Concrete on Cruise Ships

Seeking to optimize the layers poured over metal plates, Chantiers de l’Atlantique asked Capacités experts in geomaterials and civil engineering structures to analyze and compare the performance of four cementitious materials, in terms of mechanical strength (bend and compression), porosity, durability and density.
Each material was first studied in a laboratory with the aim of determining its properties relevant to bond strength, resistance to shrinkage and restrained shrinkage.

The plastic-state properties were also measured, taking account of air content and fluidity – the finished product would have to remain light and perform well, even if applied in a thin, 2 cm layer.
After these laboratory tests, the experts went on site to analyze how the materials behaved during the application phase.
All findings were given to Chantiers de l’Atlantique in a report comparing the characteristics and properties of the formulations studied.

To successfully complete this project, the Capacités’ experts benefited from support and technical equipment from the GEM laboratory (Research Institute for Civil and Mechanical Engineering), joint research unit of Université de Nantes, Centrale Nantes engineering school and CNRS (The French National Centre for Scientific Research).