CLAIRE: insights from research into ventilation and air purification
The CLAIRE (Clean Air for Everyone) research project has investigated how ventilation and air purification can help to limit the spread of respiratory viruses in buildings. The central question was how healthy indoor air can help to reduce the impact of future pandemics and other infectious diseases.
As part of the project, researchers, knowledge institutions, civil society organisations and businesses have collaborated on practice-oriented research. Measurements have been carried out in primary schools and healthcare facilities to assess the effectiveness of ventilation and air purification solutions. In addition, measurement methods and risk models have been developed that provide greater insight into the relationship between indoor air quality and the transmission of pathogens.
The results show that ventilation and air purification can make a significant contribution to healthy and resilient indoor environments. The knowledge gained is not only relevant to pandemic preparedness, but also offers valuable insights into improving general air quality in buildings and reducing exposure to, for example, particulate matter, pollen and other pollutants.
Practical applicability
The research shows, amongst other things, that ventilation systems with a mechanical component can remove aerosols more quickly than systems that rely entirely on natural ventilation. These systems are also less susceptible to weather conditions and ensure a more even distribution of air within a room. As a result, they can contribute to better control of air quality and lower exposure to airborne particles.
Social impact
The CLAIRE project has not only yielded new insights into ventilation and air purification, but has also worked on applying this knowledge in practice. Throughout the project, researchers, public authorities, civil society organisations, educational institutions, healthcare organisations and market stakeholders were brought together to explore how scientific insights can contribute to healthier buildings and better preparedness for future health challenges.
A key outcome of CLAIRE is that it has provided greater insight into the conditions required for the successful implementation of effective ventilation and air purification measures. The project looked not only at the technical aspects, but also at factors such as policy, usage, acceptance, implementation and collaboration between the parties involved. Through knowledge exchange and co-creation with professionals in the field, the project has contributed to raising broader awareness of the importance of healthy indoor air in schools, healthcare facilities and other buildings.
The knowledge gained thus forms a valuable basis for future guidelines, policy development and practical tools that contribute to healthy, comfortable and resilient indoor environments. The Binnenklimaattechniek Foundation is committed to making this knowledge accessible to the sector and to supporting its further application in day-to-day practice.
Factsheets based on the CLAIRE study
To make the results of the CLAIRE project accessible to professionals, the Binnenklimaattechniek Foundation has produced three factsheets. These factsheets translate complex research findings into practical and useful insights.
The factsheets are based on the following research reports and project documents from the CLAIRE programme:
1) Literatuurstudie effect van co₂ op cognitieve prestaties, fysiologische parameters, comfort en beleving, en absentie
2.1) Results experiments in-situ wp 2, experiments phase 1
2.2) Results experiments in-situ wp 2, experiments after intervention
3) Vereenvoudigde methodiek – methodiek om op eenvoudige wijze de effectiviteit van een ventilatiesysteem te bepalen
Based on these documents, three practical factsheets have been drawn up on:
- The relationship between CO₂ concentrations and health, comfort and performance.
- The effectiveness of ventilation systems in removing aerosols.
- A simplified method for assessing the performance of ventilation systems using CO₂ measurements.
Download the factsheets
Factsheet CO2 Literatuurstudie
Further information about CLAIRE
Further information about the research project, the partners involved and the published research findings can be found on the CLAIRE project website: CLAIRE – Clean Air for Everyone
The Binnenklimaattechniek Foundation would like to thank all researchers and project partners for their contribution to advancing our understanding of ventilation, air purification and healthy indoor air.
