Materials That Enhance Air Quality in Commercial Buildings

Indoor air quality (IAQ) plays a crucial role in ensuring the health, comfort, and productivity of people in commercial buildings. Poor air quality can lead to a range of health problems, from respiratory issues to allergies and long-term conditions. 

Choosing the right materials for constructing and maintaining commercial spaces is key to enhancing air quality. This article will look at various materials and technologies that can significantly improve IAQ in commercial buildings. 

Low-Emission Building Materials

To enhance indoor air quality (IAQ), using building materials that emit fewer pollutants is crucial. These low-emission materials help maintain a cleaner indoor environment by minimizing the release of harmful chemicals and particles. By selecting materials designed to release fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other pollutants, commercial buildings can significantly reduce indoor air contaminants and improve overall air quality. 

Low-VOC Paints and Coatings

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemicals that easily vaporize at room temperature, contributing to indoor air pollution. Traditional paints and coatings often release high levels of VOCs. Low-VOC and zero-VOC paints and coatings have been developed to emit little to no VOCs. Using these products can reduce indoor pollutants and create a safer indoor environment.

Formaldehyde-Free Insulation

Insulation materials can also be a source of indoor air pollutants. Traditional insulation often contains formaldehyde, a harmful chemical that can be released into the air. Formaldehyde-free insulation, made from natural fibers or specially treated synthetic materials, offers a safer alternative, helping to maintain healthier indoor air.

Air-Purifying Materials

Another effective approach involves using products that actively purify the air. These products can break down pollutants, making the indoor air cleaner and safer to breathe. PRK Williams Building Group suggests the use of a SONA Air Purification System, available through Healthy Spaces. This advanced purification system actively purifies the air 24/7 in the entire space, targeting harmful viruses, mold/mildew, particulates and other allergens.

Photocatalytic Tiles and Coatings

Photocatalytic materials, such as titanium dioxide (TiO2) coatings, can significantly improve indoor air quality. When exposed to light, these materials break down pollutants like nitrogen oxides, VOCs, and particulate matter into harmless substances. Photocatalytic tiles and coatings can be applied to walls and ceilings to help reduce indoor air pollution.

Activated Carbon Materials

Activated carbon is renowned for its ability to trap and neutralize pollutants, making it a valuable component in improving indoor air quality. By incorporating activated carbon into building materials such as ceiling tiles, wall panels, and HVAC filters, it is possible to effectively remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs), odors, and chemicals from the air. This contributes to a cleaner and more comfortable indoor environment.

However, it’s important to note that activated carbon materials have a limited capacity for adsorption and need to be replaced regularly to maintain their effectiveness. Over time, the carbon can become saturated with pollutants, reducing its ability to capture additional contaminants. Therefore, periodic replacement or reactivation of activated carbon materials is necessary to ensure ongoing air quality improvement and system performance.

Natural and Sustainable Materials

Using natural and sustainable materials can also contribute to better IAQ. These materials are often free from harmful chemicals and have properties that make them ideal for maintaining a healthy indoor environment.

Bamboo and Cork Flooring

Bamboo and cork are eco-friendly flooring options that can contribute to better IAQ. These materials are naturally resistant to mold, mildew, and pests, reducing the risk of allergens. Additionally, bamboo and cork do not emit harmful chemicals, making them safer choices for indoor environments. Their natural look also adds a touch of warmth to commercial spaces.

Wool Carpets

Unlike synthetic carpets, which can release VOCs and harbor allergens, wool carpets are a natural, sustainable option. Wool can absorb and neutralize airborne pollutants, including formaldehyde, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide. Additionally, wool carpets are naturally flame-resistant and hypoallergenic, making them a healthier choice for commercial interiors.

Advanced HVAC Systems and Filters

Upgrading HVAC systems and filters is another key strategy for improving IAQ. These technologies can effectively remove contaminants from the air, ensuring a cleaner and healthier indoor environment.

High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) Filters

HEPA filters are designed to capture at least 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns, including dust, pollen, mold spores, and bacteria. Installing HEPA filters in HVAC systems can significantly reduce airborne contaminants, leading to cleaner, healthier indoor air. These filters are particularly beneficial in environments where air quality is critical, such as hospitals, laboratories, and offices.

Air Ionization Systems

Air ionization systems use charged ions to neutralize airborne particles, including bacteria, viruses, and mold spores. By releasing ions into the air, these systems cause contaminants to clump together and become easier to capture by filters or to fall out of the air. This can help reduce the spread of infectious diseases and improve overall air quality in commercial buildings.

Unlike ultraviolet (UV) germicidal irradiation (UVGI), which uses UV-C light to destroy microorganisms’ DNA and RNA and is effective for maintaining a clean HVAC system, air ionization systems address the broader indoor air environment. While UVGI can be a useful tool for disinfecting HVAC components and preventing microbial growth within the system, it does not necessarily ensure that the entire space remains free of contaminants. For comprehensive air quality management, air ionization systems provide a more holistic approach to maintaining a clean and healthy environment for occupants.

Smart Building Technologies

Implementing smart building technologies can further enhance IAQ. These systems monitor and adjust air quality in real-time, ensuring optimal conditions for occupants.

Air Quality Monitoring Systems

Modern air quality monitoring systems use advanced sensors to continuously measure various IAQ parameters, such as CO2, VOCs, particulate matter, temperature, and humidity. These systems provide real-time data that can be used to adjust HVAC operations and other building systems to optimize air quality. By integrating air quality monitoring into building management systems, facility managers can proactively address air quality issues and ensure a healthier indoor environment.

Green Walls and Indoor Plants

Incorporating green walls and indoor plants into commercial spaces can have a positive impact on IAQ. Plants naturally filter the air by absorbing CO2 and releasing oxygen through photosynthesis. Additionally, some plants can absorb and break down harmful pollutants like formaldehyde and benzene through their root systems. Green walls, which are vertical structures covered with plants, can also help regulate humidity levels and add aesthetic value to commercial interiors.

Architectural Louvers

Architectural louvers are another essential element for enhancing IAQ in commercial buildings. These structures are designed to allow air to flow in and out of buildings while keeping out unwanted elements like rain and debris. By facilitating proper ventilation, architectural louvers help maintain a consistent flow of fresh air, reducing the concentration of indoor pollutants. This improves overall air quality and ensures a healthier environment for occupants.

Additional Considerations

Apart from the primary materials and technologies, there are other considerations to keep in mind that can affect air quality in commercial buildings. For example, commercial generator enclosure can help mitigate air pollution from backup power sources by containing and filtering emissions. These enclosures are designed to minimize noise and control the release of pollutants, thereby contributing to better overall IAQ.

Commercial Buildings Need Better Air Quality

Although there are no specific laws regulating indoor air quality in commercial buildings, such as precise limits for radon levels, there are guidelines focused on health and safety. It’s essential to go beyond basic compliance and actively consider the well-being of all occupants. To ensure a healthier indoor environment, follow best practices for air quality management and consult with local experts in healthy building practices. For further guidance and inspiration, consider reaching out to PRK Williams in creating healthy, pollutant-free spaces.

Author Bio

Andrea Erickson is a freelance writer who loves sharing her knowledge and expertise in renovation and Interior Design. She lives in her hometown of Austin, Texas where she enjoys spending time with her husband and decorating with her children. Andrea’s work as a freelance writer can be found on Building Product Advisor, a construction industry resource site.