Bulge deformation measurement and elastic modulus analysis of nanoporous alumina membrane using time sequence speckle pattern interferometry

Nanoporous alumina membranes containing parallel regular pores of uniform size and normal to substrate surface were fabricated by anodically oxidizing high purity aluminum foils in acid solutions. The continuous out-of-plane displacement and current load of the porous membranes were obtained through bulge test combining time sequence speckle pattern interferometry (TSSPI) observation system. Then the deformation of whole field under different loads was deduced through point-to-point scan analysis and the elastic modulus was calculated through an analytical model. Measurement of mechanical properties indicates unusual mechanical behavior of these anodic alumina films compared with bulk alumina materials or dense alumina films. This method is useful and convenient for mechanical test on membranes with such structure and bring further understanding on connecting of micro-meso structure and mechanical properties.