Numerical simulation on single perpendicular root reinforcement mechanism in slope stability

Root system of vegetation can improve slope stability through changing in mechanical and hydrological properties of root-soil matrix. In this paper, the typical models to describe the mechanical effect in soil-root system and some theories of numerical simulation on root reinforcement mechanism are briefly elucidated, Based on the Strength Reduction Method(SRM) and ABAQUS code, a numerical model is developed to simulate root reinforcement mechanism and effect on slope stability. Single perpendicular and inclined root reinforcement mechanism is investigated by applying this model. The result shows that (1) the numerical model can search the sliding surface of the unsteady slope and obtain the slope safety factor;(2) the root system can effectively reinforce the slope indeed along direction of perpendicular sliding surface.