Based on the nonlinear model for unsaturated soils

a thermo-nonlinear model for unsaturated expansive soils is presented through modifying the parameters and taking account of thermal effects on deformation of soils. The model consists of two aspects

i.e. the deformation of soil skeleton and the water volume change of unsaturated soils. Total of 18 parameters are involved in this model. All the parameters can be determined using laboratory tests. A series of controlled temperature triaxial tests have been conducted; test results of reconstituted unsaturated bentonite clay are presented. The controlled temperatures are 15℃

30℃

45℃ and 60℃ and the thermal effects on shear strength and Young’s tangent modulus are discussed. The research results show that the specimens with higher temperatures show higher shear strengths and Young’s tangent modulus. The formulas of shear strength and Young’s tangent modulus taking account of temperature are proposed.