Comparative Assessment of Indoor Air Quality and Thermal Performance in a Steel-Ferrocement Structure: Evaluating Conditioned vs. Passively Ventilated Spaces

Abstract

This paper presents a comparative analysis of Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) and thermal comfort parameters—specifically Carbon Dioxide (CO₂), Temperature, and Relative Humidity (RH)—between two distinct rooms in a steel-ferrocement structure building at HBRI over a one-month period. The rooms compared are a First Floor AC Room and a Ground Floor Non-AC Room. The study evaluates the effectiveness of mechanical conditioning (AC) versus natural/passive conditioning in maintaining IAQ and thermal comfort within the ferrocement envelope, which is known for its thermal advantages. Preliminary results from the AC room indicate significant IAQ challenges, particularly with high levels and potentially critical RH, highlighting a need for improved ventilation and dehumidification strategies even in mechanically conditioned steel-ferrocement building (see figure 1).