Nanoindentation is an established technique following ISO standards and recommendations. Most academic users label this procedures “traditional nanoindentation” and are often using non-standard procedures and conditions.
The sm@rt 500 nanoindenter is designed to offer a broad range of force, speed and travel. The sensor offers a low noise floor, it can be used in the µN force range up to 800 mN using a highly linear electromagnetic actuator. The displacement range of the shaft is 100 µm for best performance. The z-range for measurements can be extended to several mm, using the z-motor during or in between tests.
The force can be generated bidirectionally, enabling tensile testing with the same hardware.
This quasi-static force can be modulated with dynamic forces. The dynamic force range spans the entire force range up to +- 800 mN. The demodulation of the current displacement amplitude and phase is done by digital signal processing with no external hardware.
Sm@rt cubes are optional sample stages to add further functions to the nanoindenter. The possibilities for material testing can be extended by heating or cooling of the samples, or by controlling the humidity level around the sample during testing. These parameters are particularly important for polymers and bio-related materials. The control of these smart cubes is integrated in the test flow for easy adjustment of the ambient conditions.