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Determination of the elastic modulus of microscale ceramic particles via nanoindentation

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  03 March 2011

J.W. Leggoe*
Affiliation:
Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas Tech University, Box 43121, Lubbock, Texas 79409
*
a)Address all correspondence to this author.e-mail: Jeremy.Leggoe@ttu.edu
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Abstract

Nanoindentation of the reinforcement in a particulate reinforced metal matrix composite (PR MMC) enables direct investigation of reinforcement properties within the finished material. Mismatch between the elastic moduli of the reinforcement and matrix creates a “secondary indentation” effect, whereby the stiffer reinforcement particles themselves “indent” the more compliant matrix. A finite-element investigation was undertaken to quantify the additional penetration arising under secondary indentation for spherical and cylindrical particles. Modification of Sneddon’s equation for a flat punch by a scalar particle shape factor provided an accurate estimate of the additional penetration. The modified equation was combined with the analysis of Field and Swain to extract the particle elastic modulus from results obtained using a spherical indenter under a multiple partial-unloading indentation regime. The resulting methodology was used to determine the elastic moduli of silicon carbide particles and MicralTM microspheres in two aluminum-matrix PR MMCs.

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Articles
Copyright
Copyright © Materials Research Society 2004

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References

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