The experiment in mechanics provides first observation, understanding the phenomena and the possible establishment of models. These models require experimental input data (parameters) and validations. Ultimately products from predictions / dimensioning are also tested. In this context, optical methods for the characterization of materials and structures (photomechanics) are of great interest. The work presented in this thesis falls within this scope and emphasizes the two main themes of research I developed: (A) full-field measurements by digital image correlation (DIC) and its use for the behavior analysis and the mechanical characterization of materials, and (B) optical fiber sensors for monitoring composite manufacturing processes (in the case of restricted measurements without visual access). The first part of the thesis presents my personal file summarizing my general activities as an assistant professor at the Ecole Mines Albi. The second part presents my research activities around these two themes. The first theme is divided in three main areas of research: (A1) full-field kinematic measurements by DIC and metrological characterization, (A2) characterization of materials behaviors using DIC measurements, and (A3) inverse identification of constitutive parameters from statically indeterminate tests and measurements by DIC. The second theme is divided in two main areas of research: (B1) the measurement of temperature and strains by fiber Bragg grating sensors applied to the monitoring of composite manufacturing processes, and (B2) the measurement of the conversion degree by Fresnel refractometer. The thesis ends with a general overview and some research perspectives.
