Development of laser-heated diamond anvil cell facility for synthesis of novel materials

Investigation of material behaviour under extremely high pressures and temperatures using IR laser-heated diamond anvil cells (DACs) has emerged in the recent years as an important area of research, both basic and applied. This article presents details of a laser-heated DAC facility that we have recently set up at our laboratory. The facility consists of a suitable arrangement of a CO2 laser, motorized translation stages, a MaoBell-type DAC, IR and visible optical assembly, CCD-based monochromator, etc. Also, the facility has the capability of pressure measurement using Ruby fluorescence method and temperature measurement using spectroradiometric technique. With this facility, materials can be subjected simultaneously to high pressures and temperatures (P-max similar to 100 GPa; Tmax >= 5000 K). Results on successful synthesis of InSb by direct elemental reaction and on a preliminary experiment wherein direct conversion of graphite to a transparent phase has been attempted with this facility are also presented.