Chemistry and materials development under extreme conditions

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I propose a significant expansion of my research program in the area of chemistry and materials science under extreme conditions, in particular, at high pressures. Pressure constitutes the third fundamental thermodynamic parameter which plays a critical role in regulating the structures and properties of materials. At high pressures, bonding patterns of molecules are significantly altered thus leading to the formation of new structures. In my laboratory, diamond anvil cells are used to achieve static high pressure conditions over a broad temperature range. Under the general theme of high pressure, we will carry out several projects. First, we will systematically investigate the high-pressure behavior of some fundamental molecules, such as hydrocarbons, coordination complexes and main group compounds. Studies on these classes of molecules will contribute to the fundamental understanding of various physical and chemical phenomena far beyond ambient conditions. In addition, we will investigate the structures and properties of a variety of nanomaterials, including metal oxides and boron nitride nanotubes under high pressures. Furthermore, we will develop functional materials with novel properties and potential industrial applications, such as hydrogen storage materials and zeolite materials. To understand the mechanisms underlying various high pressure phenomena, kinetic studies on model systems will provide critical information. In parallel to these efforts, we will develop analytical tools suitable for high-pressure research, including Raman spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy as well as X-ray diffraction and spectroscopy. Many of these techniques will be developed at synchrotron radiation facilities. Overall, our research program will not only contribute to the basic research in high-pressure science, but may make significant impact on several economic sectors of Canada, especially the materials industry and advanced manufacturing.