Strength increase of silica glass fibers by surface stress relaxation--A new mechanical strengthening method.

The article describes a method for strengthening silica glass fibers. Topics discussed include strength level of silica glass fiber treated by heat at various temperatures under different levels of tensile stresses, use of a two-point bend test to examine the effects of heat treatment on fiber strength and use of Fourier-transform infrared reflection (FTIR) to measure the effects of stress on glass structure. Also discussed is the process of surface stress relaxation at low temperatures.