In drying processes, what needs to be decreased when increasing the vapor pressure differential?

In drying processes, when you increase the vapor pressure differential, it is essential to reduce humidity. This concept is rooted in the relationship between vapor pressure and the ability of air to absorb moisture. Increasing the vapor pressure differential promotes a greater inclination for moisture to evaporate from wet surfaces into the air.

To effectively utilize this increase, maintaining lower humidity levels allows for a more effective drying process. High humidity can create a barrier to moisture removal, as the air near the wet surface may become saturated. By lowering the humidity, you enhance the effectiveness of the vapor pressure differential, facilitating the rapid movement of moisture from the wet materials into the drier air.

While airflow velocity plays a role in moisture removal, it is not directly decreased to increase the vapor pressure differential, nor is temperature or pressure specifically decreased in this context. The focus is primarily on managing humidity to optimize the drying conditions and enhance the overall efficiency of the drying process.