individual influence by nanotechnology on the indoor environment

Meanwhile many material surfaceses are developed using nanotechnology. Each workplace is surrounded by such materials: lacquer, plaster, wallpaper, bricking, concrete, derived timber products, plasterboards, foils, insulated glass, plastics, insulations and textiles. Falling back on the characteristics of nanotechnology indoor hygiene, climate and acoustics could be influenced. For example self-cleaning surfaces may prevent lay down of harmful particles, VOCs could be filtered, thermal comfort might be improved, humidity could be buffered and noise levels could be reduced. The building physics with its parameters temperature, humidity, acoustics, lighting and odours suggest a holistic approach in this field. Thus the Fraunhofer Institute for building physics is currently preparing a project focussing on the influence by of nanotechnologic materials on individual climatisation based on subjective environmental perception. Within this approach the interaction of the five senses - sight, touch, smell, taste and touch – will be considered. The final aim of this project is to set up the workplaces boundary parameters in such a way that a saving of energy is achieved. To concentrate resources the environment of the individual is put into the center of this programme, not the whole indoor climate. Consequently a waste of energy is avoided and resources are conserved. Each individual demands his/her own ambient environmental conditions. Until now the environment is divided in great intervals of comfort. These intervals reflect the majority of people and accepts a number of dissatisfied individuals. With the outlined approach the project might contribute to some principal questions in the field of indoor environment. Can an integral view of the indoor climate provide information on optimal comfort for a human-being and an efficient working environment. Is a workplace without disturbing or uncomfortable influences achievable, where people can work concentrated and with pleasure?