Nano Indenter: the nanomechanical testing facility
The nanomechanical testing facility (NanoTest) is a high precision instrument for determination of the mechanical properties of:
- component materials (e.g. particles, nanotubes, hollow spheres)
- thin layers
- different phases or grains within a polished material or composite
The NanoTest is presently commissioned to conduct micro (0.1-20N) and nano (10mN-500mN) indentations - to measure the hardness and modulus of materials and assemblies. Load control extends the capabilities for creep and stress relaxation.
Nanopositioning offers investigation of specific locations (with a resolution of 2 nanometres) or guides the location for a map to be made of surface mechanical properties.
A scanning module offers capabilities in profilometry, surface roughness statistics, scratch testing and determination of the co-efficient of friction.
The environment is a critical variable - so strict control of humidity and temperature is offered. Testing can also be conducted in a liquid cell.
Developments
We are presently investigating the ability to perform a tensile test and determine the bond strength of 40-60 micron sized discs attached to a surface from microdeposition.
The nanoindentor can be readily removed and replaced with a plate to perform a compression test. This capability is not presently being employed.
An extension to the nanomechanical testing will be to test at higher temperatures in inert gas. If you have an interest in this feature, please make an inquiry.
Enquiries
Dr Daniel Riley
E:
driley@unimelb.edu.au