Demonstrations are sought of innovative technologies and strategies to improve indoor air quality of existing buildings related to moisture control and mold growth. Demonstrated technologies should be able to retrofit into existing facilities and provide minimal impact to ongoing operation practices. Technologies of interest will improve occupant comfort, maintain or reduce maintenance requirements for buildings, identify moisture-related problems early, improve mitigation strategies, and improve energy efficiency of the facility. Of particular interest are the following:
- Efficient dehumidification technologies
- Energy recovery technologies for dehumidification equipment
- Improved, reliable monitoring of moisture within facilities
- Improved, reliable monitoring of practices that contribute to moisture problems
- Improved mitigation strategies for materials affected by moisture or mold
The primary value of these technologies is anticipated to be improved occupant comfort, reduced energy costs from dehumidification, and extended facility life from early detection and improved mitigation.
DoD’s Resilient and Healthy Defense Communities strategy outlines the Department’s actions to improve the built and natural environment on defense installations to ensure healthy, safe, functional, and resilient spaces for Service members, families, and the civilian workforce.1 DoD facilities operate with a multi-billion dollar backlog of maintenance, and operational staff are stretched across the large inventory. The 2022 Congressional Budget Office Report estimated over $11 billion worth of mold damage within the building inventory.
