Temperature measurement in double-sided laser-heated diamond anvil cell and reaction of carbon

In this work, a double-sided laser-heated diamond anvil cell facility for studies at extreme conditions of pressure and temperature that has been developed is described in detail. Phase transitions occurring at extreme conditions can be mapped by accurate measurements of pressure and temperature. Micrometer-sized diamond crystals having regular facets have been synthesized at a pressure of 18 GPa and temperature 1785 K, which is confirmed by visual inspection, micro-Raman and field emission scanning electron micrograph measurements. A low-temperature gradient is observed across the sample surface during the formation of micrometer-sized diamond crystals. Our observation restricts the use of steel gasket as it can react with carbon (C) transported from the diamond anvil. The reaction of C with one of the potential thermal insulating medium Al2O3 is observed in the X-ray diffraction measurements.