Inference of mechanical properties from instrumented depth sensing indentation at tiny loads and indentation depths

Different hardness measures as Vickers, Brinell and Meyer hardness are discussed with respect to their physical interpretation. Meyer hardness is found to be best suited as a measure of plastic properties. The outline of a depth sensing nanoindentation experiment is described, and particular emphasis is given to the correct deduction of the contact area from indenter penetration data. Experimental complications, as phase transformations, finite machine compliance, thermal and piece drift, and sample creep are detailed with, and their impact on the calculation of hardness and elastic modulus is shown. Furthermore the onset of yielding in dependence on critical load, indenter curvature and yield strength is discussed.