Finite deformation of aggregates: physical basis and modelling. CNRS international symposium (SPI and PIRMAT), Ministry of Research and Technology, Solid Mechanics Laboratory, Polytechnic School, Palaiseau, France, dedicated to the memory of Jean Mandel

The Symposium addresses the micro-mechanics of the behavior of metals, rocks, composites, and soils. It aims at predicting the macroscopic large-deformation response of this class of materials. The Symposium sought to bring together scientists working on the micromechanical modelling of the macroscopic response of solids with microstructure. In this manner a forum for the exchange of diverse views was provided, in order to bring into focus the fundamental principles of micromechanical modelling. One paper, dealing with rock mechanics in underground waste facilities, has been selected for INIS and analysed separately