Evaluation of live cuttings effect on slope stability

Abstract

The aim of this work was to evaluate the development of shrub live cuttings and their effect on slope stability. Vertical in situ pullout tests and measurements of Phyllanthus sellowianus shoots and roots of 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 14 months old were conducted. Stability analyses were conducted for slopes with planar and curved rupture surfaces and for soils with and without plants. The results showed that seasons affected plants growth and their ability to provide soil strength. Soil shear strength values ranged from 4.5 kPa (2 months old) to 47.6 kPa (14 months old). The critical factors of safety (FS) for slopes for both planar and curved rupture surfaces were found in the absence of plants and reached the stability condition (FS > 2) with plants at 4 (planar) and 6 (curved) months old.