Modelling of microengineered components: a practical perspective on properties of materials measurement

In microengineering there are problems in understanding the behaviour of components; their size makes many experimental techniques inappropriate. In such cases, modelling can form a useful part of the design and analysis processes. However, the behaviour of many of the materials used in microengineering is not as well understood as those used in more traditional engineering structures. Hence, in order that modelling can be used to good effect it is essential that materials property data is generated. This evaluation of the material property needs will help test methods to be developed and used that will yield appropriate property data. The author´s objectives are to raise awareness of the importance of appropriate materials property data for modelling of microsystems, to highlight some typical oversights with regard to materials property requirements in modelling, and to encourage workers to critically examine material property needs for modelling