Indentation-induced localized deformation and elastic strain partitioning in composites at submicron length scale

Three-dimensional spatially resolved strains were mapped in a model NiAl/Mo composite after nanoindentation. The depth-dependent strain distributed in the two phases and partitioned across the composite interfaces is directly measured at submicron length scale using X-ray microdiffraction and compared with a detailed micromechanical stress analysis. It is shown that indentation-induced deformation in the composite material is distinct from deformation expected in a single-phase material. This difference arises in part from residual thermal strains in both phases of the composite in the as-grown state. Interplay between residual thermal strains and external mechanical strain results in a complex distribution of dilatational strain in the Mo fibers and NiAl matrix and is distinct in different locations within the indented area. Reversal of the strain sign (e.g., alternating tensile/compressive/tensile strain distribution) is observed in the NiAl matrix. Bending of the Mo fibers during indentation creates relatively large similar to 1.5 degrees misorientations between the different fibers and NiAl matrix. Compressive strain along the < 0 0 1 > direction reached -0.017 in the Mo fibers and -0.007 in the NiAl matrix. (C) 2010 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.