Abstract
We have developed a novel scanning micro-indentation tester with real-time observation of measuring point. A laboratory-made indenter and cantilever-type load cell were connected to the microscopic objective driven vertically with a commercial piezoelectric positioner, so that the point of indentation can be observed in real time during the measurement of load-displacement curves. We measured the distribution of elastic modulus and surface topography of bone-cartilage complex specimens with this tester, and compared them with the surface histology stained with Alizarin Red to find a wide variation of elastic modulus even in a calcified region stained uniformly. The tester would be useful in measurement of local elastic properties of tissues.
