Analysis of indoor air quality in a naturally ventilated church

Bialystok University of Technology, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Environmental Engineering, Department of Heat Engineering, Wiejska 45E, 15-351 Białystok, Poland

^* Corresponding author: m.wysocka@doktoranci.pb.edu.pl

Abstract

The quality of air in sacral buildings is an important factor that affects users. Church buildings are characterized by a specific microclimate, because they accommodate many people in short periods of time, which results in rapid changes in air quality. Sacral buildings usually only have natural ventilation through doors, return air inlets and window leaks, which can cause uneven distribution of fresh air. The aim of this article is to analyze the results of research on the basic parameters of air quality: carbon dioxide, relative humidity and air temperature in the church. The analysis carried out on research results allowed to state that the measured parameters of air quality - the concentration of carbon dioxide and the level of relative humidity significantly exceeded the standards recommendations. High level of air humidity was recorded at 75%. In the analyzed sacral building there is the need to improve air quality in terms of carbon dioxide and relative humidity. Ways of improving air quality, such as installation of mechanical ventilation, will help prevent damage to structures and equipment, and improve comfort of people in the church.