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To examine the methodology for determining the moisture diffusion behavior of lignocellulosic biomass in steady and unsteady states (two stages of a sorption isotherm), the diffusion coefficients in the steady and unsteady states (DSS and DUS) were investigated over a range of relative humidity (RH) from 10 to 90% using a dynamic vapor sorption (DVS) apparatus and a specifically designed cell kit. Thin samples with a thickness of 50 μm were prepared from three lignocellulosic biomasses, i.e. poplar, Chinese fir and moso bamboo. Based on Fick’s first and second laws, DSS and DUS were determined. An increase in DSS or DUS was observed with increasing equilibrium moisture content (EMC) or transient status, regardless of the lignocellulosic biomass species. The moisture-dependent DSS of poplar, Chinese fir and moso bamboo was similar to values previously reported. Chinese fir and moso bamboo exhibited the highest and the lowest DSS values, respectively, when the same EMCs were achieved. The results of this study revealed that DSS and DUS of lignocellulosic biomass (even with limited dimensions) could be determined during a sorption isotherm in a wide humidity range. Furthermore, the results are helpful for simulating moisture transport behaviors in the fields of drying, paper packaging and wooden building maintenance.

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