MicroAlgae Technology (MAT): Transformative advancements for optimal indoor air quality in workspaces

<bold>Background:</bold> Air pollution, causing 7 million premature deaths yearly, highlights the air quality (AQ) and public health nexus. Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ), encompassing factors like humidity, and green spaces, significantly influences well-being and productivity. MicroAlgae-Technology (MAT), an IEQ solution, supports oxygen generation, biofuel production, and sustainable air pollutant reduction. This study hypothesized MAT's positive impact on IEQ, respiratory health, and productivity. <bold>Methods:</bold> Conducted at a 1200-employee manufacturing site, the study deployed air quality sensors across various campus buildings, comparing MAT and non-MAT locations. PM2.5, NO2, and tVOCs were continuously monitored from May to June 2023. Data was translated into Health and Performance Indices (HI and PI) following WHO standards. (PM2.5: 15 µg/m3, NO2: 25 µg/m3, tVOC: 300 µg/m3). <bold>Results:</bold> MAT demonstrated exceptional IEQ, surpassing uncritical thresholds (>70%). Workspaces with MAT exhibited HI of 90% and PI of 98%, outperforming non-MAT areas like the cafeteria (HI: 61%, PI: 79%). IEQ improved by 31%, stabilizing NO2 levels 1.7 times, resulting in a 23% HI boost and 12% PI increase compared to non-MAT spaces. MAT areas had 14% lower tVOC levels (200.6 vs 229.6 ppb) and 7.6 times lower PM2.5 levels than non-MAT areas. Elevated tVOC levels during non-working hours and PM2.5 spikes in the cafeteria emphasize the need for MAT in IEQ management. Non-MAT open office locations exhibited mean HI scores of 84%, 74%, and 80%, with higher NO2 levels correlating with lower HI. <bold>Conclusion:</bold> MAT transforms workspaces into healthier, more productive environments, supporting replication in various workspaces.