Flat end diamond loading probe for fiber push-out apparatus

Abstract

A novel loading probe for fiber-matrix testing machines is made of diamond and has a truncated cone end for push-in and push-out tests of fibers in a fiber-matrix composite. The diameter of the probe body or shaft is greater than the diameter of the fiber to be pushed and the flat surface where the cone is truncated is at least one-half the diameter of the fiber. The included angle of the truncated cone is in the range of 55° to 90°. A useful compromise included angle is 70°.

I claim: 
     
       1. A loading probe for a fiber push-out apparatus, comprising a diamond probe body having an end in the shape of a truncated cone, wherein the diameter of the probe body is greater than the diameter of the fiber to be pushed, wherein the diameter of the flat surface where the cone is truncated is at least one-half the diameter of the fiber to be pushed, and wherein the included angle of the truncated cone is in the range of 55° to 90°. 
     
     
       2. A method for performing a fiber push-out test on a fiber inside a fiber-matrix composite, comprising the steps of: (a) providing a diamond probe body having an end in the shape of a truncated cone, wherein the diameter of the probe body is greater than the diameter of the fiber, wherein the diameter of the flat surface where the cone is truncated is at least one-half the diameter of the fiber, and wherein the included angle of the truncated cone is in the range of 55° to 90°; and,   (b) pushing the fiber with the flat surface where the cone is truncated.