Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE: A) recently announced a new
method for evaluating the slow deformation of materials under small stresses (a
phenomenon known as "creep") via the use of instrumented indentation.
Available exclusively on the Agilent Nano Indenter G200 platform,
the new technique is simpler, faster and easier than uniaxial creep testing. It
can be used to map the spatial distribution of creep capacity in complex
materials and is insensitive to thermal drift.
"This innovative nanoindentation method further extends the
already impressive utility of our Nano Indenter G200 platform," said Jeff
Jones, general manager for Agilent's nano measurement facility in Chandler,
Ariz. "The unique new capability will immediately improve testing
protocols and increase the use and speed of measurement for our customers in
materials research and development."
The experimentally robust test method allows researchers to
measure strain-rate sensitivity, the most important quantification of creep. It
overcomes problems associated with long testing times by imposing small strain
rates only when the applied force is large. Values acquired on standard
references with the new technique are in agreement with values obtained by others
on similar materials utilizing both instrumented indentation and uniaxial creep
testing. The easy-to-use method is implemented in the Agilent NanoSuite
software package for the G200.
The world's most accurate, flexible and user-friendly instrument
for nanoscale mechanical testing, the G200 utilizes electromagnetic actuation
to achieve unparalleled dynamic range in force and displacement. The G200
enables measurement of Young's modulus and hardness in compliance with ISO
14577, as well as measurement of deformation over six orders of magnitude -
from nanometers to millimeters.
Nanomechanical Systems from Agilent Technologies
Agilent Technologies offers high-precision, modular
nanomeasurement solutions for research, industry and education. Exceptional
worldwide support is provided by experienced application scientists and
technical service personnel. Agilent's leading-edge R&D laboratories ensure
the timely introduction and optimization of innovative and easy-to-use
nanomechanical system technologies.
About
Agilent Technologies
Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE: A) is the world's premier
measurement company and a technology leader in chemical analysis, life
sciences, electronics and communications. The company's 18,700 employees serve
customers in more than 100 countries. Agilent had net revenues of $6.6 billion
in fiscal 2011. Information about Agilent is available at www.agilent.com.