Investigation of airflow patterns in a microclimate by particle image velocimetry (PIV)

Problems with mould growth in dwellings usually occur in bedrooms in the microclimate behind closets placed next to exterior walls with poor insulation. It is anticipated that the problems are caused by lack of airflow behind the furniture in combination with a colder surface temperature and a high...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Building and environment 2008-11, Vol.43 (11), p.1929-1938
Main Authors: Mortensen, Lone H., Rode, Carsten, Peuhkuri, Ruut
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
air circulation
air flow
Airflow velocity
Applied sciences
Boundary conditions
Building technical equipments
Buildings
Buildings. Public works
Climatology and bioclimatics for buildings
Computation methods. Tables. Charts
Environmental engineering
Exact sciences and technology
Flow rates
Indoor environments
Measurements
microclimate
Microorganisms
Miscellaneous
Natural convection
Particulates
PIV
Q1
Structural analysis. Stresses
Temperature
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Summary:Problems with mould growth in dwellings usually occur in bedrooms in the microclimate behind closets placed next to exterior walls with poor insulation. It is anticipated that the problems are caused by lack of airflow behind the furniture in combination with a colder surface temperature and a high moisture production. The lack of air circulation decreases the surface temperature, which can cause problems. A particle image velocimetry (PIV) investigation was performed of the airflow patterns in such a microclimate. This paper describes the experimental set-up and the results. The results indicate that the flow rates behind the furniture will increase with increased distance between the closet and the wall, and even higher airflow rates are seen when the furniture is elevated by legs.
ISSN:0360-1323
1873-684X
DOI:10.1016/j.buildenv.2007.11.012