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Changes in Surface Mechanical Properties Through Electrochemical Modifications
Published online by Cambridge University Press: 17 March 2011
Abstract
The mechanical response of materials can be dramatically altered by the presence of absorbed species on the surface. An electrochemical environment enables discrete control of the surface, keeping it clean (comparable to ultra-high vacuum) and inducing stable stress states. Applying a potential to the surface alters surface charge, which changes the surface free energy. Oxides are easily added or removed. Utilizing the phenomenon of underpotential deposition (UPD), one monolayer of metal can be added to a surface. The degree of lattice mismatch between the metal and the deposited monolayer will also vary the stress state of the surface. The changes in the mechanical properties of these highly controlled surfaces are measured by in-situ nanoindentation at various potentials. Nanoindentation of single crystals with very low dislocation densities allows careful observation of dislocation behavior with applied load. This enables the identification of dislocation mechanisms by quantifying the changes in mechanical properties under specific environments. Au has been extensively studied in electrochemistry literature; it is well behaved and well characterized. It is a model system that has demonstrated variation in mechanical properties in different electrochemical states. Lessons learned on Gold have also been applied to Zn and Ni systems.
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- Copyright © Materials Research Society 2002