Theoretical Model for Solar-Dehumidification Drying of Wood.

A computer simulation model has been developed to predict the performance of a combined solar-dehumidification wood drying system. When input data (solar collector, drying chamber, wood, and dehumidifier characteristics) and ambient weather conditions (dry bulb temperature, wet bulb temperature, and solar radiation) are known, the model will predict the wood moisture content, air temperature and humidity, and energy consumption at any time during the drying process. The computer simulation model accurately predicted the kiln dry bulb temperature, kiln relative humidity, and wood moisture content for the operation of an existing solar wood dryer