Custom reference sample

Polis Tyrol posted on Mon, Oct 21 2013 3:53 AM

rated by 0 users

Dear community,

I keep having problems with my PSfoil reference sample for the Peak-Force QNM modulus calibration.

In particular, it causes troubles that there is some soft pollution on the surface that is frequently dragged over the surface, precluding exact calibration.
This pollution existed already directly after purchasing. Furthermore, I always observe viscoelastic behavior as the sample deforms plastically already at low forces.

I therefore think about using one of my own epoxy samples as a modulus reference. As long as the surface is flat enough, I obtained very constant modulus data (more constant than for the PSfoil reference). The epoxy is much less polluted and there is hardly any viscoelasticity. Is it possible to use such a sample as a reference, or are there any dangers?

Best regards, Dietmar Haba