In nanoindentation, assumptions of continuity are used to determine the elastic modulus or hardness of a material. However, these assumptions are frequently violated when nanoindenting cementitious composites. Statistically analyzing large grids of indents does not alter these flaws in the contact mechanics of each indent. Despite this, statistical nanoindention has been used by concrete researchers for almost 20 years to determine the mechanical properties of separate hydration phases, aggregates, or fibers. This work outlines a method in which reliable information can be gleaned from SNI – without the use of complimentary analysis of indents. Using this revised approach, a portland cement sample was analyzed alongside aluminosilicate ceramics for validation.
