Real-Time Air Quality Control

The Spanish Technical Building Code (Código Técnico de la Edificación) dictates the requirements for air quality in buildings. The latest modification of the CTE includes new requirements that the outdoor air flow must be sufficient to ensure that the average CO2 concentration in each room is less than 800 ppm.

For public buildings, the applicable standard is UNE-EN 13779. This establishes, among other things, the requirements for ventilation systems. This standard establishes the aspects to be considered in the design of the installations and types of air involved in a ventilation system. Three types of air and their classifications are established: outdoor air, supply air and indoor air. The indoor air classification is as follows from lowest to highest quality:

Technological developments have shown that constant and comprehensive indoor air measurement is necessary to support intelligent, controlled mechanical ventilation systems.

IDA 4: Low indoor air quality

IDA 3: Moderate indoor air quality

IDA 2: Medium indoor air quality

IDA 1: High indoor air quality

These four categories are assessed by one of the following methods:

  • Outdoor air flow rate per person
  • Air flow per floor area
  • By CO2 level

The last method has been used for setting ventilation standards when the pollution is due to people indoors and their activity in the room. CO2 is one of the best indicators of pollutants (viruses, etc.) emitted by humans and is used to calculate the optimal ventilation flow rate to maintain CO2 levels at healthy values. Benchmark studies advise that the maximum recommended levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) inside homes, rooms and other buildings are between 400 ppm and 800 ppm.

While the usual ventilation system has been, mainly in residences, to open windows, this is not a guarantee for achieving indoor air quality in public premises. Technological developments have shown that constant and comprehensive indoor air measurement is necessary to support intelligent, controlled mechanical ventilation systems. For this purpose, it is not sufficient to use stand-alone measurement devices; it is necessary to deploy a network of meters capable of covering all zones, establishing historical data and trends, as well as displaying all relevant data and recommendations in an agile manner. Such an installation allows us to regulate the speed, flow, temperature, and suitability of indoor air.

TycheTools' AQaaS proposal allows real-time information on air quality to be obtained, facilitating automatic ventilation management. At the same time, the occupants of the spaces can be reassured by the AQaaS , quick scan application, which displays the status of the air quality in real time.

Environmental well-being in indoor public spaces is more important than ever, so indoor air quality concerns and new regulations are here to stay. With TycheTools AQaaS,everyone can exercise their right to breathe healthy air. Our accurate, discreet, and wireless solution helps to better manage spaces and provide peace of mind indoors.

Joaquín Rodriguez

CEO

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