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A generic 3D finite element model of tree anchorage integrating soil mechanics and real root system architecture¹

²Université Bordeaux 1, Mixed Research Unit: Unité Sciences du Bois et des Biopolymères (UMR US2B), Talence, F-33405 France; ³Institut pour le Développement Forestier (IDF), Paris, F-75007 France; ⁴Centre de Coopération International en Recherche Agronomique pour le Développement (CIRAD), Mixed Research Unit: Botanique et Bioinformatique de l'Architecture des Plantes (UMR AMAP), TA A-51/PS2, Boulevard de la Lironde, 34398 Montpellier Cedex 5, France; ⁵Institute National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA), Mixed Research Unit: Botanique et Bioinformatique de l'Architecture des Plantes (UMR AMAP), TA A-51/PS2, Boulevard de la Lironde, 34398 Montpellier Cedex 5, France

ABSTRACT

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.

Key Words: biomechanics • poplar • Populus • root anchorage • tree stability • windthrow

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