Development of a Computer Programme for the Prediction and Control of Mould Growth in Buildings Using the ESP-r Modelling System

Abstract

Based on an analysis of the best published data, critical limits for the growth of six commonly occurring indoor moulds (defined in terms of relative humidity and temperature) have been formulated into a mould prediction computer programme. The fungi were selected as representative of moulds which differ in their relative humidity and temperature requirements to sustain surface growth, and because several were known mycotoxin producing species and of potential health significance. Each growth limit curve was generated from a series of data points on a temperature-relative humidity (RH) plot and fitted using the third-order polynomial equation RH = a₃T³ + a₂T² + a₁T + ao. The model was incorporated within the Environmental Systems Performance research programme for transient simulation of the energy and environmental performance of buildings, thereby enabling the system to predict the likely occurrence of mould development for fungi which exhibit similar tempera ture/RH requirements to the reference moulds. The model predicts the inter active parameters which give rise to local environmental conditions that encourage mould growth. The system's predictive capability was tested via laboratory experiments and by comparison with monitored data from a moul dy building.