A new technology for nanohardness measurements: principle and applications

A nanoindentation device has been developed allowing the application of forces ranging between a few micronewtons and 100 mN with nanoindentation capabilities. The apparatus offers also very accurate positioning in the directions through the use of a high resolution tridirectional piezoelectric actuator. One of the main interests of this device is its capabability to allow fast and precise measurements in normal laboratory environment, making nanoindentation testing as simple to use as conventional hardness testing. After a short presentation of the device and its working principle, some of the methods used to derive the mechanical properties of the materials are presented and illustrated by experimental curves. Interesting features, such as the micro yielding of different materials under low applied forces, are also presented. Materials mentioned include copper and magnesium oxide.