PI Cryo
In-situ SEM nanomechanics at cryogenic temperatures
Quantitative in-situ nanomechanical testing down to -130°C and below
Bruker’s new PI Cryo environmental stage extends quantitative in-situ nanomechanical testing capabilities of the PI 89 SEM PicoIndenter down to -130°C and below. Now with its combination of cryogenic and high temperature options, PI 89 can accurately perform mechanical characterization, including indentation, cantilever bending, and pillar or particle compression, of small-scale samples from one temperature extreme to the other. Since the deformation mechanisms and properties of materials can change dramatically as a function of temperature, this increased capability helps provide critical data for designing new structural materials that operate in extreme conditions.
A flat punch tip aligned with a Nitronic 50 pillar for testing at -140°C (top-left); postmortem image of Nitronic 50 pillar test performed at -140°C (top-right); and comparison of yield strength from pillar tests and H/3 hardness conversion for Nitronic 50 (bottom).
