STRENGTH OF GLASS AND GLASS FIBERS

The article provides a selective review on strength of glass and glass fiber, covering effects of surface flaw and surface hydrolysis on the usable strength of glass (USG). Application of Griffith-Inglis-Orowan theory on fracture of solids is demonstrated, elucidating importance of stress-assisted hydrolytic effect on glass USG and associated change in glass surface energy. The fundamental understanding of glass fracture supports critical needs for development of new glasses and new durable and/or resin compatible hydrophobic coatings to significantly improve USG of glass and fiberglass products, respectively.