Next-generation diamond cell and applications to single-crystal neutron diffraction.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Crystallography
• Neutron Scattering

Background:

• Single-crystal neutron diffraction is a powerful technique for determining atomic structures.
• Existing diamond anvil cells have limitations in sample size, pressure stability, and portability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a novel diamond anvil cell optimized for single-crystal neutron diffraction.
• To enhance portability, pressure stability, and sample volume for neutron diffraction experiments.

Main Methods:

• Development of a spring-loaded diamond anvil cell with a double-conical design for polycrystalline diamond anvils.
• Adaptation of the cell for use with multiple single-crystal diffractometers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).
• Testing with glycerin as a pressure medium to establish hydrostaticity and absence of shear pressure gradients.

Main Results:

• The optimized cell offers improved pressure stability and ease of use compared to previous designs.
• It accommodates approximately 30%-40% taller samples than comparable single-crystal anvils.
• Successful use of large single-crystal synthetic diamonds up to pressures of 20 GPa was demonstrated.

Conclusions:

• The described diamond anvil cell represents a significant advancement for single-crystal neutron diffraction.
• Its enhanced features enable more versatile and precise structural studies at major neutron facilities.
• The cell is suitable for future ultra-low temperature and high-field studies.