Study on synergistic action of tap-like arbor root system and anti-slide piles by physical model experiment of landslides

Currently, most designs for landslide hazard control employ geotechnical measures as the primary strategy and vegetation measures as the supplemental strategy. However, few studies have investigated the synergistic protection effectiveness of combining geotechnical and vegetation measures. To evaluate the synergistic mechanism between roots and piles and the corresponding slope-protection effect, we focused on tap-like arbor roots and anti-slide piles and used 3D printing technology to efficiently build composite models of roots and soil. In addition, this study uses square steel to simulate anti-slide piles, conducts a series of experiments with different support modes, and monitors the deformation and failure processes of shallow soil slopes. The results show that (1) both roots and piles could improve the anti-sliding force; under the synergistic support of roots and anti-slide piles (SSRAP), the postpeak anti-sliding force attenuation rate decreases, with the residual anti-sliding force demonstrating a significant advantage. (2) Root-support measures can only control the deformation of the slope bottom, while pile-support measures can effectively control the deformation of different slope areas. (3) The slope surface is characterized by numerous small cracks with poor connectivity under root support. The process of crack expansion is obviously delayed under pile support, and the SSRAP inherits their respective advantages, further enhancing the slope integrity. These results fill the research gap in the synergistic mechanism of geotechnical and vegetation measures and present the development of effective strategies for the comprehensive prevention and control of landslide disasters.