A modified Sneddon model for the contact between conical indenters and spherical samples

Abstract Indentation techniques have proven to be effective characterize the mechanical properties of materials. For elastic deformation, commonly used models are Hertz model and Sneddon model. However, neither them works for indenting spherical samples using pyramid or conical indenter. Therefore, one modified has been developed determine Young’s modulus from indentation results. In this study, effects sample diameter indenter angles on tests were investigated by finite element method (FEM). The empirical correction parameters in new mathematical introduced based dimensional analysis determined numerical fitting FEM Experimental with different indenters demonstrated that is capable reliably samples. can fill gap contact mechanics enrich experimental solid interpretation Graphic abstract