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 May 9, 2025)
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PROBING MATERIAL PROPERTIES WITH SHARP INDENTERS: A REVIEW
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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 propertieselastic 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 factorsrate effects and microstructureare 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
Pub Type
Journals
Download Paper
Keywords
sharp indenters, fracture, deformation, modulus, hardness toughness
Citation
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Created January 2, 2012, Updated November 10, 2018