Author(s)

A. S. Colas, J. C. Morel & D. Garnier

Abstract

Over the past few years, there has been a steady increase in the interest in dry-stone walling not only to preserve existing constructions but also to build new ones. Yet, no structural design method has been validated till today. In this study, a simplified model dedicated to dry-stone is propounded. This simulation, implemented in the rigorous framework of yield design homogenization, can meet engineering expectations. First, the model is introduced, and the parameter measurement detailed. Then, the validity of themethod is assessed by comparisons with micro and macro-mechanical methods, and field trials. As a conclusion, possible improvements of the model are discussed. Keywords: dry-stone, masonry, yield design, field trials. 1 Introduction Dry-stone walling is a vernacular and widespread form of construction that can be found in many areas where there is a plentiful supply of raw materials. Drystone constructions rely on the skills of professional masons; they are built by fitting pieces of stone without mortar [1]. Throughout the industrial revolution a very large number of dry-stone edifices have been raised as retaining walls or rural constructions, but in the early 1900s dry masonry has largely been given up on behalf of modern techniques. Nowadays, a large number of these constructions continue to fulfill their mission, more than a century after construction. In France for instance, a study [2] from the Road Department has shown that dry-stone masonry represented 18% of the retaining walls along French main roads. On the

Keywords

dry-stone, masonry, yield design, field trials.