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This paper presents a methodology for probabilistic assessment of masonry vaults bearing capacity with the consideration of existing defects. A comprehensive methodology and software package have been developed and adapted to inspection requirements. First, the mechanical analysis model is explained and validated by showing a good compromise between computation time and accuracy. This compromise is required when probabilistic approach is considered, as it requires a large number of mechanical analysis runs. To model the defect, an inspection case is simulated by considering a segmental vault. As the inspection data is often insufficient, the defect position and size are considered to be unknown. As the NDT results could not provide useful and reliable information, it is therefore decided to take samples with the obligation to minimize as much as possible their number. In this case the main difficulty is to know on which segment the coring would be mostly efficient. To find out, all possible positions are studied with the consideration of one single core. Using probabilistic approaches, the distribution function of the critical load has been determined for each segment. The results allow to identify the best segment for vault inspection.

International audience; This paper presents a new approach for understanding localized compressive behavior perpendicular to the grain based on beams subjected to three-point bending. It was intended to take into account the coupling between compressive stresses perpendicular to the grain due to support reactions and shear stresses. To validate this, model, results of compression tests have been examined. The digital image correlation (DIC) method has been applied in order to analyze the deformation fields in support areas. The tests allow confirming the presence of spreading effect in the vicinity of support areas according to the DIC method. An analytical formulation has therefore been proposed to quantify distribution versus increasing compressive strength perpendicular to the grain, including shear effects. A scale effect and support conditions have also been highlighted using three different geometries and two types of tests.

International audience; In building construction, geopolymer binder or mortar can interact with the structural materials and thus modify the binder formation mechanisms. In a geopolymer binder, the availability and amount of siliceous species is a preponderant parameter influencing the nature of networks formed after consolidation. In this study, the interactions between the binder and structural materials (wood and earth bricks) were investigated by 29Si magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance (MAS NMR) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) during and after the consolidation. Then, the effect of the amount and nature of the siliceous species available in the reaction medium were analyzed. According to the siliceous species available, it is possible to form different types of materials (hardening or sedimented materials). By corroborating these results with MAS NMR and FTIR analyses, a formation scheme of the binder in contact with the materials was proposed.

International audience; In this paper an interface model accounting for roughness and micro-cracks is presented and applied to masonry-like structures. The model is consistently derived by coupling a homogenization approach and arguments of asymptotic analyses. A numerical procedure is introduced and numerical results, based on a finite element formulation, are successfully compared with experimental data , obtained on masonry samples undergoing to shear tests. Finally, a parametric numerical analysis is proposed, highlighting the influence of the roughness features on the interface response.

International audience; The aim of this study was to model the mechanical behavior of interfaces in masonry structures. In the first part, the characteristics of the materials and interfaces involved are determined experimentally. In the second part, a model based on the adhesion intensity is developed. This model can be used to describe the interfaces between mortar and full or hollow bricks and to describe the damage occurring in the mortar. The mechanical behavior predicted by this model is compared with previously obtained experimental data. The model is then tested in the case of some classical masonry structures (small walls, diagonal compression tests).