Many mechanical tests of composite materials require the compression loading of a test fixture. These include not only compression test methods, but also many shear, flexure, curved-beam strength, ...

I noted in a 2005 column (see "Current compression test methods" under “Editor's Pick,” at top right) that there are three basic methods of loading a composite material test specimen in compression: ...

Materials testing is a well-established technique used to determine the physical and mechanical properties of raw materials and components from a human hair to steel, composite materials and ceramics.