Mapping micro-mechanical properties of carbon-filled polymer composites by TPM

This paper presents a new approach to the characterisation of carbon-filled polymer composites by using a novel multi-function tribological probe microscope (TPM). The TPM is capable of measuring four functions in a single scan to provide area mappings of topography, friction, Young's modulus and nanohardness. The measurement is based on point-by-point scanning so values of the four measured functions are linked in space and in time. The specimens are PA6.6 and PA12 filled with carbon black or carbon fibre, specially prepared at the Institute for Materials Research III of Karlsruhe Research Centre. The four-in-one measurement of TPM enables us to identify the material difference on the surface in order to estimate the distribution of a particular material within the composite. For each specimen, mappings of topography, hardness and Young's modulus were obtained, and from the latter two, it is easy to see the existence of two different materials. Comparing the topography and hardness mappings, we are able to pick up the areas where carbons are located.