Carbon dioxide permeability of building materials and their impact on bedroom ventilation need

Abstract

<p>This research determined the carbon dioxide permeabilities of different materials and cellulose-insulated wall structures without a vapour barrier as well as the CO<sub>2</sub> balance of bedroom air. Material tests have indicated that the CO<sub>2</sub> permeabilities of building materials correlate closely with their water vapour permeabilities. Thus, the more permeable the external wall structures are, the bigger their impact on the CO<sub>2</sub> content of indoor air. Yet, higher permeability allows more water vapour to pass through the structures, which make them more at-risk for condensation and mould growth. Some calculations on the CO<sub>2</sub> balance of bedroom air were also made which indicated that the need of ventilation is not reduced by the use of gas permeable structures.</p>