Abstract: In this paper, the current status about the tests on swelling strainsof expansive soils is analyzed. Formulas are derived, which can beused to calculate the linear swelling ratio betweenmoisture content and upper load for expansive soils by adopting lateralrestricted swelling experimental data for expansive soils in Ningming section ofNanning-Youyiguan road,in case of lateral confinment and upper loads, basedon the relationship between upper loads and linear swelling ratio, therelationship between upper loads and end moisture content and therelationship betweenprocess moisture content and water absorption content. Some comments are put forward about embankment construction of expressway from Nanning toYouyi gate.