Development of a simulation tool for mould growth prediction in buildings

Epidemiological evidence suggests that mould infestation in buildings can have serious health implications for the occupants. On the basis of an analysis of published data, growth limit curves for six generic mould categories have been generated in terms of the minimum combination of temperature and relative humidity required to sustain growth on indoor building surfaces. These limits have been incorporated within the ESP-r system for use in conjunction within combined heat and moisture flow simulations. The result is a design tool which can predict the likelihood and extent of mould growth. This paper describes the mould growth model, the approach taken to moisture flow simulation within multi-layered constructions and the results from comparisons with monitored data and mycological samples taken from a mould-infested house.