JTMGE Vol. 13 No. 2 (October 2022)

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Investigating the Effect of an Open Window vs. A Closed Window on the Concentrations of Suspended Particulate Matter in the Indoors with respect to the Outdoors
(Chitkara University Publications, 2022-10-30) Raja Singh; Tushar Mondal; Anil Dewan
Background: A study was conducted in New Delhi during peak winter to investigate the impact of open versus closed windows on indoor levels of PM2.5 and PM10, given the high ambient air pollution levels during this time. Purpose: The aim was to determine whether opening windows affected indoor concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10, despite the prevailing belief that outdoor air quality significantly influences indoor air quality. Method: A PM2.5 and PM10 air quality meter was used near a window at a single location for 10 days, with measurements taken nine times daily during working hours. The experiment involved alternating between open and closed window conditions to observe any significant changes. Result: Contrary to expectations, opening or closing windows did not substantially alter indoor PM2.5 and PM10 levels. The study indicated that outdoor air might not significantly contribute to indoor particulate matter, suggesting minimal diffusion through open windows. Conclusion: The findings suggest that isolation measures alone may not effectively reduce indoor PM2.5 and PM10 levels, as outdoor sources do not significantly influence indoor air quality even when windows are opened.