Author(s)

Y. Katz & W. W. Gerberich

Abstract

Nano based material coating technology is frequently proposed for surface modification. In this context, superior mechanical properties are emphasized with beneficial implications on wear or other tribology aspects. Thus partially, the initial condition for further progress along this avenue remains in the exploration of small volume mechanical behavior. Nano particle properties as a "building block" require better understanding for additional developments or applications. For this purpose, the current paper selected silicon particles in the range of 20–50 nm and mechanical tests were performed at an ambient temperature. Mechanical response assisted by contact mechanic methodology and fine features visualization by novel techniques provided quantitative information to be analyzed. It becomes apparent that scale effect argumentations might assist in explaining the distinction between sufficiently fine segments from bulk properties. Keywords: silicon, nano scale, contact mechanics, mechanical response. 1 Introduction Engagement concerning the issue of the actual strength of metallic systems evoked classical considerations particularly vis-à-vis the theoretical values gap. Early investigations [1, 2] emphasized the role of internal or external defects to be dominant variables in shaping or bounding the strength magnitude. With respect to line defects "the whisker" characteristic [3] has been studied introducing significant scale effect on the mechanical response. Studies that intended to modify the material structure in order to achieve unique mechanical properties have been also developed. A relevant example is the field of

Keywords

silicon, nano scale, contact mechanics, mechanical response.