Microstructural weathering of sedimentary rocks by freeze-thaw cycles: Experimental study of state and transfer parameters

The frost sensitivity of a rock is resulting from the combined action of processes linked to porous network characteristics (state parameters) and to the way water flows into this porous network (transfer parameters), our study was thus about the influence of these parameters on frost weathering of rocks. Sedimentary rocks often found on buildings (limestone and sandstone) and consequently submitted to temperature variations have been selected. State and transfer parameters have been measured for sample characterization and the follow-up of weathering during freeze thaw cycles. The coupled influence of a state parameter (dynamic modulus of elasticity) and a transfer parameter (water permeability), i.e. between rock skeletal strength and voids connection, has thus been discussed. (C) 2010 Academie des sciences. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.