Validation of Semi-empirical Models for the Prediction of Swelling Stress for Compacted Unsaturated Expansive Soils

Unsaturated swelling soil behaviour is governed by the matric suction, thus predetermination of stress for expansive unsaturated requires rigorous procedures. However, some equations assume full saturation soil, which leads to over-design infrastructure. This study focused on validation predictive models that correlate suction with other properties. Three were developed, and independent data used developed models. The predicted values compared randomly selected from literature. Series initial studies include determination basic characterization along mineralogical compositions conducted determine their geotechnical properties corresponding degree expansiveness. replicated soils also studied using filter paper techniques obtain soil's parameters. Based obtained experimental results, three a mathematical software package (NCSS11). Independent group final year students working response at engineering Laboratory University Johannesburg validation. showed good agreement data, having coefficient (R2) 0.858, 0.931, 0.890 Eq. 4, 5, 6, respectively. Compared literature, recorded R2 0.796 0.636 an average variance 0.097 0.257 correlation variables expansion represented demonstrated proportionality moisture capacity drying wetting path curves. Results suggest can reasonably predict compacted high values.