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Updated: Jul 12, 2026
07:48
An Externally-Heated Diamond Anvil Cell for Synthesis and Single-Crystal Elasticity Determination of Ice-VII at High Pressure-Temperature Conditions
Published on: June 18, 2020
Summary
High-pressure experiments using a Q-switched YAG laser caused diamond anvils to melt above 120 kilobars. At lower pressures, the diamond anvil surface graphitized, confirmed by microscopy.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- High-Pressure Physics
- Laser-Material Interactions
Background:
- Diamond anvils are crucial for high-pressure research.
- Understanding diamond behavior under extreme conditions is essential for developing new technologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of focused laser radiation on diamond anvils at high pressures.
- To determine the pressure thresholds for melting and graphitization of diamond.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a Q-switched YAG laser focused on a single-crystal diamond anvil within a high-pressure diamond cell.
- Applied pressures exceeding 120 kilobars to a mixture of potassium bromide and graphite between the anvils.
- Analyzed the diamond anvil surface using optical and scanning electron microscopy.
Main Results:
- Observed melting of the diamond anvil face at pressures greater than approximately 120 kilobars.
- Documented graphitization of the diamond surface at pressures below 120 kilobars.
- Confirmed laser-induced phase transitions in diamond under high pressure.
Conclusions:
- Diamond anvils can undergo melting and graphitization when subjected to focused laser radiation at high pressures.
- The study provides critical data on the physical limits of diamond anvils in extreme environments.
- These findings have implications for high-pressure experimental design and material science research.
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