Nano-indentation response of ultrahighmolecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE): A detailed analysis

Tanveer Iqbal, S. S. Camargo, Saima Yasin, Ujala Farooq, Ahmad Shakeel*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleScientificpeer-review

7 Citations (Scopus)
47 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Nano-indentation, a depth sensing technique, is a useful and exciting tool to investigate the surface mechanical properties of a wide range of materials, particularly polymers. Knowledge of the influence of experimental conditions employed during nano-indentation on the resultant nano-mechanical response is very important for the successful design of engineering components with appropriate surface properties. In this work, nano-indentation experiments were carried out by selecting various values of frequency, amplitude, contact depth, strain rate, holding time, and peak load. The results showed a significant effect of amplitude, frequency, and strain rate on the hardness and modulus of the considered polymer, ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). Load-displacement curves showed a shift towards the lower indentation depths along with an increase in peak load by increasing the indentation amplitude or strain rate. The results also revealed the strong dependence of hardness and modulus on the holding time. The experimental data of creep depth as a function of holding time was successfully fitted with a logarithmic creep model (R2 ≥ 0.98). In order to remove the creeping effect and the nose problem, recommended holding times were proposed for the investigated polymer as a function of different applied loads.

Original languageEnglish
Article number795
Number of pages15
JournalPolymers
Volume12
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Apr 2020

Keywords

  • Creep
  • Hardness
  • Modulus
  • Nano-indentation
  • Ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Nano-indentation response of ultrahighmolecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE): A detailed analysis'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this