The Dynamics of ppCO2 and its Fixation Pattern in a Partially Closed Biological System

A biofiltration system is currently being tested as an alternative to maintain indoor air quality within an office building setting. The system is based on a complex plant community with both terrestrial and aquatic components. CO₂ dynamics within the space offer a means of evaluating its potential efficacy. A model is presented based upon both exponential and linear processes, which accurately describes diurnal changes in CO₂ levels and the removal of introduced CO₂. The exponential dynamics indicate increasing rates of sequestering with increasing exposure levels. The CO₂ is eventually fixed through the process of photosynthesis, but is most likely initially sequestered in the aquatic component of the system. The removal of the contaminant from the atmosphere and into the aquatic phase where it is subsequently metabolized by the biomass suggest the system may be an effective filter for removing contaminants from indoor settings.