Abstract Scope |
Micromechanical experiments are moving beyond basic hardness and elastic modulus measurements at ambient conditions. We present how novel instrumentation enables small-scale compression, tension, shear, splitting, push-out, fatigue, creep, and other techniques, at extreme conditions such as cryogenic to high temperatures, ultra-high strain rates, and high humidity levels. Moreover, we demonstrate the combination of multiple extreme conditions. For instance, high strain rate experiments up to 104 s-1 can be performed at temperatures ranging from -150 °C up to 1000 °C. Exploring the mechanical behaviour of materials as a function of multiple extreme variables paves the way to understand and predict the performance of components in extreme real-world applications such as aerospace, fuel cells, and nuclear reactors, amongst others. Finally, future research directions in the field of in situ extreme micromechanics will be discussed, including the prospect of ultra-low temperatures, hydrogen environments, and extreme radiation fluxes. |