An algorithm to predict the transient moisture distribution for wall condensation under a steady flow field

The prediction and control of the indoor moisture distribution, especially for wall condensation, is very important for a healthy and energy-efficient environment. However, existing methods cannot accurately predict the transient indoor moisture distribution for wall condensation. In this study, the prediction of indoor transient moisture distribution is facilitated by using transient accessibility indices, which characterize the transport of the passive contaminants to describe boundary effects on the transient moisture distribution. An algebraic expression is obtained for the indoor moisture distribution, and a computational model is presented for the wall condensation problem. The model is validated by experiments and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, and the model is implemented for a wall condensation case study. The new model can easily predict the indoor moisture distribution under different boundary conditions and for a range of condensation time on the wall surfaces. This study provides an effective means of indoor moisture prediction and control, which may become an important tool for designing a non-uniform indoor environment.