Abstract
ABSTRACT In this paper we have examined the influence of gravity on the moisture transport process during the isenthalpic drying period, and we have considered the use of diffusion models both to predict saturation pro- files and to extract apparent diffusivities from experi- mental data. For granular or unconsolidated porous media, the one-dimensional moisture transport process can be characterized by two dimensionless groups that account for capillary forces, gravitational forces and viscous forces. Detailed numerical solutions of the saturation transport equation indicate under what circumstances the diffusion model can be used with confidence, and under what circumstances the diffusion model can be used to predict saturation profiles even though it is an incorrect representation of the moisture transport process. In addition to exploring the predictive capabilities of the diffusion model, we have
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
