High-speed nanoindentation mapping: A review of recent advances and applications

• Published in: Current opinion in solid state & materials science 2023-10, Vol.27 (5), p.101107, Article 101107
• Main Authors: Rossi, Edoardo, Wheeler, Jeffrey M., Sebastiani, Marco
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Advanced materials characterization; High-speed nanoindentation; Mechanical microscopy; Properties maps
• ISSN: 1359-0286
• DOI: 10.1016/j.cossms.2023.101107

[Display omitted] •High-speed nanoindentation mapping (HSNM) as key-enabling technology to support the design, synthesis and characterization of advanced/complex materials is reviewed.•The main experimental features and critical issues of HSNM in comparison with traditional quasi-static nanoindentation protocols are discussed.•The combination of high-speed nanoindentation mapping with other microscopy and spectroscopy methods for multi-modal correlative applications is reviewed.•The relevance of HSNM for selected classes of materials is discussed, including (i) additively manufactured metals, (ii) advanced alloys, (iii) composite materials and cement, (iv) coatings for industrial components and energy/transportation, and (v) natural materials.•Depth-resolved HSNM protocols are introduced and feature perspectives given. High-Speed Nanoindentation Mapping (HSNM) has been recently developed and established as a novel enabling technology for fast and reliable assessment of small-scale mechanical properties of heterogeneous materials over large areas. HSNM allows for one complete indentation cycle per second, including approach, contact detection, load, unload, and movement to the nth indent location, thus enabling high-resolution, spatially resolved hardness (H) and elastic modulus (E) mapping. This article reviews the recent advancements in HSNM and its application to support the design, synthesis, and characterization of advanced materials, potentially impacting the ongoing digital and green transitions. A comprehensive review is given of (a) the main experimental features and critical issues of the protocols in comparison with traditional quasi-static nanoindentation, (b) the advanced data analysis tools employed, and (c) the combination with other microscopy and spectroscopy methods for multi-technique correlative applications. Finally, the relevance of HSNM for selected classes of materials is discussed, including (i) additively manufactured metals, (ii) advanced alloys, (iii) composite materials and cement, highlighting the potential for matrix-reinforcement mechanical characterization and optimization routes, (iv) coatings for industrial components and energy/transportation, discussing damage progression identification at the micro-structural level, and (v) natural materials. Ultimately, future perspectives are presented and discussed.