Ventilation control using computational fluid-dynamics (CFD) modelling for cultural buildings conservation

The effect of ventilation strategies on the microclimate of the Crypt of Lecce Cathedral (South Italy) was modelled using computational fluid-dynamics (CFD) tools. In the ancient church deterioration mainly consists of efflorescence whose diffusion appeared to be linked to unsuitable indoor conditions. The model was validated using experimental data collected over a one year microclimatic campaign and allowed to investigate a number of possible ventilation scenarios in the Crypt. The outputs of the CFD simulations helped to establish the ventilation scenario ensuring the microclimate with the lowest gradients and the most appropriate airflows in the building. In the analysis of the results a particular attention was dedicated to the artworks location in order to avoid their decay. The research allowed to determine how to improve the indoor conditions in the Crypt controlling the ventilation to preserve the monument.