%0 Journal Article
%K particle
%K building
%K Allergen
%K concentration
%K filtration
%K reduction
%A William J Fisk
%A David Faulkner
%A Jari Palonen
%A Olli Seppänen
%B Indoor Air
%D 2002
%G eng
%N 4
%P 223-234
%R 10.1034/j.1600-0668.2002.01136.x
%T Performance and Cost of Particle Air Filtration Technologies
%V 12
%2 LBNL-47833
%8 12/2002
%X <p>This paper predicts the reductions in the indoor mass concentrations of particles attainable from use of filters in building supply airstreams and also from use of stand-alone fan-filter units. Filters with a wide efficiency range are considered. Predicted concentration reductions are provided for indoor-generated particles containing dust mite and cat allergen, for environmental tobacco smoke particles, and for outdoor- air fine mode particles. Additionally, this paper uses a simple model and available data to estimate the energy and total costs of the filtration options. Predicted reductions in cat and dust-mite allergen concentrations range from 20% to 80%. To obtain substantial, e.g., 50%, reductions in indoor concentrations of these allergens, the rate of airflow through the filter must be at least a few indoor volumes per hour. Increasing filter efficiencies above approximately ASHRAE Dust Spot 65% does not significantly reduce predicted indoor concentrations of these allergens. For environmental tobacco smoke particles and outdoor fine mode particles, calculations indicate that relatively large, e.g., 80%, decreases in indoor concentrations are attainable with practical filter efficiencies and flow rates. Increasing the filter efficiency above ASHRAE 85% results in only modest predicted incremental decreases in indoor concentration. Energy costs and total costs can be similar for filtration using filters with a wide range of efficiency ratings. Total estimated filtration costs of approximately $0.70 to $1.80 per person per month are insignificant relative to salaries, rent, or health insurance costs.</p>