Abstract

vi

1.

Introduction

1

2.

Specimens for Fracture Studies

1

3.

Evaluation of Strength and Thermal Shock Resistance

2

3.1

O-Ring Compression Test

2

3.2

In-Situ Fiber Strength Evaluation

4

3.3

Burst Testing

5

3.4

Thermal Shock Testing

6

4.

Evaluation of Thermal Fatigue Behavior

8

5.

Stress Analysis

10

5.1

Geometry

11

5.2

Mechanical Properties

11

5.2.1

Axial Tensile Testing of Composite without Filter Element

11

5.2.2

Burst Testing with an Internal Plug

14

5.2.3

O-Ring Bending Tests

18

5.2.3.1

O-Ring Bending Test of Composite without Filter Element

19

5.2.3.2

O-Ring Bending Test of Composite with a Filter Element

22

5.3

Thermal-Shock Effects

23

6.

Summary

25

7.

Acknowledgements

26

8.

References

26

9.

Appendix A:  Determination of Membrane and Bending Stiffness of Composite

27

10.

Appendix B:  Effects of Friction on Burst Tests with Internal Plug

35