Numerically assisted nanoindentation analysis

Nanoindenter's tip shape plays a significant role in accurately extracting the mechanical properties of materials from nanoindentation measurements. Since tip imperfections may govern results validity, especially at shallow depth, a new framework for estimating the Young's modulus of materials is presented. Real tip geometry obtained from atomic force microscopy AFM is directly utilized in a FE simulation. The numerical unloading curve is compared to the experimental one and accordingly Young's modulus of the material is estimated. The framework is employed on soda-lime glass, austenitic stainless steel and PMMA samples and it results in Young's modulii that are in good agreement with the bulk values. This new framework minimizes the uncertainties related to the indenter tip and transfers the focus to the material. While it requires more computation time, the framework provides nanoindentation users an added value in accurately measuring their materials' properties.