Evaluation of the Impact of Air Pollutants on University Indoor Air Quality: A Case Study

Amr Abbas^1,2*Sherif Mohamed Elattar³Ibrahim Dosoki Abdullah⁴

• ¹Architecture Researh, Faculty of Fayium, Egy, Fayium, Egypt
• ²PH. D & Associates, Architecture department, faculty of engineering, fayoum university, giza, Egypt
• ³professor of Architecture, Dean faculty of Engineering, fayoum university, giza, Egypt
• ⁴Lecturer professor of architecture department, Faculty of engineering, Fayoum university, giza, Egypt

This study evaluates indoor air quality in university lecture halls, focusing on the impact of interior finishes on air pollutant levels. Key pollutants monitored included Particulate Matter (PM2.5 and PM10), Carbon Dioxide (CO2), Sulphur Dioxide (SO2), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2), formaldehyde (HCHO), and total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs), with sources identified as industrial emissions and traffic. Measurements were conducted in three distinct indoor environments at an Egyptian university during July 2024. Results showed that PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations remained within the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, whereas CO2 levels varied notably, with Lecture Hall 1 recording 713 ppm and Lecture Hall 2 reaching 1,071 ppm, indicating inadequate ventilation in the latter. Notably, NO2 and HCHO concentrations exceeded WHO recommended limits, with Lecture Hall 1 measuring 160 μg/m³ for NO2 and formaldehyde levels ranging between 430 μg/m³ and 1,380 μg/m³ across the halls.Based on these findings, we recommend that indoor air quality assessments follow the evaluation framework outlined in this study. Furthermore, we advocate for the enhancement of educational buildings through the implementation of design codes aimed at preserving and improving indoor air quality in lecture halls. Additionally, the study underscores the importance of raising awareness among students and faculty to foster healthier educational environments.This study highlights the critical role of indoor air quality in university lecture halls, where students spend a significant portion of their time. By examining the relationship between air quality and the finishes of these spaces, the research identifies key pollutants and their impacts on health and cognitive performance. The findings underscore the need for improved design methodologies and greater awareness among students and faculty regarding indoor air quality. Implementing recommended strategies can lead to healthier educational environments, ultimately enhancing learning outcomes and reducing the risks associated with poor air quality, such as sick building syndrome. This research serves as a foundation for future studies in optimizing indoor environments in educational lecture halls.