed windows. Cooking activities significantly increased PM2.5 and PM10 levels, with maximum PM2.5 reaching 941 µg/m3. Proposed solutions include optimizing furniture placement, enhancing airflow through strategic window placement and mechanical ventilation integration, and reducing stagnant air. These measures, combined with exhaust fans in kitchens, can improve the indoor environment for children in these settings. © University of Tehran 2025.