Analysis of Flexible Friction Reinforcement Model of Root–Soil Complex Based on Root Weight Density

Root mass density (RMD) is introduced as the core parameter in the flexible friction-stiffened model of the root–soil complex to build the improved model so that the parameter values have better operability. First, "RMD/k" was used to replace the original model parameter "A/n," and the improved flexible friction stiffened model with RMD as the core was derived in the flexible state. Then, the root distribution test, single-root tensile test, and shear test of the root–soil composite were carried out to investigate the root distribution pattern, root tensile resistance and tensile strength variation characteristics, and root–soil composite shear strength characteristics by using vetiver as the test sample. It is concluded that the increase in shear strength reaches the maximum when the shear deformation angle (β) is equal to the internal friction angle (φ) and the RMD variation characteristics of the improved model were obtained. The calculated value of the enhanced model is compared with the measured data and the original model, and the results were similar.