3R7. Nanoindentation. Mechanical Engineering Series. - AC Fischer-Cripps (CSIRO, Bradfield Rd, West Lindfield, Lindfield, NSW, 2070, Australia). Springer-Verlag, New York. 2002. 197 pp. ISBN 0-387-95394-9. $89.95.
Reviewed by DW Nicholson (Dept of Mech, Mat, and Aerospace Eng, Univ of Central Florida, PO Box 162450, Orlando FL 32816).
Nanoindentation offers an introduction, with some depth, to measurement of mechanical properties at a very fine scale, for example very thin hard coatings. It is intended “for those entering the field for the first time and to act as a reference for those already conversant with the technique.” The current reviewer is not aware of other monographs covering the same subject matter and scope. The monograph is not just descriptive, but emphasizes quantitative models for indentation stresses, especially those based on contact mechanics. Coverage includes pressure distributions under Berkovich, Vickers, and other indenter geometries used in nanoindenter instruments. The measurement of elastic stiffness and hardness is emphasized, but there is also some discussion of fracture toughness, film adhesion, friction, and detection of phase changes. Integration of nanoindentation and atomic force microscopy is briefly mentioned. There are a few brief comparisons of the contact stress models with finite element analysis, which is otherwise not addressed.
Models useful in data analysis are explained. Experimental difficulties, such as rounding of indenter tips, are enumerated, and methods for compensating the errors in data analysis are described. A selective survey of instruments is included—judging by the references it appears to be up-to-date as of 2000. A thoughtful exposition is given of the proposed ISO standard for nanoindentation. Several examples of published nanoindentation studies are presented, in what might be considered case studies.
Nanoindentation is well organized and clearly written. It is well edited, and is pleasing to the eye. Figures are clear, well labeled and well explained. The current reviewer is very sympathetic with the emphasis on contact mechanics. Within the mechanical engineering community, the monograph is likely to be of particular interest to tribologists. The monograph should certainly be included in library collections on nanotechnology.
