The NOTECH natural ventilation system optimizes indoor air quality using wall-integrated filters made from carbon-binding eelgrass, a prevalent sea plant in Denmark.
Developed through a collaboration between Volfdesign, the Danish Technological Institute, and WindowMaster, this system acts as both an air filter and a noise dampener. It operates on demand, drawing air through its filters to regulate CO2 levels, temperature, and humidity.
Features
- Passive Approach: Relies on natural forces such as wind and buoyancy (stack effect) to circulate air, eliminating the need for fans or other mechanical systems.
- Design Considerations: Effective implementation requires careful architectural design, including strategically placing windows and vents and considering building orientation to maximize airflow.
- Energy Savings: By minimizing the reliance on mechanical ventilation, NOTECH can significantly reduce energy consumption and associated operating costs.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Studies indicate that NOTECH systems can have lower overall costs compared to mechanical ventilation when factoring in installation, heating, electricity, and maintenance expenses.
Types
- Wind-Driven Ventilation: Harnesses wind pressure differences to draw in fresh air and expel stale air.
- Buoyancy-Driven Ventilation (Stack Effect): Utilizes the natural tendency of warm air to rise, creating airflow within the building.
Benefits
- Improved Indoor Air Quality: Provides a continuous supply of fresh air, reduces odors, and enhances overall air quality through its eelgrass filtration.
- Enhanced Thermal Comfort: Contributes to regulating indoor temperature, creating a more comfortable environment for occupants.
- Reduced Energy Consumption: Lowers the demand for mechanical ventilation systems, leading to significant energy cost savings.
- Environmental Benefits: Minimizes the reliance on fossil fuels for ventilation, thereby reducing the building's carbon footprint.
- Noise Attenuation: The eelgrass filters also function to reduce ambient noise from the outside environment.
