Abstract: Computer controlled fiber coating chemical vapor deposition system and method for generating substantially uniform coated fibers by maintaining chemical vapor deposition reactor temperature in real time. Reactor temperature is monitored by in situ temperature sensors. Reactor temperature is sensitive to oxygen levels and oxygen levels within the reactor are varied in response to temperature sensor data. Closed loop process control software maintains reactor temperature at a preselected value resulting in predictable fiber coatings of a preselected thickness, crystallinity and chemistry.

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.degree. to 90.degree.. A useful compromise included angle is 70.degree..