Investigating Airflow Transmission Pathways of Respiratory Viruses in High-Rise Residential Buildings Based on CFD Model

Abstract

In the wake of the pandemic, epidemic prevention design has become increasingly important in the architectural planning of smart cities. However, only a small number of studies have examined ventilation strategies and the thermal conductivity of construction materials in high-rise residential buildings and quarantine lodgings using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). This study used CFD-Flovent simulations to analyze two architectural configurations and duct layouts. The results were validated by fluorescent tracer diffusion experiments. The simulations show that opening the door of a contaminated room causes mixing with corridor airflow. The central heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system supplies air to rooms. This air returns through ducts and spreads contaminants to nearby rooms on the same floor. It can also reach other levels. The study confirms that toilet flushing is a transmission pathway. Viral aerosols can pass through gaps between plumbing fixtures and enter upper rooms through shared exhaust ducts. Four ventilation scenarios were evaluated. Each scenario considered airflow control, energy use, and transmission paths. To balance infection control and energy consumption, four ventilation scenarios were compared using air changes per hour (ACH)–based air conditioning system simulations. The results support a phase-specific strategy with ACH ≥ 6 during pandemics and ACH 2–4 in postpandemic periods, offering practical guidance for both new constructions and retrofit applications. The results suggest that spatial planning should be improved. Independent exhaust ducts, booster fans, and window-mounted exhaust units are recommended. These methods can improve ventilation in key areas. They reduce stagnant airflow and lower the risk of infection. These measures support the needs of smart city development.