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PROBING MATERIAL PROPERTIES WITH SHARP INDENTERS: A REVIEW

Published

Author(s)

Brian R. Lawn, Robert F. Cook

Abstract

A review on the use of sharp, fixed-profile indenters as materials probes is presented. Indentation is proposed as a simple but powerful methodology for evaluating basic mechanical properties—elastic modulus, hardness, toughness, etc.—in all classes of materials. Indentation also provides unique insight into fundamental deformation and fracture processes. Of particular interest is the existence of intrinsic size effects as characteristic contact dimensions pass from macro- to micro- to nano-scale dimensions. The utility of indentations as 'controlled flaws' in the context of strength of materials is outlined. The roles of two other important material factors—rate effects and microstructure—are considered. Examples of technological and biological applications are presented as illustrations of the widespread power of the technique. Strengths and limitations of the methodology as a routine testing protocol are discussed.
Citation
Journal of Materials Science
Volume
47

Keywords

sharp indenters, fracture, deformation, modulus, hardness toughness

Citation

Lawn, B. and Cook, R. (2012), PROBING MATERIAL PROPERTIES WITH SHARP INDENTERS: A REVIEW, Journal of Materials Science, [online], https://doi.org/10.1007/s10853-011-5865-1 (Accessed April 19, 2024)
Created January 2, 2012, Updated November 10, 2018