Work

Characterization of Physical, Mechanical, and Shear Properties of Cabbage Stubble and Calibration of Its Discrete Element Method Parameters

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Cabbage is a major leafy vegetable in China, but its post-harvest stubble—characterized by high lignification, a thick primary taproot, well-developed lateral roots, and strong root–soil anchorage—poses significant challenges for mechanical incorporation. To address this, a discrete element method (DEM) model of ‘Zhonggan 21’ cabbage stubble was developed. A geometric model was established using root depth as the primary characteristic dimension. Intrinsic physical properties and contact mechanical parameters were systematically measured. DEM parameters were calibrated against shear test results, yielding the following optimal parameter set: tangential stiffness per unit area of 5.54 × 109 N·m−3, a tangential bond strength of 1.06 × 106 Pa, and a bonding radius coefficient of 1.07. Under this configuration, the simulated peak shear force deviated from the experimental measurement by merely 1.77%. This work delivers a full-scale property profile of cabbage stubble and constructs a validated DEM model, providing a robust foundation for designing stubble incorporation machinery and advancing low-draft, energy-saving tillage equipment to support sustainable vegetable cropping systems.

Source: Agriculture

DOI: 10.3390/agriculture16151600

Authors: Wentao Zhang, Qinzhou Cao, Zhi Li, Ping Jiang

Institution: Hunan Agricultural University

Language: English

Topic: Soil Mechanics and Vehicle Dynamics

Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137