Scratch testing, using nano loads, has become widely used for the study of adhesion strength and marring resistance of thin films and coatings. This same test can also be used to study fracture behavior on brittle substrates similar to a marring resistance test approach. This can provide an in-depth observation of failure on delicate substrate materials at precisely controlled and recorded loads.

Application Note: http://www.nanovea.com/Application%20Notes/fracture-resistance.pdf

One of the major concerns for composite material is it’s durability in final form. The size of particles that form the strengthening additive can drastically affect the overall final performance of the composite material. By using the nano scratch testing method the failure of composite material can be compared to identify the most durable formula.

APPLICATION NOTE: http://www.nanovea.com/Application%20Notes/compositenanoscratch.pdf

Specific Coatings are used to further increase performance of titanium alloy parts at elevated temperatures. More specifically, Chromium Nitride (CrN) Coatings are designed to perform under conditions of high load and temperature. By using scratch testing it is possible to detect premature adhesive failure of the CrN coating in real-life applications. The test was performed at standard temperature but the test could also be performed at high temperature to better simulate the conditions to which the coating is subjected.

APPLICATION NOTE: http://www.nanovea.com/Application%20Notes/microscratchtitaniumalloy.pdf