Grau-Bove, J; (2015) Particulate Matter Deposition in Indoor Heritage. Doctoral thesis , UCL (University College London).

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Abstract

This Thesis describes the simulation of particulate matter transport and deposition in indoor heritage spaces using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). The mathematical model follows an Eulerian approach, i.e. particles are simulated as a continuous scalar. Deposition fluxes are implemented as a boundary condition in all the walls, and the diffusive and convective terms are modified to account for gravitational settling, near-wall turbulent diffusivity and thermophoresis. We validate this model experimentally using a test tunnel and most importantly, using data collected in real heritage buildings (Apsley House, Wellington Arch, Wellcome Collection and Hampton Court Palaces). This is the first time a CFD model of indoor deposition is validated against direct measurements of deposition fluxes in actual indoor spaces. We compare the model predictions against measurements of deposited and suspended PM, and we obtain suitable boundary conditions using thermal images, wind data and indoor air velocities. The model successfully predicts deposition of particles from 0.1 to 100 microns under different conditions: natural and mechanical ventilation, filtration through leaks or emission by visitors. We also investigate the effects of deposited PM on organic materials, and show how the model can be combined with chemical information and conservation know-how in order to be used as a powerful tool for risk assessment.

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