Novel analysis for nanoindentation size effect using strain gradient plasticity

Abstract

A model describing nanoindentation as plastic deformation resulting from a strain gradient is investigated. Using a simplified indentation model, the effective strain and effective strain gradient for indentation depth are derived. To validate the proposed model, solutions for depth-dependent hardness of Ag, Al, Cu and Ni are compared with experiments. (c) 2005 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.