SINGLE-FIBER PULL-OUT FROM A MICROCOMPOSITE TEST

Technical details and statistical analysis methods for a new fiber pul l-out technique, single-fiber pull-out from a microcomposite, are disc ussed. The technique has been proved to be a versatile tool for the st udy of fiber/matrix interfacial properties for various fiber/matrix sy stems. The specimen geometry can be controlled by adjusting the distan ce between the two plates, the tension on the fibers, and the amount o f matrix applied. Appropriate statistical analysis is crucial for corr ect interpretation of the experimental results. A regression analysis using fiber volume fraction as an additional independent variable is r ecommended to detect the change of the interfacial shear strength for different samples.