Performance Evaluation and Optimization Study of Air Purifiers and Ventilators in a School Classroom Environment

This study evaluated the performance of air purification devices (ventilation devices and air purifiers) in real-world classroom environments to establish operational standards. Air purifiers demonstrated superior performance in reducing particulate matter (PM), while ventilation systems were more effective in removing carbon dioxide (CO₂). The performance of these systems was influenced by outdoor air quality, and an optimal ventilation rate was identified. Increasing the number of devices or airflow rates did not proportionally enhance air quality control. For installation, placing air purifiers along the classroom walls (CADR 35.3 CMM) reduced direct airflow interference and energy loss compared to diagonal placements (CADR 25.3 CMM), resulting in better PM removal. However, results varied based on airflow direction, highlighting the need for optimized placement in combined operations for each condition and environment. The ventilation device achieved CO₂ reduction close to healthy standards, outperforming air purifiers. Additionally, the optimal arrangement (diagonal direction) for simultaneously operating two types of air purifiers to remove fine dust and CO₂ was established.