Material scientists often analyze samples with a nanoindenter, which can be operated by simply pressing a tip into a material with a calibrated load and then determining the response of the material to this stimulus.
The tip of the indenter is constructed from a hard material shaped into a particular geometry. Generally, a three-sided pyramid tip made of diamond is used.
The load applied to the sample is meticulously calibrated so that the response force can be employed as a measure of hardness. Following this, the geometry of the ensuing indentation is calculated and examined by utilizing electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy or optical microscopy.
.png)
Figure 1. Quasistatic nanoindents placed precisely on MEMS chip performed using a Hysitron TI 950 TriboIndenter installed with Herzan AVI-350S Active Vibration Control System.
Standard Applications of Nanoindenters
Nanoindenters are used in materials science, failure analysis, manufacturing, MEMS, mechanical engineering, product testing, polymers and tribology.
Nanoindenters: Environmental Challenges
Nanoindenters are unique instruments that use extremely small forces in their measurements, and therefore irrelevant forces from vibration and environmental acoustics can hamper in obtaining accurate results.
The nanoindentation technique is mostly used in combination with other techniques, such as scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy, and thus makes the application susceptible to the sensitivities of other methods.
Conclusion
Nanoindenters should be placed in a noise-free environment and a basic level of vibration control should be used. However, vibration isolation systems that deliver high performance are suitable for demanding applications.
In addition, a soundproof hood or box should be utilized to protect the device from air currents and acoustic noise. Depending on temperature, materials tend to contract and expand and hence thermal variation should be monitored and minimized wherever possible.
About Herzan
Herzan provides high performance environmental solutions for precision research instruments. They include acoustic enclosures, vibration isolation systems, Faraday cages, and site survey tools. Herzan specializes in supporting nanotechnology research, but also offers solutions for product testing, in-vitro fertilization, and many other applications.
Herzan understands that every application and environment is different, so it collaborates with customers to create comprehensive integrated solutions that satisfy their unique demands.
Herzan was founded in 1992 by Ann Scanlan in Orange County, California. Originally, Herzan was established as an American subsidiary of Herz Company Ltd., a Japanese company specializing in vibration control. The name Herzan comes from the amalgamation of 'Herz' and 'Ann'.
.jpg)
This information has been sourced, reviewed and adapted from materials provided by Herzan.
For more information on this source, please visit Herzan.