In this study, the 20 mm thick poplar timber were treated by superheated steam drying in atmospheric pressure and combined drying of conventional-superheated steam respectively. The effects of drying methods and conditions on drying characteristics of poplar timber were studied systematically. The results showed that the temperature and moisture content variation of poplar wood could be divided into three periods in the drying process. The combined drying time was 2.5 to 3 times shorter than that of conventional drying, and the drying rate could be remarkably improved. The drying qualities of ...