Scientific paper ID 1329 : 2016/3

Abstract: Many different types of imprints remaining after subtracting the Vickers pyramid as well as the changes in those imprints over time have been reviewed. The imprints give direct information about the peculiarities of the mechanical behavior of the specimens tested. The nature and the causes for arising of the so called ”pile-up” and ”sink-in” effects have been discussed. The tendency to cracking also could be evaluated. The article is illustrated with numerous photos made through light microscopy during our studies on some characteristic materials. It has been shown how one can draw a conclusion about the structure and mechanical characteristics of the samples only on the basis of their imprints type.