This standard specifies the method for determining the strength-giving properties of asbestos fibres for use in asbestos-cement products. It details the procedure for preparing standard test specimens of asbestos-cement and determining their modulus of rupture through a flexural strength test.
Method for determining strength-giving properties of asbestos fibre
Quick Reference Values
Standard specimen dimensions160 mm x 40 mm x 6 mm
Curing period for specimens28 days in water
Number of test specimens6
Moulding pressure for specimen31.4 MPa
Span for flexural strength test140 mm
Key Formulas
Modulus of Rupture (R) = (3 * P * l) / (2 * b * d^2) — Where P is breaking load, l is span, b is width, and d is thickness.
Practical Notes
This standard is effectively obsolete for new construction due to the widespread ban and severe health hazards (carcinogenic properties) associated with asbestos. Its modern application is primarily in forensic engineering or historical material analysis.
Handling of asbestos fibres requires extreme caution, specialized containment facilities, and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent inhalation of fibres.
The 'strength-giving property' is quantified as the Modulus of Rupture (flexural strength) of a standard specimen made with the fibre.