5443.2:
Nanoindentation for mechanical properties and fracture of nanostructured materials
Abstract
Mechanical properties of nanostructured materials tailored as nanocomposites, multilayers, and functionally gradient thin films will be studied both experimentally by means of depth sensing nanoindentation measurement methods and theoretically using atomistic theory and computer simulation utilising multiscale-modeling approach. The goal is to replace the continuum analysis and phenomenological understanding of the tribology with specific nano-scale mechanisms and molecular models adapted for behaviour description of nanostructured materials. The objectives include measuring the fracture toughness, interfacial fracture strength and critical elongation of nanolayers and nanocomposite thin films based on TixAl1-xCyN1-y used in cutting tools, as well as thin gold layers on hard nickel and titanium nitride coatings used for decorative and electrical contact applications.