TRANSFER OF CESIUM AND IODINE FROM THE SURFACE TO THE INTERIOR OF APPLE FRUIT

Abstract

Abstract We investigated the transfer of stable Cs + and I− applied as droplets directly on the fruit surface of 3-y-old plumleaf crab apple trees to the fruit interior at different developmental stages. The proportions of Cs and I transferred to the fruit flesh by harvest time were 21–66% and 41–53%, respectively, with decreasing trends as the developmental stage progressed. Most of the Cs+ was gradually transferred from the surface to the skin and flesh, while I− rapidly penetrated the fruit in the days after the application, followed by slow transfer of small proportions. For both elements, prompt penetration of the flesh occurred 1–2 d after application. A compartment model for simulating each element’s behavior was constructed using all the data obtained. The Cs transfer model to the flesh can simulate the measured values well. For the model of I, prompt distribution to the skin is also necessary.