Alberto Leonardi

Dec 2, 2024 | biorxiv.org | James Le Houx |Daniel Fletcher |Alberto Leonardi |Katherine Williams

AbstractSoil compaction and escalating global drought increase soil strength and stiffness. It remains unclear which plant root biomechanical mechanisms/traits enable growth in these harsh conditions. Here, we combine synchrotron X-ray computed tomography with spatially resolved X-ray diffraction to characterize the biomechanics of a replica root-soil system.

Oct 3, 2024 | biorxiv.org | Daniel Fletcher |Alberto Leonardi |Katherine Williams |James Le Houx

AbstractSoil compaction and increased global drought enhance soil mechanical strength and stiffness, which poses threat to soil health and ultimately adversely impacts society. Despite these restrictive conditions, some plant roots are able to grow under these harsh environments. This study was formed to develop a proof of concept measurement system that could be used to quaantify local plant biomechanical pressures during growth in in-situ assays.