EVALUATION OF SOIL COMPACTION USING AN INTEGRATED APPROACH: EFFECTS OF SHEAR BANDS OF NON-PNEUMATICTIRES

Soil compaction is a critical issue in agriculture, impacting soil structure, fertility, and overall ecosystem health. This study presented an integrated approach to evaluate soil compaction, focusing on the effects of shear bands, which is a composite structure. It is one of the key components of the non-pneumatic tire (NPT). NPTs have gained attention for their potential to reduce soil compaction compared to conventional pneumatic tires. However, the precise mechanisms and extent of their impact on soil behavior, particularly regarding the formation and influence of shear bands, remain underexplored. This research employs a combination of a semi-empirical model and numerical modeling to assess the compaction effects of NPTs. The laboratory tests provided insights into soil behavior under precise testing conditions. Additionally, the validated finite element models of NPTs were conducted to elucidate the formation of interaction characteristics that directly affect soil compaction. The findings contribute to a comprehensive understanding of soil compaction mechanisms induced by NPTs, offering valuable insights for optimizing tire design, particularly regarding the shear band and land management practices to mitigate compaction effects and enhance soil health.