Particle Matter Accumulation on Horizontal Surfaces in Interiors: Influence of Foliage Plants

Experiments were conducted in two sites in buildings with central, forced-air systems to assess particulate-matter accumulation on horizontal surfaces both in the presence and absence of plants. Results indicated that, when about 2% of the room was filled with plants, particulate-matter accumulation was lower than when the plants were absent. The addition of plants to an office space did not affect average room temperatures, but did change relative humidity, which was marginally but significantly higher when plants were present. Locations in areas of the rooms with higher levels of human activity accumulated more particulate matter than locations in less frequently used areas of the rooms.