Studying the mechanical properties of (Cu1–xAgx)7GeS5I mixed crystals by using the micro-indentation method

Abstract

(Cu1–xAgx)7GeS5I mixed crystals were grown using the Bridgman–Stockbarger method. The hardness dependences on the indentation depth profiles in (Cu 1–x Ag x ) 7 GeS 5 I mixed crystals were investigated. The measurements of mechanical parameters were performed at the room temperature by using the micro-indentation method. Variations of the hardness of (Cu 1–x Ag x ) 7 GeS 5 I mixed crystals were interpreted in the framework of the deformation gradient model. The influence of cation Cu→Ag substitution on mechanical parameters of (Cu 1–x Ag x ) 7 GeS 5 I mixed crystals was studied.

Keywords

• superionic crystals
• cation substitution
• mechanical properties
• micro-hardness
• micro-indentation