Properties of asbestos cement products — which of the following statements correctly describe typical behaviour of asbestos–cement sheets and pipes in service?

Introduction / Context:
Asbestos–cement (A–C) products—historically used for roofing sheets, pipes, and cladding—combine cementitious matrices with asbestos fibres. While now restricted in many regions due to health concerns, understanding their engineering behaviour remains relevant for legacy structures and examinations.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• A–C is a fibre-reinforced cement composite with relatively low tensile ductility.
• Environmental factors include humidity cycling and wetting.
• Mechanical performance can be moisture sensitive.

Concept / Approach:

As a cement-based composite with limited ductility, A–C exhibits brittle fracture under tensile or impact loads. Hygrothermal cycling can induce warping or dimensional instability due to differential moisture absorption and drying shrinkage, especially in thin sheets. Prolonged saturation weakens the cement matrix–fibre bond and reduces bending strength. Thus, all three statements reflect known behaviours of asbestos–cement products in service conditions.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Legacy product datasheets cite reduced modulus/strength when wet and caution against impact/point loads; field reports document humidity warpage in roofing sheets.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Selecting only one statement would omit other equally true characteristics; the comprehensive answer is required.

Common Pitfalls:

Assuming fibre reinforcement makes cement ductile; ignoring moisture sensitivity of thin cement composites.

Final Answer:

all the above