Author(s)

Gerd Kaupp

University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany.

The iteration-free physical description of pyramidal indentations with closed mathematical equations is comprehensively described and extended for creating new insights in this important field of research and applications. All calculations are easily repeatable and should be programmed by instrument builders for even easier general use. Formulas for the volumes and side-areas of Berkovich and cubecorner as a function of depth are deduced and provided, as are the resulting forces and force directions. All of these allow for the detailed comparison of the different indenters on the mathematical reality. The pyramidal values differ remarkably from the ones of so-called “equivalent cones”. The worldwide use of such pseudo-cones is in severe error. The earlier claimed and used 3 times higher displaced volume with cube corner than with Berkovich is disproved. Both displace the same amount at the same applied force. The unprecedented mathematical results are experimentally confirmed for the physical indentation hardness and for the sharp-onset phase-transi- tions with calculated transition energy. The comparison of both indenters provides novel basic insights. Isotropic materials exhibit the same phase transition onset force, but the transition energy is larger with the cube corner, due to higher force and flatter force direction. This qualifies the cube corner for fracture toughness studies. Pile-up is not from the claimed “friction with the indenter”. Anisotropic materials with cleavage planes and channels undergo sliding along these under pressure, both to the surface and internally. Their volumes add to the depression volume. These volumes are essential for the exemplified pile-up management. Phase-transitions produce polymorph interfaces that are nucleation sites for cracks. Technical materials must be developed with onset forces higher than the highest thinkable stresses (at airliners, bridges, etc.). This requires urgent revision of ISO 14577-ASTM standards.

Closed Mathematical Formulas, Force Direction, Indenter Volumes and Side-Areas, Iteration-less Calculations, Equal Base-Area Cones, Pile-up, Phase-Transition-Onset and -Energy

Kaupp, G. (2021) Volume, Side-Area, and Force Direction of Berkovich and Cubecorner Indenters, Novel Important Insights. Advances in Materials Physics and Chemistry, 11, 212-241. doi: 10.4236/ampc.2021.1111019.