Nanoscratch Test

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The Nanoscratch Test is a technique used to evaluate the wear resistance and adhesion of material surfaces by applying frictional force at the nanoscale to observe the damage behavior of the material. This test provides important information about surface performance and is widely used in the study of coatings, films, and composites.

Introduction

Nanoscratch technology is a precise method used to evaluate the mechanical properties of material surfaces, particularly their wear resistance and adhesion. By applying controlled frictional forces at the nanoscale, this technique allows researchers to observe the damage behavior of various materials, including metals, ceramics, polymers, and coatings. The results provide valuable insights into surface performance, aiding in material selection and optimization across industries such as semiconductor manufacturing, automotive, and aerospace. With its high resolution and sensitivity, nanoscratch technology is essential for advancing material science and engineering applications.

Principle

The nanoscratch test is a surface characterization method used to assess the adhesion, scratch resistance, and mechanical integrity of thin films and coatings. A sharp indenter (usually diamond) moves across the surface under an increasing load, inducing deformation and potential failure.

By monitoring normal and lateral forces, the test identifies critical loads where delamination or cracking occurs. It is especially useful for analyzing multilayer coatings, hard films, and nanocomposites, where interface strength and durability are key.

Samples should have a flat surface, appropriate dimensions (typically a few millimeters to several tens of millimeters), sufficient bonding strength, and suitable hardness to ensure the accuracy of the test.

Test results usually include load vs. scratch depth curves, scratch morphology images, material hardness and elastic modulus, scratch width vs. time data, and damage mode analysis.

Testing multiple samples, ensuring sample uniformity, and maintaining proper storage conditions can enhance the reliability of test results.

This technology offers high resolution and sensitivity, allowing tests to be conducted on small sample areas, making it suitable for analyzing thin films and small-volume materials.

Applicable industries

Applicable Material Types

Hard Coatings: TiN, DLC, CrN, AlTiN, and other wear-resistant or corrosion-resistant coatings
Polymer Films: Medical-grade polymers, biocompatible coatings, packaging films
Oxide/Nitride Layers: SiO₂, Al₂O₃, ZnO, Si₃N₄, and other dielectric or functional thin films
Multilayer Structures: Optical coatings, electrode structures, battery separator coatings
2D/Thin-Layer Materials: Graphene, MoS₂, and other 2D materials
Sol-Gel Coatings: Functional inorganic/organic hybrid films made using low-temperature processes
Paints & Varnishes: Protective and decorative coatings for consumer electronics or automotive parts

Industrial Application

Semiconductors & Microelectronics:Adhesion testing for packaging layers, barrier layers, and photomasks on chips
Medical Devices:Durability of coatings on orthopedic implants, catheters, and other medical devices (e.g., antimicrobial or hydrophilic films)
Energy & Battery:Interface stability between electrodes, electrolyte membranes, and current collectors in lithium-ion batteries
Automotive & Aerospace:Wear and adhesion strength of coatings on engine components, turbine blades, and high-temperature aerospace parts
Optics & Photonics:Scratch resistance of anti-reflective (AR) coatings, anti-fingerprint coatings, and lenses for displays

Technical Parameters

Surface Quality: Flat and smooth surface required. Thin films: roughness < 10 nm Bulk materials: roughness < 1 µm
Sample Size:Width/Diameter: a few mm to several tens of mm
Thickness: tens of nm to a few µm
Bonding Strength: Strong adhesion is essential to prevent delamination during testing.
Material Hardness: Hard materials (metals, ceramics): use diamond indenter Soft materials (polymers, rubbers): use sapphire indenter
Sample Quantity: Multiple samples recommended for reliable, repeatable results.
Storage Conditions: Keep samples protected from humidity, temperature fluctuations, and light prior to testing.

Regulatory testing

Environmental testing

Data analysis

Regulatory testing

Environmental testing

Data analysis

Sample Requirements

Application Case

Example Result

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