GENERIC ONE-COMPARTMENT MODEL FOR UPTAKE OF ORGANIC-CHEMICALS BY FOLIAR VEGETATION

A differential mass-balance equation for the uptake of organic chemica ls into the aerial plant compartment from soil and air is derived. Pro cesses considered are uptake from soil, gaseous deposition, volatiliza tion from leaves, transformation and degradation, and growth. An analy tical solution is developed. Chemical data needed are K-OW, K-AW, and reaction rate constants. Constant average values for environmental par ameters are assumed. Plant properties are typical for grass and green fodder. Calculations for 2,3,7,8-TCDD, and the comparison to a recentl y tested numerical four-compartment model shows the applicability of t he mass-balance approach. The equation could be incorporated into exis ting multimedia and soil transport models and may be useful for the ha zard assessment of contaminated soils.