Passive Methods as a Solution for Improving Indoor Environments [electronic resource] / by José A. Orosa, Armando C. Oliveira.

1. Introduction to Indoor Environments, Energy Saving, Thermal Comfort and Health Effects -- 2. Present Field Conditions -- 3. Passive Methods as a Possible Solution -- 4. Permeable Coverings -- 5. Future Research Work (Software Resources, Laboratory and Field Tests).

There are many aspects to consider when evaluating or improving an indoor environment; thermal comfort, energy saving, preservation of materials, hygiene and health are all key aspects which can be improved by passive methods of environmental control. Passive Methods as a Solution for Improving Indoor Environments endeavours to fill the lack of analysis in this area by using over ten years of research to illustrate the effects of methods such as thermal inertia and permeable coverings; for example, the use of permeable coverings is a well known passive method, but its effects and ways to improve indoor environments have been rarely analyzed.   Passive Methods as a Solution for Improving Indoor Environments  includes both software simulations and laboratory and field studies. Through these, the main parameters that characterize the behavior of internal coverings are defined. Furthermore, a new procedure is explained in depth which can be used to identify the real expected effects of permeable coverings such as energy conservation and local thermal comfort as well as their working periods in controlling indoor environments.    This theoretical base is built on by considering future research work including patents and construction indications which will improve indoor environmental conditions with evidence from real data. This makes Passive Methods as a Solution for Improving Indoor Environments  an ideal resource for specialists and researchers focusing on  indoor air quality, thermal comfort, and energy saving or with a general interest in controlling indoor environments with passive methods.