Single element test by using Dia-Stron A testing instrument
from Dia-Stron Ltd. (Andover, UK) was used to
measure the force-elongation characteristics of the fibres.
The individual elements are glued to reduce the influence of
clamping and tested at a gauge length of 3.2 mm. The crosssectional
area of each element is measured by means of a
laser beam. The sample is then automatically transferred to
the tensile testing system. After the tensile test, the sample
containers are removed and the next samples are tested
automatically. Ninety individual elements are prepared in
advance and are inserted into the system automatically by
the auto sampler. The software determines the strength of