Abstract
A method to measure hoop tensile strength of 1-mm-diameter brittle ceramic spheres was demonstrated through the use of a "C-sphere" flexure strength specimen. This innovative specimen geometry was chosen because a simple, monotonically increasing uniaxial compressive force produces a hoop tensile stress at the C-sphere's outer surface that ultimately initiates fracture. This enables strength quantification and strength-limiting flaw identification of the sphere itself. Such strength information is relevant to design optimization and durability assessments of ceramic fuel particles and breeder/multiplier pebbles for fusion whose surfaces are subjected to tensile stresses caused by thermal gradients, thermal transients, swelling, etc., during their manufacturing or service.
