Biotechnical Stabilization of Marginal Soils Using Willow Roots as Natural Reinforcement
摘要
This study evaluated the effectiveness of Willow tree roots as natural reinforcement for enhancing slope stability and reducing erosion. Laboratory experiments were conducted on silty clay soil reinforced with native Himalayan Forest tree roots. Direct shear and unconfined compression tests were conducted to evaluate the strength and deformation behaviour of the material. Root reinforcement significantly increased cohesion, while the angle of internal friction showed a slight improvement. The unconfined compressive strength increased by approximately 20% at 2% root content compared to 2.5%, identifying 2% as optimal. Reinforced soil exhibited better stress–strain behaviour and improved ductility, contributing to enhanced stability under loading. Horizontal and vertical displacements were reduced notably at applied stresses of 100 and 150 kPa. Microstructural analysis confirmed improved soil-root bonding, enhancing overall strength and resistance to shear. The findings demonstrated that integrating tree roots can effectively improve the physico-mechanical properties of soil, offering a sustainable approach for slope stabilization in vulnerable regions.