Pathologies of concrete in Saint-Vincent Neo-Byzantine Church and Pauchot reinforced artificial stone

Reinforced concrete is a key element of the architectural evolution and has been specifically involved in the development of Catholic Church architecture, particularly during the second part of the XXth century.This article focuses on the Saint-Vincent Church, Liege district, Belgium. With concrete as major building material, this was built in only 20 months, from 1928 to 1930. This monumental building, from Neo Byzantine style, however presents some degradations. A visual inspection, as well as non destructive and laboratory tests, are presented and analyzed. They help to make a clear diagnosis and to assess hypothesis on the real state of this high-quality architectural building. Moreover, specific investigations have been realized on a special mortar used for wall construction: Pauchot reinforced artificial stone.

► Concrete in architectural monuments. ► Pauchot reinforced artificial stone. ► Carbonation and spalling. ► Pathology and diagnosis of concrete.