Indoor environmental quality in the university laboratories.

This study presents the indoor environmental quality in the university laboratories which are used for different purposes. Within this aim, thermal comfort parameters (temperature, relative humidity, air speed, lighting), carbon dioxide (CO2) were monitored and respirable particles (PM4, smaller than 4 µm) were collected on the quartz filter in five laboratories for 8 hours. The mass concentration of the dust collected on filter were determined, after that the filters were decomposed, and elemental analysis were performed for Cd, Cr, Co, Cu, Ni, Mn and Pb elements using by Graphite Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. It was determined that the 8-hour average PM4 concentrations varied between 57.0-186.3 µg/m3, the highest average PM4 concentration was observed in Lab C where pyrolyze and solid waste combustion activities were performed. It was observed that the average 8-hour CO2 concentrations varied between 484-666 ppm and during the laboratory lesson, CO2 concentration raised to 2000 ppm in Lab B and exceeded the limit value of 1000 ppm. The 8-hour average temperature, relative humidity, lighting, and air velocity in all laboratories changed between 22.0-24.0 0C, 21.8-41.2%, 156-415 Lux and 0.05-0.10 m/s, respectively. We observed that lighting level in the laboratories did not comply with the standard (500-750 Lux). Opening of windows or door might be prevent increasing of CO2 during laboratory lesson with high occupancy. The lighting system in all laboratories should be improved. We also recommend that using of hood exhaust fan system to increase ventilation rates and filtration of particles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]