Drying, Finishing and Adhesives Wood Technology

The Superheated Steam Dilemma: Evaluating a Proposed Revolution in Lumber Drying

Scientist: Superheated steam drying (SSD) offers several advantages over conventional kiln drying. It reduces drying time because water evaporates at its boiling point, minimizing resistance to vapor diffusion. It also increases energy efficiency by eliminating the need for fresh air ventilation. Furthermore, SSD prevents oxidation reactions due to the absence of oxygen in the system. Therefore, SSD should replace conventional kiln drying for all lumber.

Which one of the following, if true, most weakens the scientist’s argument?