Toggle Menu
Application Notes
Dynamic imaging, also known as stiffness mapping, on nanoindentation systems is a relatively new technique that expands the capabilities for detecting surface defects and fractures that ordinarily can not be resolved by topographical imaging. The sensitivity in the measurement of stiffness to small changes in contact area enables a technique that provides stark contrast in surface features. Using the measured stiffness data and assuming the applicability of Hertz’s assumptions for elastic contact theory, these stiffness maps can also be converted into mechanical properties maps for properties such as elastic modulus. This article carefully examines the assumptions associated with Hertz’s elastic contact theory and details how a stiffness map, collected through contact scanning, can be converted into an elastic modulus map. It is shown that, while it is theoretically possible to convert a stiffness map into a mechanical properties map, the assumptions are numerous and often invalid for most interesting samples. Carbon iber and fused silica samples are used in this article for detailing the value of dynamic imaging for the detection of surface features that ordinarily cannot be imaged using standard scanning techniques of nanoindenter systems.
×
Please have a salesperson contact me.
*Indicates required field
Thank you.
A sales representative will contact you soon.
