Résumé
Due to the new challenges imposed by sustainable development, the construction industry is having to rethink its activities. The use of natural stone makes it possible, among other things, to respond to environmental challenges facing the building sector. In addition to its good thermo-hydric properties, the potential of natural stone lies in its production which requires less energy than materials such as concrete, and its durability over time which reduces the need for deconstruction and reconstruction, thus excluding the carbon impact associated with these activities. To promote this natural and environmentally friendly material, it is vital to know its multiphysical characteristics. This research work consisted of studying the thermal and hydric properties of local limestone. The data were then used to numerically simulate the hygrothermal coupling behaviour of this material in an environment of variable humidity and temperature. The simulation results are compared with experimental measurements obtained from limestone blocks exposed to variable climatic conditions. The results show that the limestones studied are sensitive to capillarity and are permeable to water vapour, thereby improving indoor air quality and limiting the risk of condensation and mould growth inside the walls. The numerical model accurately predicted the thermal response of the materials studied.