Effect of Oriental beech root reinforcement on slope stability (Hyrcanian Forest, Iran)

Oriental beech roots significantly enhance slope stability in the Hyrcanian Forest, increasing the factor of safety by 27–44% for shallow soil layers (1 m) and 15–26% for deeper layers (2 m). Root reinforcement effects peak at 10–20 cm depth, boosting shear strength by up to 1.47 kPa. The study used the Wu model to quantify root distribution and tensile strength across slope gradients of 10–45°, revealing a power relationship between root diameter and strength (mean: 38.23 ± 1.19 MPa). Root benefits amplify with steeper slopes and thinner soil, highlighting their critical role in preventing shallow landslides.

Abdi, E. (2014). Effect of Oriental beech root reinforcement on slope stability (Hyrcanian Forest, Iran). Journal of Forest Science, 60(4), 166–173. https://doi.org/10.17221/93/2013-jfs