The accuracy of single-layered and multi-layered dynamic filtration models for particulate interception and retention in plant canopies

Mathematical models for radionuclide loss from plant surfaces were used to predict the 238Pu inventories of wheat, soybeans and corn. Data on 238Pu inventories due to deposition were available from several fields near the H-Area nuclear fuel chemical separations facility on the US Department of Energy's Savannah River Site. The model was generally accurate. Eighteen of the 20 predicted inventories were within a factor of 2 of the observed mean inventories. Median predicted to observed ratios were 1.01, 1.23 and 0.75 for wheat, soybeans and corn, respectively. A multi-layered model composed of separate equations for 1-m height intervals of corn was slightly more accurate with median predicted to observed ratios of 1.17, 1.08 and 1.01 for the 0-1 m, 1-2m and >2 m layers, respectively. (author)