Characterization of mechanical deformation of nanoscale volumes

The mechanical properties of nanoscale volumes and their associated defect structure are key to many future applications in nanoengineered products. In this study, techniques of mechanical testing and microscopy have been applied to better understand the mechanical behavior of nanoscale volumes. Nanoindentation has been used to investigate important mechanical material parameters such as the elastic modulus and hardness for single nanoparticles. New sample preparation methods must be developed to allow the necessary TEM characterization of the inherent and induced defect structure of these nanoparticles. Issues of chemical homogeneity, crystallinity, and defect characteristics at the nanoscale are being addressed in this study. This integration of investigative methods will lead to a greater understanding of the mechanical behavior of nanostructured materials and insights into the nature of defects in materials at the nanoscale.