Abstract

The study is aimed to determine the influence of tensile force of roots of agave (Angustifolio marginata) and tea (Acalypha siamensis) plants on landslide in prototype slopes. The plants of agave and tea were planted in different prototype slopes and the corresponding tensile forces were measured with the installed strain gauge in-situ. The study found that the tensile force of tea plants increase with increased root diameter inside the prototype slopes with angle which ranged from 30 to 40°. But, the tensile force of agave roots decreased slightly with increased slope angle. Again, the tensile force increased significantly with increased width-height ratios of agave leaves. The plant agave and tea showed significant results to protect the experimental prototype slopes. Regression relationship between tensile force and root’s diameter of tea and agave plants has been established. Further research can bring positive impact in using such plants in actual natural slopes in order to prevent the landslides.

Key words: Tensile force, agave and tea plants, roots, slope, landslides.

Abbreviation

USM, University Sains Malaysia; Δs, additional cohension