Loess shear failure micro-mechanisms: insights from 3D microstructural evolution and sensitivity analysis

Using X-ray micro-computed tomography and advanced image processing, we comprehensively quantified the three-dimensional microstructure of intact Malan loess, including particle and pore size, shape, and orientation. We analyzed data from different regions of a triaxially sheared loess sample to track the evolution of these microstructural parameters during deformation. To identify the most responsive indicators of loess failure, we assessed the sensitivity of various microstructural parameters using relative entropy. The detailed results directly link macroscopic behavior to microstructural changes, providing a deeper understanding of loess shear failure mechanisms.