Ionizing radiation and the influence of package to control of Sitophilus oryzae in rice

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to use the gamma radiation from Cobalt-60 to control of Sitophilus oryzae in package with previously infested rice and artificial reinfestation. Material and Methods: In the research, 3 types of sample were used: 2 commercial rice packages and 1 in crystal sugar packages. The samples were irradiated with a dose of 1.0kGy to promote disinfestations under a dose rate of 0.560 Gy/h. After 60 days were counted the number of live and dead insects in each package. Results: We concluded that the package containing holes for gases exchange from inside to outside of the package showed easily penetration of insects, while the two packages without holes prevented the reinfestation of insects. Conclusion: The dose of 1.0 kGy was sufficient to do the disinfestations of rice.