Solution of Nonlinear Coupled Heat and Moisture Transport Using Finite Element Method

Abstract

This paper deals with a numerical solution of coupled of heat and moisture transfer using the finite element method. The mathematical model consists of balance equations of mass, energy and linear momentum and of the appropriate constitutive equations. The chosen macroscopic field variables are temperature, capillary pressures, gas pressure and displacement. In contrast with pure mechanical problems, there are several difficulties which require special attention. Systems of algebraic equations arising from coupled problems are generally nonlinear, and the matrices of such systems are nonsymmetric and indefinite. The first experiences of solving complicated coupled problems are mentioned in this paper.