Advanced Ventilation Systems in Interior Spaces: Improving Indoor Air Quality and Human Comfort

Abstract

Indoor environments have become a critical area of research due to the increasing amount of time people spend inside buildings and the growing recognition of the relationship between indoor environmental quality and human health. Modern buildings are increasingly designed with improved insulation and airtight construction to enhance energy efficiency; however, these strategies can unintentionally reduce natural air exchange and contribute to the accumulation of indoor pollutants. Poor indoor air quality (IAQ), caused by elevated carbon dioxide (CO₂), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), biological contaminants, and excessive humidity, can negatively affect occupant health, comfort, cognitive performance, and productivity. Advanced ventilation systems have emerged as an essential solution for maintaining healthy indoor environments while achieving energy efficiency goals. Unlike conventional ventilation approaches that provide fixed airflow rates, advanced systems incorporate adaptive technologies such as demand-controlled ventilation, heat and energy recovery ventilation, displacement ventilation, personalized ventilation, and intelligent ventilation systems supported by Internet of Things (IoT) sensors and artificial intelligence (AI). These systems continuously monitor indoor conditions and adjust ventilation performance according to occupancy levels, pollutant concentrations, and environmental parameters. This review paper examines the development, operational principles, and applications of advanced ventilation technologies in interior spaces. It explores their role in improving indoor air quality, enhancing thermal comfort, reducing energy consumption, and supporting sustainable interior design practices. The paper also discusses the integration of smart monitoring systems, occupant-centered ventilation strategies, and future directions toward adaptive and self-learning building environments. Through a comprehensive analysis of existing research, this review highlights the importance of advanced ventilation systems as a fundamental component of healthy, efficient, and human-centered interior spaces.