What increases evaporation when drying wet materials?

Evaporation is a critical process in drying wet materials, and moving air rapidly across surfaces significantly enhances this process. When air flows over wet surfaces, it effectively increases the rate at which moisture is drawn away from the materials. This movement of air helps to carry away the moisture-laden air that becomes saturated near the surfaces, allowing for drier air to come in contact with the wet materials, which in turn accelerates evaporation.

Factors such as temperature and humidity play a role in evaporation, but they don't enhance it as effectively as air movement does. For instance, using colder temperatures typically reduces evaporation since warmer air holds more moisture. Maintaining high humidity levels can create a saturated environment that inhibits evaporation. Keeping materials stagnant would not provide the necessary airflow to promote drying; thus, it would be counterproductive. Therefore, facilitating rapid air movement across wet surfaces is the most effective method for increasing evaporation and promoting quick drying in water restoration scenarios.