The diverse and complex morphology of loess particles creates various contact patterns, impacting the mechanical properties of loess, and directly influencing the stability and safety of engineering structures in loess regions. In order to explore the effects of realistic loess particle morphology on mechanical behaviors, the discrete element method (DEM) and image processing techniques were employed to investigate both macro and micro mechanical properties, such as cohesion, internal friction angle, mechanical coordination number, and distribution of contact force. The results demonstrate that particle morphology greatly impacts the mechanical properties of loess samples. Samples with realistic particles exhibit higher peak stress, shear modulus, cohesion, internal friction angle and mechanical coordination number compared to those with spherical particles. Particle morphology has a significant effect on particle rotations and fabric anisotropy, while exerting only a minor influence on particle displacement. A comprehensive understanding of the relationship between the particle morphology and mechanical properties of loess samples contributes to enhancing the stability of engineering structures in loess areas.
