Abstract: A composite specimen for conducting transverse tension strength testing may include a solid cylinder comprising parallel opposing ends, a cylindrical surface extending between and around the parallel opposing ends, and only parallel planar plies extending between and perpendicular to the parallel opposing ends. The parallel planar plies may comprise fibers extending within the parallel planar plies.

Abstract: A composite specimen for conducting transverse tension strength testing may include a solid cylinder comprising parallel opposing ends, a cylindrical surface extending between and around the parallel opposing ends, and only parallel planar plies extending between and perpendicular to the parallel opposing ends. The parallel planar plies may comprise fibers extending within the parallel planar plies.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for tension testing of curved composite specimens are disclosed. In one embodiment, an apparatus for tension-testing first and second curved specimens includes a first end member adapted to be coupled to first end portions of the first and second curved specimens, and a second end member adapted to be coupled to second end portions of the first and second curved specimens. An approximately rigid member is disposed between the first and second end members. The approximately rigid member is adapted to be disposed between the first and second curved specimens and has a pair of curved outer surfaces adapted to be engaged against at least a portion of each of the first and second curved specimens between the first and second end portions thereof.

Abstract: An inexpensive method of forming close tolerance holes in composites utilizing the B-stage characteristics of those composites. The holes are formed by assembling the composite structure, B-staging the composite material, cutting or drilling undersized holes in the B-staged material, inserting appropriate male forming pins, dies or mandrels in the holes, completing the curing of the composite structure with pins in place and then removing the pins to leave high quality, close tolerance holes in the composite structure.