Mechanics of load transfer from matrix to fiber under flexural loading in a glass matrix composite using microfluorescence spectroscopy

Microfluorescence spectroscopy is used to measure the nature of stress transfer from matrix to fiber in a unidirectional fiber composite. A hybrid SiC fiber reinforced transparent glass matrix composite containing a few sapphire sensor fibers is developed. Sapphire fiber is used as a probe to generate fluorescence signal to measure stress in the fiber. The measured nature of load sharing by the fiber under flexural loading is compared with analytical predictions.