Indentation of materials as a new method of micromechanical testing

Abstract

The method of local loading (MLL) with a rigid indentor was used for the micromechanical testing of materials. This method enabled the construction of σ-∈ deformation curves, and determination of strength and plasticity characteristics, Young modulus, and work hardening. Considering the earlier described methods to determine fracture toughness, ductile-brittle transition temperature, and anisotropy of mechanical properties, MLL can be viewed as a universal method for investigating the mechanical properties of materials. The mechanical properties of brittle materials (including ceramics), thin coatings, phase components of composite materials and of inhomogeneous structures whose properties vary along the cross-section can be determined only by MLL.