The vendor required to provide atomic force microscope services to quantify the mechanical and surface properties of rock samples, including hardness, elastic modulus, fracture behavior, scratch resistance, and nano- to micro-scale deformation under controlled load conditions.
- This equipment will allow researchers to:
• Perform nanoindentation and micro indentation to evaluate hardness, stiffness, and elasticity of rocks.
• Conduct scratch and wear testing to understand failure mechanisms and abrasion resistance.
• Map surface topography at nanometer and micrometer scales using AFM or optical profilometry.
• Investigate rock behavior under variable temperature conditions.
• Generate high-resolution 3d surface data for porosity, roughness, and microstructural analysis.
- Technical capabilities and output:
• Force range (nano and micro): 0.1 MN – 10 n
• Depth range: 0–200 ΜM (nano), 0–1000 ΜM (micro)
• Scratch test: 0.01–30 n
• Surface mapping: AFM wide-scan module; tip-based nano-mechanical mapping
• Temperature-controlled testing: -40 - 450°c
• Data output: hardness, elastic modulus, plastic and elastic energy, creep and relaxation, scratch resistance, 3d surface maps
• Sample size: small to medium cores or slabs; precise positioning with automated stages
• Software: multi-cycle indentation, depth profiling, dynamic mechanical analysis, scratch and wear analysis, optical measurement.
- Expected results and benefits:
• Quantitative data on rock hardness, elasticity, and wear resistance.
• 3d topographical maps of rock surfaces at nano- and micro-scales.
• Improved understanding of rock behavior under mechanical and thermal stress.
• High reproducibility and precision to support research publications, modelling, and geothermal or petroleum applications.
- Alternates to the specification
• All product and equipment shall be as specified in the proposal documents.
• The university may, at its sole and unfettered discretion, consider alternate product and equipment, which the university deems comparable to the specified in formulation, quality, workmanship, economy and operation, and suitability for the purpose intended.
• A proponent proposing alternate product and equipment is responsible to provide specifications and may be responsible for furnishing samples and complete and acceptable data to the university in written form.
• Such data shall prove the quality or superiority of the alternate product and equipment.
• The proponent submitting alternates must supply a list of representative applications that have been in service for a minimum of one year.
• Preferably, these projects shall be situated in the area and shall be accessible for inspection at the request of the university.
- Contract Period/Term: 2 years
- Questions/Inquires Deadline: January 9, 2026
