Evaluation through field measurements of BNL/AIMS, a multiple tracer gas technique for determining air infiltration rates.

Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) in the USA has developed a multiple tracergas technique called BNL/AIMS (Air Infiltration Measurement System) for determination of air infiltration rates. The technique is applicable in occupied dwellings and might be promising for wide-scale measurements. This paper discusses the main results of field measurements made by the Danish Building Research Institute with use of BNL/AIMS. The results obtained are compared with the results of parallel measurements made in the laboratory and by using computer controlled field measuring equipment. The aim of the measurements was to gain experience in the use of the BNL/AIMS equipment, and to obtain a basis for evaluation of the application and applicability of the method. With regard to whole-house air infiltration rates, the results prove to be in good agreement with results from known methods. However, there seems to be some inconsistency regarding zonal air infiltration rates and air exchange rates between zones.