Excellence in Nanomechanical Test Instrumentation

Polymer Applications

NanoTest capability includes:-

  • Nanotribology
  • Testing in fluid environment: in situ monitoring of environmental degradation processes
  • Ultra-high strain rate testing with the nano-impact module
  • Viscoelastic property measurement (loss modulus, storage modulus, tan delta)
  • Ultra-low load tests with the NTX Controller
  • Nano-scale fatigue testing
  • Elevated temperature nanoindentation

Thermal stability of the testing instrument is key to meaningful measurements of the viscoelastic properties of time-dependent materials. At room temperature the thermal drift of the NanoTest is very low, typically an order of magnitude less than some other commercial systems. This is equally critical when testing at elevated temperatures. This is due to the unique design for elevated temperature testing that relies on separate heating (and active temperature control) of both probe and sample ensuring no heat flow occurs during the indentation process.

Case study: Nanoindentation in fluid

The mechanical properties of biological and polymeric samples often vary considerably when in a fluid environment compared to testing under normal lab conditions (typically ~50% relative humidity). To understand their properties and behaviour in fluid media it is therefore necessary to test under these conditions rather than to attempt to infer from measurements in normal lab ambient conditions.

To meet this need, the testing capability of the NanoTest has been extended by the development of a fluid cell allowing nanoindentation, nano-scratch and nanowear testing of samples fully immersed in fluids.

Further Reading
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