When I did nanoindentation experiments, I use the universal area function for cone indenter, but the tip I use is sphere in the machine. The universal area function is lacking considering the tip imperfection of a sphere. What outputs will become not reliable due to this reason?
When performing nanoindentation experiments with a spherical tip but using the universal area function for a cone indenter, there are several aspects to consider that can affect the reliability of your results. The universal area function assumes a perfectly conical shape for the indenter tip, which may not accurately represent the actual geometry of your spherical tip. Here are some potential issues that can arise:
1. Contact area determination: The universal area function is designed for conical indenters and may not accurately calculate the contact area when a spherical tip is used. This can lead to errors in estimating the true contact area between the indenter and the sample surface.
2. Indentation depth calculation: The depth of indentation is a critical parameter in nanoindentation experiments. Using the incorrect indenter geometry in your calculations can lead to inaccurate measurements of indentation depth, affecting modulus and hardness calculations.
3. Load-displacement curve interpretation: The load-displacement curve is a primary output of nanoindentation experiments. It provides information about the mechanical properties of the material under test. When the indenter tip geometry does not match the assumed geometry in the analysis, the load-displacement curve may not accurately represent the material's behavior.
4. Hardness and modulus calculations: Nanoindentation experiments often involve the calculation of material properties such as hardness and elastic modulus. Using the wrong tip geometry in your calculations can result in incorrect values for these properties.
5. Data interpretation: When comparing your experimental results to published data or using them for material characterization, it's important to consider the potential inaccuracies introduced by using a spherical tip with a cone-based analysis method.
To address these issues, it is advisable to use an analysis method that is specifically designed for spherical indenters or to account for the tip's geometry in your calculations. Some advanced nanoindentation instruments may have software options that allow you to input the actual tip geometry for more accurate analysis. Alternatively, you can consult with experts in the field or review the literature for methods that have been developed to address the use of non-conical indenters in nanoindentation experiments.
I fully agree with the future doctor - Pranjit Sarkar. You can still try to carry out statistical measurements, with the same cone, and calculate the average value.
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