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A generic 3D finite element model of tree anchorage integrating soil mechanics and real root system architecture
Author(s) -
Dupuy Lionel X.,
Fourcaud Thierry,
Lac Patrick,
Stokes Alexia
Publication year - 2007
Publication title -
american journal of botany
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.218
H-Index - 151
eISSN - 1537-2197
pISSN - 0002-9122
DOI - 10.3732/ajb.94.9.1506
Subject(s) - root system , soil water , root (linguistics) , tree (set theory) , finite element method , soil science , biology , botany , geology , structural engineering , mathematics , engineering , mathematical analysis , linguistics , philosophy
Understanding the mechanism of tree anchorage in a forest is a priority because of the increase in wind storms in recent years and their projected recurrence as a consequence of global warming. To characterize anchorage mechanisms during tree uprooting, we developed a generic finite element model where real three‐dimensional (3D) root system architectures were represented in a 3D soil. The model was used to simulate tree overturning during wind loading, and results compared with real data from two poplar species ( Populus trichocarpa and P. deltoides ). These trees were winched sideways until failure, and uprooting force and root architecture measured. The uprooting force was higher for P. deltoides than P. trichocarpa , probably due to its higher root volume and thicker lateral roots. Results from the model showed that soil type influences failure modes. In frictional soils, e.g., sandy soils, plastic failure of the soil occurred mainly on the windward side of the tree. In cohesive soils, e.g., clay soils, a more symmetrical slip surface was formed. Root systems were more resistant to uprooting in cohesive soil than in frictional soil. Applications of this generic model include virtual uprooting experiments, where each component of anchorage can be tested individually.