Centrifuge modelling of root reinforcement of slopes

R. Sonnenberg*, M. F. Bransby, P. D. Hallett, A. G. Bengough, M. C.R. Davies

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingPublished conference contribution

2 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The stability of slopes may be modified by plant roots that permeate the soil. Thus, vegetation may form a natural method of mechanically reinforcing soil and preventing shallow slope failures. To date, the effect of vegetation is not considered routinely in design largely because of uncertainty in application of existing vegetation reinforcement models. This paper reports a series of centrifuge model tests conducted to investigate the mechanical stabilisation of slopes by plant roots. Compacted clay embankments were constructed with steep (45°) side slopes and brought to failure by increasing the height of the internal water table. By comparing the collapse behaviour of fallow (i.e. unreinforced) slopes to that of those reinforced by root analogues or real willow roots, the reinforcing effect can be found.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationPhysical Modelling in Geotechnics - Proceedings of the 7th International Conference on Physical Modelling in Geotechnics 2010, ICPMG 2010
PublisherCRC Press
Pages1137-1142
Number of pages6
Volume2
ISBN (Print)9780415592901
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 16 Feb 2012
Event7th International Conference on Physical Modelling in Geotechnics 2010, ICPMG 2010 - Zurich, Switzerland
Duration: 28 Jun 20101 Jul 2010

Publication series

NamePhysical Modelling in Geotechnics - Proceedings of the 7th International Conference on Physical Modelling in Geotechnics 2010, ICPMG 2010
Volume2

Conference

Conference7th International Conference on Physical Modelling in Geotechnics 2010, ICPMG 2010
Country/TerritorySwitzerland
CityZurich
Period28/06/101/07/10

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Centrifuge modelling of root reinforcement of slopes'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this