Finite Element-Based Simulation Analysis of Wetland Plant Mechanics

Despite tidal action, which is influenced by sea level rise, having a substantial impact on plant communities, salt marsh plant communities in coastal wetlands also act as a coastal zone barrier. Phragmites australis and Spartina alterniflora were selected for the experiment in the Yellow River Delta wetland. The mechanical characteristics of the plants in the Yellow River Delta were investigated by field sampling, and the mechanical experimental data were used to simulate plant stresses under natural conditions using the ANSYS model based on finite element theory. The results are as follows: Assuming that the 2 plants have the same stem diameter, the deformation of S. alterniflora is greater than that of P. australis under both static tension and pressure conditions, confirming the phenomenon that the P. australis material has stronger strength resistance properties. When this model was applied to the force analysis in the natural state, it was discovered that the material strength attribute of P. australis is higher than that of S. alterniflora. From the perspective of morphology and structure, the stout stem of S. alterniflora can greatly alleviate the stress of itself under external force and greatly reduce the invasion effect of external force because field conditions are limited and do not reflect immediate mechanical feedback. The model simulation provides a way to accurately and efficiently obtain the mechanical action of plant body when discussing the mechanical action similar to wave action on plant stem and to explain some ecological phenomena from the perspective of mechanics.

Automated summary

Despite the impact of sea level rise on tidal action, salt marsh plant communities in coastal wetlands also act as a barrier against coastal zone. The mechanical characteristics of Phragmites australis and Spartina alterniflora in the Yellow River Delta wetland were investigated through field sampling and ANSYS model simulation. The results showed that P. australis has stronger resistance properties than S. alterniflora, as its deformation was smaller under both tension and pressure conditions. The stout stem of S. alterniflora can effectively alleviate stress caused by external forces and reduce the invasion effect, providing insight into ecological phenomena from a mechanical perspective.