Abstract
In this study, we derived work-hardening exponent using continuous indentation test technique. Continuous indentation test technique is a powerful method to evaluate mechanical properties, such as hardness, modulus, ${\sigma}-{\varepsilon}$ curves and etc. It has many merits conventional indentation test has. The relationship between true stress and mean contact pressure and between strain and indentation depth were derived. While the indenter pushes the materials, the region around the indenter is deflected elastically. It is called elastic deflection. And pile-up phenomenon related to plastic deformation around the indenter increased the contact depth, and sink-in phenomenon decreases. So we calibrated contact depth change by considering elastic deflection and pile-up/sink-in. Using calibrated contact depth we redefined the relationship between true stress and mean contact pressure and between strain and contact depth. Through these relationship we could derive work-hardening exponent by analyzing load-depth curves. And it showed good agreement with tensile test results.
