Micro-particle indoor resuspension under periodic airflows: A numerical-analytical study and experimentations

A parametric study using the validated model was conducted to study the particle detachment phenomenon of a variety of particle characteristics under sinusoidal flows similar to that of human breathing over different flooring materials. Results showed that micro-particles of relatively high diameters pose a considerable threat over surfaces in indoor environment. The occurrence of resuspension is highly influenced by surface type and roughness. Parquet flooring was found to cause the resuspension of approximately 98% of 80μm lead particles compared to 64.5% of the same particles over marble flooring at certain locations under the effect of normal breathing. Therefore, besides dust removal methods, the choice of flooring material is an essential preventive measure to reduce indoor particle resuspension.