Nanoscratching meets nanoindentation

A specimen of high-carbon nitrogen-doped steel has been synthesized to supplement previous studies on wootz-like steels. A comparison of different states of material as well as one of distinct methods of hardness testing has been performed. Electron microscopy of the specimens' microstructure revealed nano-structuring similar to that observed with ancient sabers. Part of them was annealed so that the nano-structures dissolved. Nano-hardness values derived under ambient conditions from indentation as well as from scratch tests were determined and related to the microstructure prior to and after annealing. The disappearance of nanostructuring led to a significant drop of hardness. The ratio of indentation to scratch hardness proved a suitable indicator of hardening. From hardness as function of penetration depth and from friction as function of time and normal load various quantitative features of the mechanical properties and of the deformation process have been evaluated. When modeling friction, sliding and plowing parts have been distinguished quantitatively. Enhanced adhesion forces were attributed to surface layers.