Validation of CFD Simulations for Natural Ventilation in Hospital Wards Using CO₂ Decay Method

Abstract

This study validates computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations of natural ventilation in hospital wards using the CO₂ tracer gas decay method, in accordance with ISO 16000 8. Field measurements were conducted in a single-patient room at the Picardy Wallonia Medical Center (PWMC) and compared with CFD results from DesignBuilder and OpenFOAM. Results showed strong agreement, with differences within 10%, confirming the reliability of CFD models in predicting ventilation performance. This study demonstrates the potential of natural ventilation to enhance indoor air quality and thermal comfort in healthcare environments.