International Journal of Advances in Applied Sciences
Vol 15, No 2: June 2026

Phytoarchitecture for buildings based on photosynthetic pathways to combat volatile organic compounds

Ganjar Samudro (Universitas Diponegoro)
Harida Samudro (UIN Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang)
Dwi Rinnarsuri Noraduola (Universitas Halu Oleo)
Sarwoko Mangkoedihardjo (Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember)
Azzah Nazihah Che Abdul Rahim (University Technology MARA)



Article Info

Publish Date
01 Jun 2026

Abstract

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) originating from construction materials and human activities present considerable health hazards in indoor settings. Phytoarchitecture provides a sustainable approach by incorporating vegetation into architectural design to effectively mitigate pollutants. This research seeks to define criteria for plant positioning according to photosynthetic pathways (C3, C4, and crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM)) to optimize VOC absorption. Employing a systematic literature review methodology, data on plant physiology, and leaf morphology were examined to establish a design framework. The findings suggest that the positioning of plants should be based on their stomatal opening cycles: CAM plants, which absorb carbon dioxide at night, are optimal for indoor bedrooms, whereas C3/C4 plants are more appropriate for daytime active areas and outdoor facades. Additionally, plants exhibiting narrow leaf profiles and elevated stomatal density exhibit enhanced VOC removal efficacy. It was determined that synchronizing architectural design with plant photosynthetic cycles establishes an efficient, passive air purification system that improves both indoor environmental quality (IEQ) and building aesthetics.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

IJAAS

Publisher

Subject

Earth & Planetary Sciences Environmental Science Materials Science & Nanotechnology Mathematics Physics

Description

International Journal of Advances in Applied Sciences (IJAAS) is a peer-reviewed and open access journal dedicated to publish significant research findings in the field of applied and theoretical sciences. The journal is designed to serve researchers, developers, professionals, graduate students and ...