Improving indoor air quality in a class-room at Waikato Institute of Technology using ultraviolet germicidal (UVGI) lights

Abstract or Summary

This research investigates the integration of research project objectives into a student project on “Class-Room Air Quality Improvement Using UV lights ”. The main research project aimed to modify an existing dehumidifier by adding UV lights to improve Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ), specifically reduce dampness, mould and pathogen transfer, in New Zealand buildings. Substandard New Zealand buildings are the cause of respiratory ill-health in many New Zealand households and disproportionately impact on those with low income. The project aims to measure the IEQ features of one destination environment for a climate control and air-purification device and prototype a device for use in this and other poor quality built environments. This research contains a reflection on the mapping of project requirements to learning outcomes of the final year project paper. Summary information on student performance is provided. The service learning outcome of student work is examined. Such work enables students to participate in service to their community through designing, building and testing solutions to problems affecting their community.