Numerical comparison between Berkovich and conical nano-indentations: Mechanical behaviour and micro-texture evolution

A crystal plasticity finite element method (CPFEM) model has been developed to investigate the influence of indenter geometry on the mechanical behaviour and micro-texture evolution during nano-indentation of single crystal aluminium. The developed model has been validated by comparison with experimental observations. The numerical results show that indenter geometry influences the load-indentation depth curve, hardness and elastic modulus significantly. The surface profile, equivalent plastic strain distribution and micro-texture evolution during nano-indentation have been analysed in detail.