Bedroom air quality affects performance
A study found that high concentrations of carbon dioxide in the bedroom reduce concentration and other cognitive functions after sleep. The study was reported by the press service of the Technical University of Denmark.An international team of researchers from Denmark and China showed that the carbon dioxide content in the bedroom not only affects sleep quality, but can also impair cognitive abilities and reduce performance the next day. For optimal sleep quality, CO₂ concentrations should not exceed 750 parts per million.
Researchers measured more than 100 households in Denmark and Shanghai. They studied bedroom air quality, monitored sleep quality and tested the cognitive abilities of experiment participants the next day. Researchers collected similar data from volunteers who spent the night in a climate chamber, a clear Plexiglas box that allows air quality to be monitored and analyzed throughout the night.
The analysis showed a correlation between carbon dioxide concentration and performance: high concentrations of carbon dioxide negatively affected the ability to concentrate, understand information and respond to external stimuli.
The researchers found that when CO₂ concentrations were below 750 ppm (with a good ventilation system and quality of air outside the window), there was no negative effect on sleep quality. In rooms with gas concentrations of 1,150 ppm or more, sleep quality is markedly reduced, while concentrations above 2,600 ppm reduce performance the next day.
The researchers note that in urban environments with significant window air pollution, simply venting may not be enough. In this case, the best solution may be an artificial ventilation system.
Source: Luft ud, mens du sover. Du præsterer bedre dagen efter (dtu.dk)