Influence of root distribution patterns on soil dynamic characteristics

Slopes along the highway and railway routes are subjected to not only static loads but also dynamic loads generated by vehicles and trains. The induced excessive deformation potentially poses a threat to slope stability. In terms of the extensive application of ecological slope protection, plants play a critical role in slope stability, as the roots can enhance the shear strength of the soil. This study aims to investigate the influence of different root distribution patterns on the dynamic characteristics induced by cyclic loading. By conducting a group of dynamic triaxial tests, the results indicate that the root system can significantly enhance the liquefaction resistance of the soil when the soil is subjected to lower dynamic loads, and the cross arrangement has a better-reinforced effect than the mixed arrangement. The reinforced effect was not obvious when the soil was subjected to a dynamic load with a larger stress amplitude. In addition, based on the validation of the seed model, a new pore water pressure development model was proposed according to the test results. Overall, the research provides a new model and some innovative observations to better understand the dynamic behavior of root-reinforced soil.