From Nature to Engineering: Pull-out Behaviors of Tree Root-inspired Anchors

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Tree roots' ability to provide mechanical stability has inspired engineers to apply these principles to geotechnical structures, such as ground anchors and foundations. This paper reviews exemplary studies on the pullout behavior of root-inspired anchors and the associated load transfer mechanisms. The research first presents the reviews of pullout tests of natural orchard trees, which were 3D imaged to capture their architectural characteristics. Using these models, a range of root-inspired anchor designs was developed, varying from simplified analogs to complex natural root systems. A centrifuge study examined pullout behaviors of the 3D printed anchors at elevated g-levels with material stiffness and embedment depths as variables. Concurrently, transparent soil modeling allowed visualizing the pullout behavior of flexible and elongated root branches. As a general rule, pullout capacity increases with greater radial extension, higher material stiffness, and deeper embedment. Results further show that anchors can exhibit either rigid or flexible pullout behavior depending on branch thickness, material stiffness, and overburden stress. These findings provide insight into the interplay between mechanical performance, material characteristics, and material efficiency for the design of tree root-inspired anchor.

2025 International Conference on Bio-mediated and Bio-inspired Geotechnics (ICBBG2025)

General session: Bio-inspired methods for infrastructure construction