Basic study on shear characteristics of fine-grained soil including the root system of the herbaceous plant affected by the freeze-thaw history

Abstract

In this study, we attempted to clarify the deformation strength characteristics of fine-grained soil containing the root systems of herbaceous plants with a freeze-thaw history. Using Brassica rapa var. perviridis, we prepared specimens to simulate vegetation work, and conducted a direct shear test with specified unfrozen and freeze-thaw history. As a result, it was confirmed that the shear strength of fine-grained soil under low vertical stress increased for root systems in the unfrozen state. On the other hand, it was also revealed that states with a freeze-thaw history exhibited root system damage as well as decreased shear strength.