Influence of Super Absorbent Polymer on Root Characteristics and Anchorage of Amorpha fruticosa on Rocky Slope

Super absorbent polymer (SAP), known as a water retention agent, has a high capacity for water absorption, which can help enhance the soil structure. This paper studied the effects of SAP dosages on the root characteristics and anchorage of Amorpha fruticosa on rock slopes. The internal relationship between root growth effect and soil was discussed, and a specific reference was provided for the rational application of SAP on slopes. Using the pull-out and tensile resistance tests, we systematically studied the changes of soil properties, root distribution, root tensile strength, and root anchorage under six different SAP dosages. The results indicated that: (1) With the increase in SAP dosage, the natural soil water content and water content after 24 h of watering increased significantly, whereas the contents of TN, TP, and TK decreased dramatically. (2) With the increase in SAP dosage, the amount and length of first-order and secondary lateral roots decreased significantly, and there was no significant difference in diameter. The amount of downslope first-order and unembedded secondary lateral roots is greater than upslope. The amount of upslope embedded secondary lateral roots is greater than in downslope. (3) Tensile strength: embedded secondary root > non-embedded secondary root > first-order lateral root; upslope root > downslope root. (4) With the increase in SAP dosage, the plant anchorage drops noticeably. This study concluded that the significant addition of SAP could enhance the tensile strength of upslope embedded secondary lateral roots but would adversely affect soil nutrients, root distribution, and root anchorage. The addition of SAP in this test had no significant effect on improving slope stability. From the perspective of reinforcement capacity, we cannot blindly pursue the survival rate and other high dosage use of water retention agents to increase the risk of slope destabilization.

Automated summary

This study investigated the effects of super absorbent polymer (SAP) on the root characteristics and anchorage of Amorpha fruticosa on rock slopes. The results showed that the addition of SAP could enhance the tensile strength of uphill embedded secondary lateral roots but had adverse effects on soil nutrients, root distribution, and root anchorage.