Abstract

Simulation has been widely used to improve and optimize the wood drying process. Of these, the diffusive models are used to predict the slow-drying hardwood and low permeability species, so it could be suitable to simulate the drying process in Eucalyptus nitens sawn-wood. The aim of this research, was to simulate the moisture gradient and drying curve, in Eucalyptus nitens tangential sawn-wood. Two isothermal drying conditions were evaluated (40/35 degrees C and 55/50 degrees C) at air velocity of 2 m/s, and the experimental values of moisture gradient and drying curve were obtained, being compared with values provided by the numerical solution of the model. The results showed a diffusion coefficient between 1.5-4.5x10(-10) (m(2)/s), showing an inverse relationship with the moisture content and a direct relationship with the drying temperature. The simulation showed a correct adjustment of the moisture gradient and drying curve, increasing the precision in the last drying stages. Therefore, the model was considered adequate and low computational cost, to predict the drying in Eucalyptus nitens sawn-wood.